go pointing | 13 may 2015

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BEEN POINTINGfrom Kingston Blount& Chaddesley Corbett

GETTING TO KNOW YOUwith Lucy Wheeler

5 MINUTES WITHSteph Easterby

SOLIDAS AROCKWIN

ONE OF TWOBESPOKE ESTRIBOS

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T H E

UNITED HUNTSM E E T I N G

H U N T I N G F O RT H E S O U T H E A S T ’ S

CHAMPIONCHASERS

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C O N T E N T S

9 Latest News 12 Competition Time 13 Sponsorship News

6 What’s On This Week

17 Meeting Reports 25 Recent Landmarks 26 Getting To Know You 27 Picture Perfect

32 5 Minutes With 35 Meeting Previews

43 | Top Tweets

44 | Pony Racing Results

45 | Pony Racing Entries

46 | PonyRacingTopScorers

47 | In The Frame

49 | Top Performers

52 | Been Pointing

54 | Fixtures 2015


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HISTORY BECKONS FORBRILLIANT BIDDICKWill Biddick’s remarkable campaigncontinued with a brace of doubles atHolnicote and Trebudannon onSaturday and Sunday respectively,which in turn moved him to withinone winner of equalling Oliver andTom Greenall’s shared record of 56winners in one season.Biddick’s initial brace came at theMinehead Harriers at Holnicote; thesoon to be four-time National MensChampion partnered Benedictus tovictory in the Mens Open, beforeguiding Bathwick Scanno to hissecond win in as many weeks in theConfined race. There was also adouble on the day for Robert Hawker,who claimed the Open Maiden on HM S Intrepid and the Intermediate onCarlos Gardel.Twenty-four hours later atTrebudannon for the Four Burrowmeeting Biddick secured his 54th and55th winners of the season thanks tovictories on Im All Set in theIntermediate and Face To Face in theOpen Maiden. Darren Edwards alsogot in on the act with two winners ofhis own; Spillers Dream took theopening Open Maiden for younghorses and geldings over 2m4f andBradley Brook ran out thecomfortable winner of the MixedOpen.

All eyes are now on tonight’s meetingat Cothelstone where Will requires adouble to outdo the Greenalls andmake Pointing history. If tonight isn’tthe night then it could happen atBratton Down on Sunday and I’m sureyou will join me in wishing Will thevery best of luck!Gina Andrews was also amongst thewinners on Saturday and edged evercloser to her second National LadiesChampionship with a brace at theKimblewick fixture at KingstonBlount. Andrews got the ball rollingwith a win aboard Classic Destiny inthe Club Members Conditions race,equalling her winning total of 22winners in 2011/12, before surpassingit with her 23rd winner of thiscampaign in the Ladies Open onVolcan Surprise.Elsewhere at Kingston Blount therewas a notable success for Otto TheGreat and the Henderson family in theMens Open. Even with only fourrunners going to post, it was a qualityfield which included Patsy Finnegan(5-4 favourite), Brackloon High andKing’s Legacy, and despite being sent-off the 7-1 outsider of the quartet thegrey ran out an impressive winner toextend his winning run to three fromfour.On Sunday Tom Strawson grabbed theheadlines at the Melton Hunt Club atGarthorpe with a double. Lord Golan

was his initial winner in the OpenMaiden and his second soon followedwhen Gonalston Cloud bounced-backfrom a disappointing run atCheltenham to get the better ofThanks For Coming in a match in theMixed Open.Now to this weekend’s action - this isthe last real feast of Pointing actionwith nine meetings taking place: fouron Saturday, and five on Sunday. Allthe relevant meeting information,including admission prices anddirections, can be found in the ‘What’son this week’ section.Before the Pointing action getsunderway, all eyes will be on theinaugural DBS Point-to-Point BumperFinal at Aintree on Friday afternoon.It’s pleasing to see that the contest hasattracted 31 entries and I hope DBS’sfantastic support of this event isrewarded with a competitive andentertaining contest.And to wrap things up, ourcongratulations go to Lottie Ingletonfrom Ipswich, who was the luckywinner of ourrecentGlenalmondcompetition.Well doneLottie!Ben Roe,Editor

WELCOME FROM THE EDITOR

GOPOINTINGis published by The Point-to-Point RacingCompany Ltd

Editor: Ben Roet: 01933 440077e: [email protected]

Advertising: Lucy Wheelert: 01933 440077e: [email protected]

Sign UpTo receive GOPOINTING every weekthroughout the season by email, you can signup via pointtopoint.co.uk, [email protected] or click here

Front Cover Photo Harry Cobden & Cock OfThe Rock teamed-up to win their fifthsuccessive race of the campaign at Holnicoteon Saturday by Tim Holt [email protected]

Editorial views expressed inthis magazine are not necessarily those of thePoint-to-Point Racing Company

Website: pointtopoint.co.ukFacebook: go.pointing.1Instagram: go.pointingTwitter: @gopointingHashtag: #GoPointing

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Otto The Great & Fred Henderson landed a competitivefour-runner Mens Open at Kingston Blount on SaturdayPhoto: Neale Blackburn chasdog.com

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SATURDAY, 16TH MAYCLIFTON-ON-TEMEat Upper Sapey (Herefordshire)At Wolferlow, 6m N of Bromyard nr B4203 (15m W of Exits 5 & 6,M5). WR6 6XUProvisional Going: GoodFirst Race: 2.00pmNumber of Races: 7Number of Entries: 67Admission Prices: £10 per adult, children free

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SATURDAY, 16TH MAYGELLIGAER FARMERSat Lower Machen (Caerphilly)4m W of Newport on A468 at Lower Machen (Exit 28, M4). NP10 8GHProvisional Going: Good; will be watered as necessary to maintainFirst Race: 2.00pmNumber of Races: 6Number of Entries: 91Admission Prices: £10 car & driver, £5 per additional occupant,under 16s free

SUNDAY, 17TH MAYDULVERTON WESTat Bratton Down (Devon)Alongside A399. 11m N of South Molton, 3m S of Blackmoor Gate.EX31 4SGProvisional Going: GoodFirst Race: 1.00pm (Pony Racing from 11.45am)Number of Races: 8Number of Entries: 134Admission Prices: £25 per car, £10 single occupants, under 16s free

PR

SATURDAY, 16TH MAYFITZWILLIAM (MILTON)at Dingley (Northamptonshire)5m E of Market Harborough, nr A427. LE16 8PJProvisional Going: Good, watering to maintainFirst Race: 2.00pmNumber of Races: 7Number of Entries: 108Admission Prices: £10 per person, under 16s free

SATURDAY, 16TH MAYSOUTH DURHAMat Mordon (Co. Durham)Nr A1(M), 4 miles S of Sedgefield, 1 mile N of Great Stainton. TS21 2NGProvisional Going: Good, good to soft in placesFirst Race: 2.00pmNumber of Races: 7Number of Entries: 88Admission Prices: £10 per person, under 16s free

SUNDAY, 17TH MAYGOLDEN VALLEYat Bredwardine (Herefordshire)7m E of Hay-on-Wye, on B4352, 2m off A438. HR3 6DDProvisional Going: Good, rain forecast, will water as necessaryFirst Race: 2.00pmNumber of Races: 7Number of Entries: 82Admission Prices: £10 per person, under 16s free

PR denotes Pony Racing at the meeting


SUNDAY, 17TH MAYGRAFTONat Whitfield (Northamptonshire)Just off the A43, two miles north-east of Brackley. NN13 5TQProvisional Going: Good, good to soft in places; will water as requiredFirst Race: 2.00pm (Pony Racing from 12.30pm)Number of Races: 7Number of Entries: 116Admission Prices: £10 per person, under 16s free

PR

SUNDAY, 17TH MAYKNUTSFORD RACES CLUBat Tabley (Cheshire)1½miles W of Knutsford between A556 and M6 (use Exit 19). WA16 0HBProvisional Going: Good; will be watered as necessary to maintainFirst Race: 2.00pm (Pony Racing from 1.00pm)Number of Races: 7Number of Entries: 74Admission Prices: £10 per person (max £30 per car), under 12s free;First Class car park £45 per car

PR

SUNDAY, 17TH MAYHAYDONat Hexham (Northumberland)On NH racecourse, 1m SW of town between B6305 & B6306. NE46 2JPProvisional Going: Good to soft, soft in placesFirst Race: 2.00pm (Pony Racing from 1.00pm)Number of Races: 7Number of Entries: 100Admission Prices: £8 per person

PR

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HUNTER CHASESThursday, 14 MayFontwell Park5:05 racebets.com - Claim Your £50 Welcome Bonus! Novices'

Hunters' Chase, 3m2f110y5:40 Fontwell Park Novices' Hunters' Chase, 2m4f6:15 BSFR Ladies' Open Hunters' Chase, 2m6f6:45 pointtopoint.co.uk United Hunts Open Champion Hunters'

Chase, 3m4f7:15 Weatherbys Printing Open Hunters' Chase, 2m2f7:50 Fontwell Park Mares' Hunters' Chase, 3m2f110y8:20 Cuckoo Maiden Hunters' Chase, 2m6f

Friday, 15 MayAintree8:45 DBS Spring Sales "Point-To-Point" Bumper Final Maiden

National Hunt Flat Race (Amateur Riders), 2m1f

Tuesday, 19 MayNewton Abbot8:30 Totnes And Bridgetown Handicap Hunters' Chase, 2m5f110y


The Real Argentine Leather Folks

Bolu Argentino

Stockists of Estribos

Very much part of the Point to Point circuit.

Suite 158, 61 Victoria Road, Surbiton, Surrey, KT6 4JX

[email protected]

www.estribos.co /estribosuk

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Three-time national men’s Point-to-Point champion Will Biddick couldbreak the British record for winnersin one season at a meeting inSomerset tomorrow (Weds, May 13).

Biddick, 28, a Cheltenham Festival-winning jockey during a spell as aconditional [Something Wells, 2009Freddie Williams Plate] rode a pair ofdoubles at the weekend to take histally during the 2014/15 season to 55,one behind the record held bybrothers Oliver and ThomasGreenall, who set their scores in 2008and 2009 respectively.

At Cothelstone near Taunton thisevening Biddick is set for a pair of

fancied rides on Kostaquarta (16.30)and Posh Totty (18.30), both trainedin Somerset by Jack Barber. Thetrainer could also run a pair ofmaidens with Biddick in the saddle,but that will depend on groundconditions.

Biddick, a Cornishman who haseffectively wrapped up a fourthconsecutive British title, says: “It hasonly been in the last two weeks that Ithought the record was attainable. Atthe start of the season my only aimwas to improve my personal best of42 winners – if you don’t strive toimprove yourself you don’t goanywhere. I passed that score, but still

doubted I could get close to therecord. I’m very fortunate to ridesuch good horses.

“I’ve been on a roll and so the keywas to keep doing the same thing andnot start trying too hard. I had to ridewith the same attitude and method.

“I always felt that if I was going tobeat Oli and Tom’s record it would bewhen I was being chased hard for thetitle, but it hasn’t worked out thatway. I’ve ridden nice horses, andwhile they are not all superstars theyare fit and trained in a system[perfected by Barber’s grandfather,Richard] that has worked for years.”

WILL BIDDICK ON VERGE OFPOINT-TO-POINT HISTORY

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Photo: Julie Drewettracehorsephotos.co.uk


POINT-TO-POINTING’SHQ MOVES TO SWINDONThe Point-to-Point Authority will havea new base at the end of the currentseason.

The PPA’s offices have been locatednear Tetbury in Gloucestershire sinceits inception in June 2008. However, atthe completion of a lease agreement,new premises were sought and foundat The Shrivenham Hundred BusinessPark, near Swindon, offering a numberof advantages.

“We thought very carefully about howwe could better serve the sport withour location and facilities,” said PPAChief Executive Clare Hazell.

“Our chosen base benefits fromgood transport links and an overallimprovement in technology andtherefore communications. Its centrallocation will mean we are within easierreach for the majority of the point-to-point community, and being close toLambourn makes us more accessibleto representatives from other areas ofthe racing industry.”

The PPA’s address from mid-summer2015 will be Unit 30A, ShrivenhamHundred Business Park, Majors Road,Watchfield, Oxon, SN6 8TZ. Aconclusive date for the move will beannounced via the sport’s nationalwebsite www.pointtopoint.co.uk andother media and social media outlets.

CUMBERLANDREARRANGE - NEW DATEMAY 23RDThe Cumberland Point-to-Point(original date Saturday May 9th) willnow take place on Saturday May 23rd.Entries stand.

ANGLO IRISH CHALLENGEOwners are reminded to support thisvery unique event by entering horsesin the two designated races; this hasbeen set out to promote British Point-to-Point racing by inviting the 2 teamsfrom Ireland to take part.

The Ladies Challenge Race is a ClubConditions Race that is off 11st – NoPenalties. Full conditions in theplanner.

The Men’s Challenge Race which isopen to Restricted & Maiden Horses isoff 12st – No Penalties. Full raceconditions are in the Planner.

Please note: owners that wish to run ineither of the races they are not

restricted to only Anglo Irishcompetitors.

