🏇 Ayr Racing Preview – Big Winners in the Making! (11/02/25)

🌨 Winter Warriors Take Centre Stage at Ayr! 🏇 Welcome to Ayr Racecourse, where the soft ground specialists come alive, and battle-hardened chasers and hurdlers go head-to-head in a thrilling afternoon of National Hunt action! ❄️💨 🔥 Today's Key Storylines: 🔹 2m4f Handicap Hurdle (13:10) – Can Ballyfort go one better after his strong second last time? 🔹 2m4f Handicap Chase (14:10) – Walk On Quest bids for a hat-trick, but can the course specialists strike back? 🔹 3m Handicap Chase (16:20) – Stamina will be the key as Cowboy Cooper and Montys Soldier battle it out! With in-form trainers, well-handicapped contenders, and market movers shaping up for a huge betting day, expect fireworks at Scotland’s premier jumps track! 📊 Best Bets, Value Picks, & Market Movers – Dive Into the Full Race Card Below! ⬇️🎯

Coldjack

2/11/202515 min read

Hobbyist Trixie Strategy
Bankroll Status
Starting Bankroll £30
Top Ups to Bankroll £00.00
19th to 25th January 2025
Wk 1 £35 Wk 2 £32.01 Wk 3 -£18.12

WEEK 4 £06.25
Sun - -£07.50
Mon - £02.17
Tue - -£07.50
Wed - £00.00
Thrs - £00.00
Fri - £00.00
Sat - £0.00

Note from Coldjack: A small profit from yesterday.
We will do better when we go again!

Trixie @4 Lines
Ballyfort | Walk On Quest | Baratablet
Stake £4.00 (4 x £1.00)
Returns £37.34 Wipeout a shambles

Patent @7 Lines
Eden Mill | Master Bricklayer | Wotsmyname
Stake £3.50 (7 x £0.50)
Returns £280.00 Wipeout a shambles

Stakes £7.50 Winning £0.00 (P/L) losing £7.50
Modest returns for the 'Trickey Trixie'
Patent punting for the 'zsar bomba' of booms!
(1pt = £1 Pick Your Own Point Level & Runners)

Comprehensive Critique & Debrief of Predictions for Ayr - Tuesday, 11th February 2025

Overview of the Day's Performance

The predictions had a mixed success rate, with some strong wins, notable placings, and a few disappointments. Below is a detailed race-by-race critique, covering both the Trixie (#1 Consistency Play) and Patent (#2 Higher-Risk Play).

Trixie #1 - The Consistency Play

Successes:

  • Walk On Quest (2.10 Ayr) - 🏆 Won @ 13/8 Fav – A solid and expected win.

  • Baratablet (2.40 Ayr) - 🥈 2nd @ 6/4 Fav – Beaten by Jeune Prince, but still performed well.

Disappointments:

  • Ballyfort (1.10 Ayr) - 4th @ 15/8 Fav – Finished just outside the places, showing promise but unable to fully deliver.

Patent #2 - The All-Ways Patent (Higher-Risk Play)

Successes:

  • Master Bricklayer (1.40 Ayr) - 🥉 3rd @ 8/1 – A strong place finish, proving value for each-way backers.

  • Wotsmyname (4.20 Ayr) - 🥈 2nd @ 12/1 – Great each-way return, only narrowly beaten.

Misses:

  • Eden Mill (1.10 Ayr) - PU – Failed to finish; the breathing operation did not have the desired effect.

Race-by-Race Breakdown

Race 1 - 13:10 Ayr (2m4f Handicap Hurdle)

Prediction:

1️⃣ Win: Ballyfort ❌ (Finished 4th)
2️⃣ Place: Cave Hill🥉 3rd @ 2/1
3️⃣ Place: Wearelongterm ❌ (NR - Non-Runner)
🎯 Wildcard: Eden Mill ❌ (Pulled Up)

Analysis:

  • Ballyfort was expected to improve for the step up in trip but was outpaced late on.

  • Cave Hill ran well to finish 3rd, but the winner, Upfordebate (6/1), was not on the radar.

