Our Ayr racing tips cover all 8 races on the card today, Wednesday 20th May 2026. The action gets underway at 13:42 and runs through to 17:15, with going reported as 8.9) (watered) (Good to firm (goingstick).
A few names jump off the page from a course-form perspective. Jannas Journey boasts a 71.43% strike rate from 7 runs at the track, Lewis Chalkley has been in fine form here with 1 wins from 3 rides, Roger Varian’s yard sends out runners with a 28.95% 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 | 18 | 8 | 44.44% | 72.22% |
| Melissa Jones | D Express | 21 | 8 | 38.1% | 66.67% |
| Glendale | The Scotsman | 45 | 15 | 33.33% | 64.44% |
| sportinglife.com | sportinglife.com | 24 | 8 | 33.33% | 54.17% |
| The Duke | Yorkshire Post | 15 | 5 | 33.33% | 46.67% |
13:42 – Absolut Tabasco Maiden Stakes (GBB Race)
Race Details: 5f | Class 4 | Going: 8.9) (watered) (Good to firm (goingstick) | | flat
This is only a four-runner maiden, but it is still a race with a bit of shape to it rather than a complete guess. Quiet Soul is the one with the only piece of racecourse evidence after finishing second on debut, and in a contest this small that experience could count for plenty over a sharp 5f. The market will naturally focus on the well-bred newcomers, especially K R Burke’s Ruler’s Pride, whose stable knows exactly what is required with early two-year-olds. Crystal Queen gets the fillies’ allowance and represents a yard more than capable in juvenile company, while Yorkshire Dream looks the outsider on what little we know. It does not look a deep maiden, but the balance between proven form and newcomer potential makes it mildly tricky.
Top Selections
1. Quiet Soul – 4/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Connor Beasley | Trainer: Michael Dods | Form: 2 | Rating: 74 | Topspeed:
In a race where three of the four are making their debut, I am happy to side with the one who has already shown he can do the job under pressure. Quiet Soul’s debut second is comfortably the best piece of tangible form on offer and that initial mark of 74 gives him a solid platform in what does not look an especially strong maiden. Dods can ready a juvenile and Connor Beasley is a positive booking in these northern sprints, so there is plenty to like. At 4/1, he looks a fair price simply because punters are guessing about the others, whereas we know this colt has the speed for 5f and the professionalism to cope with the occasion. Bet: WIN
Betting Strategy
With only four runners, this is a straight win-only race and there is no each-way angle worth entertaining. Quiet Soul is the sensible play because he brings the one piece of proven form and sets the standard on rating as well. The obvious danger is Ruler’s Pride, whose yard excels with sharp juveniles, while Crystal Queen is not dismissed with the fillies’ allowance.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yorkshire Dream | 18/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Crystal Queen | 7/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 8/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Quiet Soul | 4/1 | 18/5 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 4/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| bettinggods.com | Ruler’s Pride |
| Glendale | Ruler’s Pride |
14:12 – Kronenbourg 1664 Handicap
Race Details: 6f | Class 6 | Going: 8.9) (watered) (Good to firm (goingstick) | | flat
This looks a thoroughly workable Class 6 sprint rather than a race packed with hidden depth, but there are a few in here arriving with solid recent claims. Classy Clarets is the obvious one after winning again last time and he comes here in far better heart than most of these. Wee Mary has been knocking on the door and is entitled to be popular, while Summerstorms Dream and Jet Warrior both have bits of recent form that put them firmly in the mix. Jim Goldie runs three, which adds an extra layer, but I’d still rather side with the runner who is actually progressing than one merely threatening to. Draw and pace could matter over this sharp 6f, yet the biggest factor may simply be which one turns up in the same nick as they did on their latest start.
Top Selections
1. Classy Clarets – 18/5 with Betfair
Jockey: Mohammed Tabti | Trainer: Iain Jardine | Form: 621331 | Rating: 72 | Topspeed: 65
He is the one with the strongest recent profile and, in a race where plenty have exposed limitations, that counts for plenty. The form figures tell the story: three wins in his last five starts and another placed effort in between, so he is plainly thriving. A mark of 72 asks a fair question but not an impossible one given he posted a useful topspeed figure of 65 and arrives here off the back of a victory. Jardine’s runner is hard to crab, and at 18/5 he still makes appeal because this is not a deeper race than the one he has been contesting. He looks the percentage call.
