The one race you cannot afford to miss on Thursday

2.40 Ayr
Book Direct At Western House Hotel Handicap Hurdle | 2m5½f | 4yo+ | RTV

This feature contest largely revolves around southern raider Portrush Ted, who returns from an absence of 519 days with some eyecatching form in the book.

Warren Greatrex’s lightly raced eight-year-old landed a Grade 2 Aintree bumper in April 2018 from Kateson, who is now rated 137 over hurdles.

The third, fourth, fifth and sixth that day – Harambe, Al Dancer, Sevarano and Commanche Red – now have hurdles ratings of 144, 151, 134 and 135 respectively, so it’s fair to think Portrush Ted is potentially thrown in off an opening mark of 131.

His trainer reports Portrush Ted has done plenty of work, including a racecourse gallop, and he’s likely to prove hard to beat.

Taxmeifyoucan, raised only 3lb for last month’s Carlisle win, has been competitive off higher marks in the past and looks the biggest threat.

Why is it interesting?

While Portrush Ted brings a splash of quality to proceedings, there are some who will be hoping Nicky Richards’ veteran One For Harry can bow out with a win.

The Greystoke trainer reports it is likely to be One For Harry’s swansong at the end of a career which has yielded eight wins over hurdles, including two at Wetherby and two at Carlisle.

Although he has never been successful in 11 starts at Ayr, the 12-year-old ran one of his best races when runner-up to Elusive Theatre off a 13lb higher mark in this race two years ago, and is sure to enjoy the testing underfoot conditions.

What do the stats say?

Stuart Crawford has won this race twice in the last four years, courtesy of Elusive Theatre (2018) and Yes Tom (2016).

He is represented by 12-year-old Fine Rightly, who was last seen in action when third to Aye Right in this race last year.

What do the trainers say?

Warren Greatrex, trainer of Portrush Ted
He’s been off a while with a tendon injury. He’s done plenty of work, including a trip to Newbury, but will improve for the run. The form of his Grade 2 bumper win at Aintree is red-hot and we’ll see where we are with a mark of 131. It will be good to get him back on track.

Nicky Richards, trainer of Better Getalong and One For Harry
I thought Better Getalong ran quite a nice race at Haydock last month. He has been working well since then and has crept down the handicap a little bit. One For Harry has been a grand old servant. He’s 12 now and I think this will be his last run – win, lose or draw. He seems very well and I’d love him to go out in style.

Donald Whillans, trainer of Eternally Yours
She's been off the track for longer than intended since her seasonal reappearance in early November and should be better for the race.

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