Friday 2nd January 2026
12.30 Ayr: Happy New Year From Ayr Racecourse Maiden Hurdle (Class 4)
KINGS CHAMPION caught the eye on his hurdles debut at Market Rasen last month, coming from an unpromising position to eventually finish third. He should naturally show improvement coming into the second start of his campaign here, and that makes him a player under the champion jockey Sean Bowen. A big run would be no surprise. (4/1) (Each-Way)
12.42 Chelmsford: CCR “Hands And Heels” Apprentice Handicap (Class 5)
CHARLIE MASON looks rock solid in this particular affair for the team of Tony Carroll and five-pound claimer Myla Coppins. He was only a length and a half behind the winner when fifth in a Class 2 event at this track last time out, so dropping into Class 5 company here has to make him a serious contender. He’s also effectively a pound below his last winning mark with the rider’s claim coming into the equation. (13/8) (Win) (NAP)
3.12 Chelmsford: Chelmsford Mile Series Qualifying Handicap (Class 6)
AL WAQIDI hasn’t won since his novice days all the way back in 2021; however, he’s run well in his last two outings over a mile at Kempton, doing his best work late. He also continues to drop down the weights, and has been dropped a further two pounds following his most recent effort to a mark of 60. He ought to be getting closer off this mark, and at this basement level. If he gets a strong pace to aim at, he could break his unwanted streak here. (9/2) (Each-Way)
