Richard Birch's play of the day at Ayr

Tilsitt

5.10 Ayr

Three-time course winner Tilsitt gets the punting juices flowing off a career-low mark as he tackles Ayr's 1m2f handicap (5.10).

Officially rated 79 when landing the most recent of those victories almost two years ago, the seven-year-old's mark has now tumbled to 63.

A barren 2023 can readily be explained by the fact he was firmly in the grip of the handicapper, but his latest effort strongly hinted a return to winning ways is imminent off his much-reduced rating.

It is entirely possible that eventual third Tilsitt was at a significant disadvantage by sitting close to a strong pace last Monday in a 1m2f Class 6 Ayr handicap – the others who were prominent early on finished sixth, seventh and 11th – but my selection managed to keep on well to finish two and a quarter lengths behind the far more patiently ridden winner We Still Believe.

Tilsitt contested much stronger handicaps during 2022 and 2023, including when beating Wootton’sun – who ended last year with a mark of 93 – by three-quarters of a length over the course and distance on good ground.

No rain is forecast for Ayr and Tilsitt should find underfoot conditions very much to his liking in a Class 5 which is by no means as competitive as the number of runners suggests.

He usually sits close to the pace and is perfectly drawn in stall three to secure a comfortable early stalking position. With only 8st 11lb to carry, he should take plenty of catching if committed for home halfway up the straight.

Tilsitt17:10 Ayr

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Jky: Rhys Elliott (7lb)Tnr: R Mike Smith

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