Asfoora peaking for the 2025 Nunthorpe Stakes

Asfoora is set to make her third appearance of the European summer when she tackles the Group 1 Nunthorpe Stakes (1005m) at York this weekend, with trainer Henry Dwyer declaring her in the best shape of her campaign.

The mare will contest the feature sprint at 12.35am Saturday, Australian time, having already run fifth in the King Charles III Stakes at Royal Ascot on June 17 before finishing seventh in the Group 2 King George Stakes at Goodwood on August 1.

Dwyer, who watched her final hit-out at Newmarket on Tuesday morning, said the signs were all positive heading into York.

“I couldn’t be any happier with her, no excuses this week,” Dwyer said.

“We obviously ran a good race at Ascot, when she was beaten two lengths, but just didn’t think she was anywhere near the mark, looks-wise or fitness-wise.

“She came through that well, had a little break (and) we went to Goodwood with a bit of optimism.

“I thought she’d improved a fair bit, but we were hamstrung a little bit by the weather, the rain and the track condition, but I think she’s really, really peaked now (and) come out of that run well.

“(She) just had a nice little breeze up this morning and very happy with where she is leading into Friday.

“I’d be shocked if she didn’t prove highly competitive.”

Currently an $8 chance with English bookmakers, Asfoora will take on a strong field including Lady Iman, Arizona Blaze, and King George Stakes winner Jm Jungle. She finished fourth in the Nunthorpe 12 months ago, just 1-1/4 lengths from victory.

Punters keen to get behind Asfoora in the Nunthorpe Stakes can find markets and offers through leading Australian betting sites.