Magic spells more glory for Bentley

reLy on MAGIC CIRCLE (york, 3.35) to conjure up a second win of the week on the Knavesmire and land today’s Betfred ebor handicap.

a smooth victory over two miles on day one of the meeting saw the selection defend his unbeaten track record in the hands of harry Bentley.

remarkably the jockey is yet to taste defeat in four starts aboard the five-year-old.

the heavy rainfall on Wednesday morning certainly played to the strengths of Magic circle and there is a slight concern that drying ground may not see him operate with quite as much ruthless efficiency as he managed four days ago.

however, ralph Beckett’s gelding bolted up in a staying handicap on good ground at today’s venue last summer and was only beaten a couple of lengths in the chester cup on a similar surface when drawn in the car park.

he finally gained one or two breaks on Wednesday and, although trapped a little wide, displayed a fine turn of foot for a stayer to pick off the frontrunning My reward for a cosy win. that race was run at a dawdle so it probably told us nothing other than Magic circle (right) is in rude health, boasts a change of gear which is rare in a stayer and goes well for his rider who continues to impress with his composure in the saddle.

Beckett was keen for his son of Makfi to take his chance again this afternoon and if Bentley plays his cards right there seems no reason why his in-form mount can’t make his presence felt in this valuable feature.

i am a big fan of the iain Jardine operation so will probably also have an interest in Nakeeta, especially as his york figures read 422.

he was only beaten three lengths by the highly-talented dal harraild here in May over today’s trip and his young apprentice, callum rodriguez, is enjoying his best season with his link-up with Jardine one of the contributory factors.

conditions should be perfect for both horses to post bold showings, but Magic circle possesses a touch of class and gains the bid.