Bet: WIN
2. Summerstorms Dream – 13/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Rhys Elliott | Trainer: Jim Goldie | Form: 7954-3 | Rating: 70 | Topspeed: 60
For an each-way play, Summerstorms Dream makes more appeal than some of the shorter ones because there is enough in the profile to think she can step forward again. She returned from a break with a promising third, and that was the sort of comeback run that often sets one up nicely for a second outing. Her mark of 70 keeps her competitive, the topspeed figure of 60 says she has the pace for this, and stall 3 could be handy if she breaks well. Jim Goldie’s team is well represented, but this one looks the value angle at 13/2 if building on that recent return.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Classy Clarets is the solid win bet given his current consistency and upward curve. For those wanting a bit more juice, Summerstorms Dream appeals as the each-way punt in a 10-runner field with three places on offer. Wee Mary is the obvious danger on recent placed form, while Jet Warrior is another who could get involved if reproducing his latest effort.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goal Line | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 (Sky Bet) |
| Jet Warrior | 6/1 | 4/1 | 10/3 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 6/1 (Bet365) |
| Classy Clarets | 7/2 | 18/5 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 18/5 (Betfair) |
| Siviez | 11/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 7/1 | 15/2 (Betfair) |
| Summerstorms Dream | 13/2 | 5/1 | 13/2 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 13/2 (Bet365) |
| Wee Mary | 5/2 | 9/4 | 9/4 | 2/1 | 2/1 | 5/2 (Bet365) |
| Doon The Glen | 7/1 | 7/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 (Paddy Power) |
| Canaria Sun | 11/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
| A Lady Forever | 25/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 (Bet365) |
| Bernie The Bear | 50/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 50/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Tipman Tips | Classy Clarets |
14:42 – Schweppes Cherry Pepper Handicap
Race Details: 1m 1f | Class 4 | Going: 8.9) (watered) (Good to firm (goingstick) | | flat
This is a proper mid-grade handicap rather than a penalty kick, with a few arriving from very different angles. Pearl Eye is the obvious focal point after returning with a solid third and he’s the one the market and tipsters have latched onto, but he’s hardly thrown in and there are dangers at bigger prices. Candonomore comes here off a win and is clearly thriving, while Cisco Disco signed off last season with a four-timer and is not easily dismissed if returning in the same mood. Spirit Of Acklam has the class figures to feature, and Dingwall is one of those low-weight handicappers who keeps threatening to land one. Competitive, a touch trappy, but not impossible to solve if you side with current well-being and workable marks.
Top Selections
1. Pearl Eye – 2/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Lauren Young | Trainer: Jim Goldie | Form: 8700-3 | Rating: 104 | Topspeed: 90
Pearl Eye makes the most appeal, even at a price that doesn’t exactly scream generosity. His reappearance third suggested he was back in business after a quiet end to last season, and on raw figures he sets the standard here anyway. A Topspeed of 90 is the best in the field, he’s very well treated at the weights on these race conditions, and this 1m1f test around Ayr should suit a horse who can travel and then lengthen. Jim Goldie knows exactly how to place these tough handicappers and Lauren Young takes over with a major chance. At 2/1 he’s short enough, but still the likeliest winner. Bet type: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Dingwall – 11/1 with Betfair
Jockey: Cam Hardie | Trainer: Iain Jardine | Form: 622227 | Rating: 94 | Topspeed: 89
Dingwall is the each-way one because he keeps knocking on the door and this sort of race gives him another fair opening. The recent form string is not glamorous, but it does show consistency, and he’s been running to a level that makes him dangerous from the foot of the weights. He’s got a smart enough Topspeed figure for the grade, Cam Hardie is a capable booking in this type of handicap, and if he can slot in from stall 12 without burning petrol, he should be finishing off better than plenty of these. At 11/1, he looks the value play against a favourite who is respected rather than adored. Bet type: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Pearl Eye is the win bet because he has the strongest recent piece of form, the best speed figure and the profile of one ready to strike second time back. For an each-way punt, Dingwall makes plenty of sense at double-figure odds with four places on offer. The obvious dangers are Candonomore, who arrives in winning form, and Cisco Disco if he resumes where he left off.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Footwork | 11/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
| Candonomore | 10/3 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 10/3 (Bet365) |
| Livonian | 20/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 16/1 | 20/1 (Bet365) |
| Spirit Of Acklam | 13/2 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 13/2 (Bet365) |
| Northwest Passage | 14/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 9/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Cisco Disco | 7/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 (Betfair) |
| Good Morning Alex | 16/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Pearl Eye | 2/1 | 15/8 | 15/8 | 15/8 | 2/1 (Bet365) |
| Ayr Poet | 28/1 | 30/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Jujubella | 14/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Motawaared | 33/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
| Dingwall | 10/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 (Betfair) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| The Data Detective | Pearl Eye |
| RP Ratings | Pearl Eye |
| Dave Nevison | Pearl Eye |
| Templegate | Pearl Eye |
| sportinglife.com | Pearl Eye |
15:12 – Altos Tequila Handicap
Race Details: 5f | Class 5 | Going: 8.9) (watered) (Good to firm (goingstick) | | flat
This looks a tight little sprint rather than a deep one, and the pace should be honest enough with several of these happiest attacking over the minimum trip. Thunderstorm Katie makes obvious appeal from stall 1 after shaping well in defeat last time, while Military Girl has the strongest rating in the line-up and arrives with a solid seasonal return under her belt. Hi Lord comes here on the back of a win, but that was in lesser company and he now has to prove he can back it up off a higher mark. Donald is consistent enough to get involved, whereas Classy Al and Jm Jhingree need to leave recent efforts behind. In a race where track position and early speed will count for plenty, the low-drawn Thunderstorm Katie looks the one they all have to beat.
Top Selections
1. Thunderstorm Katie – 5/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Lauren Young | Trainer: Jim Goldie | Form: 68-972 | Rating: 80 | Topspeed: 74
She looks the percentage call. That latest second suggested she is coming to the boil nicely, and a mark of 80 looks workable given she posted a Topspeed figure of 74, which is right up there with the best on offer in this field. Stall 1 is another obvious plus in a sharp 5f at Ayr if she can break on terms, and Jim Goldie’s team know exactly how to place this type. She gets in here with just 125 to carry as well, which only strengthens her case against some older, more exposed rivals. At 5/2, she is not missed by the market, but she still holds the strongest win claims.
Bet: WIN
2. Donald – 7/1 with Bet365
Jockey: William Pyle | Trainer: David & Nicola Barron | Form: 442-4 | Rating: 76 | Topspeed: 70
Donald strikes me as the one at a price who could easily outrun his odds. His form figures are solid without being flashy, and that recent comeback fourth should have put him spot on for this. He has enough speed for 5f, a Topspeed of 70 says he is not far off the principals on the clock, and an opening mark in the mid-70s gives him room to be competitive in a Class 5 like this. The widest stall is not ideal, but if William Pyle can get him tucked in early, he has the profile of a horse who can pick up pieces late. Available at 7/1, he makes plenty of each-way appeal in a race lacking depth beyond the obvious pair.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Thunderstorm Katie is the win play; she has the draw, the recent form and the right weight for a race of this nature. Donald is the each-way alternative at a fairer price, especially if the race sets up for something finishing off late. Military Girl is the clear danger, while Hi Lord has to be respected after his latest win.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Donald | 7/1 | 6/1 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 7/1 (Bet365) |
| Hi Lord | 5/1 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 9/2 | 5/1 (Bet365) |
| Classy Al | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 (Bet365) |
| Jm Jhingree | 12/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Military Girl | 7/2 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 7/2 (Bet365) |
| Henery Hawk | 8/1 | 17/2 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 17/2 | 9/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Thunderstorm Katie | 5/2 | 85/40 | 85/40 | 2/1 | 9/4 | 5/2 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Karl Hedley | Hi Lord |
| Jason Heavey | Thunderstorm Katie |
15:42 – Tennent’s Lager Handicap
Race Details: 1m | Class 4 | Going: 8.9) (watered) (Good to firm (goingstick) | | flat
This is a proper middle-tier mile handicap rather than a penalty kick, with a short-priced improver in Return To Unit taking on a handful of battle-hardened northern handicappers. Roger Varian’s 4yo is the obvious talking horse after finishing last season with figures of 7-2-1, but stall 12 around Ayr is no gift and this won’t be handed to him. Hale End arrives in excellent nick and looks tailor-made for a strongly run mile, while Degale is well enough treated to go close again after a solid recent third. Kaleido and Garden Oasis are capable of getting involved if the race falls right. Competitive, definitely, but not impossible to solve if you trust current momentum over reputation.
Top Selections
1. Hale End – 9/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Connor Beasley | Trainer: Michael Dods | Form: 1-4412 | Rating: 95 | Topspeed: 84
Hale End looks the solid answer. He has come back in fine order this spring, winning before finishing second last time, and that recent profile suggests he is right at the top of his game. A mark of 95 is fair enough for a horse running to a consistent level, and his Topspeed figure of 84 stacks up very well in this line-up. Connor Beasley is a positive booking in a race where track position will matter, and stall 5 gives him options that the favourite doesn’t have. At 9/2, he appeals as the percentage call against a shorter-priced rival who still has to prove himself in this deeper handicap company. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Degale – 13/2 with Bet365
Jockey: William Pyle | Trainer: David & Nicola Barron | Form: 20-603 | Rating: 96 | Topspeed: 75
Degale makes plenty of each-way appeal in a race with four places on offer. His latest third was a step back in the right direction, and the Barron yard knows exactly how to place these seasoned handicappers when they are ready to strike. He is not especially well drawn in 10, but he tends to travel well enough to get himself into the contest, and his mark is workable if building on that last run. William Pyle takes a handy bit off in effect with his claim not reflected here in the race card weights, and that can make a difference late on in a tightly packed finish. Around 13/2, he looks a very fair each-way punt. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Hale End is the win play at the prices, with current form, a good draw and a strong mile profile all in his favour. Degale is the each-way alternative in a 12-runner race offering four places. Return To Unit is the obvious danger on upside alone, while Kaleido could outrun his odds from stall 1 if getting the run of the race.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kaleido | 17/2 | 13/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 15/2 | 17/2 (Bet365) |
| Return To Unit | 7/4 | 7/4 | 7/4 | 7/4 | 7/4 | 7/4 (Bet365) |
| Sir Paul Ramsey | 14/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Priapos | 16/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Jannas Journey | 14/1 | 10/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Degale | 13/2 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 13/2 (Bet365) |
| Mr Mistoffelees | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Hale End | 9/2 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 4/1 | 9/2 (Bet365) |
| Garden Oasis | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 (Bet365) |
| Redarna | 20/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Betfair) |
| Geo | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Farringdon | Degale |
| The Brigadier | Return To Unit |
| Garry Owen | Return To Unit |
| Mercury | Return To Unit |
| Chris Wright | Redarna |
| Dean Kilbryde | Jannas Journey |
16:12 – Birra Poretti Handicap (Div I)
Race Details: 7f | Class 5 | Going: 8.9) (watered) (Good to firm (goingstick) | | flat
This is a competitive little 7f handicap rather than a deep one, and the market has understandably clustered around the obvious trio of Kelpie Grey, Roaring Ralph and Al Muqdad. Roaring Ralph arrives in cracking order after a string of near-misses and wins, but he is now fully exposed and has to give weight away. Kelpie Grey has the highest mark in the line-up and is interesting if bouncing back from a quiet reappearance, while Al Muqdad is talented enough but comes with more trust issues than the others. Down the weights, Royal Blaze makes plenty of appeal from stall 5 after a couple of solid efforts and looks the type to be involved if the race is run honestly. Tricky enough, but not impossible to solve.
Top Selections
1. Kelpie Grey – 11/4 with Bet365
Jockey: Paul Mulrennan | Trainer: Jim Goldie | Form: 5705-6 | Rating: 89 | Topspeed: 82
Kelpie Grey is the class angle in the race and I’m prepared to forgive that comeback sixth, which looked very much like a run to blow away the cobwebs. He is now a six-year-old, so nobody should be pretending there is stacks in hand, but this mark still looks workable in a Class 5 and his best efforts put him right at the head of affairs. Jim Goldie’s runners around Ayr always command respect, Paul Mulrennan knows exactly how to deliver one late here, and a return to 7f on quick ground should suit. At 11/4 he is not a gift, but he still makes the most sense.
