British Spot Plays: York for May 14, 2026

This week is a rather significant one in the United Kingdom, politically and racing-wise. While Sir Keir Starmer desperately tries to cling to the keys at No. 10, punters will be feasting on the three days of the important Dante Festival at York, followed by Lockinge Day at Newbury on Saturday.

Thursday is Day 2 of the Dante Festival, and I will head into the card with a bankroll of $682.90 after unsuccessfully trying to beat a couple of heavy favorites at Chester a week ago. I will bet 5% of the outstanding balance to win on the following selections, the first play being for $34.

Race 4: Middleton (G2), 10:30 a.m. ET

Basically, a 1 1/4-mile Group 1 posing as a Group 2, which is awesome to see. See the Fire is the most likely winner on paper, given she is a creature of this course, having won this event by 12 lengths a year ago. She also ran respectably against top males last term.

However, #1 Fallen Angel (4-1) might possess the tactical advantage. Granted, she's at heart a miler, and the trio of Group 1s she captured last season weren't especially strong, but it does appear she could be the controlling speed in this and perhaps might prove difficult to catch if things go her way.

Her one previous try at 10 furlongs was in the 2024 Prix de l'Opera at Longchamp, and it actually wasn't a bad one. She was beaten only 1 3/4 lengths, and wasn't necessarily failing to stay while facing fillies more versed at the distance.

Race 5: Dante (G2), 11:05 a.m. ET

My play in the April 24 Classic Trial (G3) at Sandown came down to either Raaheeb, whom I rightly selected, or #8 Wise Prince (10-1), who brimmed with potential last fall when taking his debut in a relatively lucrative novice at Nottingham by more than three lengths.

Indeed, Wise Prince actually looked rather menacing in the upper stretch of the Classic Trial. He was traveling smoothly in behind the eventual winner and appeared as if he might make a notable bid once able to extricate himself. In the end, though, he produced only a mild run and was eventually worn down for second.

Nonetheless, that looked like a solid season debut for Wise Prince, who has the potential to take a step forward for Gosden pere et fils at a nice price. Father John has won the Dante four times over the years, including with eventual Epsom Derby (G1) winners Benny the Dip and Golden Horn.