Jamie Spencer looks ahead to day one of the Ebor Festival

1.55 – Symphony Group Stakes (Handicap) 5f

I kick off my rides today in the opening race with York Glory in the 1.55. He had an injury at the back end of last year and this is probably the first time Kevin has been happy with him this year. He’s come down the handicap a bit, which will help and he looks to have a decent chance. I spoke to Kevin yesterday and he thinks he will run a bit race so I am hopeful that I can get off to a good start.

3.40 – Juddmonte International Stakes (Group 1) 1m2f

The Juddmonte International has attracted a high class field once again. Australia, Telescope and Mukhadram are three top class horses. Then you have The Grey Gatsby who has won a French Derby so it is going to be a tough race. I am on board Arod and I’ll be really disappointed if he does not put up a good show and is not in the first three. With Mukhradam in the field, you’d like to think it will be clean run race so it should not be a tactical affair.

Australia is a worthy odds-on favourite after his success in the Derby and Irish Derby. His only defeat this season came in the 2000 Guineas where he did not finish far behind Night of Thunder and Kingman over a mile. He’s the horse we all obviously have to beat but you never know.

4.55 – Nursery Handicap 6f

I am looking forward to the ride of Prize Exhibit in the final race on the card this afternoon. According to the handicapper, she’s eight pounds well in. She won by nine lengths last week in a conditions race. The main thing is it needs to be dry ground for her. Big a big field she should get a strong pace which will suit. I’ll look to get her switched off early and I have to think she has a favourite’s chance of winning the race.