Bet: WIN
2. Royal Blaze – 13/2 with Bet365
Jockey: P J McDonald | Trainer: Ewan Whillans | Form: 023-44 | Rating: 83 | Topspeed: 75
Royal Blaze looks the value play if you want something against the front end of the market. He has shaped well on both starts this term, finishing fourth twice without getting the rub of the race, and this drop into a 9-runner Class 5 gives him a fair opening off 83. The weight of 124 is attractive against some higher-profile rivals, stall 5 is perfectly workable, and P J McDonald is a positive booking for a horse who tends to travel well. He is not obviously ahead of the handicapper, but he is consistent, well treated enough and the sort to nick a place at the very least. At 13/2, that makes plenty of each-way appeal.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Kelpie Grey is the win bet, with the expectation that his reappearance has sharpened him up for this drop in class. Royal Blaze is the each-way punt at a more workable price in a race where several of the principals have questions to answer. Roaring Ralph is the obvious danger on current form, while Al Muqdad is capable of going close if David O’Meara can coax him back to his better level.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roaring Ralph | 7/2 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 7/2 (Bet365) |
| Kelpie Grey | 11/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 5/2 | 11/4 | 11/4 (Bet365) |
| Mr Cool | 11/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 9/1 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
| Al Muqdad | 7/2 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 7/2 (Bet365) |
| Elizabeth Bay | 28/1 | 30/1 | 33/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Valentine Catcher | 7/1 | 13/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 (Bet365) |
| Novak | 9/1 | 17/2 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| Maui Breeze | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
| Royal Blaze | 13/2 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 13/2 | 13/2 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Rory Paddock | Kelpie Grey |
| Jim Delahunt | Kelpie Grey |
16:42 – Birra Poretti Handicap (Div II)
Race Details: 7f | Class 5 | Going: 8.9) (watered) (Good to firm (goingstick) | | flat
This looks a tight little 7f handicap rather than a race packed with certainty, and the market has reflected that. Qazaq, Great and Habrdi all arrive with believable claims, while Tattie Bogle has a recent win on the card even if his latest effort took a bit of the shine off him. Great ran well in third last time and shapes like one who is ready to strike, whereas Habrdi comes here after a solid second and looks attractively weighted. Pension Pot and Native Honey have bits and pieces of form that keep them in the conversation, but neither has been screaming to be backed lately. In truth, this is a tricky puzzle rather than a strong race, and a good tactical ride could easily make the difference.
Top Selections
1. Great – 5/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Oisin Orr | Trainer: Sam England | Form: 43-063 | Rating: 83 | Topspeed: 60
Great gets the nod because he looks the one coming here in the steadiest nick. That latest third was a solid effort in the context of this race and his recent figures suggest he has been knocking on the door without everything quite dropping right. From stall 6, Oisin Orr should have options, and in a race where plenty have questions attached, that counts for plenty. He is not thrown in on 83, but he does look reliable enough for this level and 5/1 feels fair rather than cramped. In a weakish Class 5, that consistency can be enough. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Habrdi – 9/2 with Betfair
Jockey: James Sullivan | Trainer: Ruth Carr | Form: 914862 | Rating: 83 | Topspeed: 69
Habrdi makes plenty of each-way appeal after that recent second, which was a definite step back in the right direction. Ruth Carr’s runner has enough pace for 7f and his topspeed figure of 69 is perfectly respectable in this company. Drawn in 8, he may need things to fall his way a little, but James Sullivan is experienced enough to get him into a decent rhythm. He has been around the block, but that is no bad thing in a race full of runners who don’t always find much off the bridle. At 9/2, he is short enough to suggest the market expects another big run, and he still looks a sound each-way punt. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Great is the straight win play in a race where current consistency is worth latching onto. Habrdi is the each-way alternative in this 9-runner field with three places on offer, as his latest second gives him a solid platform. Qazaq is the obvious danger if bouncing back to one of his better efforts, while Tattie Bogle is not ruled out if forgiven his last run.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Great | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 (Bet365) |
| Pension Pot | 11/2 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Native Honey | 11/2 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 11/2 (Bet365) |
| Tattie Bogle | 13/2 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 13/2 (Bet365) |
| Qazaq | 9/2 | 16/5 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 4/1 | 9/2 (Bet365) |
| Macedonian | 12/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
| Habrdi | 4/1 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 4/1 | 9/2 (Betfair) |
| Rwenearlytheredad | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| Golden Valour | 22/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 (Betfair) |
17:15 – Oasis Summer Fruits Apprentice Handicap
Race Details: 1m | Class 6 | Going: 8.9) (watered) (Good to firm (goingstick) | | flat
This is not a deep Class 6 by any stretch, but it is a mildly tricky little mile handicap because several arrive with something to prove rather than solid recent winning form. Wolf Of Badenoch heads the market from stall 1 and is the obvious one on ratings, though his profile is hardly bombproof. Glorious Kitty has been running respectably without quite getting her head in front, while Mwafaq is the interesting one after winning twice before finding things tougher last time. Tap Dancer has become a popular each-way angle and his Topspeed figure gives him a squeak if building on his return. In a race where a few are either out of form or look fairly exposed, it may come down to who gets the run of things and who handles this quick mile best.
