Kevin Blake, the seasoned pundit from Sky Sports Racing, has unveiled a set of three betting selections as the Ebor Festival at York advances into its second day on Thursday. While the headline races will undoubtedly deliver top‑class action for spectators, Blake argues that the real value for punters often lies in the supporting card, where the odds can be more generous and the form less straightforward. The first race Blake highlights is the Sir Kevin Sinfield 7‑In‑7 Grand Finale Handicap, scheduled to start at 3:00 p.m.
This contest is another classic example of a brutally tough handicap that tests the skill of any bettor trying to decode the form. Blake believes that trainer William Haggas may have found a solution in the form of a five‑year‑old named Bullet Point.
Bullet Point captured this same race a year ago, winning from a modest rating of 100. Back then, he benefitted from a favourable draw, settled comfortably in the middle of the pack, and surged ahead in the final furlongs to claim a decisive victory. Since that triumph, Bullet Point’s career trajectory has not followed the upward trend many expected. A venture to Australia ended in disappointment, and he subsequently endured a six‑month spell away from the track.
Upon his return, it would not be surprising if his connections have been plotting a comeback that culminates in this very race. Earlier this season, he displayed a hint of his former brilliance in two valuable handicaps, finishing strongly in both.
After another 12‑week lay‑off, he contested the Shergar Cup, where he was beaten only by a horse that drifted off the pace, suggesting that he still possesses the class to compete at this level. Bullet Point now carries a rating of 101 for the Grand Finale. Although his draw this year is not as advantageous as the one that helped him win last season, Blake feels that his front‑running potential remains intact. The horse’s recent performances indicate that he can still dictate the pace and stay on top when the race unfolds according to his preferred style.
The second selection Blake discusses is the Mews Hotel Ossett EBF Stallions Nursery, which takes place at 4:45 p.m. Three weeks prior, Blake’s column featured the Hugo Palmer‑trained MiA Fantasia in a valuable nursery at Glorious Goodwood. Describing that run as "troubled" would be an understatement; the horse struggled to find a rhythm and finished well below what his underlying form suggested.
Nevertheless, the underlying case for MiA Fantasia remains compelling. MiA Fantasia broke his maiden at Carlisle on debut, winning impressively and showing a maturity beyond his years. He then stepped up to a highly competitive novice race at Ascot, where he was outclassed by the eventual Vintage Stakes winner Dr Rascal. Despite that defeat, a rating of 79 appears generous, reflecting the experience he gained at Goodwood.
Blake believes that the additional exposure to top‑class opposition has sharpened his racing intellect, and he should be poised to deliver a strong performance in the Ossett Nursery. The race distance and conditions suit his profile, and a well‑timed ride could see him finish among the leaders. Finally, Blake turns his attention to the British EBF Fillies’ Handicap, slated for a 5:20 p.m.
start. While many horses could make a case for this race, Blake opts to back the Ed Walker‑trained filly Secret History, who sits toward the lower end of the weight spectrum. Secret History has already secured three victories this year, the most notable being a valuable seven‑furlong handicap at Newmarket in July, where she carried an extra four pounds and still prevailed. Following that win, her connections tried her over six furlongs at Glorious Goodwood in a competitive fillies’ handicap.
Although she finished a respectable third, the shorter trip appeared to test her stamina limits, suggesting that the seven‑furlong distance is more suitable for her. Returning to that preferred trip should play to her strengths, and Blake expects her to be a serious contender for the top spot. In summary, Blake’s three picks for day two of the Ebor Festival focus on horses that have demonstrated resilience and adaptability across a range of conditions.
Bullet Point offers a chance to back a proven handicap performer returning to form; MiA Fantasia provides an opportunity to capitalize on a horse that has learned valuable lessons from previous high‑level outings; and Secret History presents a well‑timed, weight‑advantaged option in a race that suits her optimal distance. Punters looking for value should consider these selections as they navigate the complexities of York’s second day of racing. Stay updated with the latest racing news, interviews, and expert analysis on your mobile device to never miss a story from the world of horse racing.