Holland takes Forgery ride

Darryll Holland has landed the plum ride on Forgery in the 47th John Smith’s Cup at York on Saturday.

He has ridden Gerard Butler’s charge twice before, finishing first and second on the lightly-raced gelding last season.

This term Forgery, a 9-1 chance for the Heritage Handicap with Ladbrokes, has already lifted the Newbury Spring Cup.

Holland said: “I was absolutely thrilled to hear I would be riding Forgery. He’s owned by Highclere Thoroughbreds, who I have done well for over the years winning a Classic on Brunel and the Classic Trial at Sandown this season on Primary, so hopefully we’ll bring them luck again. I have also always enjoyed riding for Gerard Butler.

“Forgery was a pretty good seventh in the Royal Hunt Cup behind Cesare, and I feel the way he races he may well be suited by the step up in trip.

“Ideally a little bit of rain would be perfect, but he goes on fast ground and we must have an excellent chance of picking up the prize. All we need now is a good draw.”