Racing: Ayr Gold Cup target for Keegan's sprinter

Kevin Keegan, the Manchester City manager, has Ayr Gold Cup ambitions for Funfair Wane, runner-up to Royal Quarters at Chester yesterday. City were beaten 1-0 by Aston Villa on Wednesday and Keegan said: "We could have done with Funfair Wane. He would have given up a bit of pace up front."

The gelding, bred and owned by Keegan's wife, Jean, had been trained by Mick Channon, but was having his third run for David Nicholls, who said: "Mick recommended that the horse should come to us. He was very edgy, but he is getting more relaxed every day."

* The Henry Cecil-trained Apex Star earned a quote of 50-1 for next year's 2,000 Guineas from Ladbrokes after cruising home in the Lingfield opener.

* Romantic Liason, winner of the Queen Mary Stakes at Royal Ascot for Brian Meehan, has joined Godolphin and is to spend the winter in Dubai.

* Sir Stanley Clarke's Northern Racing is attempting to add Fontwell Park to its portfolio.