'A sound surface will be ideal' - our experts on Ayr's Scottish Grand National

Sunday's Coral Scottish Grand National (3.35) at Ayr is the highlight on a busy day of action, and has attracted a classy field of 23 runners. Three of our writers give their verdict on the potential outcome of the race . . .

'Although he has won just once from 25 starts, he caught the eye'

Aye Right is the worthy market leader after his highly creditable third in the Ultima and boasts an unbeaten record (2-2) at Ayr. However, it may be wise to find a couple at bigger prices given he doesn't have too much in hand off his mark of 154 and hasn't won since January 2020.

Irish dominance has been well documented in the last month and the Pat Fahy-trained Mister Fogpatches has to be of serious interest off a low weight. Although he has won just once from 25 starts, he caught the eye behind Mitchouka last time (form boosted by runner-up Livelovelaugh's Topham success) and now takes a big step up in trip.

Another worth a look at a big price is Coup De Pinceau, who represents unfashionable connections but looked revitalised at Taunton last month and has stamina in abundance.
Tom Collins, tipster

'Coole Cody and Galvin form stacks up'

I fancy Soldier Of Love to provide Paul Nicholls with a fourth victory in the race. A sound surface will be ideal for this lightly raced eight-year-old, who failed to fire on soft ground on his last start in a novice chase at Cheltenham in November.

Soldier Of Love completed a four-timer for Nicholls last year, notably giving weight and a beating to Coole Cody in a novice chase at Newton Abbot in September before finishing second to subsequent National Hunt Chase winner Galvin at Cheltenham. A mark of 144 could prove workable.
Jack Haynes, reporter

'Her stable star should be right in the mix'

This race seemed to be Harriet Graham's first thought after watching Aye Right finish a fine second to Cloth Cap in the Ladbrokes Trophy at Newbury in November and her stable star should be right in the mix again.

A lovely consistent sort, he ought to appreciate the decent ground and the 4m trip is well worth a try - it might even bring some improvement after smart efforts when placed in the Sky Bet and Ultima over around 3m. Aye Right is also unbeaten in two visits to Ayr, so that's another plus.
James Burn, Lambourn correspondent

Read more on the 2021 Scottish Grand National:

2021 Scottish Grand National: confirmed runners and riders for Ayr highlight

Tom Scudamore set to replace 'gutted' Blair Campbell on Scottish National hope

Alan King: 'Ideal candidate' in good form for Scottish Grand National bid (Members' Club)

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