Novamay

Ayr is clearly a track where she thrives. She has won 2 of her 3 races there, a win rate that makes it one of her happiest hunting grounds. That kind of course consistency can be valuable — owners and trainers learn where their horses run well, and Ayr clearly suits her. Her most recent win came at Catterick Bridge on 26 August, eight weeks ago, which means she has been raced regularly since then without adding to her tally. Looking at her last six runs, she has not managed better than 5th place in that stretch, suggesting she may be due a break or a change of scenery.

Michael Dods, who trains her at Piercebridge in County Durham, has had a strong season with 43 winners from his yard. The partnership with jockey Rhys Elliott has produced 2 wins from 7 rides together, a 29% win rate when the pair combine — better than her overall record, which hints that Elliott may have found her rhythm. At her typical level of Class 6 racing, she has won 2 of 6 races (33%), so she is right at home in that grade. Novamay remains an active, competent racehorse, and while the recent form is patchy, her track record on her preferred ground and at her favoured courses suggests she has more wins in her yet.