Expert analysis and key trainer quotes for the Scottish Champion Hurdle at Ayr

The Scottish and English Grand National meetings have flip-flopped in the calendar this season. Ayr precedes Aintree. The gap between the County Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival and Scottish Champion Hourtle in 2021 is reduced to 15 days this year.

West Cork is aiming to win the Scottish Champion Hurdle at Ayr. Last year's Scottish champions Milkwood and Anna Bunina are back for more. Alqamar hasn't raced for six months and is unproven. Barrichello is the final runner of interest for Donald McCain. The winner of the event will be announced on the day. The final place is decided on Saturday. It will take place at 1pm. Aintree takes place on Thursday. There is a 30-day gap between the County H hurdler at the Cheltenham Festival and the Champion. Hurlers are not allowed to compete in the latter.

Jimmy Moffatt's horse Alqamar is going to compete in the Scottish Champion Hurdle at Ayr. Al Qamar was trained in 90s by Charlie Appleby and has won four times and finished second once. Moffat won the race aboard Home Counties in 1995. Charlotte Jones is the trainer's rider.

Milkwood is straight and in good form for the Scottish Champion Hurdle at Ayr. Onemorefortheroad ran well in the Imperial Cup on ground that was soft enough for him. Voix Du Reve had a confidence-booster at Newcastle and he didn't have a hard race there. Tom Midgley is claiming 5lb. Anna Bunina was second in this race last year but she got injured in it and it took her a long time to get over it.

Expert analysis and key trainer quotes for the Scottish Champion Hurdle at Ayr.