THERE are few cast-iron certainties in horse racing, but York's ability to stage one of the classiest meets of the year is one of them.

What a fantastic Ebor Festival. Record crowds at Knavesmire witnessed some of the country's best racehorses battle for glory, with many a knuckle-whitening finish.

Ladies' Day, meanwhile, premiered enough eye-catching outfits to knock Royal Ascot into a cocked designer hat. It was a sporting and fashion triumph.

York's next meeting, in September, includes the Evening Press Family Race Day on the Sunday. See you there.

Updated: 10:52 Friday, August 23, 2002