Four Runners for Ewan Whillans Racing at Ayr Today
We’re off to Ayr this afternoon with four runners, all partnered by local jockeys who know the Scottish circuit as well as anyone – Rowan Scott, Archie Young, and Jason Hart. It’s always a bonus to be racing close to home, and we’re hopeful a few of these can go well on familiar ground.
2.00 – SURE AND STEDFAST
Jockey: Rowan Scott
This lad is still learning his trade – he’s only a 3-year-old and hasn’t had many spins, but he’s coming forward nicely. Last time out he stayed on strongly and looked like a step up in trip would suit. He should handle the ground and has been working well at home. He’s got to take on some seasoned handicappers, but we like him a lot and think he can make his presence felt. He’s definitely one we’re hoping to have some fun with over the summer.
4.05 – BACK TOMORROW
Jockey: Rowan Scott
She’s drawn out wide in stall 16 which isn’t ideal in a field of 17, but the plan will be to drop her in and try to get some cover. We’ve always aimed her at a busy July – Ayr has racing most weeks and this is the first of hopefully a few spins. She moves like she’d prefer top of the ground, but she’s in good nick and we’re just looking to see her run on well late. If she grabs a place, we’ll be delighted — anything else is a bonus.
4.40 – ROYAL BLAZE
Jockey: Archie Young
This will be Royal Blaze’s first run in a while – we’ve given him a break to sort a few niggles and now it’s about getting him back into the groove. He’s still a bit of a puzzle for us and today’s race is very much a stepping stone. He’ll come on for it and we’ll learn more about where to place him moving forward. Great to have Archie, another local lad, on board for this one.
5.15 – EBONY MAW
Jockey: Jason Hart
Last but not least, Ebony Maw runs in the finale. He’s been solid this season and was a good third last time out. He loves Ayr and the softer the ground, the better for him. With the drop back in trip today, we’ve fitted cheekpieces to help sharpen him up early. If Jason can get him out and into a rhythm near the front, he should run another big race. There are a few unexposed types in here, but our lad is fit and well, and knows this track inside out.
Final Word
All four riders today — Rowan, Archie, and Jason — are proud Scottish jockeys with strong ties to this region, and it’s always a boost having local knowledge in the saddle. Here’s hoping a few things fall our way today — good luck to all connections!
