Dettori Bids For Ayr Glory

Frankie Dettori will bid for his first victory in the totesport Ayr Gold Cup when he partners Mecca's Mate in Saturday's feature event.

North Yorkshire trainer David Barker was quick to snap him up once he knew the popular Italian would be making a rare visit to the Scottish track as Godolphin, his retained stable, intend to have a runner there.

Godolphin will not be represented in the six-furlong cavalry charge, but they have four entries in the Listed Doonside Cup, including Windsor Knot, plus Desert Chief in the totescoop6 Ayrshire Handicap.

'I've asked if Frankie can ride her and I think he does,' said Barker.

Mecca's Mate, generally available at 33-1, was a close fifth to her stablemate Celtic Mill in the Listed Scarbrough Stakes at York over five furlongs and Barker believes everything points to a big run in one of the most competitive sprint handicaps of the season.

'She's come out of the York race very well and I couldn't be happier with her. I think the combination of the six furlongs and a strong pace will suit her,' he added.

'The mare is in great form. She just hasn't had the luck. I still think she's a very good horse and you need one to win that race.

'She's got decent Group form, she's nicely-enough handicapped and a rail draw would be good.'

(C) PA Sport