Rose Can Bloom For Harris At York

There is some quality racing at York on Friday as well as at Newmarket. The race that interests me most though is the class 3 handicap at 3.55 where Ron Harris' Union Rose looks well overpriced in a wide open heat.

This 3yo colt is by young sire Stimulation, whose first 2yo crop last year produced plenty of winners. He has failed to get his head in front since his maiden win last year, but he has run some very good races in defeat, including in pattern company. His best run was probably at Royal Ascot last year when he was an excellent 2nd to the classy Acapulco at 100/1 (5f good, listed).

He earned a mark of 96 with that run, and has failed to get his head in front since, including in Group 3 company. On his second run this season (5f good) at Newmarket he was an excellent 2nd to Son Of Africa in a class 2 handicap off a mark of 95. He failed to reproduce that on his next four runs, which saw his mark drop to 89.

However, he showed clear signs of returning to form on his last run at Ascot, and without interference at a crucial stage he would have got a lot closer than the 3 lengths he was beaten by in the finish. It was a hugely improved performance and I think he can build on that, especially back on easy ground for the first time since his maiden victory. He looks a massive price at 25/1 and represents definite each way value from a good draw in stall 4.

STEVOS' SELECTION: 3.55 YORK UNION ROSE 25/1 (E/W)