  • Eden Mill's breathing surgery did not improve performance. He was pulled up early, suggesting that underlying issues remain.

Verdict: 🔸 Moderate performance, with Cave Hill placing but Ballyfort failing to land the win.

Race 2 - 13:40 Ayr (2m4f Handicap Hurdle)

Prediction:

1️⃣ Win: Wainwright ❌ (Unplaced)
2️⃣ Place: The Jeweller’s Pet🏆 WON @ 8/1
3️⃣ Place: Malfoy Manor ❌ (Unplaced)
🎯 Wildcard: Master Bricklayer🥉 3rd @ 8/1

Analysis:

  • The Jeweller’s Pet was a strong winner at 8/1, proving the value angle was well spotted.

  • Master Bricklayer placed well at 8/1, justifying his selection.

  • Wainwright and Malfoy Manor were unplaced, suggesting that the race didn’t set up well for them.

Verdict:Great calls on The Jeweller’s Pet (WIN) and Master Bricklayer (PLACE), but the overall Trixie leg missed out.

Race 3 - 14:10 Ayr (2m4f Handicap Chase)

Prediction:

1️⃣ Win: Walk On Quest🏆 WON @ 13/8 Fav
2️⃣ Place: Artic Row🥈 2nd @ 11/4
3️⃣ Place: Grand Voyage🥉 3rd @ 13/2

Analysis:

  • Perfect prediction – first three home!

  • Walk On Quest was the standout selection, winning comfortably as expected.

  • Artic Row and Grand Voyage filled the places, providing solid forecast/tricast opportunities.

Verdict: ✅ ✅ ✅ Perfect race prediction – a clean sweep of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places!

Race 4 - 14:40 Ayr (2m4f Maiden Hurdle)

Prediction:

1️⃣ Win: Baratablet🥈 2nd @ 6/4 Fav
2️⃣ Place: Jeune Prince🏆 WON @ 15/8
3️⃣ Place: Gris Gris Top ❌ (Unplaced)
🎯 Wildcard: Jony R ❌ (NR - Non-Runner)

Analysis:

  • Jeune Prince proved too strong, taking the win at 15/8.

  • Baratablet placed, but failed to justify favouritism.

Verdict: 🔸 Decent, with the 1st and 2nd correct, but Baratablet failing to win hurt the Trixie return.

Race 5 - 15:10 Ayr (2m Handicap Chase)

Prediction:

1️⃣ Win: Sunnyvilla🥈 2nd @ 5/4 Fav
2️⃣ Place: Lively Citizen4th
3️⃣ Place: Rock On Jet🥉 3rd @ 6/4
🎯 Wildcard: Carcaci Castle ❌ (NR - Non-Runner)

Analysis:

  • Sunnyvilla found one too good and finished second.

  • Lively Citizen was expected to place but finished outside the top three.

  • Rock On Jet placed, but Dance Thief (11/1) was a surprise winner.

Verdict: 🔹 Mixed – Sunnyvilla and Rock On Jet placed, but the win was missed.

Race 6 - 15:45 Ayr (3m Handicap Hurdle)

Prediction:

1️⃣ Win: Golden Point🥈 2nd @ 9/2 JF
2️⃣ Place: Topkapi Star ❌ (Unplaced)
3️⃣ Place: Half Track ❌ (Unplaced)
🎯 Wildcard: Wise Move ❌ (Unplaced)

Analysis:

  • Golden Point finished 2nd but failed to land the win.

  • Unexpected winner Maura Jeanne (15/2) dominated the field.

Verdict:A poor race in terms of predictions, with only a second-place finish.

Race 7 - 16:20 Ayr (3m Handicap Chase)

Prediction:

1️⃣ Win: Cowboy Cooper🏆 WON @ 9/1
2️⃣ Place: Montys Soldier ❌ (Unplaced)
3️⃣ Place: The Jad Factor ❌ (Unplaced)
🎯 Wildcard: Wotsmyname🥈 2nd @ 12/1

Analysis:

  • Cowboy Cooper landed a solid win at 9/1, a huge result.

  • Wotsmyname placed at 12/1, another massive each-way success.

