The Apache 4th in Gr2 SkyBet York Stakes

The Apache didn't manage to improve South Africa's record in UK Gr2 races, finishing only 4th in the SkyBet York Stakes. He was well beaten in the end by Mukhadram and Grandeur but was nosed out of third by Wigmore Hall, a horse he beat by about 4 lengths in Dubai last time out.

That run was four months ago but Wigmore Hall has run twice since, so the way I'll look at this performance is that The Apache needed the run and should be closer to his best for the Arlington Million in three weeks time.

July Cup (Gr1) and other news

Shea Shea was unable to add to South Africa's tally of UK Gr1 placings yesterday when running 4th in the July Cup. Much is being said about his 'failure', his pulling early, the ride and the distance but it was a good run regardless. Shea Shea was beaten only 2.50 lengths by the Diamond Jubilee winner, Lethal Force. Society Rock, second in the Diamond Jubilee, finished second here as well. Shea Shea also narrowly beat Sole Power this time, reversing the result of their last encounter. He looks likely to return in the five furlong Nunthorpe, with the Prix de l'Abbaye in France being next on the list.

Dancewiththedevil was entered in the Gr1 Falmouth but did not make the final field in which only 3 (!) ran. She has been entered for a number of races coming up soon including the Nassau Stakes (Gr1, 3 Aug), Desmond Stakes (Gr3, 15 Aug), Celebration Mile (Gr2, 24 Aug) and the Matron Stakes (Gr1, 7 Sep).

The Apache was expected to run in the Summer Mile but was likewise didn't appear in the final field.

Soft Falling Rain may make his return in the Sprint Cup (Gr1, 7 Sep).