Henry Candy is confident Markab can take top honours when he clashes with 19 rivals in the William Hill Great St Wilfrid Stakes at Ripon.
The six-year-old has been in fine fettle this season, never more so than when finishing fourth from a poor draw in the Stewards' Cup at Goodwood two weeks ago, equalling his performance in the Wokingham at Royal Ascot.
Candy said: "He's a big, strong horse who will be able to cope with this. He goes on all sorts of ground as well. I don't see why he can't win it."
Thirsk-based trainer Kevin Ryan saddles two in the race and both have solid claims.
Everymanforhimself is a genuine sort who was an impressive winner at Haydock last week, while Advanced appears to be rediscovering the sort of form that took him to 2007 Ayr Gold Cup glory.
Ryan said: "It's a competitive sprint but Everymanforhimself ran well last week and hopefully he'll run well again. Advanced ran well last week too and he's done nothing wrong all season."
Sprint king Dandy Nicholls is triple-handed with Valery Borzov, Joseph Henry and Striking Spirit as he bids to win the race for the second year in succession following Tajneed's victory 12 months ago.
"Valery Borzov ran a good race at Goodwood and is a lovely horse to have. He seems to go on any ground so hopefully he'll run well," said Nicholls.
"Joseph Henry is dropping back in trip, which should help, and he just ran a bit free at Goodwood the other day. He has a chance as well.
"Striking Spirit doesn't want any more rain. It was soft enough at Goodwood for him last time but he ran a decent enough race considering the speed they went."
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