The three‑man panel – Kate Tracey, Sam Boswell and Declan Rix – turned their full attention to York’s marquee race, the Sky Bet Ebor Handicap, as the weekend’s highlight. With a maximum field size of 22 runners, the race promises a crowded, tactical contest, and trainer Willie Mullins is aiming to secure his third victory in four years.
His stable currently features two strong contenders, Love Me Tender and Mr Hollywood, both hoping to follow in the footsteps of the previous year’s winner, Ethical Diamond, who later triumphed in the Breeders’ Cup Turf. Kate opened the discussion by reflecting on her own preferences for the type of horse that would suit the race. “I wasn’t looking for a classic hold‑up runner this time,” she said, noting that last year’s edition turned into a tactical affair that was ultimately won by a horse that went on to claim a Breeders’ Cup victory.
“The horses that sat on the pace performed admirably, and I wanted a competitor that could replicate that style.” She then turned her focus to Spinning Wheel, a horse that has spent most of its career positioned prominently in the early stages. “In his last outing he was dropped almost to the back, which, to be frank, didn’t look like a winning plan,” Kate admitted. “Nevertheless, that effort left him in excellent condition.
He carries a penalty for that run, but even with the extra weight he is still officially only one pound under the handicap mark. On top of that, Mason Paetel will be taking an additional five‑pound allowance off his back.” Describing the horse’s physical attributes, Kate added, “He travels low to the ground and has a slight knee action, traits that usually help a runner handle softer ground better than most. The Crisford operation is also in great form – they are striking at a 31 percent win rate, their horses are fit, and they seem to be thriving overall.” Sam Boswell shifted the conversation to Love Me Tender, a big, rangy galloper who, in his view, embodies the qualities needed for the Ebor. “I was initially skeptical about the profile of this race, but Love Me Tender has drawn me in,” he said.
“He’s a horse with a turn of foot and a battle‑hardened temperament – exactly what this distance demands.” Sam highlighted the Mullins connection, noting that the trainer’s horses rarely lack experience. “Willie’s runners are always tough, and Love Me Tender was purchased for €180,000, which shows the confidence the stable has in him,” Sam explained. “He’s still unexposed at this level, William Buick will be aboard, and I like his draw in post 15. Mullins has won two of the last three Ebors, so his record alone makes his entries worth serious consideration.” Declan Rix then offered a broader perspective on the evolving quality of the race.
“The Ebor has become increasingly competitive in recent years,” he observed. “If you look at the trends, backing a Willie Mullins horse is always a solid play because he knows how to prepare a runner for this specific test.” However, Declan admitted that he did not automatically select Mullins’ entries this time. “I couldn’t build a strong enough case for the German form, despite my respect for Mullins’ achievements,” he said.
“Instead, I was attracted to the combination of Joseph O’Brien and Ryan Moore on Emit, an intriguing runner who finished fourth at Royal Ascot. Emit is a sturdy, battle‑hardened type, and the step up in distance should suit him well.” He added, “Having Ryan Moore in the saddle gives the horse a top‑class jockey, and Joseph O’Brien’s training methods have been flawless lately. I’m eager to see how Emit handles the trip and the pace at York.” The panel also reminded listeners that the Ebor is part of a larger narrative in the British racing calendar, often serving as a springboard to international contests such as the Breeders’ Cup.
The race’s reputation for producing high‑class stayers means that owners, trainers and punters alike keep a close eye on the outcome. In summary, the discussion highlighted three main storylines: Mullins’ quest for another Ebor triumph with Love Me Tender and Mr Hollywood; Spinning Wheel’s resurgence under a new tactical plan; and the potential of Emit, backed by the O’Brien‑Moore partnership, to upset the established order.
As the field lines up on Saturday, each panelist will be watching for the blend of pace, stamina and tactical acumen that typically decides this historic handicap. Fans can stay up‑to‑date with the latest racing news, interviews and feature pieces on their mobile devices, ensuring they never miss a beat of the action as the Ebor approaches.