Griffiths' veterans out to shake up two-horse Nunthorpe picture

Trainer David Griffiths is among those hoping to gatecrash what is being billed as a two-horse clash in the Coolmore Nunthorpe Stakes but is realistic about the prospects of either Duke Of Firenze or Take Cover doing so.

Both veteran sprinters boast fine York records but Griffiths had a frank response when asked if he felt either could spring a surprise in Friday's five furlong feature.

"I don't suppose either of the big two are not running?" he asked.

Griffiths is not all negativity regarding the chances of both horses though, with the Nunthorpe having come on the agenda of Duke Of Firenze following a win at York in May, which improved his course record to 50121.

"After the Dash, Duke Of Firenze went up to 109 and it's very hard to win handicaps off that sort of mark," said Griffiths. "Obviously this is a massive step up but he ran well in the Abbaye, loves York and I think he deserves to be there.

"I think he could run a massive race and I'd have to be happy if he could finish in the first six."

Take Cover, meanwhile, boasts equally impressive figures of 118031 on the Knavesmire and Griffiths was buoyed by reports of a dry day on Monday, after soft ground damaged his chances when fourth behind Battaash at Goodwood last time.

"He ran a cracker at Goodwood on ground that completely went against us," said Griffiths. "I would never say he would have beaten Battaash but I think we would have finished second with our ground."

Another who did not appreciate the rain at Goodwood was Paul Midgley, whose Final Venture finished seventh in the same race.

Like Griffiths, Midgley is realistic about his chances but does not believing in running away from one or two fancied horses.

"It's a horse race and if you're not in it, you can't win it," he said. "He's in great form and he loves it round York but it's going to be tough against the fancied two, and you could probably throw Marsha in there too.

"All prize-money will be gratefully received!"

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