Top Selections
1. Mwafaq – 9/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Alfie Redman | Trainer: Richard & Peter Fahey | Form: 011-15 | Rating: 72 | Topspeed: 66
I’m prepared to forgive the latest run because the earlier part of his profile makes him one of the more persuasive pieces in the race. He signed off last campaign with back-to-back wins and returned with another excellent effort before finishing only fifth last time, which may just have halted the momentum rather than exposed him. A mark of 72 still looks workable in this grade, and his Topspeed figure stacks up well enough against these. The wide draw in 8 is not ideal over a mile here, but if Alfie Redman can get him settled into a decent rhythm, he has the right blend of recent progress and class-6 suitability. At 9/2, he looks the percentage call.
Bet: WIN
2. Tap Dancer – 7/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Shay Farmer | Trainer: Jim Goldie | Form: 5758-7 | Rating: 71 | Topspeed: 67
He is not the most straightforward to catch right, but this is the sort of race where an each-way punt on a horse with a bit of latent ability makes plenty of sense. Tap Dancer’s recent form figures do not leap off the page, yet that 67 Topspeed is the best in the field and suggests there is enough ability under the bonnet if things fall his way. His comeback seventh may have blown away the cobwebs, and Jim Goldie’s runners can often take a step forward for a run. In an eight-runner race with three places on offer, 7/1 appeals as a fair each-way price for a horse who does not need to improve dramatically to get involved.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Mwafaq is the win play because he brings the strongest progressive angle into an ordinary contest and still looks fairly treated. Tap Dancer is the each-way alternative at a backable price, especially with three places available in this eight-runner field. Wolf Of Badenoch is the obvious danger on ratings and market position, while Glorious Kitty is another who could easily hit the frame again.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glorious Kitty | 9/2 | 18/5 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 9/2 (Bet365) |
| Wolf Of Badenoch | 11/8 | 6/4 | 6/4 | 6/4 | 6/4 | 6/4 (Betfair) |
| Mwafaq | 9/2 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 9/2 (Bet365) |
| Lovette | 18/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Tap Dancer | 7/1 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 7/1 (Bet365) |
| Sophiesticate | 40/1 | 30/1 | 33/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
| South Road | 25/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Stephen Darbyshire | Tap Dancer |
| The North | Tap Dancer |
Ayr Course Specialists
Horses To Note
The top course performers among today’s runners:
| Horse | Runs | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jannas Journey | 7 | 5 | 71.43% | 85.71% |
| Spirit Of Acklam | 3 | 2 | 66.67% | 100% |
| Garden Oasis | 5 | 3 | 60% | 80% |
| Redarna | 18 | 9 | 50% | 55.56% |
| Al Muqdad | 4 | 2 | 50% | 100% |
Jockeys To Note
The pilots with the strongest records at the course:
| Jockey | Rides | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lewis Chalkley | 3 | 1 | 33.33% | 66.67% |
| Sean Kirrane | 55 | 10 | 18.18% | 32.73% |
| Lauren Young | 45 | 7 | 15.56% | 33.33% |
| Paul Mulrennan | 901 | 138 | 15.32% | 38.62% |
| Shay Farmer | 15 | 2 | 13.33% | 13.33% |
Trainers To Note
Yards that have done well at Ayr:
| Trainer | Runners | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roger Varian | 38 | 11 | 28.95% | 60.53% |
| Ben Haslam | 54 | 9 | 16.67% | 37.04% |
| K R Burke | 334 | 55 | 16.47% | 34.73% |
| David O’Meara | 604 | 90 | 14.9% | 38.91% |
| Charlie Johnston | 98 | 14 | 14.29% | 31.63% |
Summary & Best Bets
That wraps up our Ayr racing tips for Wednesday 20th May 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 Wednesday 20th May 2026 goes off at 13:42, with 8 races scheduled in total.
What is the going at Ayr today?
The going at Ayr is reported as 8.9) (watered) (Good to firm (goingstick).
How many races are at Ayr today?
There are 8 races on the card at Ayr today, running from 13:42 through to 17:15.
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