THE ANTEPOST ANGLE - NUNTHORPE STAKES

John Arnold looks ahead to the Nunthorpe Stakes and gives us the history, trends and hot takes on the big Group 1 sprint from York. History:

The Nunthorpe Stakes takes place in late August during the Ebor Festival at York. Established in 1922, the race is contested over a distance of five furlongs and is open to horses aged two years and older, making it one of the key sprint races in the British racing calendar. The Nunthorpe has long been revered for its rich history and competitive field, often attracting the fastest sprinters from both the UK and abroad. With its straight course and short distance, the race puts a premium on speed and agility, providing a thrilling spectacle for spectators.

Over the years, the Nunthorpe Stakes has celebrated the victories of numerous legendary sprinters, including the iconic racehorse and breeder, Pivotal, who won in 1996 and is now known for his influence in breeding top-performing thoroughbreds. The race is particularly noted for its impact on the sprinter rankings and the breeding industry, with winners often going on to become valuable stallions or broodmares. 

Trends:

Age- 11 of the last 12 winners were aged 4 or older

Price- 2 of last 12 winners were fav/joint favourites, 8/12 winners were in the top 3 in the betting

Last Run- 7 of the last 12 winners won on their last run before the race, 4/12 winners ran in the King George Stakes at Goodwood on their last run, 2 of the 4 won, 1 placed

Course Form- 12/12 winners had 1 previous run at York 

Distance Form- 10/12 winners had at least ten runs over 5 furlongs, 10/12 winners had at least 4 previous wins over 5 furlongs 

Rating- 10/12 winners had a rating of 108 or higher

Contenders:

At this stage of declarations runners who were involved at Goodwood are historically considered for this event. JM JUNGLE has achieved some excellent outcomes this term. John Quinns five year old Bungleinthejungle gelding won the Epsom Dash and the King George Stakes at Goodwood and was also placed at York twice over course and distance. He would be a warm order here and at present is generously priced. ARIZONA BLAZE ran out a worthy winner at the Curragh after being a neck second at Ascot in June. A consistent performer this term in top class fields Adrian Murray will have him tuned up for this Group 1 prize. The horse that got within two lengths of him in Ireland was MGHEERA. Ed Walkers Zoustar mare has won the Temple Stakes and wasn’t far off Arizona Blaze. She has improved remarkably since her two runs for Walker since switching from French connections. 

Selections

JM JUNGLE (WIN) MGHEERA (E/W) written by John Arnold