Richard Birch's play of the day at Ayr
Travail D’Orfevre
If Ayr does get the go-ahead after a 7am inspection, Travail D’Orfevre would appeal as much the best bet of the day in the 3m handicap chase (2.00).
Most of the selection’s previous form over fences has been at 2m or 2m4f, and he remains unexposed when the emphasis is on stamina.
It was a bold move by Nick Alexander to target Travail D’Orfevre at the 4m½f Borders National at Kelso last month, and the trainer’s foresight was thoroughly justified when his runner finished a highly creditable third to Bretney from well off the pace, leaving the impression he stayed at least 3m6f well.
The handicapper has dropped him 1lb for that performance and Travail D’Orfevre can take full advantage on ground which will play to his strengths.
He competes off his last winning mark of 102, achieved at 2m, and has the potential to better that performance hugely over this more suitable trip.
I am confident the nine-year-old could be a 110+ horse now his stamina is being brought into play.
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