This Anglo Irish Challenge to be heldat Chaddesley Corbett is on Monday25th May, 2015.

Entries close on Monday 18th May,2015 at 11.00am

All fences and bends have been movedonto fresh ground and watering willtake place to achieve the best possiblegoing.

Connections of horses that are chosenfor the Anglo Irish Challenge willreceive £50.00 travelling expenses;overnight stabling is available ifrequired.

Owners or trainers who intend toenter in these two Irish Challenge race,who require further informationplease free to contact Judith 07703126123 or for course informationcontact Jim 07866 483814.

SUBARU RESTRICTEDPOINT-TO-POINT SERIESThe Subaru Restricted Point-to-PointSeries qualifier scheduled for lastSaturday at Aspatria was sadly lost tothe weather after heavy rain sweptacross Cumbria flooding the Carlisletrack. This was a sad blow for those inthe north of the country making a lastminute bid to run at the Stratford finalin three weeks but we are pleased toconfirm that the event has beenrescheduled for Saturday, 23 May.

All eyes are now on Whitfield inNorthamptonshire this weekendwhich hosts the penultimate qualifyingrace at Grafton meeting on Sunday, 17May where Pauline Harkin’s ExclusiveRights is the star entry, alongsideKingston Blount winner CelticIntrigue.

Excitement is really swelling for theHunter Chase meeting at Stratford onthe evening of Friday 29 May whereassociates of Subaru will becelebrating a highly successfulinaugural year of sponsorship withinPoint-to-Pointing and rewarding thetop finishers in the series finale with aprize fund of £10,000. Tickets coststart from as little as £9.00 and can bebooked online atwww.stratfordracecourse.net.A full list of qualified horses to datefor the Stratford Final can be viewedby clicking here.

HUGH CONDRYTHANKSGIVING SERVICEThe Thanksgiving Service for the lifeof the long-serving National Point-to-Point correspondent Hugh Condry,which had to be postponed in March,will now be held at 2pm onWednesday, 17th June, at All SaintsChurch, Dulverton, Somerset.

JOCKEY COACHING TORIDERS AT TABLEY THISSUNDAYAs part of a highly successful pilotprogramme to provide jockeycoaching to Point-to-Point riders, TimReed will be conducting a course walkat Tabley racecourse on Sunday (17May). The walk will commence at12.45pm and all riders, but especiallythose taking part in the Dodson &Horrell PPORA Club Members Racefor Novice Riders ChampionshipFinal, are encouraged to take part. Timwill also be available throughout theday to oversee practical simulatorsessions and to provide general helpand advice on race riding, diet andfitness.

PPA SEEKS POINT-TO-POINT COORDINATORSThe Point-to-Point Authority (PPA) isthe body responsible for theadministration, management,promotion and development of theamateur sport of Point-to-PointHorseracing in Great Britain. Twoopportunities have arisen to join thePPA team owing to the relocation ofthe company's office. Both roles willassist with the administration andpromotion of one of horseracing'smost cherished assets. The distinct andspecific duties of each role will beconfirmed according to the experienceof selected candidates.

Applicants must be able todemonstrate strong administrationskills; exceptional IT and social mediacapability; and be able to provide clearexamples of delivering excellentcustomer service in a previous role. Aworking knowledge of horseracing isdesirable, so too a flexible, teamapproach to working hours duringbusy periods.

Applicants should send a CV andcovering letter, including their currentterms, plus clear examples of careerexperience that matches the areas ofresponsibility outlined above, to thechief executive [email protected].

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http://www.stratfordracecourse.net

http://www.stratfordracecourse.net

http://www.pointtopoint.co.uk/go/news/subaru_qualified_horses_2015.html

http://www.pointtopoint.co.uk/go/news/subaru_qualified_horses_2015.html


On Thursday 14th May 2015 thepopular and exciting Hunter Chaseevening returns to Fontwell ParkRacecourse for its third consecutiveyear.

Racegoers are invited to join in theaction as Point-to-Point horses andamateur jockeys look to bathe in thelimelight on the major national huntstage that is Fontwell ParkRacecourse.

The evening kicks off with theracebets.com Novice’s Hunters’Chase at 5.05pm, in which 14 runnershave been declared. A number of lastyear’s top contenders are returning tothe meeting; John Daniell was runner-up in last year’s Maiden Hunter Chaseand will be running in the first racethis time, over an extended distanceof 3m2f.

Many of the country’s leading Point-to-Point trainers are set to haverunners, offering an evening of highly

competitive racing. Start Royal wonlast year’s United Hunts OpenChampion Hunters’ Chase by animpressive 25 lengths and will beaiming to retain his title. Trained byOxfordshire based Alan Hill, StartRoyal has been enjoying a successfulPoint-to-Point season, winning hislast three races under the LeadingNational Lady Rider Gina Andrews.

Gina will partner another of lastyear’s victors Foundry Square, in theBSFR Ladies’ Open Hunter’s Chase(6.15); the pair were last seen in theequivalent race at the CheltenhamHunter Chase evening when theywere placed third. Welsh trainerMickey Bowen will be making thelong trip down to Fontwell withOpen Point-to-Pointers Sir Du Bearnand Cygnet.

Desertmore View will also be makingthe journey form Wales to run in theWeatherbys Printing Open Hunters’

Chase (7.15). Trained by Marc Barberand ridden by leading jockey JohnMathias, Desertmore View won theprestigious Dunraven Bowl Hunters’Chase at Chepstow on 24th April.

Simon Williams, Fontwell ParkExecutive Director, commented:“The United Hunts raceday is afavourite in the national huntcalendar and who knows perhaps theA P McCoy of the future will be withus next Thursday, working his or herway up the ranks.

“We’re excited to invite a buzzingcrowd through our gates next weektop enjoy the thunder of hooves onour unique Sussex track. The forwardforecast even promises a pleasantspring afternoon.”

Get closer to the adrenaline-chargedatmosphere on raceday and bringyour own picnic to enjoy in the centreof the course. To purchase ticketsvisit www.fontwellpark.co.uk.

FONTWELL PARK HUNT FOR THESOUTH EAST’S CHAMPION CHASER

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Thanks to the team at Estribos Argentina two lucky Go Pointing readers will win a bespoke Estribos Polo Belt.

In addition to their permanent stand at Cheltenham Racecourse, Estribos Argentina have been a fixture on thePointing Circuit for the last ten years, attending up to thirty Point-to-Points a season with their trade stands.

Their hat making roots in Buenos Aires go back over 130 years and they have been making these fabulouslybright hand stitched belts on on stirrup and Carpincho leather since the 1980’s.

They would love to make a belt to the winner’s specifications, perhaps to racing or team colours, in theirworkshop in Buenos Aires.

www.estribos.co

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A BESPOKE ESTRIBOS POLO BELT!

QUESTIONOn the Estribos website (www.estribos.co) what are the colours in the “George” belt or dog collar?

A. Green, Navy, Red and CreamB. Pink, Navy and CreamC. Navy and Cream with a White Line

WIN

COMPETITION TIME

Competition closes on 26 May

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DBS BUMPER FOR BRITISHPOINTERS ATTRACTS31 ENTRIES

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A ground-breaking bumper – the firstopen to British Point-to-Pointtrainers and sponsored by DoncasterBloodstock Sales – has drawn anexcellent entry of 31.

The £10,000 DBS Spring Sale Point-to-Point Bumper Final, which takesplace over two miles and one furlongon Friday at Aintree (8.45), hasconditions similar to a hunters’ chase.Horses from licensed trainers’ yardsare eligible, but runners must befour-, five- or six-year-old that havefinished in the first three in a MaidenPoint-to-Point this season, and theycannot have run under Rules beforeFriday’s race.

Designed to showcase young BritishPoint-to-Pointers the DBS bumpergives Point-to-Point owners an

opportunity to promote a horse theymight like to sell, and the first threewill be offered a place in DBS’sprestigious Spring Sale which startsthe following Monday (May 18 to 20).

Entries for the race include a quartetof four-year-olds and six horses witha one-run, one-win record. Theyinclude Charmix, the mount of three-time British champion Will Biddick,Chap, who is to be ridden by LeoMahon, brother of professionaljockey Ryan, and the four-year-oldsKalasaya, trained in Shropshire byPhil Rowley and Pinnacle Panda fromTom Lacey’s yard. The Dark Duchess,one of three mares in the race, wonher sole start at Hornby Castle forYorkshire trainer Charles Brader, whobred her from his Grimthorpe Gold

Cup Point-to-Point winner DuchessAccount.

Licensed trainers with entries includeHarry Fry, whose Charmix won aMaiden race at Milborne St Andrewfor Point-to-Point trainer Jack Barber,and Neil Mulholland, whose BishopsCourt scored at Cothelstone forRobert Chanin. Tom Lacey’s PinnaclePanda won at Coldharbour for hiswife Sophie, while the RichardWoollacott-trained Winter Soldier wastrained by his wife Kayley whenwinning at Kilworthy. The AliStronge-trained Petite Power won forSarah Gould at Cothelstone, and theSue Gardner-trained Only Gorgeouswas handled by her daughter Lucywhen winning at Great Trethew.

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Kalasaya and Alex Edwards on their way to winning theyoung horse Maiden race at the South Shropshire meeting

Photo: Sweet Photography sweetphotography.com


AGAALL COMERS CHAMPIONSHIP -ALL EYES ON CHADDESLEYCORBETT

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CURRENT BETTING (courtesy of Mark Hill 07831 293363)Mrs K. R. Smith-Maxwell 5/2, Troubled Partnership 3/1, Miss Sarah Dawson 6/1, E. D. Moylan 7/1, R. J. Hewitt 10/1, C. J. Bennett 10/1,Mrs P. Tollit 10/1, Mrs D. Williams 12/1, J. H. Henderson 12/1, Norman Thomas 12/1, Mr K. Hutsby 16/1, The Penwood Racing Club 20/1,Alan Hill 25/1, W. Bryan & D. Smith 25/1, Lord Lipsey & Nick Elliott 25/1

We’re almost there, our All Comers Championship is set for athrilling climax, and, astonishingly, after twenty one of thetwenty three rounds, there are 48 owners (this includespartnerships & syndicates) who have a mathematical chanceof winning the title and the first prize, a brand new AGA.

The final two rounds take place this weekend at Dingley andWhitfield so there is still time to join the party as points areawarded to owners of the first three in every race – 1st - 10points, 2nd – 6 points and 3rd – 4 points. The twenty fourthand final round - Finals Day – takes place at ChaddesleyCorbett on Bank Holiday Monday (25th May), and that iswhen our new champion will be crowned.

Here’s a quick recap:

• The best three results before the Finals Day counttowards the Championship

• The maximum score that can be reached before Finals Dayis 30 points

• Increased points are on offer on Finals Day• Only one result per owner will count on Finals Day

The points structure for Finals Day is – 1st - 15 points, 2nd –9 points and 3rd – 6 points.

So, what do we think? There are endless permutations buthere’s how it could pan out:

• The top 10 are in pole position but they need a win to putthem out of reach of the chasing pack

• If none of the top 10 score any points then things couldget really interesting (they may not all turn up so surely it’sworth entering if you’re one of the other 38)

• If none of the top 10 score any points, then someone with16 points could win a race (15 points) and nick the title

• The same applies to those on 22 or more points, if none ofthe top 10 score any points then a 2nd placed finish (9points) could nick the title

If you’re looking at this and thinking that there is everylikelihood of a tie, then we have that covered as well, becausein the event of a tie, the Championship will be decided oncountback - this will be the number of horses beaten in allpoint scoring races (refer to the last column in the tableopposite).

The Mountain Warehouse Anglo-Irish Challenge is alsotaking place at Chaddesley Corbett on Bank Holiday so wereally are going to have an exciting and action packed day – Ican’t wait.

If you have any questions, please ring David Simpson(the AGA man) on 07768 474570, or if you prefer, sendan email to [email protected]


THE TBA MARES CLUB RACE SERIES 2014/15

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SHE’S A REAL STAR AT GARTHORPEA well-bred mare trained on a dairyfarm proved a deserving winner atGarthorpe in Leicestershire on Sundaywhen taking the latest leg of theThoroughbred Breeders’ AssociationClub Members’ Point-to-Points forfillies and mares.

Seven-year-old She’s Real lived up toher name when landing the three-runner race in style, and makingamends for narrow defeat in a similar,TBA-sponsored contest at Brafield-on-the-Green last month.

Trainer Helen Connors, who is basedin Melton Mowbray, said: “The key toher is good ground, and it was just toosticky at Brafield. She is the mostbeautiful mare, 16.1 hands and withconformation you could not fault. Sheis wonderful to sit on, very wellbalanced, and could do any job.”

Connors’ nephew, third-year veterinarystudent Tom Chatfeild-Roberts, rodeShe’s Real, who is owned by hisparents, John and Doone. They

bought the daughter of DefiniteArticle at Doncaster’s Spring Sale twoyears ago after she had won a maidenpoint in Ireland. She is a half-sister tothe useful hurdler Real Milan and fromthe family of Grand National winnerRoyal Athlete.

