'I fancy him very strongly here' - key trainer quotes for York's big sprint

Saturday: 3.40 York
Pavers Foundation Catherine Memorial Sprint Handicap | 6f | 3yo | ITV/RTV

Both of Mick Channon’s victories in this valuable sprint handicap have come with big-priced outsiders.

Aradanza, his winner in 1993, was returned at 25-1, while Cotton House obliged at the same price seven years later.

However, there is no chance that Ingra Tor, whose owner-breeders Jon and Julia Aisbitt won the Lincoln in March with Johan, will start at anywhere near double-figure odds.

Ingra Tor has been at the head of the market since prices were released, and it is no surprise based on the Churchill colt’s highly progressive profile.

He incurred a 9lb rise in the weights for beating Harry Three by two and a quarter lengths at Newmarket on his most recent start in April, and it’s hard to escape the feeling that Ingra Tor is a potential Group horse in the making.

"Ingra Tor’s form has a very strong look to it, and he’s a progressive horse," said Channon's son and assistant Jack. "Nearly everything that he’s beaten or has finished around him seems to have won, which is always encouraging."

Channon clearly has high hopes for the colt. "We think he’s a high-class horse and this race at York has always been the plan.

"He’s drawn bang in the middle and everything points to a good run. There’s been plenty of talk about him – now he’s got to go out and do it," he added.

Showtime Mahomes loves York

Proven course form is always a plus ahead of valuable big-field handicaps on the Knavesmire, and Showtime Mahomes ticks that particular box following his half-length victory over Devaste last month.

That was his third consecutive race at York, and Showtime Mahomes clearly runs the track particularly well.

His trainer Grant Tuer, who enjoyed a stellar season with 49 winners on the Flat last year, is confident of another big run from his gelding.

"The form of his York win has worked out particularly well," Tuer said. "He’s come out of that race really well.

"He’s on the other wing this time. Last time he was drawn in stall one, now he’s in 17, and I think the stands’ side is a better place for him, so expect the horse to run really well."

What they say

Richard Hannon, trainer of Gisburn
There’s no doubt he should have won at Leicester last time where he lost out by a head when conceding a stone and a half to the winner. While it was frustrating to get beat, it was good to see he retains plenty of ability because he’s a colt we’ve always thought a great deal of. I fancy him very strongly here.

Gisburn: runs for trainer Richard HannonCredit: Mark Cranham (racingpost.com/photos)

Mick Appleby, trainer of Annaf
He’s in great order. The track and trip will be in his favour. He didn’t quite get the seven furlongs at Goodwood last time, so the drop back in distance will suit him better. He’s a lightly-raced three-year-old and still appears to be progressing. He should run well.

Tim Easterby, trainer of Atomic Lady, Bay Breeze and Roach Power
Atomic Lady had some outstanding form last year and is in good form. You want to have a low to middle draw and she's got that in eight, so fingers crossed she goes there with a good chance. Bay Breeze is really effective on soft ground but he goes on good ground as well and has a chance. Roach Power is in good form and ran a brilliant race at Leicester last time, he has a good chance.

Tony Carroll, trainer of Resilience
He’s done very well, and is not without a small each-way chance. He’s a very straightforward horse and has got himself up to a decent level. He won nicely at Windsor last time.

Nigel Tinkler, trainer of Another Investment
I’m very happy with him, but I wouldn’t want it to get too dry at York. I think it will be good to firm, and we’ll be content if there’s no jar. He’s a lovely horse, and a better one than his form figures suggest. There is a big prize in him one day; it might not be this year, but he’ll win one at some stage.

Saturday's race previews:

2.00 York: 'It's extra special' - Serena Brotherton excited for female amateur challenge

2.35 York: Boardman heads trio of course-and-distance winners in red-hot handicap

2.50 Sandown: Can the classy Caturra justify decision to skip Commonwealth Cup?

3.05 York: Shadwell have got it right this year - but has one slipped through the net?

3.40 York analysis: Who's on the right path to sprint glory? Graeme Rodway outlines the best route (£)

Saturday jury: 'I'd be very excited to ride him' - Jack Mitchell with his big hope for Ascot (£)

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