COUGAR MOUNTAIN can ensure the sponsors keep hold of the winner’s purse with victory in the Coolmore Nunthorpe Stakes, the highlight of the third day of the Ebor meeting.

The three-year-old, who is owned by the Coolmore team, made an impression on jockey Joseph O’Brien when winning his maiden at Naas by five lengths in June, with the Ballydoyle rider immediately proclaiming him a potential Group One winner.

His assertion would surely have raised a few eyebrows but his trainerfather, Aidan, duly set his sights at the highest level, pitching Cougar Mountain into the July Cup at Newmarket.

Sent off a 16-1 chance, the Fastnet Rock colt posted an excellent performance in finishing a three-length fifth behind top dog Slade Power and three more experienced rivals on ground that was probably softer than ideal.

His maiden win came on quick ground so clearly he can handle a range of conditions – a factor which could become crucial with a mixed forecast ahead.

Cavalryman has recaptured his old sparkle this term and he can back up his recent Goodwood Cup win with victory in the Weatherbys Hamilton Insurance Lonsdale Cup.

The eight-year-old has been largely consistent throughout the last few seasons, without coming anywhere near the heights that saw him win a Group One back in 2009 when trained by Andre Fabre.