Connors, who is a daughter of formertop amateur rider Billy Foulkes, trainsjust four pointers. She added: “We lovePoint-to-Pointing – it’s a hobby weenjoy as a family. We don’t have anygallops, we just work them up a hillthrough the cattle, scattering them aswe go.”

The next TBA-sponsored Point-to-Point is a rescheduled race at theDulverton West meeting held atBratton Down in North Devon thiscoming Sunday (May 17). Given that ithas been hastily rearranged from ameeting abandoned in Kent, an entryof 11 mares is highly satisfactory.

They include Miss Gotaway, who isleading the Jockey Club-sponsored

maiden mares’ series having won threeraces this season for Rose Ash-basedtrainer Kayley Woollacott. A daughterof Midnight Legend, six-year-old MissGotaway is owned and was bred byAudrey Goodwin at her Chasers Farmnear Yeovil, however she said her mareis a doubtful runner unless there isenough rain to create some cut in theground. A meeting at Upcott Cross onBank Holiday Monday is a likely target.

Other interesting entries include theKeith Cuming-trained, top-ratedWhenharrymetsally, who has alsoshown a preference for ground on thesoft side of good, and the SarahProuse-trained Hallo Dolly, who madea promising comeback after a longbreak when second at Vauterhillrecently. James Young is probably theonly trainer of Point-to-Pointers basedin the New Forest, and he has enteredMarlpit Oak, who showed her abilityto handle a quick surface whenwinning at Larkhill last month.

She’s Real and Tom Chatfeild-Roberts on their way towinining at Garthorpe on Sunday

Photo: Nico Morgan nicomorgan.com


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KIMBLEWICKat KINGSTON BLOUNTSaturday, 09 Mayby Jake ExelbyA good-sized crowd was rewardedwith fine, if windy, weather for theseven-race card at Kingston Blount'sthird meeting of the season. With twopony races preceding the main activity,there was plenty of competitive action.

The horse of the day, for thiscorrespondent at least, wasChristopher and Fran Marriott's gamemare Dabinett Moon, who chalked upher fourth win of the season underClaire Hart in the AGA Intermediaterace. Always prominent, she movedinto the lead coming down CrowellKnoll on the final circuit and, despite aslightly hesitant jump at the last, heldon comfortably from the DavidKemp-ridden Po Valley, with thefavourite Brian's Well in third.

"She's an absolute star," gushedwinning trainer Fran Marriott aboutthe only horse in her yard. "We were alittle bit excited about her at the startof the season but would have beenmore than happy with just the onewin!" Asked how she had keptDabinett Moon in such good form

since January, the trainer replied: "Weturn her out in the field a lot, so shekeeps her condition." And she's notyet finished for the season. "Hopefullywe'll go to Stratford (for the SubaruRestricted Final) if my nerves canstand it!" confirmed Fran.

David Kemp, a frequent andsuccessful visitor to Kingston Blountfrom East Anglia, had to settle forsecond again with Blue Benny in theopening Restricted Race, sponsored bythe French Horn at Sonning. This waswon comfortably by MerrydownVintage, who made most of therunning in the more than capablehands of Phil York, with favourite MrRaj - who never got into the race -back in third. Like Dabinett Moon,Merrydown Vintage represents a one-horse yard, Surrey-based Ray Fielder,best known for his exploits with LillieLou.

"He can certainly gallop," said Rayproudly. "He's got a bit of speed too,but he's never really had to show it.This race suited him and he loved theground." Merrydown Vintage haddisappointed twice since hisCocklebarrow Maiden win beforereturning to form by winning his

Members in a fast time, but there weregood reasons, according to his trainer."Once he was tripped up by anotherhorse, then the ground on EasterMonday was like glue." Asked aboutfuture plans, Ray wasn't sure. "We maygo for the Restricted Final at Stratford,or we may come back here for theIntermediate at the next meeting."

A third one-horse trainer won theShepherd's Crook at Crowellsponsored Kingston Blount RacingClub Conditions Race. Jenny Pidgeonhas trained some top-class Pointers inher time, including Wild Illusion andOrchestral Suite but Classic Destiny isthe only horse currently in trainingwith her at Astwell Castle nearBrackley and took an eventful raceeasily from Dream Garden. MinellaTheatre, who eventually finished third,proved extremely mulish before therace. As he finally trotted up to theline, the starter let the field go, leavingCaulkin planted. Then, coming downCrowell Knoll for the first time,Tallow Fair repeated his antics of theprevious meeting by ducking into ahedge, this time unseating Katy Lyons.

None of this bothered Jenny who,ebullient as ever, was quick to berate

Dabinett Moon and Claire Hart in full flight at Kingston BlountPhoto: Neale Blackburn chasdog.com

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the formbook compilers forquestioning Classic Destiny's attitudeby awarding him the "dreadedsquiggle"! On a more serious note, sheattributed the horse's return to formafter a disappointing run here inMarch to the work of vets AlanWalker and Bob Baskerville. "He's hadback trouble, and his win today isthanks to Alan and Bob. Luckily he's afresh horse - he thrives at this time ofyear and liked the ground." OwnerPeter Riddle, who also had the usefulCut A Niche and Orient Legend withJenny, was undecided about plans forthe rest of the season. "It depends onthe ground," he admitted. "He hasn'trun much, he's fit and well and likesthe sun on his back!"

One horse who will be roughed offfor the season, is Volcan Surprise, acomfortable winner of the JRL GroupLadies Open. He completed a doublefor Classic Destiny's rider - andchampion Lady Rider elect - GinaAndrews, quickening clear from thesecond last to secure an easy win fromfast-finishing Done A Runner, whojust pipped No No Bingo for second.It was Volcan Surprise's third run ineight days, after two seconds over theBank Holiday weekend, and was adeserved second success of the seasonalongside seven runner-up placings!

"He's going on holiday now!"confirmed Wymondham, Norfolktrainer Caroline Fryer with a smile."He's really tough, still improving andhe's just kept bumping into one toogood for him. He's a bit cheeky and

can idle in front, but he jumps welland goes on any ground - although hedoesn't like it too sticky." Tough isdefinitely the word for Volcan Surprise- he has won seven races and beingsecond nine times since the start oflast season - and he is likely to stayrunning in Ladies Opens next year,although "he may try a Hunter Chase."

The Mens Open, sponsored inmemory of bookmaker Bobby Warrenby his friends and family, was notablefor the fact that all four runners wereridden by the son of the owner/trainer. With the unfortunate TomEllis out for the rest of the seasonafter breaking his leg at Mollington lastweek, Freddie Henderson and Joe Hilllook to have the South Midlands MensRiders title between them. They wenthead-to-head here and it was Freddiewho came out on top on his fatherJames' Otto The Great. He led early,then tracked Archie Wright on PatsyFinnegan before taking over againthree out and winning comfortably.Patsy Finnegan just held on for secondfrom Andrew Barlow on the fast-finishing Brackloon High, with JoeHill last of four on Kings Legacy.

The win was Freddie's ninth of theseason, leaving him two behind HarryCobden in the National Mens NoviceRiders Championship, but two pointsahead of Joe Hill for local braggingrights. Otto The Great started theoutsider of four after his recentGarthorpe disappointment, whichFreddie was quick to explain. "Hemade a noise coming up the hill there,

but that was just a one-off. Hedefinitely stayed the trip." The horsejumped slowly at a few of the earlyfences but again, there was goodreason for this according to his rider."He loves showing off and looking atthe fences, but I really trust hisjumping." Freddie, 19, is a first-yearstudent at Newcastle University andonly rides when he comes home forthe weekend - "I do a lot of miles" heconfessed.

The RJR Contracting Maiden Race foryoung horses saw the debut ofDabinett Moon's half-brother TheApplebomber, but he showed hisinexperience and eventually pulled-up.The race was won by May The First,given a confident ride by LucyWheeler, who is now second in theNational Ladies Novice RidersChampionship. She led after a circuit,quickened clear at the bottom of thehill and, despite clouting the last, wasnot extended to win from Weve GotCompany with early leader TheCrumpet Mine back in third.

May The First is owned by Towcester-based John White, who has had classyperformers in the past like GrecianStar and Saybright. Asked about thename, he was straight to the point:"May The First is my birthday!" Hebought the horse in 2012 and he'sbeen with trainer Heather Kemp forthe last two years. "It's taken a longtime for the penny to drop with him,"confirmed the trainer. "We showjumphim every week so he can use his brainand he's grown in confidence as a

May The First and LucyWheeler (right) took theOpen Maiden race atKingston Blount

Photo:Neale Blackburnchasdog.com

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result." He may come back toKingston Blount for the Restricted atthe next meeting on May 24th.

A meeting rarely passes at KingstonBlount without a winner for AlanHill's powerful Aston Rowant yard andthis one was no exception. But after asecond, three thirds and a fourth, hehad to wait until the concludingRichardsons Members Race to get onthe scoresheet with Ravethebravejustifying very short odds in abloodless victory from Peggy's Heroand Lucky To Be Alive.

"That's the best he's felt all year,"enthused the winning jockey, trainer'sson Joe, who closed the gap onFreddie Henderson in the local jockeystitle with this victory. "That's a goodend to a frustrating day. Winning mylocal Hunt Race means a lot to me."said a relieved Alan Hill. "And he didit in a faster time than the Mens Open.We're running out of opportunitiesnow, but he may go to Whitfield nextweek."

MINEHEAD HARRIERS & WESTSOMERSET at HOLNICOTESaturday, 09 Mayby Brian & Gill Armstrong"I've never had five winners in aseason before, let alone a week,"smiled Broomfield trainer Teresa Clark

after saddling a Holnicote double tomake it five winners from five runnersin the last seven days. She led off withHMS Intrepid, who led from thepenultimate in the Maiden after apatient ride from Robert Hawker."This horse means a lot to us, as hewas initially owned by my partnerJeremy Cossey's late grandfather,Gordon Cossey, and is now owned byhis uncle, Duncan Cossey, who hadthe faith to leave him with us," saidTeresa.

Bathwick Scanno and Will Biddickregained the lead in the Confined afterJepeck led over the last. BathwickScanno brought up Will's half-centurysix days earlier, but Teresa made thedecision to run him again when "heran away with me on the Quantockson Thursday."

Will and Robert also completeddoubles on the card. Will employednew tactics on Benedictus, who ledthroughout the Mixed Open. "We felthe was caught out in the Lady DudleyCup when What A Laugh and Stonesprinted clear, so we've made therunning to ensure a true gallop,"explained trainer Jack Barber, now onthe 43-winner mark for the season.

Robert doubled up aboard CarlosGardel, who landed the Intermediate

to reward a near nine-hour round tripby Yorkshire owner-trainers AlisonChristmas and John Kilner, who hadjust celebrated his 60th birthday.

National Novice Champion-electHarry Cobden, 16, maintained histwo-winner lead in the standings whenCock Of The Rock quickened pastThe Magherally Man in the NoviceRiders race. Cock Of The Rock hasnow won his last five races to join sixother horses at the head of the 2015National Leading Horse Award tableand must have every chance of takingthe prestigious title, with five weeks ofthe season remaining.

Carrickmines went into honourableretirement after taking the Hunt race.The winner of 11 races in total,George and Debbie Beilby's 13-year-old led throughout under Nick Lawtonand was never threatened by 2014winner Took My Eye.

On Your Max and Robbie Hendersonfollowed up their 2014 HolnicoteMaiden race success by taking theRestricted. Robert Hawker set apedestrian gallop aboard outsider-of-three Gingers Reflection, but On YourMax had more speed than Roy'sGallery when the race developed intoa sprint.

Bathwick Scanno and Will Biddick in action at HolnicotePhoto: Tim Holt [email protected]

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Armagnac Rebel and CathrynMacFarlane were awarded the CharityFlat race after first-past-the-postPortacarron lost his weightclothduring the contest and was disqualifiedwhen jockey, Samantha Telling, failedto draw the correct weight.

BILSDALE at EASINGWOLDSunday, 10 Mayby Charlotte RussellThe Bilsdale Hunt held their Point-to-Point at Easingwold on Sunday 10thMay, on ground that was good, goodto soft in places. Racing started withthe S. Waind & Son Butcher BilsdaleHunt Members, Subscribers &Farmers races and six of the eightentries went to post. The Manager andSon of Flicka shared the lead betweenthem for most of the race until Son ofFlicka came to grief three from home.Code Blue who had been on their tailswas urged into the lead by ChrisDawson after the final bend and hungon by seven lengths from TheManager and Jack Jordan, with RubyRedman finishing in third on only hersecond run and first of the season, forSam Welton.

The second race was the first of twoMaiden's, for four, five, six and seven-year-olds, sponsored by ProdriveShopfitting Ltd. The Millar Man madethe running and Bugler's Dream wasgoing very well until he was alsocaught out by the third last fence onthe final circuit. Turning for home therace looked as though it would go theway of Fairy Mix and Elliot

Brookbanks, howeverKnightofthegarter came with a verylate and fast surge up the run-in totake this by three lengths for CraigHoggart. rainer Stephanie Easterbyhad already made an entry for thisfive-year-old in the Point-to-Pointbumper at Aintree on Friday night andthis is likely to be his next target. "Itwas a pleasing run and one that mayend his season on a high," said thetrainer.

The third race was part of the nationalDodson & Horrell Series for noviceriders. Again it was all change up thefinal hill. For A Finish and HarryKinder looked to have the measure oftheir rivals turning for home but thechallenge came from NosecondChance under Becky Mason to win bytwo lengths from Oaklands Robbieand Alice Petch with For A Finishcompleting in third. "I was reallypleased to have a winner," enthusedthe winning rider who has been offsince a fall at Brocklesby and her workas a physiotherapist at Hull RoyalInfirmary involves some weekendwork. "He jumped really well, nearlytoo well at times but I thought hewould run well as he has been a bit ofa pain to ride at home recently," sheadded. As a result of this win, the pairhas qualified for the PPORA ClubMembers Novice Riders Series Final atTabley next Sunday, for which theyhold an entry.

The Cleveland Security Ltd MixedOpen race was run in the fastest time

of the day and the winner came fromLucky Cody who was fourth on hisPoint-to-Point debut at this course inApril and was given a very determinedride by Richard Tierney to get back upon the line, having been headed, andwon by two lengths. "He's been on thedeck a couple of times so his first racewas more of a confidence boost butwe knew his fitness would improve aswell and I was really pleased with hisrun," said trainer Nicky Tinkler. "Hestays all day and his long term targetwill be the Grimthorpe. He seems tohave come out of the race okay sowe'll probably go to Hexham in afortnight's time," he added.Sportingfriendship was second forWilliam Easterby with Pevensyfinishing in third under Cath Walton.

The Yorkshire Area Point-to-PointClub Members Conditions Race wassponsored by ACB Services Ltd andriders who were not classified asnovice riders carried a 5lb penalty. Thewinner was Aldreth, the second of theday for Stephanie Easterby but riddenby William Easterby. The pair won bysix lengths from Pertemps Networksand Craig Hoggart and Rosie DuBerlais and Elliot Brookbanks was afurther ten lengths back in third."William held him up for the firstcircuit and he made a couple ofmistakes but the jockey reported thatthe faster they went the better hejumped. He stayed on well and hadplenty left in the tank at the finish,"said Stephanie Easterby.

Knightofthegarter andCraig Hoggart took theyoung horse OpenMaiden race atEasingwold

Photo:Tom Milburnfacebook.com/TomMilburnPhotography

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The Studford Luxury LodgesRestricted race saw John Dawsonemulate his Brother Chris' earlier winand took this on Seeyouincourt.Anddante put up a good challenge forJack Teal to finish four lengths furtherback in second and Arboretum wasthird for Chris Dawson.

The final race was an Open Maiden,sponsored by Armstrong Richardsonand it was no surprise to see Up ToScratch take this for Sarah Dent andElliot Brookbanks. Second on his laststart here Up To Scratch won easilyenough by six lengths from MrConductor and Emma Todd in secondand Lady Nefertiti put up a goodshow under Will Milburn to finishthird. "He's had a frustrating seasonone way or another but it was a case ofthird time lucky," said Sarah Dent.We'll keep him for next year as he's thelast one in our White Lion line," sheadded.

FOUR BURROWat TREBUDANNONSunday, 10 Mayby Granville TaylorWill Biddick edged closer to theBritish Point-to-Point jockeys' recordtotal of winners in a season with his

second double of the weekend, thistime at Trebudannon.

His current tally of 55 wins for theseason now leaves the Cornish bornrider needing just one more win toequal the record, set by OliverGreenall in 2008, and equalled by hisbrother Tom the following season.

Biddick's mount I'm All Set made allthe running to win the Intermediate.This six-year-old, sourced in Irelandby his Exmoor trainer Claire Hitch,has now won his last three races. "Ijust keep kicking and he'll keepgalloping," remarked the rider who isalso in line for his fourth successiveNational jockeys' championship.

His first winner of the day came whenhe teamed up with the Frost yard for ahard fought Maiden win on MalcolmDenmark's six-year-old Face To Face.This particular success broughtreminiscences from Jimmy Frost whosaid, "Will came to us for lessonswhen he was only 15-years-old".

Face To Face completed a trainingdouble for Nikki Frost which wasinitiated when Monet Moor landed agamble with Bryony Frost on board inthe Mares and Fillies Maiden. Thishome bred six-year-old was makingonly her second racecourseappearance. "She grazed her knee

when falling on the road last year sowe put her away. She is a stayer reallyand does well in her work. Her damwas unraced, but she is agranddaughter of our top mareArmagnac Princess," said JimmyFrost who owns the winner.

Darren Edwards looks set to clinchthe local Devon & Cornwall jockeys'title this year. Regularly commutingfrom his job in Leicestershire, headded two more winners on Sunday totake him to the 21 winner mark for theseason, which has also seen him pass200 career winners.

The Nicky Martin yard sent out hisSunday double in the shape of SpillersDream and Bradley Brook. The lightlyraced Spillers Dream drew away fromhis rivals on the flat to win the four toseven-year-olds Maiden in the coloursof The Bradley Partnership. "Webought him at the Derby Sales inIreland as a three-year-old. He hasbeen held up with a pulled muscle butthis is a nice surprise because he is stillvery green," said the trainer.

Bradley Brook completed the Martin/Edwards double thanks to an easyMixed Open success. "He hasrecovered well from his CheltenhamHunter Chase exertions ten days agoand is happier jumping Point-to-Point

Seeyouincourt and John Dawson on their way to landing theRestricted race at Easingwold

Photo: Peter Barber pointtopointphotography.co.uk

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fences," commented the trainer, whoseyard was sending out its 10th winnerof the season.

Blazing Whale returned to winningform under Robbie Henderson in theConditions event for ten-year-olds andupwards. "He had a virus after runningin a Hunter Chase at Chepstow andbled in his last outing at GreatTrethew," explained trainer Ed Walkerwho shares ownership with FrancisRead.

Jamie Thomas is enjoying his best everseason and clocked up his 18th successof the campaign on Le Clo De LaLonde, who mastered the well-backedBoymann on the run in to win theRestricted. The winner carries thecolours of John and Sonia Gardenerand hails from the Kayley Woollacottyard.

MELTON HUNT CLUBat GARTHORPESunday, 10 Mayby Emma FormanThe curtain came down on the 2015Point-to-Point season in the MidlandsArea with the Melton Hunts Clubmeeting at Garthorpe where a faircrowd enjoyed three pony racesfollowed by a seven race Point-to-Point card.

Kelly Morgan teamed up with leadingGarthorpe horse Lough Inch for afourth win at the course in the FisherGerman Midlands Area Club race.This win sealed the D & M BarthorpeLady rider and Novice rider

Championships for Kelly who hasenjoyed a fantastic season. "What ahorse! He just travels so well. I wasunder strict instructions from Tom notto sit still at the last this time." Saidthe delighted rider. Tom Morgan trainsthe horse who is owned by his partnerLiz Harris. Lough Inch beat The KingOf Angels, the best turned out horse,by three lengths, with Zaffarans Scenein third.

Tom Morgan and Liz Harriscompleted a double later in theafternoon when the five-year-old Tulsafinished alone in the four runnerMelton Mowbray Tyres four, five andsix-year-olds Open Maiden race overtwo and a half miles under TommieO'Brien. "He will go out in the fieldnow ready for next year. There isgoing to be a party tonight in theRoyal Horseshoes at Waltham-on-the-Wolds," said Morgan.

Tom Strawson already had the Menstitle in the bag at the start of racing;however he extended his lead and tookhis tally for the season to ten winnerswhen teaming up with owner RogerJackson for a double. Lord Golan whohad shown promise in two earlier runs,lost his Maiden status in convincingstyle beating Ask Away by six lengthsin the Odey Investment ManagementOpen Maiden race over three miles."He deserved that; he jumped a lotbetter today and was racing, he wassuperb," said Roger Jackson.

There was an eye-catching run fromthe third horse Kayjaydee; the marehad shown promise last season but has

been side-lined with an injury formuch of the campaign and looks like awinner waiting to happen for youngrider Tom Broughton.

Jackson and Strawson only had to waitanother thirty five minutes to return tothe winners' enclosure; GonalstonCloud put a disappointing run atCheltenham behind him with a victoryin the Lance & Urky Newton MixedOpen race sponsored by TheSandicliffe Group. "What a nice wayto end the season!" exclaimed Jackson.Gonalston Cloud has now won fivetimes and is the leading horse in theMidlands Area. Thanks For Comingwas three and a half lengths away insecond with Fred Henderson.Commenting on his highly successfulseason Tom Strawson said: "At thestart of the season I set myself atarget of riding more winners than lastyear and holding on to theChampionship. It has been anincredible time for me and I am verygrateful to my loyal owners. I have runout of rides now so will be lookingforward to eating again!"

She's Real claimed the Leading Mareaward with an easy win in the TBAClub Member's race for Mares andFillies sponsored by theThoroughbred Breeders Association."It's up to the trainer Helen Connorsbut I would imagine she will run hereagain at the Meynell," said thedelighted winning owner JohnChatfeild-Roberts. This was a thirdwin of the season for rider TomChatfeild-Roberts who is a third year

Kelly Morgan and LoughInch teamed up for theirfourth victory of theseason at Garthorpe

Photo:Nico Morgannicomorgan.com

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veterinary student at the RoyalVeterinary College in London. LadyVicstar finished second for AndrewSansome and Susie Tarry.

Lady Vicstar's rider Jonny Bailey wentone better in the opening MeltonHunt Club Members Conditions racesponsored by Melton MowbrayMarket when Judy Wilson's Proximoreturned to form beating Edgar Henryand Lucy Wheeler by six lengths.Proximo came to challenge EdgarHenry three fences from home andout jumped him two out, drawing clearon the run in. "Proximo has had hisproblems; he has had a wind operationand suffered from stomach ulcers. Ithas taken a few runs to get him right,"explained the winning trainer StuartMorris. The early leader Picaroon wasthird.

The closest finish of the day came inthe Jupiter Asset ManagementRestricted race when Wood Park beatTreacyswestcounty by a neck. PartAnd Parcel was third for the TommyMorgan team. Wood Park, who istrained by Jake Coulson for NickCarter, was ridden by Charlie Deutsch.19-year-old Deutsch returned to theamateur ranks around two months agoafter a spell as a conditional and thiswas his seventh winner since then.

WHEATLANDat CHADDESLEY CORBETTSunday, 10 Mayby Peter MansellBridgnorth trainer Phil Rowley tooktime out from his administrative dutiesat this meeting to saddle Now Benwho landed the Club MembersConditions in the hands of AlexEdwards.

The 7-year-old was left in splendidisolation when his solitary rival ShalesRoad pulled up approaching the 12thwith a broken blood vessel. Speakingafterwards the trainer admitted: "Theremainder of the race was nerveracking because you're hoping thehorse does not make any mistakes".

Four horses lined up for the AGA-sponsored Restricted, but the field wasreduced to three when the favouritePremier Rose fell at the 10th. ChurchGallery led on the climb into the homestraight but was left floundering whenOhowya and James Martin strode clearover the final two fences.

"He's had a few niggling problemssince his last run at Siddington. Heneeds top of the ground conditions toshow his best. It was not a very goodrace and was made easier when thefavourite fell," stated Stratford-on-Avon based trainer Fred Hutsby later.

Lotus Pond faces a spell on thesidelines after his 5th win of theseason in the Mens Open. His exploitshave provided the catalyst for PeterBryan's continuing development as ajockey and are testament to the skillsof his father, Shropshire trainer WillieBryan. The combination were never indanger of defeat and as the raceprogressed the more certain victoryover Burtolli Boy became.

The winner had jumped impeccablythroughout but made his only mistakeat the last, and was pulled upimmediately after passing the post.Bryan junior reported after he hadweighed in: "There was something thatwas not quite right approaching thelast but I could not pull him up".

The Ladies Open proved to be atactical contest in which Claire Hartcame out the best. After an indecisiveearly pace, Hart decided to make therunning, sending His Excellency to thefront at the 5th and they quicklyestablished a 10-length advantage.

Ruddy Article and Jock des Motteswent in pursuit of their rival at halfwayand gradually reduced the deficit downthe back straight. Ruddy Article lookedset for victory when joining HisExcellency at the second from home,but when the favourite got to the

Claire Hart and His Excellency head for home in theLadies Open race at Chaddesley Corbett


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leaders quarters, Hart conjuredanother effort from her mount andthey went clear again approaching thelast.

Gloucestershire trainer Tom Georgehas enjoyed success at the highestlevel but Chaddesley Corbett willalways hold special memories for his16-year-old son Noel, who recordedhis first success on Coeur de Fou inthe Club Race.

Charlie Dando's mount Don't BackDown led from flag fall whereasCoeur de Fou was anchored at theback of the field until George movedhim onto the heels of the leaders atthe 6th.

These two horses began to increasethe pace and their advantage overtheir rivals all the way down the backstraight and climbing the hill for thefinal time they had the race tothemselves.

Both jockeys threw caution to thewind as they battled for supremacy inthe home straight. George who washaving his second race ride was facinga much more experienced rival inDando, but George was their matchon Coeur de Fou who edged clear asthey raced towards the judge.

The 10-year-old has been an idealschoolmaster for his young pilot, whohad to settle for a half-length defeaton their debut, before winning atChaddesley on Sunday afternoon.George is based at Eton College andis due to start his GCSE's onTuesday.

Sir Reccer and Richard Morse set astrong pace in the concluding Maidenwhich resulted in the oppositiondropping away at regular intervals.

Turning back for home Cab OnTimes held a clear lead with MarkWilesmith's mount Golanzine the

only one able to offer any resistance.Claire Hart and Cab On Times stillheld the call on the final bend butWilesmith crept into contention andcame through to dispute the lead atthe second from home.

Cab On Times fought back gallantlybut could not match the winnersspeed with Golanzine extending hisadvantage on the flat.

The winner had been beaten out ofsight at Lower Machen the previousweekend so this represented a majorturn round in form. The Upton-on-Severn based trainer/rider said later:"I was asked about the horseschances prior to the race and repliedhe would have to improvesignificantly since his last run (whenhe never went a yard), but improve hedid. He felt like a completely differenthorse today".

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Golanzine and Mark Wilesmith take the open ditch during theOpen Maiden at Chaddesley Corbett



RECENT LANDMARKSNoel George opened his account, onjust his second ride, on Coeur DeFou in the Conditions race atChaddesley Corbett. He had finishedrunner-up on his initial attempt atWhitfield, six days after his sixteenthbirthday, and was maintaining his

unbeaten record at the Worcestershiretrack, having won three out of threepony races there.

Coeur De Fou had run consistentlyunder Rules for Noel’s father Tom,but his only success had come overhurdles in 2011.

At the age of nine, Noel started ridingout at his father’s yard, and recorded15 pony racing victories in all.

He is currently at Eton College, and isstarting his GCSE exams in tensubjects comprising a total of 21papers.

Noel George with his father, Tom, following their success atChaddesley Corbett on Sunday


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Jockeys firsts, doubles and other career highs from the weekend’s racing by Carolyn Tanner


GETTING TO KNOW YOUDate of birth: 6th January 1990.Job or profession: Co-ordinator at thePoint-to-Point Racing Company.Are you from a racing background? Ifnot, how did you get started in Point-to-Pointing? I’m not from a racingbackground. I used to be really intoeventing, but I was having an unlucklytime with horses going lame and fancied achange of scenery. Jo Messenger had aschoolmaster called Rajam and offered methe chance to Point him, I hardly had tothink about it – it was always going to be ayes!What was your first ride in public? In aLadies Open at Tweseldown in December2011 on Rajam. I got left at the start buthad a great spin and finished the race!First winner – name of the horse,owner & trainer, the date & thecourse: Done A Runner, owned andtrained by Toby Hunt, winning theWoodland Pytchley Hunt Membersrace at Dingley in April 2013.Apart from the first winner, whathas been your most memorableride? Winning on Sergeant Dick atCottenham last December. Wejumped off in front and didn’t seeanother horse, his jumping wasawesome and I just had to steer! Hehad lost his way under Rules andtrainer Sally Randell sent him Pointingto freshen him up, I think you couldsay it worked!Is there a ride you look back onand think “could have donebetter?” Every ride! There are alwaysthings I’m not happy about with myriding, I’m very self-critical. I ask asmany people as I can for feedback andhelp; it’s the only way to improve.For which trainers/owners do youmainly ride? I ride for owner Toby Hunt;he has horses in training with Alan Hill,Dale Peters and also trains himself. Thisseason I have also been riding for trainerSally Randell. More recently I have beenriding for Heather Kemp, who gave memy first Hunter Chase ride on Bay To Goat Cheltenham a few weeks ago, wefinished 6th - I loved every minute!Who has been most influential on yourriding career so far? When I waseventing I trained regularly with PhilipSurl, who is now assistant to YogiBreisner. I didn’t realise to begin with buteverything he taught me has helped somuch with race riding and presenting ahorse to a fence. More recently, Alan Hillhas been incredibly helpful.Which are your favourite courses? Andfor what reasons? It has to be Dingley - Ihave been there every year since I was

born. The course is next to my parents’farm and I always dreamt about ridingthere. Riding my first winner at Dingleywas a big deal!What car do you drive? A bright redAudi TT.Name your perfect night in andperfect night out: Night In – dinner andgin with friends. Night Out – a partysomewhere in a field with a crowd ofmates and good music.Who would be your ideal travellingcompanions to the races? I am usuallyrunning late so Jenson Button would beideal though not sure I could stay focusedon the racing!

What music are you currently listeningto? James Bay, Ed Sheeran, Mumford &Sons – and I love a good sing along toTaylor Swift.What are your favourite films and TVprogrammes? To be honest I don’t reallywatch much TV, but I did get hooked onBreaking Bad for a while. As for films Ilove girly rom-coms – my all time favouriteis Notting Hill.What has been either your ownfunniest incident, or the most amusingthing you have seen or heard at theraces? There have been a couple of funnyincidents involving vehicles. Once Dadwas in such a rush for a beer that hedecided it would be quicker to drive to thebar, and proceeded to drive mums carstraight into the beer tent; ripping the cardoor off in the process! Last weekend SallyRandell and Brodie Hampson arrived atKingston Blount a little flustered – they

announced they had just driven thehorsebox through a McDonalds drive-thru and lost the sun roof on the barrier.Who are your biggest heroes in racing?Nina Carberry – I'd love to see her winthe Grand National one day.Which particular horse (in anydiscipline) would you like to ride? Iwouldn’t say no to a spin on On TheFringe, and a cross-country ride on eventhorse Lenamore would have beenamazing.Apart from race-riding, in what othersports do you participate? I currentlydon’t play other sports, but I really enjoyrunning and training. I train with Ali

Cooper, who used to work in the racingindustry and now trains lots ofdifferent athletes. Ali is incrediblymotivated and has helped me somuch with my fitness and mind-set.Do you have any regrets in yourriding career to date? Not startingracing sooner. I did a bit of ponyracing in my early teens but thenchose the eventing route and did notride in my first Point-to-Point until Iwas 21.What ambitions do you have inracing? To have a ride in the AintreeFox Hunters’.Are there any changes that youthink would benefit the sport inthe future? Introducing a novicerider weight claim would help give lessexperienced riders more of a chancewhen riding against experiencedjockeys. It would also help capablenovice riders to gain more rides andopportunities. Also, I think the safety

factor in Novice Rider races should bereduced; avoiding the scenario of having18-20 runners in early season NoviceRider races.What are your aspirations for theseason? To win the National LadyNovice Point-to-Point Rider title – I’mjust one winner behind so now looking forevery opportunity!Can you give us a horse to look out for?Treacyswestcounty, owned by Mrs BridgetHunt and trained by Heather Kemp, is apromising young horse.Can you give us an up and comingrider to look out for ? Sam Burton whoworks for Sally Randell will be 16 inAugust, and will be one to watch for nextseason.If you were on an island and couldonly bring three things, what wouldyou bring? Bear Grylls, my terrier Fudgeand a boat.And finally, sum up Point-to-Pointingin one word: Addictive!

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LUCY WHEELERBorn into the Northamptonshire farming and hunting community, Lucy was a keen eventer before transitioning to Pointing.

She has a real live chance to land the Ladies Novice Riders title this season and, surprisingly, has decent musical taste!

Photo: Sarah Matthews


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2015 PICTURE PERFECT

Some great shots from a thrilling weekend’s Pointing

A delighted Heather Kemp hugs owner John White after May The First &Lucy Wheeler won the 2m5f Open Maiden at Kingston Blount

Photo: Neale Blackburn chasdog.com


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2015 Benedictus gets back to winning ways in the hands of Will Biddick

by taking the Mixed Open at HolnicotePhoto: Tim Holt [email protected]

Benoit De La Sayette & Beside The Sea lead the way in the148cm & under Pony Race at Kingston Blount

Photo: Neale Blackburn chasdog.com


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2015 His Excellency & Claire Hart in full fligt on their way to landing

the Ladies Open at Chaddesley CorbettPhoto: Sweet Photography sweetphotography.com

Becky Mason sits tight on the way to guiding No Second Chance to victoryin the Novice Riders race at EasingwoldPhoto: Peter Barber pointtopointphotography.co.uk


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2015 Red Reynard & Alex Edwards soaring behind Allgdup & Mark Wall in the

Open Maiden at Chaddesley CorbettPhoto: Sweet Photography sweetphotography.com

Action from the PPORA Club Members Race for Novice Ridersat the Bilsdale meeting at EasingwoldPhoto: Tom Milburn facebook.com/TomMilburnPhotography


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5 MINUTES WITHSTEPH EASTERBYSteph Easterby and Nick BannisterPhoto: seasterbyphotography.co.uk


For how long have you beentraining? 2013/14 was my firstseason.Where are you based? SheriffHutton, North Yorkshire….a long wayfrom Lancashire!Do you combine training withanother job or profession? I havetwo children, David (who is also myhusband!) and Albert, who consume alot of my time! I enjoy takingphotographs and have set up a smallphotography business, which I aim toexpand in the near future. I am alsoSaturday Secretary in the yard office.What training facilities do you haveavailable? Two all-weather gallops; 1x 6f and 1 x 2 ¼ mile, walkers,exercise sandpits, grass gallop,schooling fences and plenty of turnout paddocks.How many horses do you train?Ten.Do you train for just yourself andfamily or for other Owners? All ofthe above, but the Bannister familymainly, which also includes theConiston Hotel Racing Club started inmemory of the late Tom Bannister -we have a lot of fun.Are you from a racing background?Not at all. I’ve always had a keeninterest in horses as does my nieceMica, but the rest of my family arehappy to spectate. It’s been a steeplearning curve, both in the Pointingand racing realms, but one that I relishand enjoy immensely.What was the first winner you sentout - name, owner, rider, date,course? Port Golan owned by NickBannister, ridden by Harry Bannister,January 2014 at Sheriff Hutton - hewas my first ever runner too, so quitespecial and a good confidence boost;he contributed to a treble that day.Of which horse performance areyou most proud? That’s a tough oneas My Old Piano is a joy to watch eachtime and his strike rate is unbelievable,but Ganbei did take us to Cheltenhamin my first season, running a great racefor a small horse that had never seen aracecourse before, falling 3 out. Hepulled his shoe off on the way downand it was touch and go in themorning as to whether he would runor not, the entire experience was one Ishall never forget.Did you race-ride before youstarted training? No.How did you start training and whohas been most influential on yourtraining career? I took over fromDavid, who I have learnt a lot fromover the years. I was already assistinghim with the admin side of thebusiness so it was a naturalprogression to become a trainer in myown right. David has been very

supportive and patient and continuesto help when I ask for advice. I thinkhe takes as much pleasure watchingthe horses run for me as he did whenhe was training.Which jockeys do you useregularly? Harry Bannister, WilliamEasterby, Joanna Mason, JacquelineCoward and Craig Hoggart of late, agreat team.What car do you drive? Mummywagon…Audi A6What kind of music do you like?Anything apart from Marilyn Manson.What are your favourite films andTV programmes? I’m very pickywith films, something arty and foreign.I like a good series such as Girls, TrueDetective, Breaking Bad and even a bitof Modern Family to lighten themood.Describe your perfect night in andperfect night out: Night in: Steakcooked to perfection on the BBQ byDavid accompanied by an ethnic saladmade by Anna Hesketh and JakeGreenall,followed by an educationalcheeseboard and wine tasting fromOrlando Bridgeman (all of whom areour neighbours!) Night Out: I’veforgotten what one of those is…I’dhave to turn to my best friends inManchester to remind me!What do you do to take a breakfrom training - any hobbies orfavourite holiday destinations?Photography, Hunting (sometimes atthe same time) and Yoga. I loved askiing holiday but Pointing has put astop to that, I enjoy a holiday with thegirls in Spain and with David andfriends in Sardinia.Who would be your ideal travellingcompanions to the races? Albert -he sleeps all the way there and backand anyone with treats and a goodplaylist for the journey.Who are your biggest heroes - in orout of racing? In racing the stablestaff, they work so hard getting thehorses fit, some of them even comeon their days off to watch them race.My action hero is Bruce Willis!What has been your funniestincident at the races? That wouldhave to be ‘race riding’ the SheriffHutton course with Mr MichaelBannister at the wheel of his RangeRover at the end of a successful day’sracing. He went twice as fast as thehorses, narrowly avoiding the fencesand instead of pulling up at the end,drove straight through the orangenetting. A true simulation of how herode back in his day I believe!Which particular horse would youlike to train - in Points and underRules? In Pointing, Six A Side, trainedby Emma Todd; I was impressed byhis performance at Easingwold and he

has an immaculate strike rate thisseason. Under Rules I’d like to trainAnnie Power and would love to seeher run in the Champion Hurdlebecause she has an awful lot of pace.If you hadn’t taken up training,what would you have done instead?I’d probably still be processing crimescenes in Manchester.Which horses do you have at themoment that you would say havegood potential? Carlton Ryan hasshown us he is capable of bigger andbetter things, he has been a differenthorse this season winningconsecutively at Brocklesby Park. Ialso think Ganbei still has thepotential he showed whilst prominentbefore falling in the Foxhunters, it’sbeen a struggle getting his confidenceback, but we caught a glimmer atCharm Park last time out (where hewon!).What ambitions do you have inracing? It’s unoriginal, but to have awinner in the Fox Hunters atAintree….but Cheltenham would do!What are your favourite coursesand meetings - and why? My father-in-law would disown me if I didn’t sayour home turf at Sheriff Hutton! I amSponsorship Secretary for the Januarymeeting, which fundraises for theYorkshire Air Ambulance; a fantasticcause, which has enabled us to raise inexcess of £50k to date. The course hasall round viewing, is a fair trackconsisting of evenly spaced out fenceswith a shoot allowing for some verycompetitive (and sometimescontroversial!) finishes, it also nowhosts the Middleton Hunt meeting.What do you consider to be thebiggest challenges for Point-to-Point trainers? What struck me whenI first started Pointing is what a die-hard, dedicated bunch everyone is andI love that about the sport, butconvincing new potential owners thatit’s fun to stand in a field in the drivingrain and freezing cold is a challenge!What are your opinions on thechanges in Point-to-Pointing inrecent years? I am a big fan of theonline entries - it makes life a lot easierwhen entering several runners, I justwish more meetings would utilise it.What developments do you thinkwould benefit the sport in thefuture? I’d like to see more steps fromRestricted to Open races, for examplebeing allowed to win twoIntermediates. Also the re-wording ofthe ‘Confined’ races to include morehunts. People don’t travel miles to wina Confined race but it does seem daft,for example, that in Yorkshire thePendle isn’t confined to as many huntsas the Middleton.

