With the Royal meeting at Ascot looming large on the horizon in a few days, all of the talk would revolve about that five day festival but before then, the eyes of the racing scene in the UK would focus on York as they held this two day meeting which is often strongly contested and well attended.

Friday's card would have an emphasis on speed. Headlining the card would be a class two handicap over the straight six furlongs was joined by a second handicap at the same level, this time over ten furlongs. There would also be a look to the future ahead with an apprentice jockey's handicap and a novice event that often introduces a high class sort.

Saturday's card would base iself around the Macmillan charity, with plenty of fund raising for a good cause during this popular race meeting. A typically strong handicap for three year olds would be the main attraction on the turf while the Pattern action would come in the shape of a listed contest for stayers over a mile and three quarters.