Summerghand set for a strong performance in £180k Ayr Gold Cup
As the Flat season comes to an exciting end and the jumps season begins, our expert Templegate has identified a standout contender for the £180,000 Ayr Gold Cup. Nine-year-old Summerghand, trained by David O'Meara, has been in top form and could be ready to take home another major prize.
Summerghand's impressive recent form
Despite his age, Summerghand has shown his best form this season. After finishing a close fourth in a competitive handicap at York, he was unlucky to come second in the Great St Wilfrid Handicap at Ripon. However, he redeemed himself by winning the Constantine Handicap for the second consecutive year at the Knavesmire, defeating 16 rivals. Despite finishing fourth at The Curragh in his latest outing, the Irish track is not ideal for his late-rallying style. With a fair weight and a fondness for Ayr, Summerghand is expected to put up a strong challenge.
Although the draw is unknown at this stage, the 12-1 odds offered by Bet365 for an each-way bet on Summerghand in the Ayr Gold Cup are certainly enticing.
BET: SUMMERGHAND 12-1 for the Ayr Gold Cup
The right choice for Constitution Hill
There has been some debate about whether hurdler Constitution Hill should continue in that discipline this season. However, our insider believes trainer Nicky Henderson and his team have made the correct decision. With impressive victories in the Champion Hurdle already under his belt, Constitution Hill is untouchable in that realm.
While chasing presents a different challenge, the Hill's nimble hurdling style may not be well-suited to bigger obstacles. Additionally, the view that a horse excelling over 2m4f might struggle over a longer Gold Cup distance, especially with the added exertion of jumping fences, holds some validity.
If you agree with this assessment, you can capitalize on Constitution Hill's continued hurdling career. William Hill is offering evens on the nine-year-old remaining unbeaten next season, a price that seems like a steal considering his dominance in the sport.
Paddy Power's Constitution Hill specials
- Constitution Hill To Win The 2023 Fighting Fifth, 2023 Christmas Hurdle & 2024 Champion Hurdle: 4-5
- Constitution Hill To Remain Unbeaten In The 2023/24 National Hunt Season (Minimum 3 Runs): 5-6
- Constitution Hill To Win The 2024 & 2025 Champion Hurdle: 9-4
- Constitution Hill To Win The 2024 Champion Hurdle By 10 Lengths Or More: 10-3
- Constitution Hill To Win The 2024, 2025 & 2026 Champion Hurdle: 5-1
- Constitution Hill To Win The 2024 Champion Hurdle By 20 Lengths Or More: 14-1
