/ John Patrick / 21 August 2007 /

The Student Punter is keeping a keen eye on those clouds before placing a bet at York

Perhaps I should have chosen to study meteorology at university instead of journalism.

I mean, it can't be that bad. Sure, those who make their living from the weather probably don't get to many FA Cup finals, race meetings or chat with modern sporting greats but on the bright side at least they know when it's best to go on holiday and associate with those cracking GMTV weathergirls.

And, of course, the ability to accurately predict the weather when lining up a potential punt is the most potent weapon of all.

When asked what I look for in the pursuit of a winner I always suggest one should look for, above all else, a horse whose ability to handle prevailing underfoot conditions is not in doubt.

If the beast in question is unable to stride out with ease it is inevitable that he/she will not run to their full potential. Simple as.

One of the highlights of the flat season, the three day Ebor Festival takes place at York this week and following a wet weekend on the Knavesmire obtaining an accurate going description will be of vital importance.

Described presently as good, good to soft in places, with little to no rain forecast until Friday, it is conceivable the going description could be different each day and therefore final selections must be made as close to the off as possible.

With this in mind, perhaps the shrewdest move will be to focus my attention on Tuesday's racing in search for the 'dead cert'.

And three-year-old Boscobel looks to have a solid each-way chance in the Great Voltigeur Stakes at York.

Bearing in mind the earlier discussions on ground, the Mark Johnstone trained colt ran a stormer last time out in the Irish Derby when finishing fourth behind Soldier of Fortune on almost unraceable ground.

Beaten 13 lengths that day, the son of Halling is certain to appreciate the genuine good ground and small field at York and reproduce the form which saw him land the King Edward VII Stakes at Ascot last month.

Ridden from the front, he repelled all challengers to win under an astute Joe Fanning ride.

At York, a track which favours those ridden close to the pace, Boscobel has everything in favour to make a bold bid from the front with Frankie Dettori doing the steering and at 7.8 on Betfair (2.3 the place) he looks good value.

So maybe when looking for a bit of work experience next semester I'll be sending the CV to the Met Office rather than the Racing Post!

'.$sign_up['title'].'

'; } } ?>