Tuesday 2nd January 2024
Author: Jordan Yates (EvRacing_)
Welcome aboard to Tuesday’s Midweek Preview where I’ll be focusing my attention on Ayr where I’ve got several selections to share with you all. As ever, make sure to gamble responsibly if you are having a bet.
12.45: Happy New Year From Ayr Racecourse Maiden Hurdle: My first pick of the day comes in the 12.45 which is a maiden hurdle over two miles and four and a half furlongs. This looks like a good opportunity for Esprit Du Potier to get his nose in front for Lucinda Russell and Derek Fox, he’s finished runner-up on the last two occasions since going over hurdles, including a short-priced defeat at this track last month. He should be good enough to win a maiden though, and it would be disappointing should he get beaten again here. Esprit Du Potier – 9/10F (Win)
1.45: Jim ‘Havana’ McPherson Handicap Chase: Next up for me is the 1.45 which is a handicap chase that’s ridden over three miles. I like the chances of Haute Estime here who’s another one for Lucinda Russell and Derek Fox. She was last seen finishing fifth in a competitive handicap at Haydock, and this is a slightly easier assignment which she’ll also contest off a three-pound lower mark. I think she’s got every chance of making her presence felt in this, should she progress from the Haydock run. Haute Estime – 15/4 (Win)
2.45: Golf Inn Prestwick Handicap Hurdle: Moving onto the 2.45 which is handicap hurdle action over three miles and half of a furlong. I’m once again going to chance Rafferty’s Return who’s a 7/2 chance for Rebecca Menzies and Ross Chapman. He’s been posting sold enough efforts as of late without actually winning and ran well here last time for a long way when finishing fourth. He’s also been gradually falling down the weights and despite currently being the outsider of the four here, I think he’s a big player. Rafferty’s Return – 7/2 (Win)
3.15: Quiz Night At Golf Inn Prestwick Maiden Hurdle: My fourth and concluding punt of the afternoon comes in the 3.15 which is a maiden hurdle that’s ridden over two miles. This looks like a fantastic opportunity for Joshua Des Flos who currently heads the betting for Stuart Crawford and Daryl Jacob. He’s finished third on his last four outings, including on his most recent outing which came here last month when behind Florida Dreams. That looks like the best form on offer here and the level of opposition leaves something to be desired. Joshua Des Flos – 11/10F (Win)
