York

Having shown abundant promise on both 2yo outings in 2024, CENTIGRADE returned from a long absence with an AW novice win in June and can continue to make up for lost time by following up on his handicap debut. His 2yo runs came on good and heavy ground, so he should be fine with whatever conditions prevail. Spell Master has run some promising races for his new yard this year, including in the John Smith's Cup here, and 1m may well prove to be his best trip. He is second choice. If the ground is on the slow side of good then Nizam could be dangerous and he is next on the list. Cases can also be made for Cerulean Bay, The Lost King, Blue Brother and Mezcala.[Ben Hutton]