Good man BC.
Some strong trends for this race, winner of race worth £15k+, 7yo or older, horses recording their highest RPR in races of 28f or further and oppose Irish whose best staying chasers are aimed at the Fairyhouse equivalent, course winners or course debutants have strong record.
I've managed to get a mate to ruin a few of his accounts tonight by backing Firebird Flyer for me.
A year ago this one was winning a Midlands National off a 5lb higher mark, this has been his target all year and although you wouldn't get too excited by his form this season Evan Williams is known for messing his horses around so it could be the 8lb drop since Christmas is exactly what he was trying to achieve.
Stamina is key in a brutal race like this so unquestioned ability to stay is a must and this one is guaranteed to relish the 4m trip.
I get the feeling his 66/1 price is based more on form and doesn't consider previous exploits.
Like many of these he'd like some cut but Ayr know that and will water to maintain good to soft ground and there are some showers due before the race.
Arpege D'Alene also has to be of interest and there's one other at a big price I'm keen on but will not know his participation status until tomorrow.
Don't forget the rest of the card, it's a proper days racing with prize money just short of half a million quid which includes the Scottish Champion hurdle
