Our Ayr racing tips cover all 8 races on the card today, Friday 18th September 2026. The action gets underway at 13:20 and runs through to 17:20, with going reported as 1.20, 4.15, 4.45 & 5.20 +12yds) (Soft, good to soft in places (rail movements).
A few names jump off the page from a course-form perspective. Beautiful Diamond boasts a 75% strike rate from 4 runs at the track, Saffie Osborne has been in fine form here with 3 wins from 13 rides, William Haggas’s yard sends out runners with a 38.89% strike rate at this venue. Below you’ll find race-by-race breakdowns with our top selections, live odds and tipster picks.
Tipster Performance at Ayr
Here’s how the leading tipsters have fared at Ayr over the last two years (minimum 10 selections):
| Tipster | Source | Selections | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lee Sobot | Yorkshire Evening Post | 19 | 8 | 42.11% | 73.68% |
| bettinggods.com | bettinggods.com | 16 | 6 | 37.5% | 62.5% |
| The Duke | Yorkshire Post | 16 | 6 | 37.5% | 56.25% |
| Glendale | The Scotsman | 46 | 17 | 36.96% | 60.87% |
| Melissa Jones | D Express | 25 | 9 | 36% | 64% |
13:20 – Ladbrokes ‘Bet £5 Get £30 New Customer Offer’ Fillies’ Nursery Handicap
Race Details: 7f | Class 4 | Going: 1.20, 4.15, 4.45 & 5.20 +12yds) (Soft, good to soft in places (rail movements) | | flat
This looks a proper early nursery rather than a weak numbers race, with several fillies arriving after showing enough to suggest there is more to come. Diplomata sets the standard on official figures after getting off the mark and William Haggas doesn’t waste many trips north, but she is short enough in a field where a few unexposed types can improve again. One Shot Kodi appeals as a solid yardstick after a good second and her topspeed figure catches the eye, while Missouri Waltz has done little wrong in two starts and could easily step forward now entering handicaps. Necromancer is another with obvious upside despite a wide draw. In short, it is competitive for a nine-runner race and probably not one to treat as a penalty kick.
Top Selections
1. One Shot Kodi – 5/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Oisin McSweeney | Trainer: Kevin Ryan | Form: 8742 | Rating: 85 | Topspeed: 82
One Shot Kodi makes plenty of appeal at the prices. That latest second was a clear step in the right direction and the topspeed mark of 82 is the best in the field, which is often a very useful clue in nurseries round Ayr when the ground is on the easy side. Kevin Ryan’s juveniles are always worth respecting here and this filly looks the type to do better now handicapping has begun to make sense of her. She gets in with 8st 11lb, has a handy middle draw in four, and available at 5/1 she looks a fair bit more attractive than the cramped market leader. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Missouri Waltz – 13/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Mikey Sheehy | Trainer: Adrian Paul Keatley | Form: 12 | Rating: 80 | Topspeed: 58
Missouri Waltz is the each-way angle in a race where unexposed profiles are worth following. She has only run twice, winning on debut before finishing second, and that simple 1-2 formline gives her more substance than plenty of these. An opening mark of 80 does not scream harsh treatment and there should be improvement to come now she goes into handicap company over 7f, which ought to suit. Drawn in three, she ought to get a sensible trip, and Adrian Paul Keatley’s filly has the look of one who will keep progressing through the autumn. At 13/2, she is a perfectly reasonable each-way punt in a race with three places on offer. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
One Shot Kodi is the win play at around 5/1, chiefly because her latest run and standout topspeed figure suggest she is ready to cash in now handicapping. Missouri Waltz is the each-way alternative at 13/2, with her lightly-raced profile making plenty of appeal. Diplomata is the obvious danger if building on her win, while Necromancer is another who would not surprise if improving again.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri Waltz | 13/2 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 13/2 (Bet365) |
| Diplomata | 11/8 | 5/4 | 5/4 | 5/4 | 5/4 | 11/8 (Bet365) |
| Motown Filly | 13/2 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 13/2 (Bet365) |
| Necromancer | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 (Bet365) |
| One Shot Kodi | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 (Bet365) |
| Bai Tong | 12/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Global Success | 22/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 (Bet365) |
| Texting | 33/1 | 40/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 50/1 | 66/1 (Paddy Power) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Rory Delargy | One Shot Kodi |
| Robin Goodfellow | Diplomata |
13:55 – Get Home Safe With Thistle Cabs EBF Nursery Handicap
Race Details: 6f | Class 2 | Going: 1.20, 4.15, 4.45 & 5.20 +12yds) (Soft, good to soft in places (rail movements) | | flat
This is a proper nursery rather than a weak little end-of-season cash grab, with several arriving from solid juvenile form and a few lurking on dangerous marks at the foot of the weights. Dontlookanyfurther is the obvious starting point after rattling off back-to-back wins and he has the profile of a colt still going the right way, but he is not facing a bunch of no-hopers here. Trumpety Trump comes here in winning form and still looks fairly treated, while Deputy Vice catches the eye as a low-weight runner with a big Topspeed figure and a good draw. Crystal Queen and Gladys Pugh bring smart ratings into the race too, so this looks competitive enough despite the strong market leader.