Verdict:Huge value calls, landing a 9/1 winner and 12/1 place!

Final Assessment

  • Total Races: 7

  • Winners: 3 (Walk On Quest, The Jeweller’s Pet, Cowboy Cooper)

  • Placings: 6 (Baratablet, Cave Hill, Master Bricklayer, Wotsmyname, Artic Row, Rock On Jet)

  • Biggest Price Successes: Cowboy Cooper (9/1) & Wotsmyname (12/1)

Best Prediction: Walk On Quest’s race (1st, 2nd, and 3rd correct!)
Worst Prediction: 15:45 Hurdle – only a 2nd-place finish

Final Verdict:

🔸 A mixed but profitable day, with key wins, strong places, and huge value picks (Wotsmyname 12/1, Cowboy Cooper 9/1).
🔹 Some favourites underperformed, impacting the Trixie returns.
💰 A strong return for each-way backers, particularly on the Patent bets!

🔵 Next Time: Greater focus on avoiding short-priced risks and increasing coverage on value plays.

Today's Predictions

Based on the race card for Ayr on Tuesday, 11th February 2025, here are the selections for Trixie Bet #1: The Consistency Play:

1️⃣ Selection: Ballyfort

  • Race: 13:10 Ayr (2m4f Handicap Hurdle)

  • Trainer: N. W. Alexander

  • Jockey: Bruce Lynn

  • Recent Form & Reasoning: Ballyfort delivered a strong performance when finishing second over 2 miles on heavy ground at Ayr in his last outing. The step up in trip to 2m4f is expected to suit him well, and with no change in his handicap mark, he is poised to capitalize on his current form.

  • Confidence Rating: ★★★★☆

2️⃣ Selection: Walk On Quest

  • Race: 14:10 Ayr (2m4f Handicap Chase)

  • Trainer: Lucinda Russell

  • Jockey: Alan Doyle

  • Recent Form & Reasoning: Walk On Quest has shown significant improvement since switching to fences, securing victories at Kelso and Carlisle. The step up in distance to 2m4f is anticipated to further enhance his performance, making him a strong contender in this race.

  • Confidence Rating: ★★★★☆

3️⃣ Selection: Baratablet

  • Race: 14:40 Ayr (2m4f Maiden Hurdle)

  • Trainer: Nicky Richards

  • Jockey: Danny McMenamin

  • Recent Form & Reasoning: Baratablet made an impressive debut, finishing second in a bumper at Ayr last month. The transition to hurdles and the step up in trip to 2m4f are expected to suit him, and he stands out as a strong candidate to secure his maiden victory.

  • Confidence Rating: ★★★★☆

Bet Type: Trixie (3 Doubles + 1 Treble) – 4 total bets.

Expected Outcome Breakdown:

  • Two winners: Recover the stake or bring a small profit.

  • Three winners: Multiply the stake significantly.

Please remember that while these selections are based on thorough analysis, horse racing outcomes can be unpredictable. Always gamble responsibly.

Here’s the Patent Bet #2: The All-Ways Patent (Higher-Risk Play) for Ayr today, focusing on value selections with good upside potential.

1️⃣ Selection: Eden Mill

  • Race: 13:10 Ayr (2m4f Handicap Hurdle)

  • Trainer: Donald Whillans

  • Jockey: Murray Dodd

  • Recent Form & Reasoning:

    • Pulled up last time over this C&D, but underwent breathing surgery since.

    • Has a previous win over a similar trip at Kelso, showing ability at the distance.

    • If the breathing op has worked, he’s a well-handicapped horse who could return to form at a price.

  • Risk Factors: Last run was poor, but a valid excuse (wind issues). Surgery could spark major improvement.

  • Confidence Rating: ★★★☆☆

2️⃣ Selection: Master Bricklayer (For Trixie #2, while Master Bricklayer's odds exceed the preferred range, the selection is justified based on the potential for improvement with applying first-time cheekpieces. No significant market movements warrant changes to the selections at Tuesday 11 am.)

