Claimantakinforgan can take the glory in Scottish Champion Hurdle

The eight-year-old missed the Aintree National due to the soft conditions. But the fine recent whether all over the UK has provided connections with the hope that he can put in a good run.

Before Cheltenham he’d won at both Newbury and Ascot, beating Frodon by 3L in the Silver Cup Handicap Chase. Conditions in both of those were similar to how they’ll be at Ayr.

He stays all day and jumps well and could be a big player in this 3m 7f renewal.

Stoute’s novice star is back

As short-priced favourites go, it doesn’t get much more solid than Expert Eye in the Greatwood Greenham Stakes at Newbury.

Sir Michael Stoute’s star makes his seasonal reappearance after an odd end to last year’s campaign. Wins at Goodwood and Newbury last summer was followed by a 70-odd day break.

It all went horribly wrong in the Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket in October as the three-year-old finished last from nine runners. He’d also came back lame at the end of the race.

But with a good winter under his belt, connections are optimistic of a big season ahead. He’s undoubtedly the classiest horse in this Group 3 7f renewal. And if all goes well, should hose up.

ITV Racing Tips:

1:45 Ayr – Vaniteaux

2:00 Newbury – Call To Mind

2:20 Ayr – Shades Of Midnight

2:35 Newbury – Gavota

2:55 Ayr – Claimantakinforgan

3:10 Newbury – Expert Eye

3:30 Ayr – Cobra De Mai

3:45 Newbury – Leader Writer

4:10 Ayr – Gold Present

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All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing