Watch Ayr Races on ITV1 with Ed Chamberlin, Richard Hoiles and Sir AP McCoy - 18 April 2026 Coverage Guide

Jump racing fans across the UK are in for a treat this afternoon as ITV1, ITV HD, ITVX and STV (including STV HD and STV Player) broadcast live coverage of the thrilling card at Ayr Racecourse starting at 13:00 UK time. Viewers in Ireland can also tune into Virgin Media One HD and Virgin Media Play for the action from this prestigious jump racing fixture, which features seven races packed with top-class handicaps and high prize money totalling over £200,000[1][2]. As part of ITV Racing's commitment to delivering premier National Hunt coverage, this event promises expert insights from a stellar team led by veteran presenter Ed Chamberlin.

Ed Chamberlin, one of British racing's most recognisable faces, takes the helm for today's broadcast. With over two decades in sports broadcasting, Chamberlin first rose to prominence hosting Channel 4 Racing from 2011 to 2016 before seamlessly transitioning to ITV Racing in 2017. His engaging style and deep knowledge have made him a mainstay, covering major events like the Cheltenham Festival and Grand National, earning him widespread acclaim among punters and professionals alike.

Providing the race calls will be the incomparable Richard Hoiles, ITV's lead commentator whose career spans more than 30 years. Hoiles began calling races in the early 1990s and has become synonymous with the excitement of live jumps racing, his vivid descriptions capturing every heart-stopping moment. A regular at Cheltenham and Aintree, Hoiles's expertise ensures viewers miss none of the drama in races like the Scotty Brand Handicap Chase at 13:10 and the Coral Scottish Champion Hurdle (Grade 2) at 14:20[2][3].

Joining the studio punditry are two legends of the sport: Sir AP McCoy and Luke Harvey. Sir Anthony Peter McCoy, knighted in 2016, holds the record for most wins by a National Hunt jockey with 4,358 victories from 1992 to 2015. The Northern Irish icon, who amassed 20 consecutive jump jockey titles, brings unparalleled authority to his analysis, often sharing insider tips on form and tactics. Meanwhile, Luke Harvey, a former top jockey with over 1,000 winners including the Welsh National, transitioned into broadcasting with ITV Racing. Known for his candid previews and humorous anecdotes from the saddle, Harvey complements McCoy perfectly, offering balanced perspectives on today's runners[4].

On the ground, reporters Oli Bell and Alice Plunkett will deliver exclusive interviews and paddock insights. Oli Bell, son of former jockey Graham Bell, has carved his niche at ITV since 2016, his passion evident in stable visits and jockey chats ahead of key races like the 15:35 feature, potentially building towards bigger prizes later in the season. Alice Plunkett, a trailblazer in equestrian broadcasting, started with BBC's Grandstand in the 1990s and joined Channel 4 Racing in 2012 before ITV. Married to former jockey William Fox-Pitt, her eventing background adds depth to her equine expertise, making her reports a highlight for global audiences.

Ayr's card on 18 April 2026 is a blockbuster, headlined by jumps action on turf with conditions described as soft, good to soft in places[3][7]. Kicking off at 13:10 with the Class 1 Scotty Brand Handicap Chase over 2m 110y, followed by the 13:45 handicap, 14:20 Coral Scottish Champion Hurdle (2m, prize £56,270 to winner), 14:55, 15:35 (3m 7f 176y marathon), 16:15 and culminating in the 16:48 Golf Inn Prestwick Luxury Accommodation Open NH Flat Race[2][5][7]. This lineup showcases emerging stars and battle-hardened campaigners, with total prize money underscoring its status as a season highlight[1].

Whether you're trackside – with tickets from £10 for students and free under-18s – or watching from home, ITV's coverage elevates the experience[1]. For more on Sir AP McCoy's illustrious career, visit his Wikipedia page. Don't miss this unmissable racing spectacle – tune in at 13:00 for Chamberlin, Hoiles, McCoy and the team to guide you through every twist.

Article generated: 18 April 2026, 13:00 GMT