Ayrad makes all for impressive win

Ayrad: back to winning ways

Ayrad got back to winning ways in excellent style for Roger Charlton at Salisbury on Wednesday when running away with the 0-105 handicap.

The son of Dalakhani made all under regular partner Andrea Atzeni to win unchallenged by four and a half lengths from Almoreb. It was the fourth win for the gelding, whose previous victories included the 2015 Tapster Stakes and last season’s Gala Stakes.

“That was very straightforward for Ayrad,” said Andrea Atzeni. “He got an easy lead and it was nice to see him get his head in front again. I always thought he would handle the ground, and my only worry was whether he still had it or not. He obviously has.”

Bred by Gerrardstown House Stud, Ayrad is a half-brother to our classy filly Dawn Of Hope, who takes her chance in Saturday’s Sun Chariot Stakes for Roger Varian.

They are out of the Group 3-placed Sweet Firebird, a half-sister to top sprinter Stravinsky and daughter of Beverly D Stakes heroine Fire The Groom.

Tony Nerses purchased Ayrad for 70,000gns out of the Gerrardstown House Stud draft at the 2012 Tattersalls October Sale.