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They will have to get up early to stop STELLAR SUNRISE (2.55) from playing a big role in Ascot’s Moet & Chandon International Handicap.

Andrew Balding’s three-year-old didn’t look at all comfortable on softer ground in the Listed Surrey Stakes at Epsom on Oaks day early last month. He had earlier looked very good when bolting up in a competitive Newbury contest on his first start of the season.

That was only his second run in a handicap having also been impressive when landing a York nursery at last summer’s Ebor Festival. He’s stays this 7f distance well and likes to race prominently. With the absence of any obvious frontrunners, that could well be an advantage. Have 1pt each-way at 18-1. Most bookies are paying out on five places.

Later on the card, course specialist HICKORY (4.45) is worth chancing. He twice won competitive races at Ascot last season and he hasn’t been able to show what he is capable this year.

His blindfold came off late at Newmarket three weeks ago putting him on the back foot from the start and he ran into trouble when attempting to make ground from the rear. This race should pan out better for Jamie Osborne’s runner. Have 1pt each-way at 16-1. Sky Bet is offering four places.

York kicks off its card with the Sky Bet Jump Jockeys Nunthorpe. Trainer Paul Midgley has an excellent record in the race and VENTURA EXPRESS (1.30) looks the pick of his three runners.

He didn’t see much daylight at Pontefract last month and he will appreciate this sprint test. Have 1pt each-way at 25-1. Plenty of firms are going five places.

APOLLO ONE (2.00) has become extremely well weighted. He hasn’t had the rub of the green since making a promising return from a spell in Dubai when third behind top prospect Double Rush at Newmarket in May.

That was his first handicap start since finishing runner-up in the Portland at Doncaster’s St Leger meeting before going on to be beaten a shorthead in the Group 2 Bengough Stakes at Ascot.

His slide down the weights since then has been more dramatic than it should have been and he could be about to take advantage of it. Have 1pt each-way at 16-1. A few firms are offering six places.