Top Selections
1. Dontlookanyfurther – 11/8 with Bet365
Jockey: Jason Hart | Trainer: John & Sean Quinn | Form: 611 | Rating: 93 | Topspeed: 77
He is the one with the clearest progressive profile in the field and, in truth, he is hard to oppose. Those last two wins suggest he has learned quickly, and a mark of 93 may not have caught up with him yet if there is still another chunk of improvement to come. Stall 1 should help Jason Hart hold a handy position if conditions turn testing, and the Quinn yard knows exactly how to place these tough juveniles. At 11/8 he is no giveaway in a 13-runner nursery, but he still makes more appeal than most because he looks the most likely winner rather than merely the best handicapped. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Deputy Vice – 14/1 with Sky Bet
Jockey: Rhys Elliott | Trainer: Rebecca Menzies | Form: 3443 | Rating: 95 | Topspeed: 101
Deputy Vice is the one that makes plenty of each-way appeal at the prices. He has yet to get his head in front, so there is an obvious knock, but his form has been steadily respectable and that standout Topspeed mark of 101 jumps off the page in this company. From stall 2 he ought to get a sensible tow into the race, and carrying just 118 could matter late on if this turns into a slog. He does not have the sexy profile of the favourite, but 14/1 with four places on offer looks more than fair for a colt who has been knocking on the door and is not short of raw ability. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Keep it straightforward: Dontlookanyfurther is the win bet because he is the progressive one and still looks ahead of the assessor. For an each-way punt, Deputy Vice has the draw, the low weight and the speed figure to outrun his price. Trumpety Trump is the obvious danger if building on his latest win, while Crystal Queen is too well rated to dismiss lightly.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dontlookanyfurther | 11/8 | 11/8 | 11/8 | 11/8 | 11/8 | 11/8 (Bet365) |
| Siouxperb | 11/2 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 (Betfair) |
| Crystal Queen | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
| Tropical Crown | 17/2 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 7/1 | 17/2 (Bet365) |
| Baddaddan | 16/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Influencer Man | 14/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Trumpety Trump | 13/2 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 13/2 (Bet365) |
| Mind Those Steps | 33/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
| Gladys Pugh | 20/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 20/1 (Bet365) |
| Furturra | 18/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 18/1 | 20/1 (Betfair) |
| Deputy Vice | 11/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 (Sky Bet) |
| Turnstile | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
| Inns And Out | 22/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Betfair) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| racing-daily.com | Dontlookanyfurther |
14:30 – British EBF Stallions Harry Rosebery Stakes (Listed Race)
Race Details: 5f | Class 1 | Going: 1.20, 4.15, 4.45 & 5.20 +12yds) (Soft, good to soft in places (rail movements) | | flat
This is a cracking little Listed sprint for juveniles and, for all there are only eight runners, it does not lack depth. Hickory Lad brings the standout rating and the best Topspeed figure, so it is obvious enough why he heads the market, but this is no penalty kick on soft ground against improving rivals. Mussab arrives off a win and has the raw speed figures to make him a major player, while Dubai Champion has already mixed it in stronger company and could be dangerous back in slightly calmer waters. Dance A Jig is better than the bare result of that latest ninth and shouldn’t be dismissed either. In truth, this looks a proper two-year-old sprint where pace, ground handling and sharpness in the closing furlong will decide it.
Top Selections
1. Mussab – 4/1 with Betfair
Jockey: Oisin Orr | Trainer: Richard & Peter Fahey | Form: 3361 | Rating: 102 | Topspeed: 99
Mussab makes plenty of appeal at the prices. That last-time-out win suggested he is learning quickly, and a Topspeed of 99 in a juvenile Listed sprint context is a figure worth taking seriously. He still has a bit to find on official ratings with Hickory Lad, but not much, and he may have more improvement left in him than some of these more exposed rivals. The Fahey yard knows exactly what is required with sharp two-year-old sprinters in the north, and Oisin Orr is a solid booking for a race that could get tactical before turning into a dash late on. Available at 4/1, he looks the value against a shortish favourite.
Bet: WIN
2. Dance A Jig – 6/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Jason Hart | Trainer: Ralph Beckett | Form: 22019 | Rating: 104 | Topspeed: 87
Dance A Jig is the one I’d want on side each-way because the market may be overreacting to that latest ninth. Prior to that, the form was rock solid, including a win and several very respectable efforts in decent company, and a mark of 104 says she belongs at this level. Jason Hart is a positive booking at Ayr, and Beckett does well with juveniles who can travel into these fast-run sprints. She does need to prove she can be at her best on this surface, but in a race where one or two have short enough prices for what they’ve actually achieved, 6/1 makes her an entirely fair each-way punt with three places on offer.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Mussab is the win play because his latest effort hinted at a colt still going the right way, and his speed figure gives him every chance of toppling the favourite. Dance A Jig is the each-way alternative at a workable price, especially if forgiving that last run. Hickory Lad is the obvious danger on the figures, while Dubai Champion also has the class to get involved if handling conditions well.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caturra Lights | 40/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
| Dance A Jig | 6/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 6/1 (Bet365) |
| Dubai Champion | 10/3 | 5/2 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 10/3 (Bet365) |
| Hickory Lad | 11/8 | 6/4 | 6/4 | 6/4 | 6/4 | 6/4 (Betfair) |
| Mussab | 10/3 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 7/2 | 4/1 (Betfair) |
| Underdog | 50/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 50/1 (Bet365) |
| Nour | 9/1 | 17/2 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Sydney Grace | 28/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 28/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Ross Shepherd | Dance A Jig |
15:05 – Arran Scottish Sprint EBF Fillies’ Stakes (Listed Race)
Race Details: 5f | Class 1 | Going: 1.20, 4.15, 4.45 & 5.20 +12yds) (Soft, good to soft in places (rail movements) | | flat
This is a proper Ayr sprint puzzle rather than a gimme, even if the market is understandably latching on to Beautiful Diamond. She brings the standout rating and the most solid recent Listed form, but a big field over 5f on soft ground can make life messy in a hurry. Heavenly Heather and Luna A Inbhir Nis both have the figures to get involved if bouncing back or building on recent efforts, while Fluorescence arrives with a useful topspeed mark and is drawn low to attack. The 3yos get weight, which keeps Lady Youmzain firmly in the conversation, especially as she still looks a progressive sort. It’s a competitive Listed race, but one where class and the ability to travel strongly in the mud should count for plenty.
Top Selections
1. Beautiful Diamond – 13/8 with Bet365
Jockey: Pierre-Louis Jamin | Trainer: K R Burke | Form: 2-3933 | Rating: 124 | Topspeed: 90
She’s the obvious one, but sometimes obvious is simply correct. Beautiful Diamond has been keeping much better company than plenty of these and her recent string of placed efforts suggests she’s knocking firmly on the door rather than going backwards. A mark of 124 gives her a clear edge on the numbers and Burke’s sprinters are rarely far away in races like this at Ayr. Stall 4 looks a workable pitch if she can break cleanly and hold a handy position. At 13/8 she isn’t a gift, but she is the most solid proposition in the field and very hard to oppose on balance. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Lady Youmzain – 10/1 with William Hill
