Ayr Racecourse

^{(Image acknowledged & credited to Timeform/At The Races}

Course Information: (Flat Course) Ayr is a dual-purpose racecourse for both flat and jumps racing. It is left-handed, oval-shaped, with a circumference of approximately twelve furlongs. It is a track that suits galloping types, as the turn coming into the home straight is downhill with a reasonably long run in to the winning post of around half a mile. 

Straight sprint races up to six furlongs can be run and are started from a chute. This straight course is notably wide, allowing sprint races to be run with a field size of up to 28 runners. Due to this, such races are often run in groups down the sides and the centre of the course. The course characteristics change markedly due to the weather conditions, and it can be extremely gruelling in the winter when the ground is heavy. 

The Jumps course has nine fences per circuit for the steeplechase races and six flights for the hurdle races, both of which are thought to be of average difficulty. With the downhill turn approaching the slightly uphill finish, it can be tricky for even the most accomplished horses and jockeys. It has a run-in to the winning post of around one furlong after the last fence. Heavy ground is not uncommon during the winter, so hold-up horses who come from behind tend to do well.

Aerial View of Ayr Racecourse: _{(Image acknowledged & credited to Timeform/At The Races}