UP-AND-COMING North Yorkshire trainer Ollie Pears is looking to the skies to help him have his first runner on Knavesmire at The Press Family Raceday on Friday.

The Norton-based handler has entered My Paris in the SKF Stakes at York Racecourse but says his seven-year-old will only run if there is rain over the next few days.

A six-time winner in 44 starts, My Paris could compete against the likes of Tim Easterby's Collateral Damage, Kevin Ryan's Philanthropy and Mick Easterby's Blue Spinnaker - all previous winners at York Racecourse - and Pears says he is excited at the prospect of having his first runner on the famous Knavesmire course.

"I will run it if it rains," he said. "I wouldn't run him on good to firm ground.

"Hopefully, it will continue to rain as it would be my first runner as a trainer at York.

"My Paris is more than capable of going there.

"He will be stepping up to ten furlongs because he looks like he needs it now. It needs to rain though."

Pears has had a superb start as a trainer since setting up at James Hetherton's 20-box base at Old Farmhouse Stables, across the road from the famous Highfield Stables late last year.

His first winner, Own Line, came at Wetherby.

Since then, Lujano, Yakimov and Rowan Lodge have all struck home for the former rider, who experienced his greatest highlight in the saddle at York when, as a 17-year-old apprentice, he rode Mr Confusion to John Smith's Cup glory in 1992.

"I have definitely had a good start," Pears said.

"I'm doing well at the moment and hopefully it can continue."

Admission to The Press Family Raceday costs £24 in County Stand (juniors £20) and £13 in Grandstand and Paddock (65-and-over £10).

Course enclosure admission is £4 and £2 for 65s and over.

To book, log on to www.yorkracecourse.co.uk or phone 01904 620911.