Ebor Festival Friday Tips – Dan James Racing

Trawlerman looks primed to strike in the Lonsdale Cup, a race that rewards proven stamina and tactical speed. He has been one of the most consistent stayers in training, mixing top-class efforts with the resilience needed to see out two miles on the Knavesmire. His trainer excels with Cup horses, and Trawlerman has previously shown his liking for flat, galloping tracks such as York, where rhythm and balance play a big part. Crucially, his blend of cruising speed and finishing kick often outclasses dour stayers who lack a change of gear.

Against rivals like Sweet William and Al Qareem, he brings more tactical versatility and proven Group-race calibre. With conditions likely to suit and his yard targeting this prize, he holds an excellent chance of stamping authority on the Cup division, making him the horse to beat in one of York’s premier staying contests.

The Gimcrack Stakes is always a showcase for future sprinting stars and Reciprocated looks like the standout two-year-old heading into this year’s renewal. His juvenile form has been progressive, with each run showing sharper speed and professionalism, suggesting he is thriving at the right time. Unlike some rivals who still lack experience at the highest level, Reciprocated has already shown Group-class ability, travelling strongly through his races before producing a decisive finish. Six furlongs on York’s long straight is perfect, as it rewards both pace and the ability to sustain an effort under pressure.

His connections, renowned for producing Gimcrack winners, have mapped out this race as a key target, meaning he arrives fully tuned for peak performance. With many juveniles in this field still learning their trade, Reciprocated’s maturity and racing style give him a clear edge. He has all the tools to outclass his rivals.

Few races carry the same prestige or unpredictability as the Nunthorpe, but Sayidah Dariyan has the profile of a winner ready to rise above the chaos of a top-class sprint. Five furlongs at York is all about blistering speed, balance, and the ability to produce one explosive surge at exactly the right moment. Sayidah Dariyan has consistently shown a lightning turn of foot, capable of putting races to bed in a matter of strides. Importantly, she handles the big-race atmosphere well, settling early before unleashing her pace late — a vital trait on the Knavesmire where burn-up tactics can undo many.

Her form figures stack up against Group 1 opposition, and connections have long believed she belongs at this elite level. With her draw, proven speed, and peak freshness, she looks perfectly set to deliver a breakthrough Group 1 win in the festival’s sprinting highlight.