  • Race: 13:40 Ayr (2m4f Handicap Hurdle)

  • Trainer: N. W. Alexander

  • Jockey: Bruce Lynn

  • Recent Form & Reasoning:

    • Pulled up on seasonal reappearance after 8-month layoff but was progressive last season.

    • First-time cheekpieces fitted, which could sharpen him up significantly.

    • Handicap mark is lenient based on his best form. If headgear works, he could outperform his odds.

  • Risk Factors: Needs to bounce back after a poor run, but potential is there.

  • Confidence Rating: ★★★☆☆

3️⃣ Selection: Wotsmyname

  • Race: 16:20 Ayr (3m Handicap Chase)

  • Trainer: Leonard Kerr

  • Jockey: Conor O’Farrell

  • Recent Form & Reasoning:

    • Third last time behind The Jad Factor at Newcastle, beaten just 1¼ lengths.

    • Steps up to 3 miles for the first time, which could unlock further improvement.

    • Trainer not well known but has had big-priced winners in similar races.

  • Risk Factors: Unproven over this distance, but Newcastle run suggests potential.

  • Confidence Rating: ★★★★☆

Bet Type: Patent (3 Singles, 3 Doubles, 1 Treble) – 7 total bets.

Expected Outcome Breakdown:

  • One winner: Covers most of the stake.

  • Two winners: Brings a profit.

  • All three winners: Generates a strong return.

Summary:Eden Mill – Breathing surgery angle, capable if back to best.
Master Bricklayer – First-time cheekpieces, could bounce back.
Wotsmyname – Looks ready for a step up in trip, unexposed at distance.

👉 This Patent Bet is a mix of horses who have a strong chance to improve or return to form, making them great value picks at Ayr today.

🚨 Higher-risk play – but the upside is significant! 🚨

📌 Gamble Responsibly!


Notes from AJ the Hobbyist: I'm waiting until much closer to off time to see which 'obby Picks (dropping Hs since the dog chewed my denture) are drifters or steamers, based on Betfair odds at the time of publishing and updated Timeform data.
Key Reminders:
Parading: Look for calm, focused horses with a good walk—avoid those sweating excessively or agitated.
Going Down: Smooth, controlled canter = positive. Overly keen or reluctant = caution.
At the Post: Composed behaviour signals readiness; restlessness, rearing, or sweating could be negatives.
Odds Market Sentiment:
Steamers (shortening odds): Positive market confidence, but watch for overbet favourites.
Drifters (lengthening odds): Could signal trainer/jockey concerns—or just market overreaction, offering value.
Keep emotions out—trust the data, the visuals, and the odds shifts. 🎯

Selections from Ayr Full Race Card

🏇 Race 1 - 13:10 Ayr (2m4f Handicap Hurdle)

1️⃣ Win Selection: Ballyfort

Trainer: N. W. Alexander | Jockey: Bruce Lynn
Key Form: Strong second over 2m here on heavy ground last time, staying on well. No rise in the weights and steps up in trip, which should suit.
Why: Ballyfort shaped well last time, finding only one too good. The return to a longer trip and similar ground conditions make him the one to beat, especially with the unchanged handicap mark providing a great opportunity to land his first win.

2️⃣ 2nd Place: Cave Hill

Trainer: Ian Duncan | Jockey: Alan Doyle
Key Form: Scored impressively at Newcastle in December and ran a credible fifth of 18 over C&D next time. Proven ability to handle conditions.
Why: He’s already shown he stays the trip and his Newcastle win suggested he’s on an upward curve. With a handy weight and solid recent form, he’s a major player again.

3️⃣ 3rd Place: Wearelongterm

Trainer: Lucinda Russell | Jockey: P. W. Wadge
Key Form: Went close at Wetherby last time, finishing second over a similar distance on heavy going. Looks capable of another big run.
Why: Despite still being a maiden, his latest effort at Wetherby was encouraging, and he remains lightly raced with scope for improvement. The slight weight rise is manageable, and he should be in the mix again.

🎯 Wildcard Pick: Eden Mill

Trainer: Donald Whillans | Jockey: Murray Dodd
Key Form: Pulled up on his last start at this C&D but underwent breathing surgery since, which could spark a revival. Has a past win at Kelso over a similar trip.
Why: Breathing operations can have a big impact, and if the surgery has resolved past issues, he could be a well-handicapped contender at an attractive price.

