It was confirmed yesterday that Willie Supple will ride Astonished in the Ladbrokes Ayr Gold Cup on Saturday. Owner David Brotherton chose Supple ahead of some bigger names to partner his runaway Portland Handicap winner after Kieren Fallon was claimed for second favourite Grangeville.

It is the latest recognition of Supple's talents in a memorable season for the Irishman. The 31-year-old, who has won the riders' championship in Dubai in the last two winters, has ridden 35 winners in Britain this year - smashing his previous best total of 21 set last season.

But Supple is taking nothing for granted, saying: "I am looking forward to it and the horse seems well. He was very impressive last time but there is no such thing as a certainty in racing."