O'Brien could have strong hand in Gimcrack Aidan O'Brien may be double-handed in the Irish Thoroughbred Marketing Gimcrack Stakes at York on Saturday. Washington DC could be joined by stablemate Painted Cliffs in the much-coveted Group Two contest after the Ballydoyle duo finished second and fourth respectively in the Phoenix. The home challenge is headed by Shalaa who might attempt to further enhance his tall reputation on the Knavesmire. John Gosden's youngster excelled in the Richmond Stakes at Glorious Goodwood and is also one of 16 confirmations for the six-furlong event, Coventry Stakes winner Buratino was no match for Air Force Blue in their Phoenix Stakes rematch at the Curragh, but he would be reverting to Group Two class at York. Trainer Mark Johnston also has Riflescope and Ode To Evening in contention. Gutaifan, King of Rooks and Log Out Island have been confirmed by Richard Hannon, with Ajaya and Raucous featuring for William Haggas. Tom Dascombe holds Goodwood winner Kachy in high regard and he could also run. Finnegan, trained in America by Wesley Ward, is an interesting candidate, while Ribchester, Steady Pace and Areen are also in the hunt.