Jockey: Tom Eaves | Trainer: Kevin Ryan | Form: 1-132 | Rating: 104 | Topspeed: 100
If you want one at a fairer price against the favourite, Lady Youmzain makes plenty of appeal. She gets in here as a 3yo carrying 126lb and her profile is much less exposed than several of the older mares. That form line of 1-132 reads well for a filly still learning her job, and a topspeed figure of 100 says she already has the raw pace to cope in this grade. Kevin Ryan knows exactly what’s required in northern sprint races and Tom Eaves is no stranger to delivering one late in a cavalry charge. At 10/1, she looks the value each-way play. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Beautiful Diamond is the percentage call and the one to keep on side in the win market, as her class edge is plain enough. For an each-way punt, Lady Youmzain appeals more than the shorter-priced alternatives because she gets weight and still has upside. The main dangers are Heavenly Heather, who has the rating to threaten, and Fluorescence, who could be dangerous if getting loose on the low side.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beautiful Diamond | 13/8 | 6/4 | 6/4 | 6/4 | 8/5 | 13/8 (Bet365) |
| Brazilian Rose | 66/1 | 100/1 | 66/1 | 100/1 | 66/1 | 100/1 (Betfair) |
| Fluorescence | 11/2 | 6/1 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 (William Hill) |
| Heavenly Heather | 5/1 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 9/2 | 11/2 (Paddy Power) |
| La Brodeuse | 10/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Luna A Inbhir Nis | 9/2 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 5/1 | 11/2 (Paddy Power) |
| Nariko | 40/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 50/1 | 66/1 (Betfair) |
| Novamay | 25/1 | 50/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 | 28/1 | 50/1 (Betfair) |
| Catching The Moon | 18/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Betfair) |
| Focaccia | 28/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 (Betfair) |
| Lady Youmzain | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 (William Hill) |
| Lam Yai | 25/1 | 33/1 | 25/1 | 33/1 | 14/1 | 33/1 (Betfair) |
| Rogue Attraction | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 (William Hill) |
| Shes Got A Brother | 40/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 50/1 | 66/1 (Betfair) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Sam Hardy | Beautiful Diamond |
| Garry Owen | Lady Youmzain |
| The Duke | Beautiful Diamond |
| Glendale | Beautiful Diamond |
| Dave Nevison | Beautiful Diamond |
| The North | Beautiful Diamond |
| Dean Kilbryde | Beautiful Diamond |
| Newsboy | Beautiful Diamond |
15:40 – Ladbrokes Ayr Bronze Cup Handicap
Race Details: 6f | Class 2 | Going: 1.20, 4.15, 4.45 & 5.20 +12yds) (Soft, good to soft in places (rail movements) | | flat
This is the sort of Bronze Cup that can make fools of plenty of punters: a big field, softish ground, and no shortage of pace spread across the track. Boston Dan arrives here on the back of a win and is an obvious player, while Woven has become the trendy one judged on the tipster noise and his back-class in these sprint handicaps. American Style, Milford and Francisco’s Piece also bring solid recent form, and Kevin Ryan has numbers on his side with several darts to throw. Draw biases at Ayr can shift quickly when the ground is riding on the easy side, so I would rather side with horses who look well treated and arrive in form than get too dogmatic about track position. Tricky? Absolutely. Weak race? Not at all.
Top Selections
1. Boston Dan – 17/2 with Bet365
Jockey: David Allan | Trainer: Tim Easterby | Form: 004701 | Rating: 93 | Topspeed: 70
Boston Dan is the one I want on side. He comes here as a 3yo on the upgrade after getting his head back in front last time, and a mark of 93 still gives him room if that latest effort has lit the fuse properly. Tim Easterby targets these northern handicaps as well as anyone, and David Allan is exactly the sort you want in a cavalry charge round Ayr. He is not the finished article yet, which is the attraction rather than the concern, and 17/2 looks fair in a race where plenty have exposed handicap marks. If he handles these softer conditions well enough, he has the profile of a proper Bronze Cup winner. Bet type: win.
