Ryan aiming for Gold repeat

Advanced is on target to defend his crown in the John Smith’s Ayr Gold Cup at the Scottish venue on Saturday.

Kevin Ryan’s sprinter landed the prestigious six-furlong handicap last September by a neck from Benwilt Breeze and showed his well-being when runner-up to Look Busy at Beverley last month.

The five-year-old, who is rated 5lb lower than he was for the race in 2007, is likely to be joined by his stablemate Tamagin.

“I plan to run Tamagin and Advanced, but I think Evens And Odds is doubtful as the ground might be too soft for him,” said Ryan.

“Advanced is in good form and he’s got good form at the track.”

Jamie Spencer steered Advanced home last autumn but Ryan has yet to make any riding plans for Saturday.

“I don’t know yet, I’m not going into jockeys yet,” the Hambleton-based handler added.

Advanced is vying for favouritism at around 10-1 while Tamagin can be backed at 25-1.