Ebor Meeting Day Three - Ortensia to be crowned Sprint Queen

Crockford gives his pearls of wisdom on the day that should see Ortensia crowned as the Sprint Queen in the Nunthorpe.

Ortensia won brilliantly at Glorious Goodwood and should follow up today at York in the Nunthorpe Stakes. The Australian mare will face strong opposition in the form of Bated Breath and more dangerously the progressive Pearl Secret but should have the class to beat both of them over the five furlongs of the Knavesmire. The three of them will fight out not only the finish but favouritism for the race. Crockford believes that trainer Paul Messara will be rewarded again for his bold summer UK campaign with her being crowned Queen of the Sprinters.

Pearl Secret is one of three Pearl Bloodstock horses who stand excellent chances of winning or making the frame at York. Pearl Acclaim should take the Gimcrack Stakes and Side Glance who ran well at Royal Ascot has the ability to win the Strensall Stakes for Andrew Balding.

A good card at Ffos Las also throws up some interesting propositions. Crockford has heard strong whispers for Alborz (2.10) and Lady Karinga (3.55) and is confident that Fair Along (4.30) and Prodigality (3.20)will return to winning ways.

Crockford's Dead Cert - Ortensia (Nunthorpe 3.40 York)
Crockford was very impressed with her win at Glorious Goodwood and believes that with every run in the UK she has got better. Paul Messara her trainer says this is her last run in the UK and she is bound to leave on a high.

Crockford's Whisper - Tropical Beat (2.00 York e/w)
Crockford also respects the combination of Buick and Gosden and believes that the 16/1 on offer form this gelding will look a big price come 2.10 this afternoon. Expect a big run that will see him finish in the frame.

Crockford's other gambles at York and Ffos Las

York - Tropical Beat (2.00 e/w), Pearl Acclaim (2.30), Side Glance (3.05), Ortensia (3.40), Wentworth (4.15) and The Taj (4.50)
Ffos Las - Derwent (1.40), Alborz (2.10), Gold Show (2.45), Prodigality (3.20), Lady Karinga (3.55 e/w), Fair Along (4.30) and Ultravox (5.00)