English/Ire
American Affair continues progressive streak with York victory
American Affair looks destined for better company after making it two wins from as many starts this season in The Lindum York Stakes on Thursday.
Having got the better of Jm Jungle in a valuable five-furlong handicap at Musselburgh on his seasonal reappearance last month, American Affair was sent off a strong 7/2 market leader to continue his progression under Paul Mulrennan.
The eighteen-strong field were spread across the track with two furlongs to travel, but the eye was always drawn to the Jim Goldie-trained American Affair, who burst through down the centre of the track to join old rival JM Jungle inside the final furlong.
The pair set down to do battle once more and although John and Sean Quinn's likeable charge did his best to repel the challenge, American Affair was always coming home the stronger of the duo.
He only looked to be doing what was required of him out in front, with the winning margin eventually a length. Toca Madera finished back in third.
The winner holds Group 1 entries in both the Temple Stakes at Haydock and the King Charles III Stakes at Royal Ascot, with Paddy Power cutting him to 33/1 (from 100s) for the latter contest.
Paul Mulrennan said: "He's done nothing but improve. He started off last year in the 70s and with the more racing he's had, the sharper he's got.
"When he hits the front, he just shuts down as he think's he's done enough. He's still quite a raw horse.
"He's proved he's up to going to the next level and I think he'd run well in the Temple Stakes."
Ed Bethell enjoyed back-to-back victories in The Oakmere Homes Hambleton Stakes when Old Cock (9/2) battled on bravely to see off Kevin Ryan's 5/2 market leader Sisyphean by half a length under Callum Rodriguez.
Bethell, who won the contest with Point Lynas twelve months ago, said: "That was good, I'm very pleased with him. He's very good on his day and I thought he looked a million walking around the paddock.
"I was never confident because it is York but I had a strong hope, put it that way. Who knows where the ceiling is for him?
"The trainer messed up in the Lincoln, he got a rush of blood early in the year and I ran him too soon. This has been the plan ever since.
"He's in the Hunt Cup (at Royal Ascot) but I'll speak to the owners before making a final decision."
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