Bet: WIN
2. Milford – 14/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Tom Kiely Marshall | Trainer: Julie Camacho | Form: 609282 | Rating: 94 | Topspeed: 82
Milford makes plenty of each-way appeal at 14/1. His recent form figures do not scream superstar, but that latest second was a good reminder that he is knocking on the door again, and he has the sort of robust handicap profile that often pays in these rough-and-tumble sprints. Julie Camacho’s team know how to place one in a race like this, and stall 23 could be no bad place to be if that side develops into the stronger strip. He has enough tactical speed for 6f, carries a workable 94 rating, and unlike some rivals he does not need everything to fall perfectly to run his race. In a race paying six places, he looks the value each-way punt. Bet type: each-way.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Boston Dan is the win play; he is the progressive one in a race full of solid but more exposed sprinters. Milford is the each-way alternative because his recent form is reliable and six places give you a decent cushion. Woven is the obvious danger on old form, while American Style and Francisco’s Piece are others I would not want to leave out of wider perms.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milford | 14/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Wild Clary | 12/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
| American Style | 9/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 (William Hill) |
| Jordan Electrics | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Sky Bet) |
| Vantheman | 14/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (William Hill) |
| Territorial Knight | 20/1 | 20/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 (William Hill) |
| Hunky Dory | 22/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Woven | 11/1 | 11/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 (William Hill) |
| U Sure Do | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
| Bone Marra | 10/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| It Just Takes Time | 33/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 (Betfair) |
| Fleetwater | 28/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 40/1 | 66/1 (Betfair) |
| Brighton Boy | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Manila Scouse | 25/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 | 28/1 | 40/1 (Sky Bet) |
| Boston Dan | 17/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 15/2 | 17/2 | 17/2 (Bet365) |
| Eye Of Dubai | 11/1 | 11/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
| Rousing Encore | 14/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 11/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Angel Shared | 20/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 (William Hill) |
| Society Kiss | 33/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 (Betfair) |
| Al Hussar | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 (Sky Bet) |
| Righthere Rightnow | 9/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 17/2 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| French Affair | 12/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
| Winged Messenger | 16/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 (William Hill) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Spotlight | Boston Dan |
| Tipman Tips | Woven |
| Steve Mullington | Woven |
| The Data Detective | Woven |
| Rory Paddock | Woven |
| Melissa Jones | Territorial Knight |
| Marlborough | Righthere Rightnow |
| Sunday Express | Jordan Electrics |
| The Guardian | Eye Of Dubai |
| Matt Polley | Eye Of Dubai |
| Rockavon | American Style |
16:15 – Zenith Ltd Building Partnerships That Last Handicap (Div I)
Race Details: 1m | Class 5 | Going: 1.20, 4.15, 4.45 & 5.20 +12yds) (Soft, good to soft in places (rail movements) | | flat
This looks a proper Ayr handicap rather than a race full of hidden stars, but it is competitive and the mile on soft ground will put the emphasis on resolution rather than speed alone. Motawaared arrives in the most convincing current form after back-to-back seconds and has the figures to suggest he is ready to strike, while Glorious Kitty has been admirably consistent and should give another good account from a handy draw. Thats My Boy Luke is another with a solid recent line and a light weight, and Invincible Ruby is not short of place claims if reproducing her better efforts. By contrast, a few of these, notably Empirestateofmind and Kelpie Grey, need a revival. Tricky enough, but not impossible to solve if you trust the recent form.
Top Selections
1. Motawaared – 4/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Paul Mulrennan | Trainer: Jim Goldie | Form: 565422 | Rating: 78 | Topspeed: 71
Motawaared is the percentage call. Those last two runner-up efforts suggest he is knocking loudly on the door, and his Topspeed figure of 71 is the best in the field, which matters in a race where plenty are exposed and only a few are arriving in proper nick. Jim Goldie runs three here, but this one looks the stable’s clearest play on recent evidence. Drawn 10 is not ideal if they come middle to low, though over a testing mile at Ayr I would be more interested in rhythm than stall position. At 4/1 he is no giveaway, but he still makes plenty of appeal as the most solid option. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Thats My Boy Luke – 13/2 with Bet365
Jockey: David Allan | Trainer: Tim Easterby | Form: 045632 | Rating: 74 | Topspeed: 63
If you want the each-way angle, Thats My Boy Luke makes more appeal than some of the shorter ones. He comes here off a creditable second, his recent form figures show he is holding it together well, and he gets in with just 124lb, which could be a real help once this turns into a slog late on. Tim Easterby’s runners are often worth a second look in these northern handicaps, and David Allan is a positive booking for a horse who may need delivering at the right time from stall 11. He does not have the upside of an unexposed improver, but at 13/2 he looks a fair each-way punt to hit the frame. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Motawaared is the win bet on the strength of the best recent form and the strongest speed figure in the line-up. For an each-way alternative, Thats My Boy Luke looks nicely weighted and arrives in decent heart. Glorious Kitty is the obvious danger after a consistent spell, while Invincible Ruby is another who could nick a place if the race falls right.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glorious Kitty | 9/2 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 5/1 (Betfair) |
| Invincible Ruby | 9/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 8/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Empirestateofmind | 15/2 | 9/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 15/2 | 9/1 (Betfair) |
| Flying Fletcher | 17/2 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 17/2 (Bet365) |
| Royale Union | 8/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 8/1 (Bet365) |
| Jewel Maker | 22/1 | 20/1 | 25/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Motawaared | 4/1 | 10/3 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 4/1 (Bet365) |
| Kelpie Grey | 9/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| Thats My Boy Luke | 13/2 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 13/2 (Bet365) |
| Tap Dancer | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 9/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 (Betfair) |
16:45 – Zenith Ltd Building Partnerships That Last Handicap (Div II)
Race Details: 1m | Class 5 | Going: 1.20, 4.15, 4.45 & 5.20 +12yds) (Soft, good to soft in places (rail movements) | | flat
This looks a proper Ayr handicap rather than a race full of obvious answers, with several arriving in fair nick and plenty of them closely matched on figures. Ice Cube comes here off a win and is an understandable favourite from a handy low draw, while Up The Jazz and Filly Eilish both have recent efforts that put them right in the mix. The old hands are far from finished either, with Penelope’s Sister and Little Ted especially looking the sort to make this a proper test if the ground rides on the soft side. In truth, it is a slightly trappy Class 5 where positioning and willingness in the last furlong could decide it more than raw class, so value matters.
