Local Hero Bids Borderlescott For Another York Win

With the curtain set to come down on York’s 2013 season tomorrow, locally-trained Borderlescott will leave them crying for more if he lands the £75,000 Coral Sprint Trophy.

Now aged 11, trainer Robin Bastiman's evergreen charge is one of the most popular horses in training and will bid for a 15th career win when he contests the six-furlong feature race on the Knavesmire.

In his younger days he was a sprinter of the highest quality. His six Stakes race victories include back-to-back triumphs in the 2008 and 2009 renewals of the Coolmore Nunthorpe Stakes, as well as securing this same race back in 2005.

Despite not reaching such lofty heights this season, Borderlescott's recent efforts suggest that the old sparkle remains and that he can be competitive on Saturday.

Bastiman, who trains near Wetherby, agrees and is optimistic of a good showing from the old warrior.

He said: “He seems really well and the plan is to run on Saturday, although we wouldn’t want to see too much rain.

“He’s happy and his work has been good. His best form is over five (furlongs) but a flat, sharp six at York should be fine. Kieren Fallon rides – he has won on him before.

“He’s still got the ability to run well in a race like this. It would be great if he could win. It’s our local track, just up the road, and a great place to have winners.”

The 20-strong field also features previous York as well as Ayr Silver Cup winner Ancient Cross and the progressive three-year-old, Lancelot du Lac.

Another highlight on the seven-race card is the Listed coral.co.uk Rockingham Stakes for speedy juveniles over six furlongs.

Newmarket-based trainer Roger Varian has his string in terrific form and is hoping to saddle another winner in the shape of maiden scorer Mushir.

The Hamdan Al Maktoum-owned colt struck narrowly on debut at Kempton in September, getting up on the line to beat two more experienced rivals.

Varian said: “He did well to win at Kempton considering he was so green. He is a horse who has always shown ability at home so we are hoping he can be competitive at this level.

“It is hard to jump straight from a maiden to a Stakes race but I am optimistic he will run well. It would be a worry if the ground goes soft.”

The seven racecard valued at over £200,000 gets underway with at 1.50pm

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