Ayr Gold Cup Result: Highland Colori Storms to Victory at 20-1

Highland Colori came with a telling burst up the stands’ side rail to land the Ayr Gold Cup.

Andrew Balding’s charge was narrowly beaten in the Silver Cup 12 months ago, but he was not to be denied Saturday in the main race.

Results from earlier in the day showed there was considerable benefit to being under the stands’ rail, and jockey Oisin Murphy made a beeline for that position.

Highland Colori was content to track the trailblazing Hoof It, part owned by golfer Lee Westwood, before Murphy set his mount alight with two furlongs to run.

A host of runners came with challenges, including top weight Jack Dexter and Regal Parade, but Highland Colori found plenty for pressure to stretch away close to the line.

Louis The Pious stayed on well for second, with Jack Dexter third and Heaven’s Guest in fourth.

But they were all playing the support act to Highland Colori was was sent off at odds of 20-1.

"

I genuinely though Highland Colori was over the hill. Totally overlooked him. Mass Rally couldn't find a gap when he needed it.

— calummcclurkin (@calummcclurkin) September 21, 2013"

Earlier on the card, the Godolphin-owned Sharestan stayed on powerfully in the hands of Kieren Fallon to land the Doonside Cup.

There was a huge shock in the Silver Cup, as Ancient Cross weaved a passage through the field to score at odds of 33-1 for trainer Mick Easterby and rider Pat Cosgrave.