Top Selections
1. Ice Cube – 9/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Saffie Osborne | Trainer: Richard Spencer | Form: 656141 | Rating: 74 | Topspeed: 61
Ice Cube makes plenty of appeal after getting back on track with that latest win, and there is a fair chance he still has a bit more to offer as a 3yo in this company. He does not arrive with a flashy sequence, but that recent success suggests things have clicked and a mark of 74 still looks workable for this grade. Drawn in 2, he should be able to hold a sensible position rather than be posted wide, which matters over this mile at Ayr when the ground is testing. At 9/2 with Bet365, he is not thrown in, but he is the one with the most solid blend of current momentum and scope. Bet: WIN
2. Little Ted – 10/1 with Paddy Power
Jockey: David Allan | Trainer: Tim Easterby | Form: 722642 | Rating: 77 | Topspeed: 70
Little Ted is the each-way play because he keeps knocking on the door and has become dangerously well treated if you judge him on consistency rather than age. The nine-year-old has been running better than the bare results might suggest, and that recent string of placed efforts says he is holding his form well enough to be involved again. Carrying just 121, with David Allan booked and a low draw in 3, he looks set up to travel strongly and pick off beaten horses late. His Topspeed of 70 is one of the better numbers in the field, and 10/1 with Paddy Power feels a fair each-way price in a race where plenty have questions. Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Ice Cube is the win play because he arrives off a success, has the right profile for this grade and should get a good trip from stall 2. Little Ted is the each-way option at a double-figure price, with his light weight and reliable recent form making plenty of appeal. Main dangers are Filly Eilish, who has the 3yo angle, and Penelope’s Sister, who looks handicapped to be competitive again.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sanafi Zabeel | 15/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 13/2 | 7/1 | 15/2 (Bet365) |
| Up The Jazz | 13/2 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 13/2 (Bet365) |
| Filly Eilish | 11/2 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 11/2 (Bet365) |
| Starliner | 14/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Stoic Poet | 17/2 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 17/2 (Bet365) |
| Perfidia | 25/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 18/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Bet365) |
| Peaceful Spirit | 40/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 50/1 (Betfair) |
| Ice Cube | 9/2 | 4/1 | 9/2 | 4/1 | 9/2 | 9/2 (Bet365) |
| Yaaser | 8/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 8/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Little Ted | 8/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 8/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 (Paddy Power) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Andrew Mount | Filly Eilish |
17:20 – Slater Menswear Handicap
Race Details: 1m 5f | Class 5 | Going: 1.20, 4.15, 4.45 & 5.20 +12yds) (Soft, good to soft in places (rail movements) | | flat
This looks a proper staying handicap for the grade rather than a throwaway finale, with plenty arriving in form and a few of them fairly exposed but reliable at this level. Cascade Hall is the obvious starting point after getting back on the scoresheet and his mark still makes him the one they all have to beat, but he is short enough in a race where several have bits and pieces of appealing form. Off Spin has been knocking hard on the door and is weighted to be very competitive, while Mr Moonshine is an unexposed 3yo taking on older stayers after a breakthrough success. Arch Enemy and Ebony Maw are solid enough types too, so this is no gimme for the favourite. Tactics and stamina in the soft ground should decide plenty here.
