NEWMARKET raiders grabbed the spoils at Ayr Racecourse on Saturday winning no fewer than four of the seven races.

Set against a backdrop of beautiful sunshine and attended by a crowd of almost 6,500 it was a fantastic afternoon’s racing with the highlight the £40,000 Land O’Burns Fillies Stakes, a Listed race over the minimum five furlong trip.

The winner was Hay Chewed (17/2) held up under Tom Eaves hand then hitting the front over a furlong out and staying on well to win by a length from the 16/1 chance Inyordsreams.

This Newmarket winner was trained by Conrad Allen and should win again in the not too distant future.

Another southern trainer Willie Haggas saddled Squats (8/1), to win the opening maiden under Liam Jones while Roger Varian had his first ever Ayr winner with the well-backed Pretzel (10/11 fav) in the mile handicap under a very confident Freddie Tylicki. The final Newmarket winner was the track Alan Bailey trained Strictly Silver (4/1) who won the Arnold Clark Handicap.

The only Scottish-trained success came via Spirit of Alsace in the final race, a six furlong handicap.

Trained by Jim Goldie and ridden by apprentice Jack Garritty the 7/1 shot showed terrific battling qualities to get up and beat Signore Piccolo by half a length.

The Reluctant Suitors syndicate includes Gordon Thom of New Hall Stud in Coylton who will no doubt be planning a career as a brood mare for the winning horse.

Ayr’s next meeting is the Federation of Small Businesses Family Day on Sunday July 6. For more information or to book tickets call 01292 264179 or go online at www.ayr-racecourse.co.uk