Blade out to cut down York rivals

Hat-trick seeking Needwood Blade heads a field of 16 for the Group Two Duke Of York Heartshead Homes Stakes at York tomorrow.

Bryan McMahon’s improving five-year-old has already scored twice at Newmarket this season and the latter, the Palace House Stakes, was his first in Group company.

David Nicholls’ pair Bahamian Pirate, second to Needwood Blade last time, and Captain Rio also feature but the Thirsk trainer has warned that they will only run if there is sufficient overnight rain at the Yorkshire venue.

Palace House third Smokin Beau also reopposes for Nick Littmoden.

Godolphin’s Feet So Fast, who was bought out of Willie Musson’s yard last year, makes his first European appearance this season, while Jim Goldie’s game servants Indian Spark and Orientor also run.

Chris Wall sends Ashdown Express, who was just over a length behind Needwood Blade in April, and Jeremy Noseda runs Just James.

Polar Way, Red Carpet, Steenberg, Suggestive, Twilight Blues, Vision Of Night and Lady Dominatrix complete the field.