STACK’S THE WAY
FOZZY STACK could become the first Irish-based trainer to capture Saturday’s William Hill Ayr Gold when he saddles the favourite, Son Of Rest.
Following his excellent second behind Havana Grey at the Curragh on Sunday, his odds have plummeted from 20-1 down to 6-1.
Rupert Adams, the spokesman for the race sponsor, said: “The gamble has taken us by surprise, as it’s a race that is very difficult to win.”
Ayr’s six-furlong dash will be a huge drop in grade for the four-year-old.
“He ran a great race at the Curragh, we were thrilled,” said Stack.
“I’m not sure about his best trip. When he runs over the minimum trip he finishes really strongly, but he does tend to run his best races over five.
“He did finish fourth in the National Stakes to Churchill as a two-year-old, so I’m sure he stays six.”
Stack thinks the wet weather in the north will help his colt. “I’m in no doubt that the more rain they get the better, he loves it soft,” he added.
The Great St Wilfrid winner Gunmetal, a 12-1 shot, is expected to take his chance for David Barron.
Karl Burke, on fire after Laurens and Havana Grey’s Group One wins in Ireland at the weekend, is after more glory with True Mason in Saturday’s Mill Reef Stakes at Newbury.
“I would say he is up to the level of our two previous Mill Reef winners (Lord Shanakill and Toocoolforschool),” said Burke.
“He was beaten by Pretty Pollyanna at Deauville in the Morny and she is pretty smart.”