Top Selections
1. Cascade Hall – 11/8 with Sky Bet
Jockey: Lauren Young | Trainer: Jim Goldie | Form: 433721 | Rating: 83 | Topspeed: 69
He is the class act on the figures and, crucially, arrives here in the sort of form that makes him very hard to crab. That latest win was no fluke, and the sequence beforehand suggested one was coming. An official mark of 83 gives him a clear edge in this field, while his topspeed figure is also the best on offer. Jim Goldie has a strong hand in the race, but this is plainly his most persuasive runner. The only niggle is the price, because 11/8 is hardly fancy, yet in a race lacking many progressive stayers he still makes the most sense. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Off Spin – 10/1 with Bet365
Jockey: David Allan | Trainer: Tim Easterby | Form: 332632 | Rating: 77 | Topspeed: 67
If you want something at a fairer price, Off Spin is the one that jumps out. He has been running well without quite getting his head in front, but those recent efforts read perfectly well in the context of this race and he is now down to a handy racing weight of 124. His topspeed figure of 67 says he is not far behind the favourite on raw ability, and this stiffer stamina test on soft ground should suit a horse who keeps finding at the business end. David Allan is a positive booking for a race likely to turn into a proper slog. At 10/1, he looks the each-way value. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Cascade Hall is the solid win play and the one with the clearest claims on ratings, recent form and overall profile. For an each-way punt in an 11-runner race, Off Spin makes much more appeal than some of the shorter alternatives. Mr Moonshine is the danger as a lightly raced 3yo, while Arch Enemy and Ebony Maw are capable of getting involved if the favourite underperforms.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arch Enemy | 15/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 6/1 | 7/1 | 15/2 (Bet365) |
| Junkyard Dog | 14/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 11/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Two Auld Pals | 22/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Betfair) |
| Cascade Hall | 1/1 | 1/1 | 6/5 | 11/8 | 1/1 | 11/8 (Sky Bet) |
| Alpine Sierra | 10/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 8/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Mr Moonshine | 9/1 | 8/1 | 15/2 | 13/2 | 8/1 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| Furhaan | 14/1 | 12/1 | 16/1 | 14/1 | 12/1 | 16/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Sophiesticate | 28/1 | 22/1 | 28/1 | 22/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 (Bet365) |
| Just Dottie | 11/1 | 11/1 | 18/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 18/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Ebony Maw | 10/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 8/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Off Spin | 10/1 | 17/2 | 6/1 | 11/2 | 17/2 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Jim Delahunt | Cascade Hall |
| Farringdon | Furhaan |
Ayr Course Specialists
Horses To Note
The top course performers among today’s runners:
| Horse | Runs | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beautiful Diamond | 4 | 3 | 75% | 100% |
| Rousing Encore | 5 | 2 | 40% | 80% |
| Luna A Inbhir Nis | 3 | 1 | 33.33% | 33.33% |
| Glorious Kitty | 3 | 1 | 33.33% | 66.67% |
| Ebony Maw | 14 | 4 | 28.57% | 50% |
Jockeys To Note
The pilots with the strongest records at the course:
| Jockey | Rides | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saffie Osborne | 13 | 3 | 23.08% | 23.08% |
| Tom Marquand | 24 | 5 | 20.83% | 37.5% |
| Oisin McSweeney | 50 | 9 | 18% | 36% |
| Sean D Bowen | 6 | 1 | 16.67% | 33.33% |
| Sean Kirrane | 79 | 13 | 16.46% | 31.65% |
Trainers To Note
Yards that have done well at Ayr:
| Trainer | Runners | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| William Haggas | 36 | 14 | 38.89% | 58.33% |
| Archie Watson | 61 | 19 | 31.15% | 57.38% |
| Ollie Sangster | 5 | 1 | 20% | 40% |
| Julie Camacho | 41 | 8 | 19.51% | 34.15% |
| Ben Haslam | 57 | 10 | 17.54% | 36.84% |
Summary & Best Bets
That wraps up our Ayr racing tips for Friday 18th September 2026. We’ve covered all 8 races with our top selections highlighted above. Use the betting strategies as a starting point, always shop around for the best odds, and never bet more than you can afford to lose.
FAQ
What time does racing start at Ayr today?
The first race at Ayr on Friday 18th September 2026 goes off at 13:20, with 8 races scheduled in total.
What is the going at Ayr today?
The going at Ayr is reported as 1.20, 4.15, 4.45 & 5.20 +12yds) (Soft, good to soft in places (rail movements).
How many races are at Ayr today?
There are 8 races on the card at Ayr today, running from 13:20 through to 17:20.
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