Ayr Gold Cup 2013 Preview

The Favourite

Scotland has not won the Ayr Gold Cup since 1975 but Trainer Jim Goldie has two live chances this year including ante-post favourite Jack Dexter. The horse won the Bronze Cup at this meeting 12 months ago and Goldie believes that he has the class to defy top weight.

He has been campaigned against Group class sprinters this season and was also successful in the Chipchase Stakes at Newcastle in the summer. Graham Lee takes the ride in preference to stable companion Hawkeyethenoo who will be ridden by Kieren Fallon.

The Market Movers

There have been several well-backed horses in the ante-post market including last year’s winner Captain Ramius. Kevin Ryan’s runner would be the first horse to win the Cup in consecutive seasons since Heronslea in 1930-31.

The trainer has four representatives this season but Captain Ramius has his favoured soft ground and looks sure to run a big race. He could be worth each-way support at 12-1 with Bet365.

The Great St Wilfrid Stakes at Ripon was won by Richard Fahey’s Baccarat from the tough and consistent Spinatrix and the two are set to renew rivalry here. Spinatrix has a 2lbs pull in the weights but most of the ante-post money has been for Baccarat.

Gabriel’s Lad also has plenty of supporters, as does Dean Ivory’s Tropics who has gone from strength to strength this season.

The Outsiders

Last year’s Silver Cup winner Mass Rally has put in some good efforts this season including a victory at York. Khubala is another consistent performer who could feature in a wide open race.

Hoof It finished third to Good Lord Byron in the Haydock Sprint Cup last time out and could be returning to his best. Catherine Gannon has been booked to ride Sir Michael Stoute’s Duke Of Firenze who won the Epsom Dash at the Derby meeting.

Jeremy Noseda’s Nocturn should give William Twiston-Davies a good ride whilst Irish hopes rest with Red Dubawi and Joe Eile. A maximum field of 27 go to post with the race due off at 3.50 on Saturday.