🏇 Race 2 - 13:40 Ayr (2m4f Handicap Hurdle)

1️⃣ Win Selection: Wainwright

Trainer: Nicky Richards | Jockey: Conor Rabbitt
Key Form: Best effort yet when third at Newcastle over 2m6f, staying on well but needing a stronger gallop. Unchanged mark makes him a strong contender.
Why: He ran a promising race last time out and shaped like a horse ready to capitalise in a race with a better setup. The drop back to 2m4f on soft ground should suit, and he looks to be improving at the right time.

2️⃣ 2nd Place: The Jeweller’s Pet

Trainer: Ian Duncan | Jockey: Charlie Maggs
Key Form: Solid third in a 2m handicap hurdle at Ayr last time, finishing well. Step back up in trip is a big plus.
Why: His latest run over a shorter distance suggested he had more to give, and this return to 2m4f should see him in an even better light. He’s progressing and looks a strong place contender.

3️⃣ 3rd Place: Malfoy Manor

Trainer: Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero | Jockey: Toby Wynne
Key Form: Lightly-raced maiden making his handicap debut after an underwhelming novice effort. Steps up in trip with potential.
Why: His novice runs suggest he hasn’t been in the right races yet, and the switch to handicaps over a longer trip could bring significant improvement. With a respected yard and a good jockey booking, he’s a dark horse in this field.

🎯 Wildcard Pick: Master Bricklayer

Trainer: N. W. Alexander | Jockey: Bruce Lynn
Key Form: Ended last season well but pulled up on return after an 8-month break. Now fitted with cheekpieces for the first time.
Why: A poor seasonal reappearance might have hidden his ability, and the addition of cheekpieces could sharpen him up. If he recaptures his old form, he’s a big-price player with place potential.

🏇 Race 3 - 14:10 Ayr (2m4f Handicap Chase)

1️⃣ Win Selection: Walk On Quest

Trainer: Lucinda Russell | Jockey: Alan Doyle
Key Form: Won his last two starts over fences at Kelso and Carlisle, improving with each run. Stepping up in trip should bring out further improvement.
Why: A progressive chaser who has taken to fences brilliantly, showing a strong finishing kick and plenty of scope for more. The step up to 2m4f looks ideal, and he’s the one to beat in this field.

2️⃣ 2nd Place: Artic Row

Trainer: N. W. Alexander | Jockey: C. O’Farrell
Key Form: Won three times over C&D last season, including this race. Back on track with a solid third at Newcastle last time.
Why: Course form counts for plenty at Ayr, and Artic Row has already shown he thrives here. If he puts in a clear round, he’ll be right there at the finish, making him a major danger to the favourite.

3️⃣ 3rd Place: Grand Voyage

Trainer: Stuart Coltherd | Jockey: Sam Coltherd
Key Form: Returned to form when second at Hexham last time, shaping as though another win isn’t far away.
Why: He’s struggled for consistency but looked much sharper last time, and with a repeat of that effort, he has strong each-way claims in this field.

🎯 Wildcard Pick: Step Above

Trainer: Lucinda Russell | Jockey: P. W. Wadge
Key Form: Third at Perth on reappearance and ran respectably in fourth over C&D last time.
Why: Looks like a horse who wants an even longer trip but is consistent enough to hit the frame if things go his way. Could be one for the forecast players at decent odds.

🏇 Race 4 - 14:40 Ayr (2m4f Maiden Hurdle)

1️⃣ Win Selection: Baratablet

Trainer: Nicky Richards | Jockey: Danny McMenamin
Key Form: Finished second on debut in a bumper here last month, showing a sharp turn of foot.
Why: A highly promising hurdling debutant from a strong yard. His bumper run was full of promise, and he looks to have a clear edge over this field in terms of ability. The extra trip should suit, and he’s the one to beat.

