AYR preview

By Gordon Brown

Martin Todhunter is looking forward to another season with Molinari, who starts off his 2024 campaign in the feature race at Ayr’s opening Flat meeting. 

The seven-year-old Cumbrian raider is among a competitive line-up for the Virgin Bet Every Saturday Money Back Handicap over 1m 2f.

“He gone well first time out in the past without winning and this is a good place to get him going again,” said Todhunter.

“Nice ground suits him and he obviously stays further as he’s won over a mile and a half - hopefully he’ll get back to winning ways this season as he hasn’t won for a couple of years.”

Molinari faces stern opposition from the likes of course and distance scorers Bashful, Roll It In Glitter and Mike Smith-trained Glasses Up, a seven time winner at his local track.

The card begins with the Virgin Bet Restricted Maiden Stakes with Zabeel Road, an interesting newcomer trained Charlie Johnston with Joe Fanning in the saddle.

Jim Goldie has been among the winners on turf and the all-weather already this year and Classy Al can build on a good third at Musselburgh last Sunday in the Virgin Bet Handicap.