Managers thoughts – Three Runners for Ursa Major

We head to Ayr today with three runners, and a mixture of excitement and optimism in the air for the team. Here’s a closer look at each of them:

1.30pm – Time Twister - Billy Garrity

We kick off the day with the debut of Time Twister, a well-bred colt by Time Test. While this opening run is all about gaining experience, he’s shown us enough at home to be hopeful of a promising effort. As with any debutant, a lot needs to fall into place on the day – but if he can finish around midfield, it would mark a solid starting point. Looking ahead, we expect him to appreciate longer trips as he matures, with 1m+ likely to be more realistic later in the season.

3.33pm – Tarlac - Joanna Mason (pictured below)

Tarlac takes his chance in what looks to be the tougher division of the contest. There’s strong opposition here: Arabian Cobra arrives in winning form for Hugo Palmer, Wobwobwob claimed the Ayr Silver Cup, and both One More Thunder and Taygar are capable sorts on their day. That said, Tarlac is a horse we think an awful lot of. He’ll appreciate the ground today and, despite the strength of the field, we’re hopeful of a bold showing — a top 3 or 4 finish would be a great result and one he’s well capable of.

4.05 Baby Rover - Joanna Mason

Baby Rover is up against older rivals here, but receives the useful 3-year-old weight allowance which we hope plays to her advantage. She’s drifted to a big price, perhaps due to concerns about the soft ground and her wide draw. That said, her brother Curious Rover handles this type of surface well, so there’s hope she can adapt too. Today will be a good test of her ability in these conditions and could give us plenty to work with moving forward.

Best Chance of the Day:

We think Tarlac is our standout hope this afternoon – he’s in great order, conditions should suit, and we’re excited to see how he fares in what’s a competitive but fair test.

Best of luck to all connections, and we’ll be cheering them home!