2️⃣ 2nd Place: Jeune Prince

Trainer: Lucinda Russell | Jockey: P. W. Wadge
Key Form: A consistent performer who finished second over C&D last time, showing staying ability.
Why: Has the benefit of hurdling experience and ran well over this course and distance. Should be the main challenger to Baratablet, especially if the ground is testing.

3️⃣ 3rd Place: Gris Gris Top

Trainer: Donald McCain | Jockey: B. S. Hughes
Key Form: A fair performer who went close in a Uttoxeter maiden hurdle after a long layoff.
Why: The fact he returned from a long absence with a solid effort suggests he retains ability. If he’s fit and ready, he has enough quality to hit the frame.

🎯 Wildcard Pick: Jony R

Trainer: Stuart Crawford | Jockey: J. J. Slevin
Key Form: Finished third on his hurdles debut at Ayr over 2m, showing potential.
Why: He shaped well on his first go over obstacles and will be suited by the step up in trip. If he finds improvement, he could be an interesting each-way play at bigger odds.

🏇 Race 5 - 15:10 Ayr (2m Handicap Chase)

1️⃣ Sunnyvilla

Trainer: Nicky Richards | Jockey: Danny McMenamin
Key Form: Progressive 10-year-old who made a winning debut for this yard at Haydock in December. That performance was arguably his best yet, and a 7 lb rise may not be enough to halt his momentum. Proven on testing ground, stays the trip strongly, and should be primed for another bold bid.
Why: Sunnyvilla’s form is rock-solid, and he has already proven himself under similar conditions. The Haydock win was stylish, and with McMenamin retaining the ride, everything points to another big run. Market support last time suggests confidence from connections.

2️⃣ Lively Citizen

Trainer: D. J. Jeffreys | Jockey: Sean Quinlan
Key Form: Won over this C&D three weeks ago and still looks well-treated despite a 3 lb rise. Had been struggling over hurdles prior to that, but clearly benefitted from the return to fences. Well-handicapped on past form and should be in the mix again.
Why: Course form is a big plus, and his latest victory was convincing. With conditions and trip to suit, he looks a solid place contender. If he builds on his latest success, he could even push the favourite close.

3️⃣ Rock On Jet

Trainer: George Bewley | Jockey: Brian Hughes
Key Form: Lightly raced 6-year-old who won well over hurdles last time out on heavy ground. Runner-up in both point-to-points, which suggests fences should suit. The booking of top jockey Brian Hughes adds further intrigue.
Why: Unexposed and could improve significantly on his chasing debut. While experience is a slight concern, his ability to handle soft conditions and Hughes’ involvement make him an exciting prospect for a strong run.

🎯 Wildcard Pick: Carcaci Castle

Trainer: Sandy Thomson | Jockey: Ryan Mania
Key Form: Hasn't quite hit top gear since his Hexham win in June but is gradually dropping in the weights. A third-place finish last time suggests he may be nearing a return to form.
Why: If he can rediscover his best form, he is dangerously well-handicapped. At a big price, he could sneak into the frame if conditions play to his strengths.

🏇 Race 6 - 15:45 Ayr (3m Handicap Hurdle)

1️⃣ Golden Point

Trainer: Lucinda Russell | Jockey: Conner McCann
Key Form: Made it third-time lucky over hurdles when overcoming a significant mistake to win over 20.5f here last month. That performance suggests plenty of ability, and this step up to 3m on handicap debut could bring further improvement.
Why: Golden Point has untapped potential and shapes like a stayer in the making. With a proven ability to handle heavy ground and a progressive profile, he is well-placed to strike again, particularly from a fair-looking mark on handicap debut.

2️⃣ Topkapi Star

Trainer: Ewan Whillans | Jockey: Peter Kavanagh
Key Form: Returned to form with a decisive win at Ayr over 21.5f in first-time cheekpieces last month. The headgear is retained, and a 7 lb rise looks fair if that win wasn't a fluke.
Why: There’s every chance that the cheekpieces have unlocked further improvement. If he can build on his last win, he will be a major player in this contest. Course experience is an added bonus.

