The John Smith's Cup- Who Should You Back?

July 10, 2008 - Donald Jones A maximum field of 20 tackle the 1m 2f trip on the 49th running of the John Smith's Cup, the highlight of a seven race card at York. 

It is never a bad idea to stick to in-form trainers in these big fields and we've plenty of options on Saturday. Mark Johnston, who looks to be returning to form runs Eradicate. And Mick Channon, who has had a good spell recently,  saddles the top two in the weights, Championship Point and Halicarnassus. 

But there is safety in numbers and trainer Richard Fahey has five in the race including last year's winner Charlie Tokyo . His other runners include Benandonner, Fishforcompliements and Extraterrestrial. But the North Yorkshire trainer also returns with last year's runner-up Flying Clarets and that's my each-way pick. 

The five-year-old daughter of Titus Livius has shown a liking for the Knavesmire - she has won twice and been placed five times. The selection, a 16-1 shot in 2007, was prominent and displayed fighting qualities to battle on at the business end of the race. Flying Clarets is in good form, having won last time out at Hamilton and been placed in a Listed race at Pontefract the time before that. 

Our candidate may have to carry a bit more weight than last time but her front running style should keep her out of trouble and her battling instincts, witnessed last time out are invaluable.  Roger Charlton's Proponent is bound to be prominent in the betting but we've got to look to the value. Fahey looks to have set his stall out to secure a decent chunk of the £150,000 prize fund, lets hope we can benefit too.

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