Racing Betting Tips: Saturday, September 21
As the weekend approaches, racing enthusiasts are gearing up for an exciting day at the tracks. The Timeform Sporting Life racing experts have come together to share their best bets and key points of interest for Saturday’s racing events. With a mix of promising contenders and intriguing storylines, this Saturday promises to be one for the books.
Best Bets for Saturday’s Racing
1.50 Ayr – Enfjaar (Mark Milligan)
Bet: 1pt win at 4/1 (General)
The listed Doonside Cup is a highlight on Ayr’s Gold Cup card, and Enfjaar is poised to make a strong comeback after a recent setback. This horse has shown remarkable form this season, with two wins under his belt, including a standout performance in the John Smith’s Cup at York.
Despite a disappointing fifth place in the Strensall Stakes at York, there are reasons to believe Enfjaar can bounce back. He was caught wide in a steadily-run race, which hampered his chances. With a return to a more favorable trip and a chance to reverse form with Phantom Flight on 3lb better terms, Enfjaar is a solid pick for this race.
3.35 Ayr – Fivethousandtoone (David Johnson)
Bet: 1pt each way at 40/1 (Paddy Power, Betfair 1/5 1,2,3,4,5,6)
Fivethousandtoone, named after Leicester City’s astonishing Premier League title win, is looking to create his own fairytale in the Ayr Gold Cup. Having previously won the AW Sprint Championships, he’s only 1 lb higher than that mark now.
His recent performances have been promising, particularly a fourth-place finish in the Chipchase at Newcastle. With a mark of 99, he appears well-positioned to capitalize on a well-run 6f race, making him an enticing long-shot at 40/1.
5.35 Newbury – Kodi Lion (Graeme North)
Bet: 1pt win at 7/1 (bet365)
In the final race at Newbury, Kodi Lion stands out as a strong contender. After winning a competitive 16-runner handicap at Ascot in July, he has consistently performed well, even in races where he found himself too far back.
With the added distance likely to suit him and a strong pace forecast, Kodi Lion is expected to finish strongly. The fact that James Doyle takes the ride for the first time adds to the appeal, making him a compelling bet for this race.
Three Points of Interest
Gold Medal for the Classic Generation?
The Ayr Gold Cup has historically been a race where three-year-olds have thrived, and this year is no exception. Notable contenders include Ramazan, Lucky Man, and Admiral D, who have all shown promise in previous years.
Kevin Ryan’s pair, Room Service and Sergeant Wilko, are particularly noteworthy. Both have shown impressive form this season, and with the right conditions, they could give Ryan a remarkable sixth win in this prestigious race.
Fond Farewell to Franny Norton
This Saturday marks the retirement of jockey Franny Norton, who has had a storied career spanning 36 years. With nearly 2000 winners to his name, Norton has been a fixture in horse racing, often shining at smaller venues.
His final rides include mounts for prominent trainers like Charlie Johnston and William Haggas. While Raneenn is expected to perform well in the 3.05 race, all of Norton’s mounts have the potential to deliver a memorable farewell performance.
Not Too Much of a Reach
At Newmarket, Reach is set to drop into a 0-85 handicap after a challenging outing in a higher class. This six-year-old mare has shown versatility in her racing but will be trying a new distance of a mile.
With a strong pace expected in the race, Reach could thrive in this new setup. Her pedigree suggests she has the capability to perform well, and with a competitive field, she’s one to watch closely.
More from Sporting Life
As always, the world of horse racing is filled with excitement and unpredictability. The insights provided by the Timeform Sporting Life racing experts offer a glimpse into the potential outcomes of Saturday’s races. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a casual fan, the action at Ayr and Newbury is sure to deliver thrills and surprises.
Safer Gambling
At Sporting Life, we are committed to promoting safer gambling practices. We encourage readers to wager responsibly and only what they can afford to lose. If you have concerns about your gambling habits, please reach out to the National Gambling Helpline or visit resources like GamCare and BeGambleAware for support and information.