Dante Stakes at York

The Dante Stakes, a Group Two race for 3yo s over 10 furlongs run today at 15.40 CET at York, is traditionally the most reliable trial for the Epsom Derby (Authorized won both races last year) and a small but select field of 6 runners are under orders, including Derby favourite, Henry Cecil s Twice Over (Ted Durcan). However there is still a doubt about whether he will be allowed to run, because of the firm ground. We want to run, but we won t risk him if the ground is not safe, says Teddy Grimthorpe, racing manager to owner Khalid Abdullah. He has clear;ly the best form in the race, and should win if allowed to line up and remain unbeaten. Dangers couold be John Gosden s Centennial (Jimmy Fortune) and Godolphin s pair Young Pretender, the choice of Frankie Dettori, and German/bred McCartney (Kerrin McEvoy). Another German bred is Aidan O Brien s Frozen Fire (Johnny Murtagh), but he will need to step on his previous form, as must Sir Michael Stoute sTartan Bearer (Ryan Moore), an own brother to King George winner Golan. In view of their trainer s form however, it is by no means impossible that this can happen. This is a race to savour, but in view of the uncertainties, not necessarily one in which to bet heavily.
However Tartan Bearer runs, Stoute and Moore should pick up two races here with Promising Lead, in the Group 3 race for older fillies and mares at 15.10, and Lang Shining in the mile handicap at 16.10.