Hot trainer O’Meara could be celebrating another big win
THE NORTH-South divide is a big problem for the Government and it has been a much debated issue in racing as well.
The powerhouse training centres of Newmarket and Lambourn continue to dominate the big races, apart from the odd exception.
And if there is one northern handler that has the potential to upset the applecart and become a future champion trainer it is surely David O’Meara.
The former jump jockey has made giant strides since taking out a licence in 2010. He’s now won five Group One prizes, most recently the Woodbine Mile in Canada on Sunday.
That huge success capped an incredible weekend for the Irishman. He saddled four horses in Group races in three different countries and only one of them was beaten.
He’s clearly going places and, after winning his first Ayr Gold Cup 12 months ago, I think he has an excellent chance of landing this valuable handicap for a second time tomorrow (3.45pm).
My main fancy before the draw was HIGHLAND ACCLAIM.
Regular readers will remember that a week ago I put him up for the Portland, where he finished with a real rattle over 5 ½f at Doncaster, just missing out on the places.
He’s coming back to form at exactly the right time, the step up to six furlongs is ideal, as is the likely good-to-soft ground.
His draw in stall two may not be ideal – seven of the last eight winners have come from 12 or higher – but I’ll still be backing him at 12/1 with Betway.
O’Meara’s other contender is ALGAR LAD and his draw in 24 could be perfect.
He was a decent winner at York earlier this season and may still have a big handicap in him. Take the 20/1 with Betway.
As for today, EASTON ANGEL can get back on the winning trail in the Listed Harry Rosebery Stakes (4.15pm), a significant drop in grade.
She travelled like the best filly in the Group Two Lowther last time and this return to five furlongs is in her favour.
Cut in the ground won’t be a problem, while her draw in 16 is also a positive.
POINTERS
Easton Angel e/w 4.15pm Ayr (today)
Highland Acclaim e/w 3.45pm Ayr (tomorrow)
Algar Lad e/w 3.45pm Ayr (tomorrow)