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CLIFTON-ON-TEMEat UPPER SAPEYSaturday, 16 Mayby Peter MansellEvery year the small hamlet of UpperSapey in rural Worcestershire hosts theClifton-on-Teme Point-to-Point.

The course has its idiosyncrasies andits undulating nature puts a premiumon jockeyship but most of the entriesfor the Members Conditions race willbe guided by riders lacking experience.

Ned The Post has won over thiscourse in the past but his form is nowon a downward spiral although this isan easier opportunity compared tosome of the challenges he has facedthis season.

Ballygalley Bob and CharlotteTreleaven may struggle to make theirmark, while Marblehead would be apopular winner for Lilly Pinchin.Raleagh House finished fourth at ColdHarbour recently and this raceprovides a good opportunity for SamJukes who has partnered CliveBennett's Dymock trained gelding onhis most recent outings.

Cooladerry King and Desert Stingboth come from top class stables and

must go on the shortlist for theRestricted, along with Midnight Hopand The Flying Doc, but A Touch ofSass dead-heated in a Radnor Maidena couple of weeks ago.

She benefitted from a weightconcession on that occasion, has auseful pilot in Charlie Deutsch, and isprepared by John Bryan at Cradley inthe shadows of the Malvern Hills.

Cock of the Rock cannot be opposedif the West Country challenger meetshis engagement in the Novice RidersRace.

The Cobden family are doing theirbest to ensure their son Harry hasevery chance of winning this year'sNovice Riders title. This might be aspeculative entry because the horsehas a range of options over theweekend - but this may be one of theeasiest.

Noble Ben has won over this courseand his chances have to be respected ifteaming up with Joe Drinkwater, sodismiss the chances of HeatherRidley's Redmarley trained gelding atyour peril.

Lara Mahon is one of the frontrunners for the Ladies equivalent ofthe Novice Riders Award. The familystable is represented in several races atthis meeting, no doubt hoping toenhance her chances in that award. MyMinds Maid has been lined up for thiscontest and is another who couldmake his present felt.

Awesome George represents theMahon's in the Mixed Open and it willtake a good one to halt his progressthrough the Point-to-Point ranks.

Dandan and Presentandcorrect bothlike to make the running which mayplay into Awesome George's hands,whereas Stone looks the one they allhave to beat and could make it adouble for Clive Bennett's yard.

The Intermediate features severalhorses who have enjoyed coursesuccesses, including Gold Duster, JockDes Mottes and Pickersleigh but arethey all living on their past reputations.

Uppertown Hawk's success atSiddington may have been a flash inthe pan judged on efforts prior to andafter that, but he will be difficult topeg back if he gets an uncontestedlead.

Awesome George looks the one to follow in the Mixed Open at Upper SapeyPhoto: Jackie Oliver graftonwood.co.uk

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The Mares Maiden will not take muchwinning judged on the contestant'sprevious performances. BrocktonMoay looks likely to start favourite butPresenting Taupo comes from a goodyard although she is one of the lesserlights of Tom Weston's stable atHindlip near Worcester.

She has not been seen out sincepulling up at Barbury in February.That indicates that she has had aproblem or connections have beenwaiting for the better ground -Saturday will provide the answer tothat question.

Mark Wall knows this course like theback of his hand and that could be acrucial factor if Wy Worry prevails inthe concluding Maiden. AnotherCoalition from the Gabe Mahon yardcatches the eye but he is making hisdebut so a watching brief isrecommended on this occasion.

FITZWILLIAM (MILTON)at DINGLEYSaturday, 16 Mayby James CrispeThe East Anglian Point-to-Pointseason draws to a close on SaturdayMay 16 when a strong entry of 108horses has been received for theFitzwilliam (Milton) fixture at Dingley,near Market Harborough.

The seven-race card gets under way at2.00pm with a five-entry Hunt Raceand runs through until 5.30pm when

there are 24 possible runners for a twoand a half mile young horse Maiden.

It Was Me, trained at Badlingham, nearNewmarket, by Nick Wright, needs towin the 15-entry Ladies Open race ifhe is to draw level with Play The Aceat the top of the standings for theRichard Weller-Poley PhotographyAward for East Anglia's mostsuccessful horse. But he faces aformidable obstacle in the shape ofPalypso de Creek who is a three-timeHunter Chase winner already thisseason.

The 12-entry Mens Open may go for athird year running to Gunmoney, whotook his career record at this course toa perfect three-from-three whenscoring here a fortnight ago.

GELLIGAER FARMERSat LOWER MACHENSaturday, 16 Mayby Brian LeeThe South Wales and MonmouthshirePoint-to-Point season comes to an endwith the Gelligaer Farmers fixture atthe popular Lower Machen racecourseon Saturday.

Racing gets under way with theMembers' race at 2pm and of theeleven entries the Marc Barber-trainedGallaflynn, who is usually at his best atthe time of the year, seems best.Barber has also entered Dash ForCash while Paul Webb's Super Villan isanother to note.

3running Annamult in the TredegarRestricted, could take some beating.

The first of the two Maiden racescould be fought out between CaptainCamelot and Sahara Haze and in thesecond the ones to watch out for areMillys Delight, Perky Bob andMilaneen.

SOUTH DURHAM at MORDONSaturday, 16 Mayby Charlotte RussellYorkshire's final Point-to-Point of theseason takes place at Howe Hills,Mordon for the South Durham hunt.Racing starts at 2pm with an OpenMaiden run over the shorter distanceof 2m4f.

Devil At Midnight was going very wellwhen carried out at Sheriff Hutton inearly April and this horse, who lovesto front run, can take this.Nortonthorpelegend can go close ifhe travels across for Oliver Greenalland Dicky Shore ran well to finishfourth on his Pointing debut and willcome on for that experience. CherryCoward has got three in the race, withBugler's Dream also holding an entryin the 3m Maiden at the end of theday. "We'll probably run them all!"She said.

Although 15 points down, ChrisDawson will be battling to win theMens Championship and is likely totake the hunt race, as he trains five ofthe 9 entries. Sarah Dent's Executive'sHall could go very close having wontwo good Open races this season and

It Was Me looks set toface the might of PalypsoDe Creek in the LadiesOpen race at Dingley


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John Wade's Newspage could also laydown a big challenge, however the twolatter horses are also entered in theMens Open. "I'm not sure which racewe'll run in yet, we'll decide nearer thetime," said Sarah Dent.

Ballyvesey could put up a big challengein the Mens Open, as well as Scrum Vbut Executive's Hall will be the one tobeat if he doesn't run in the Huntrace.

Oaklands Bobby can rack up hisseventh course win in the LadiesOpen. He loves the downhill finishand was impressive to beat Ockey DeNeulliac at the Zetland meeting lasttime out. Pevensey could go close butthe going will need to be on the quickside to suit him: "It will depend onhow much rain we have during theweek," said Cherry Coward. Larkhallran well here on his Ladies Opendebut and could also be in the mix.

In the Restricted Anddante could runa big race if he has come out ofEasingwold well. Smart Act couldfollow up on his Maiden win and TheManager should also be capable oftaking a Restricted race but has failedto get his head in front at this level.

Fernhurst Lad ran a good race tocome second here but tends to havegood days and bad days; however, this

course could bring out the best in him.Know The Rules has course form andcould add to Chris Dawson's win tallyand Almond Court has been runningconsistently without getting his headin front at this level.

The final race is the Open Maiden runover three miles. Blue Lodge has goneclose here before and could pick thisup but Lucky Sun could go close onhis recent Zetland form where hefinished second. Stagecoach Jasper isa lovely big horse who will take aMaiden but this course might not quiteplay to his strengths.

DULVERTON WESTat BRATTON DOWNSunday, 17 Mayby Donna HarrisThe first of three Point-to-Points tobe held at the stunning location ofBratton Down, Bratton Fleming, willbe held this weekend by the DulvertonWest on Sunday.

With a back drop view of Exmoor,this course is another of the popularpicnic party tracks for all the family toenjoy. Gerald and Victor Dartnallsponsor the Pony racing, which headsup the action at 11.45am, with themain eight-race card commencing at

1pm which has received over 130entries.

The feature race of the day will be theBrend's Hotel-sponsored Mixed Open4m1f race. Bellsinni Ron from theJack Barber team could give jockeyWill Biddick the win he is looking forwhich could take him into the recordbooks. Hameldown Tor is also enteredand could put up a bold show forowners, The Otter Club, and jockeyRobbie Henderson. Cecile DeVolanges is another entry to consider,from the Michael Hawker team; he hasalready bagged a hat-trick this season,including a win earlier this month atCold Harbour.

The James Hayes Garden Macinery-sponsored Restricted race heads upthe up the main race card, with entryDoyen Dynamo the likely favouriteafter his one length second atKingston St Mary. Golden Squirrelwas third that day, but could figureafter his second to Cracking Habit atHolnicote and would look toappreciate the drying ground.Mangans Turn stayed on well to win atLittlewindsor and could well score forthe Jack Barber team.

Two divisions of the Open Maidenfollow, and of the 20 entered in thefirst, the Carol Lawrence-trained Aah

Oaklands Bobby looks set to record his seventh success at Mordon on SaturdayPhoto: Tom Milburn facebook.com/TomMilburnPhotography

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Bless, could follow-up on his eightlength second to Just Seven atVauterhill. Come On Mother from theRobert Chanin team is another to havescored a second and third at the GreatTrethew meetings. The Jack Barber-trained Driftwood could be interestingon his debut run, with any marketsupport worth noting. This race issponsored by the Pittard family inmemory of Bob Pittard.

In the second division of the OpenMaiden, which is sponsored by BrewerHarding & Rowe Solicitors, AskersLad and Forrardon Xmoor are two ofthe entries to take note of havingcome close in maiden races and looksure to progress soon. Bugsie Malonecould also run well for the Barberteam.

In the Bratton Down Club MembersConditions race, which is sponsoredby Sandhill Racing Phillip & SarahHobbs, Whataknight, already on aseasons hat-trick of wins, andKostaquarta both hold entries in themid-week Cothelstone meeting, but ifthe Barber team choose to run here,either horse must be respected. ImpactArea from the Harriet Besent team, ison a seasons hat-trick and may havefound the ground too lively whenpulling up recently at Larkhill.

The ultra-consistent Mic's Delight hasgiven owner/trainer/jockey JenniferDavenport a peach of a season and islikely to be sent-off favourite here inthe PPORA Club Members race,which is sponsored by Andrew &Vanessa Maddox.

According To Harry is from a teambang in form, with Nicola Martinsending out winners most weekends.He has claims in the James PryceTractors-sponsored Intermediate racehaving run a head second to Jepeck atthe Upcott meeting. Hallo Dolly madea pleasing start to her seasonscampaign under Darren Edwards,when coming home five lengthssecond to Pasternak Jack at Vauterhill;the mare had been off the track fortwo years and looks likely to improvefor the run.

There is an extra race this season,which is the Thoroughbred Breeders'Association Club Members race forMares & Fillies only, which will closethe days event. Suggestions would beMiss Gotaway from the KayleyWoollacott team, andWhenharrymetsally from the KeithCumings yard.