3️⃣ Half Track

Trainer: N. W. Alexander | Jockey: Brian Hughes
Key Form: Best run for some time when second at Carlisle (2m3f) in December. Was outclassed in stronger company at Haydock last time but drops back to a more realistic level here.
Why: With a leading jockey booked, Half Track has strong each-way claims. He has shown enough ability to suggest a race like this is within his grasp, and a return to this grade could see him bounce back.

🎯 Wildcard Pick: Wise Move

Trainer: George Bewley | Jockey: Danny McMenamin
Key Form: Ran to a fair level when second in a Hexham novice in May. Best effort since when finishing fifth in a competitive Carlisle 3m handicap on his most recent run in November.
Why: Lightly raced and still unexposed at this trip. Given time to freshen up, he could be one to surprise at a big price, particularly if the break has done him good.

🏇 Race 7 - 16:20 Ayr (3m Handicap Chase)

1️⃣ Cowboy Cooper

Trainer: Donald Whillans | Jockey: Craig Nichol
Key Form: Improved over fences last season, winning well at Perth over 3m. Caught the eye on his seasonal reappearance over hurdles here last month, shaping as if the run was needed. Should be spot on now.
Why: With a recent run under his belt, stepping back up to 3m over fences looks ideal. He has already proven he stays, and if he can build on last season’s progressive form, he has every chance of winning this.

2️⃣ Montys Soldier

Trainer: Stuart Coltherd | Jockey: Sam Coltherd
Key Form: Showed promise over hurdles but took a big step forward when runner-up on chase debut at Ffos Las (heavy) in November. Remains lightly raced and open to further improvement.
Why: This former point winner looks a natural over fences and will appreciate the testing conditions. If he improves from his debut second, he should be right in the mix here.

3️⃣ The Jad Factor

Trainer: Sandy Thomson | Jockey: Ryan Mania
Key Form: Took his form up a notch when winning over 2m4f at Newcastle last month. Has been raised 4 lbs but remains well-handicapped based on his past hurdles form.
Why: This race is tougher, but his Newcastle win was solid, and he could still have more to offer over fences. He stays well and should be thereabouts if handling conditions.

🎯 Wildcard Pick: Wotsmyname

Trainer: Leonard Kerr | Jockey: Conor O’Farrell
Key Form: Ran a career-best when third behind The Jad Factor at Newcastle last time out, only beaten 1¼ lengths. Suggests this longer trip could suit him well.
Why: He’s unexposed over fences, and stepping up to 3m might unlock further improvement. If progressing again, he has a sneaky each-way chance at a big price.

🏇 Race 8 - 16:55 Ayr (2m National Hunt Flat Race)

1️⃣ Gintime

Trainer: Nicky Richards | Jockey: Danny McMenamin
Key Form: Highly promising second on debut at Carlisle before Christmas, finishing clear of the rest. Looked green but travelled strongly and is sure to improve.
Why: Experience counts for plenty in bumpers, and Gintime shaped like a winner-in-waiting last time. With natural progression, she looks the one to beat, and the market suggests strong confidence behind her.

2️⃣ Belle De Vassy

Trainer: Gerald Stephen Quinn | Jockey: Mr N McParlan
Key Form: Showed ability in an Irish bumper at Punchestown on heavy ground, finishing seventh but shaping better than the result. Represents a stable with a strong record in British bumpers.
Why: The shorter trip could suit, and Irish raiders often go well in these contests. If handling conditions, she should put up a bold challenge to the favourite.

3️⃣ Hunters Spring

Trainer: Lucinda Russell | Jockey: Conner McCann
Key Form: Made a winning start at Newcastle in a weak bumper but was well on top at the finish. Steps up in class and carries a penalty.
Why: A winning attitude is a plus, and she could progress further. However, the strength of her previous race is questionable, so she may have to find more to feature prominently here.

🎯 Wildcard Pick: Royal Hillsborough

Trainer: Stuart Crawford | Jockey: S W Flanagan
Key Form: Well-bred mare from a yard with a strong 20% strike rate in British bumpers. Debut run, but market confidence would be telling.
Why: The pedigree suggests staying power, and the stable’s record in similar races is notable. If there’s market support, she could be worth an each-way interest at a price.