Indian on Gold Cup trail

Indian Trail has been promoted to favourite for the Ayr Gold Cup after snatching victory in the Betfredbingo Be Friendly Handicap at Haydock.

After a series of near-misses this season, Dandy Nicholls’ sprinter finally got his head in front at Sandown last week.

And reunited with Frankie Dettori, he got up close home to defy an 8lb rise in the handicap and beat Judd Street by a head, with Hoh Hoh Hoh a neck further away in third.

Indian Trail will now carry 9st 2lb in the Ayr showpiece and is the 8-1 market leader (from 10) with sponsors totesport, Betfred, William Hill and Paddy Power.

“That was fantastic,” said winning owner, Martin Love.

“I always thought he was going to get there but it was a great ride from Frankie. Credit must go to Dandy because he has been unlucky this year.

“It’s Ayr now and he must go there with a chance, he’s certainly with the right trainer.”