GOLDEN VALLEYat BREDWARDINESunday, 17 Mayby Stella HavardThe battle for the Welsh Border AreaPoint-to-Point titles will continue nextSunday (17th) at the Golden ValleyHunt meeting at Bredwardine (HR36DD) with Flying Frenchman' JeremyMahot heading the table for the maleriders, just one point ahead of JamesNixon.

All six entries for the Hunt Membersrace have form, though the eye-catcher is Katy Price's charge,

Minellacelebration, multiple winnerand a dour 7-length 3rd in a verycompetitive Confined race at ColdHarbour last time out. Local trainerJane Price holds three interestingentries, of which Surenaga, recently6th in the 4m Classic at Cold Harbouris the highest-rated, though bothDiamond Dolly (Brampton Bryan)and Warpath (Upton-upon-Severn) arealso winners. Russian Empire is a real‘trier' and was an Eyton-on-Severnwinner last time out. Jack Joner, thearea Leading Horse last season, was arecent 2nd at Chaddesley - so all in all,will be a ‘Flyer to the Wire'

John Bryan sends out Green Winterfor the Restricted race. The 7-year-oldreally impressed at Cold Harbour onhis last appearance when finishing aone and a quarter lengths runner-up toHigh Hatton, and looks the business.Gabe Mahon's Royal Captain won onhis debut at Brampton Bryan, butmade a few mistakes on his last run,finishing 5th at Guilsborough.Umoristic was a winner for StanSheppard at Hereford racecourseearlier in the season, and has sincebeen 2nd at Andoversford. JacksonTown, recently runner-up in the ColdHarbour Members race, may haveimproved for that run.

The PPORA Members Conditionsrace, for 9-year-olds and over will bean interesting contest, with 16possibles. Alastair Ralph, whocomfortably leads the Area Trainer'stable holds two classy entries inStratford Stroller, recently 2nd in a

According To Harry is setto contest theIntermediate race atBratton Down

Photo:Tim [email protected]

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Bangor Hunter Chase, and Divers,who galloped away with the ColdHarbour Members with LizzieReynolds last time out. But HarpsyChord may be hard to beat, havingalready won four races this season.Classic Destiny, from Jenny Pidgeon'syard won a similar event by 5 lenghtsat Kingston Blount recently, andrecent Whitfield 3rd, My Minds Maid,handled by Ella Mahon isn't without achance, ditto the lightly-raced Joe TheTrucker.

The Mens Open race has 11 entries,with Cock Of The Rock topping theratings, having five victories, mostly inNovice Riders races, to his credit thisseason. Ice Cool Benny was a Paxfordwinner before finishing 5th in TheLady Dudley Cup, while MedicinalCompound was driven out for a 5length win in the Mixed Open atYstradowen on his last appearance.Tom Weston may decide to run OverThe Phone, who won at BramptonBryan last time out.

The Ladies Open has also attracted 11possible runners, with Gabe Mahonentering both Awesome George, amultiple winner who was the 4 lengthvictor at Dingley recently, and LakeLegend, a dual winner who triumphedin a Novice Riders race at KingstonBlount last time out. Midnight Haze

has become a formidable contenderwith Lizzie Reynolds, and has twogood wins to his name this time, mostrecently the Cold Harbour Ladies race.Pat Tollit's Well Mett is another highlyrated, having galloped 10 lengths clearat Whitfield under Phine Banks.

The Open Young Horse Maiden has17 entries, and Glyn Slade-Jones'consistent charge My Fair Rose issurely overdue for a win, having beendenied close home on the last threeoccasions. Robert Llewellyn's Pray ForA Rainbow is an improving sort, whowas 2nd at Cold Harbour recently, butthis race is over half a mile further.One Day Like This and AnotherCoalition are sure to be well producedfirst time out.

The Open Maiden for 8-year-olds andupwards has 10 entries. RichardBandey's Herbert Percy stayed on tobe 10 lengths 2nd at Lower Machenlast time out, while the course may suitThe De Thaix, who is so rarely out ofthe frame, finishing 3rd at ColdHarbour on the last occasion.

GRAFTON at WHITFIELDSunday, 17 Mayby Jake Exelby116 horses have been entered in theseven races at the third and final

meeting of the season at Whitfield. Ahigh turnout can be expected, with theground currently good, good to soft inplaces, as owners and trainers seek totake advantage of the limitedopportunities remaining this season.Three pony contests will take placebefore the start of the thoroughbredracing.

With the Subaru Restricted Finaltaking place on Friday, 29th May atStratford, chances to qualify for therace are running out. Among the 17hoping to secure their place in today'sSubaru qualifier are Pauline Harkin'smare Exclusive Rights, a Dingleywinner over Easter bidding to atonefor a recent fall. "She'll run if theground is good of softer," confirmedher trainer" She was going really wellwhen she fell at Mollington - PeterMann hadn't moved on her." Theform of that race, won by Fermat, iswell-represented here - the second,third and fourth are all entered again,in the shape of Celtic Intrigue, I'llHave A Look and Bit Of A Barney.Celtic Intrigue deserves anothersuccess after four consecutive secondssince his Kingston Blount win inMarch while plans for the lightly-racedBit Of A Barney are grounddependent, according to trainer ChrisLoggin.

Celtic Intrigue could line up in theSubaru Restricted race at Whitfield

Photo: Julie Drewett racehorsephotos.co.uk

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Another series drawing to itsconclusion is the AGA All-ComersChampionship, whose final is onMonday 24th May at ChaddesleyCorbett. Today, AGA sponsors theIntermediate Race, for which 16 havebeen entered. Alan Hill plans to runhis Mollington winner Man Of Steel"if the ground is right" and is keen onhis chances. "He'll come on for thatwin and has gained in confidence forit. Hopefully he'll take a bit ofbeating." The main dangers look to beShe's Real - if she makes a quickreappearance following her Garthorpewin at the weekend - and Soixante Six,who has got his jumping together andshowed great consistency this season.Uber Alles can't be ruled out based onhis recent win at Northaw while ComeOn You has definite ability and willappreciate the return to Points, havingpulled up at Cheltenham last time out.

Chris Loggin's Cutlass Silver has takenthe Ladies Open for the past twoyears. "She'll run again if there isn'ttoo much rain," the trainer told me ofhis mare, who always comes good atthis time of year. "It would be nice todo the hat-trick". However, she lookslikely to be confronted by high-classopposition from outside the local area.Nick Wright's It Was Me is one of thebest Ladies Pointers in the countryand has won his last four. Lake Legendwas unbeaten in Points until finishingthird in a hot Mens Open at Eyton-on-Severn and may bid to boost LaraMahon's chances in the NationalLadies Novice title, while Well Mett

won the Ladies Open at the lastmeeting here - finishing in front ofCutlass Silver - and will be bidding fora repeat.

The PPORA Club Members Race forNovice Riders looks extremelycompetitive with 23 entries, although itcould turn into a duel between theaforementioned Lara Mahon onAwesome George, who is bidding fora four-timer, and Harry Cobden, whocurrently leads the National MensNovice title by two from FreddieHenderson. He rides Cock Of TheRock, who has found a new lease oflife since joining the Rachael Greenstable this year and has won his lastfive.

Among the South Midlands-qualifiedhorses, Freddie Henderson's fatherJames has three entered - DreamGarden, Otto The Great and ThanksFor Coming - all of whom ran lastweekend, while Natasha Rose'sTowering Run will bid to follow-up hisrecent Members Race win here, whichwas her first training success. TimUnderwood plans to run Peper Harowthird Commanche Conflict. "ChrisDennington will ride him again,"confirmed the trainer. He rode himwell last time - the horse just blew upbecause he was short of work."Leading local trainer Alan Hill relies inlast weekend's Kingston Blount thirdMinella Theatre, who was mulish atthe start there. "The tongue-tie mayhave upset him," admitted Alan. "Sothe trainer will have to be morevigilant this time! He's come out of his

race well and it's lovely to have himback on form after his Fontwellinjury."

Slidecheck is top-rated in the OpenMaiden after three placings in theSouth East this season, whileMollington form is represented by theintriguingly named Oi Oi Savaloi andconsistent Killurin. An interestingnewcomer from the Claire Hart stableis Fleeting Gale - a chestnut geldingowned by course inspector and formerrider John Pritchard. "He's sevengoing on four," laughed his trainer."He's a big, backward baby and we'retaking him to the track to learn moreabout him. He's got loads of ability -but he's quirky!" Claire will have splitloyalties in the race, because she'sridden the Richard Bandey-trainedHerbert Percy on his last two starts,including his most recent second atLower Machen.

The meeting opens with a Hunt Race,which looks at the mercy of Fermatafter his recent Mollington win,although Pampelonne and Rossbrincould run the 13-year-old close ontheir best form. The story of the race,however, would be provided by a winfor Pauline Harkin's View The Dance."She'll be a first ride for Elle Raven,who turns 16 on Sunday and so justqualifies to ride in the race," hertrainer told me. "Elle has alwayshunted with the Grafton. She's abrilliant rider and View The Dance is asafe jumper, so the pair will be lookingfor a clear round." Best of luck to Elleon her big day.

Lake Legend could lineup in the Ladies Openrace at Whitfield


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The card concludes with a ConditionsRace for ten-year-olds and over, whohaven't won a National Hunt race or anOpen of any kind since 2013, offeringa winning opportunity to one of 20familiar faces and lesser lights! LauraThomas will be looking for CreditCrunched to overcome his recentCheltenham disappointment. "He waspulled up after a mistake," said Laura."So he didn't really have a race. He's fartoo well and desperate for a run!" TimUnderwood's Tallow Fair ran out into ahedge a Kingston Blount last weekend(for the second time in a row) but he's atalented individual at his best and thetrainer is hopeful of morestraightforward behaviour on this right-handed track. "He does it at home," histrainer told me. "We have to keep himon the straight and narrow." As sooften, I'll leave the final word to AlanHill, who said of his Divine Folly:"He'll run, ground permitting. Hejumped brilliantly at Woodford after 18months out. We've left him for threeweeks since then and we're expectinghim to run well."

HAYDON at HEXHAMSunday, 17 Mayby Peter BurgonThe Northern Area Point-to-Pointseason resumes after a two week break

with the Haydon fixture at HexhamRacecourse on Sunday. It has attracteda bumper total of 101 entries on aseven-race card starting at 2pm, withthe main action preceded at 1pm bytwo pony races.

The hat-trick seeking De Bee Keeper,Temple Green, Coquet Head and FozyMoss are the highest rated entries in theopening South Northumberland HuntsClub Members Race. However, De BeeKeeper will only run if RossChapman's application to change fromamateur to conditional jockey statusdoesn't go through by the weekend.

The consistent Temple Green was onlybeaten a neck by Oscar Stanley in therecent Lauderdale Ladies Open; CoquetHead was beaten half a length byWhiteabbey at Tranwell on his firststart since Boxing Day, while ex-chaser,Fozy Moss also ran well when onelength 3rd to Indian Print at Tranwell.

Mafate Fortin is the only one of theeight entries for the 2m4f OpenMaiden Race to have been placed thisseason. A repeat of the effort whichsaw him finish three lengths 3rd toGlens Return over the same trip atSheriff Hutton on Easter Saturdaywould make him the one to beat.

Of the others, Lucydoli and Don'tPoint finished 4th and 5th respectively

behind Chandos at Mosshouses; KapeRose Jipe was disputing 2nd whenfalling two out on her debut in aGarthorpe Maiden last Sunday, whileFlying Central would have landed aslowly run Lauderdale Maiden on herdebut had she not been carried out by aloose horse at the second last fence.

Lucky Sun and Stagecoach Jasper werenot beaten far when placed behindGame As A Pheasant at Witton Castleearlier in the month and should be inthe mix for the Open Maiden Racewhich has 12 entries. Kinder Scout andMaster Bud showed much improvedform when placed behind Nelly La Rueat Tranwell and should go well againalong with Anzinger.

The 14 entries for the Restricted Raceinclude According To Dan, Farm Pixie,Paddy's Wish, Smart Act, The Toft andWhatsthestoryman, who have all losttheir maiden tags in 2015. Friars Haughscorers, Farm Pixie, Paddy's Wish andThe Toft should all be suited by thisstayers track. Smart Act clearly has nostamina issues after winning at Heslakerwhile last month's Corbridge scorer,Whatsthestoryman has only finishedout of the first two on one occasion inhis last six outings.

The 23 entries for the Maling TrophyMixed Open Race have already

Farm Pixie (left) is entered to run in the Restricted race at Hexham on SundayPhoto: Grace Beresford p2pnorthernphotos.co.uk

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recorded 29 wins between them thisterm. A quality list includes Ballyvesey,Cave Hunter, Damiens Dilemma,Gunner Jack, Ockey De Neulliac,Rossini's Dancer, Sea Scout, OscarStanley, Rolecarr and One Conemara.

The veteran Gunner Jack, a prolificwinner in recent seasons, needs soft orheavy ground these days and has madeonly one appearance since landing the2014 renewal by two and a halflengths from Cave Hunter. The latterhas won 7 of his 11 starts since joiningWendy Hamilton's yard and posted acareer-high mark when landing theHeart Of All England MaidenHunters' Chase on the adjoiningNational Hunt track a couple of weeksago. The race conditions do not favour

Ockey De Neulliac as he will have tocarry 21lb more than he usually doesin Ladies Opens.

