Kevin Blake's Ebor Festival Day Two Picks: Expert Selections for York Races

Kevin Blake, an expert from Sky Sports Racing, shares his top three selections for the second day of the Ebor Festival at York on Thursday. While the main events promise top-tier racing, the supporting races may present the most promising betting opportunities.

In the Sir Kevin Sinfield 7 In 7 Grand Finale Handicap at 3:00 PM, William Haggas's contender, BULLET POINT, is a strong candidate. This five-year-old gelding triumphed in the same race last year off a handicap mark of 100, benefiting from a favorable draw and an impressive performance. Despite a subsequent dip in form, including a disappointing trip to Australia and a six-month layoff, his recent runs suggest a strategic preparation for this race. Having shown promise in valuable handicaps this season and a strong second-place finish at the Shergar Cup after a 12-week break, he runs off a similar mark of 101. Though his draw is less advantageous this year, he remains a leading contender.

The Mews Hotel Ossett EBF Stallions Nursery at 4:45 PM is another race of significant interest. Previously, MIA FANTASIA, trained by Hugo Palmer, was highlighted in a valuable nursery at Glorious Goodwood. Despite encountering considerable trouble during the race, he performed much better than the final result indicated. His debut win at Carlisle demonstrated his ability to overcome inexperience, and his subsequent run at Ascot, though less successful against a strong field, was still respectable. His current handicap mark of 79 appears very fair, and the experience gained at Goodwood should prove beneficial. He is expected to perform strongly.

The British EBF Fillies' Handicap at 5:20 PM, another challenging handicap, features SECRET HISTORY, trained by Ed Walker, as a notable selection, particularly given her position at the lower end of the weights. This three-year-old mare has already secured three victories this year, most notably a valuable seven-furlong handicap at Newmarket in July. Despite a 4lb rise in the weights, her connections opted for a shorter six-furlong trip in a valuable fillies' handicap at Glorious Goodwood. Although she finished third and ran well, the shorter distance was likely sharper than ideal. A return to her preferred trip is expected to significantly enhance her prospects, making her a strong contender.