THE 2015 flat season on turf is fast gathering pace at our local tracks, with Ripon's 16-day campaign beginning today from 1.55.

Master Of Finance may again get the better of Silvery Moon in the 3.05, while I can't see past William Haggas's Tadqeeq in the 3.40.

It's also Thirsk's opening meeting on Saturday. In the big handicap at 4.30, note an alternative entry for Master Of Finance, ditto the booking of Kieren Fallon for Tom Dascombe's Double Discount. The duo team up for a number of rides at the track and significant market moves for any should be marked.

Saturday's principal meetings are at Newbury and Ayr. The highlight at Newbury is the Group 3 Greenham at 2.50, in which Richard Hannon's Ivawood will take all the beating – though take note if Aiden O'Brien runs Dick Whittington, who holds multiple big race entries.

In the Spring Cup at 3.25, there are plenty in with chances, including Richard Fahey's recent Lincoln winner Gabriel and Alan King's Chatez. Both are available at around 10/1 and I prefer the latter.

It's the Scottish Grand National at Ayr (3.45), when top weight Sam Winner, 14/1, could provide another Saturday big race winner for Paul Nicholls, though I'll give another chance to Peter Bowen's Al Co, 16/1, who unseated at the first in last weekend's Grand National.

In the Scottish Champion Hurdle at 2.35, Nicholls shouldn't be far away with Irving, 6/1, though the Irish-trained favourite I Shot The Sheriff looks the one they all have to beat.

Pontefract also races next Monday, followed by Catterick on Wednesday.