The NPPA Club Members Race has21 entries and promises to be a trickypuzzle for punters to solve with manyof this season's consistent performerssuch as Back On The Road, DamiensDilemma, Durban Gold, Great Gusto,Milano Magic and Nelly La Rue set tocross swords. The progressiveDamiens Dilemma scored with plentyin hand in a good time at Mosshousesand can make it four wins from his lastsix starts.

The 14 entries for the IntermediateRace are headed by Dun Faw Good,who ran a blinder last time when

beaten just over a length in third placebehind Cave Hunter in the 'Heart'.Master Butcher has run well all season,winning twice and finishing runner-uptwice between the flags beforefinishing 3rd to Wayupinthesky in aPerth Hunters' Chase.

Lowanbehold landed the 2014 HaydonRestricted and shaped well last timewhen chasing home the useful Six ASide at Sheriff Hutton. DannanceysHill is on an upward curve followingpillar to post victories at Tranwell andMosshouses, while The Gotfor Man,Probably George and theaforementioned duo, Milano Magicand Nelly La Rue add further spice tothe contest.

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Cave Hunter is the form pick in the Mixed Open race at HexhamPhoto: Grace Beresford p2pnorthernphotos.co.uk


TOP TWEETS hashtag your tweets#GoPointing to feature!

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@howardkinderJack 'Cheltenham Salute' Jordan atEasingwold PTP today @gopointing

@stepheasterbyGreat day at Easingwold@kevinhollinrake enjoying his 2nd winof the week #Aldreth @GoPointing

@Charlotty1991Good luck to this dude Sam tonight atCothelstone :) @jessica_wake@Michael_D_Legg

@fivestripesHis Excellency and @clairehart11 aftervictory in the Ladies Open@ChaddesleyRaces @GoPointing

@thebesttwin_gsuch a great day helping at the start atgarthorpe with this legend #gopointing

@champersp2pThe #GoPointing boys @benroe23@ginge210 with winning connectionsfollowing their race at Market Rasen@pointtopoint

@lutie1234too many gins last night the #drinkingseason never ends. garthorpe today with1runner #proximo #teammorris #GoPointing


KIMBLEWICK at KINGSTON BLOUNTSaturday, 09 May138cm & under race1 Diptford Moon Walker Elliot England2 Renaissance III Henry Main3 Coveham Generation Poppy Scott4 Burfield Moon God Ruby IllsleyNon-runners: Molly VIII (Connor Brace), Pennway Merlyn (AlexandraGeldard)

148cm & under race1 Beside The Sea Benoit De La Sayette2 Shesagoodun Jack Tudor3 Don’t Tell Dai Connor Brace4 Indian River Jamie Perrett5 All Of My Dreams Amy FurneauxNon-runners: Touch Control (Simon Morgan), Barboza (Isabel Hunt)

MELTON HUNT CLUB at GARTHORPESunday, 10 May148cm & under Novice Riders race1 Asher Selena Hughes2 Ashway Dark D Day Lara Weatherby3 Londsale B Bow Ned Forryan4 Bohey Donica Kate Buckley

138cm & under Novice Riders race1 Ernford Ballot Box Violet Barton2 GemswoodMorningSensation Oliver Buckley3 Zebedee William Jones4 Lemony Snicket Ned Hercock5 Spotty Dot Com Millie Parrington6 Nick Holly Clarke7 Mo Sparah Edward Ashmore8 Doulton Beyonce Lydia Hopkins9 Oliver Twist II Archie Smith MaxwellNon-runner: Marley (Millie Ludiman)

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2015 PONY RACING RESULTS sponsored by

148cm & under race1 Princess Propellor Will Thirlby2 Lynne Alana Taylor3 Good Luck Rosie Kieran Rundell4 Basford Aprol Rose Nia Kerslake5 Tennants Super Laura PearsonNon-runners: Merryment Topcat (Tristan Durrell), Renaissance III (HenryMain)

WHEATLAND at CHADDESLEY CORBETTSunday, 10 May138cm & under race1 Little Annie Charlie Todd2 Bronze Lawrence Roisin Leech3 Balfour Hill Song George Daly4 Aquilas Sensational Georgina CrawfordNon-runners: Chaceside Catwalk (Benoit De La Sayette), DeehavenChipmunk (Ivor Herbert), Glin Road (Ger Supple)

148cm & under race1 Follow The Star Joshua Bryan2 Aries Albi Tufnell3 Otterburn Lady Alfie Martindale4 Regimental Bay Lucy Hammond5 Shoot The Moon Morgan Winstone6 Ad Al Shama Harry DigwoodpuScribblin Ben SuttonNon-runners: Heavenly Rose (Milo Herbert), Tally Ho Tina (George Daly),Touch Control (Simon Morgan)


DULVERTON WEST at BRATTON DOWNSunday, 17 May138cm & under raceBecca Walk O’ The Wild Side Molly LandauChinkwell Felix Taylor FisherChurchill Tamby WelchClonamully Danny Boy Archie WoollacottGinger Wizard Chad BamentMagic Honor WeatherlakeMayday Black Mink Charlie SprakeMolly Connor BraceThe Jobs Not Straight Tyler HeardDue to insufficient entries the Racetech Novice Riders race has beenamalgamated with the above race

148cm & under raceGoodnight Bruce YoungIgo Zuminov James ArmstrongNuala Michael TreneerPeateaoh Connor BraceShotgun Minnie Tyler HeardTouch Control Simon MorganVadlawalkover Tamby Welch

GRAFTON at WHITFIELDSunday, 17 May148cm & under RaceTech Novice Riders raceErnford Ballot Box Violet BartonPennway Merlyn Alexandra GeldardPolo Archie BaileyZebedee William JonesSpring Daisy White

138cm & under raceMouse Poppy ScottChaceside Catwalk Benoit De La SayetteMolly VIII Connor BraceMerryment Top Cat Tristan DurrellRenaissance III Henry MainStambrook Master Plan Bradley Kent

148cm & under raceBeside The Sea Benoit De La SayetteAries Albermarle TufnellDon’t Tell Dai Connor BraceBuddy’s Girl Joshua BryanChiumbo Luke ScottOtterburn Lady Alfie MartindaleLittle Lucky Lass Tess MurphyPeateaoh Connor Brace

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2015 PONY RACING ENTRIES sponsored by

HAYDON at HEXHAMSunday, 17 May138cm & under raceClonross Star Nick Barratt-AtkinLittle Anne Charlie ToddStretcholt Hermes Charlie ToddTigga Marnie GreenXena Thomas Young

148cm & under raceFinnley's Diamond Finnley GreenJudge Fox Archie FrankHazelcroft Good Time Lucy PittendrighHow Ya Talkin Harry CharletonMiss Tiny Jessica SwanMillie Jack YoungPick Pocket Connor MurtaghUnderwraps Tom Midgley

KNUTSFORD RACES CLUB at TABLEYSunday, 17 May148cm & under RaceTech Novice Riders raceBallyard Rebel Tim Fliss CalveleyCue Monte Don James CaldwellEmyvale Jocker Josh BridgesIrish Joker Paddy BarlowMiddle Lake James McMahonSandboro Serinity Rose DiggleTango Imogen KennedyWrenlas Shakira Kiera Booth

138cm & under raceGerdinen Anita Elsa BrauntonGwalch Sian Bach Constance BrauntonRavara Super Ted Camilla BrosterTigga Marnie Green

148cm & under raceBuddy’s Girl Joshua BryanFinnleys Daimond Finnley GreenGood Luck Rosie Kieren RundellLittle Bull Abbie McCainQuickstep Star Niall ReynoldsThe Mumbler Ella McCainTouch Control Simon Morgan

CHANGE TO THE DETAILS RELATING TO THE TAKING OF ENTRIES FOR THE BERKS & BUCKS PONYRACING AT KINGSTON BLOUNT ON SUNDAY, 24TH MAY

Entries will now be taken by: Louise Marsh / Nick Quesnel, c/o Q Logistics Ltd, Unit D, Knavesbeech Industrial Estate,Loudwater, High Wycombe HP10 9QY

Tel: 01628 527547 Mob: (Nick) 07768 067185 Email: [email protected] CLOSE: Monday, 18th May at 12 noon


THE RIDERS & PONIES CHAMPIONSHIPPOINTS SERIESThe Riders & Ponies Championship Points Series will runthroughout the season for both 138cms and 148cms riders/ponies. It has become a highly competitive affair with pointsbeing allocated to the first four past the post. The rider andowner of the pony from each height category with the mostpoints at the end of the season will be presented with theirprizes at Cheltenham Races in October. It seems the mostnatural venue for the event being the home of National HuntRacing and gives the award winners a taste of what might comefollowing their time pony racing.

THE RACETECH GRADUATE AWARDThe Rider who gains the most points throughout the season viathe Champion Points Series and who plans to go on and ride inPoint-to-Point Races the following year will be offeredsponsorship via the Riders Sponsorship Scheme (RSS) fromRaceTech – this only applies to those riders who turn 16 duringthe 2015/16 Point-to-Point Season.The RSS is a sponsorship initiative created by the Point-to-PointAuthority, which enables riders to source sponsorship to assistthe costs associated with riding.

For further information please contact: Lucy Tucker 01258817604 / 07771 518258 / [email protected]

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TOP SCORERS138CMS & UNDER PONIES

Molly 47Diptford Moonwalker 41Honky Tonk Girl 41Bronze Lawrence 32Mocking Bird 32Dough Boy 31Little Anne 31Little Chick 31Churchill 28Angelic 27Ginger Wizzard 27

Bradley Kent 60Connor Brace 47Benoit De La Sayette 43Charlie Todd 43Elliot England 41Alfie Godfrey 32Rosin Leech 32William Carver 31Tamby Welch 28Chad Bament 27Olive Nicholls 27

William Carver 38Harriet Godfrey 37Connor Murtagh 35Isabel Hunt 33Lucy Hammond 33Abbie McCain 31Ben Godfrey 30Bruce Lynn 23Jamie Perrett 22Will Thirlby 20Alfie Martindale 17Ben Sutton 17

138CMS RIDER RACETECH GRADUATE

148CMS & UNDER PONIESBeside The Sea 56Don't Tell Dai 41Pick Pocket 35Hope 34Regimental Bay 33Shesagoodun 32Calypso 30Goldwell's Gucci 29Aries 28Flo Tinaway 28

Benoit De La Sayette 56Connor Brace 55Harriet Godfrey 37Connor Murtagh 35William Humphrey 34Isabel Hunt 33Lucy Hammond 33Jack Tudor 32Abbie McCain 31Ben Godfrey 30Albie Tufnell 28Cosmo Ball 28

148CMS RIDER

Pony RiderAd Al Shama Harry DigwoodBonita Polly Ann SmithCailin Katy MossCaveiro Tara StockwellChester Tiggy Cowan TaylorClonamully Danny Boy Archie WoollacottDutchess Elena NikouGoldfinch Jessy Ellie VaughanJambo Lyall HodginsMillie Jack YoungMilly XI Joshua SmithMorgan Abby RobertsonMountain Gerwyn Ruby HallMountain Sinbad Harvey CarringtonPebbles Sophia WaringPenway Merlin Alexandra GeldardRosevale Seren Salute Katie SinclairRowfantina Fancy Man Freddie GingellRoyal Oak Rose Lad Emma SmithShena Rory DavidsonSong Bird Finley MarshSpring Daisy WhiteStambrook Socialite Connor BakerWoodbine Rosemary Alice ReesLongbourne Rose Will FeatherstoneDenny Royal Lady Charlie Woods

QUALIFYING COMBINATIONS FOR THERACETECH NOVICE RIDERS FINAL AT

GARTHORPE - SATURDAY, 30 MAY 2015

The 2015 RaceTech Novice Riders Race SeriesThose finishing in the first four will be eligible to enter the final at the 2015 Point-to-Point Pony Racing Championships hostedby the Meynell & South Staffordshire Point-to-Point at Garthorpe on Saturday, 30th May 2015. If entries permit two races – onefor each size category (138cms/148cms) will be staged.

REMAINING QUALIFYING RACESMeeting Course Date Entries closing AreaDulverton West Bratton Down Sun 17 May Sat 9 May Devon & CornwallGrafton Whitfield Sun 17 May Sat 9 May South MidlandsKnutsford Races Tabley Sun 17 May Sun 10 May North Western

sponsored by


Who was capturing the action last weekend?

Jeff Guyett’s West Country Videosteam had a hectic weekend as theytook in three meetings, firstly taking inthe Minehead Harries fixture atHolnicote where they were joined byregular snapper Tim Holt. After theCumberland at Aspatria was washedout this left the Kimblewick atKingston Blount as the only other

meeting to take place on the Saturdayand photographer Neale Blackburnwas on hand to capture the stills there.

Sunday was slightly busier with fourmeetings taking place and regularYorkshire photographers Peter Barberand Tom Milburn joined forces at theBilsdale meeting at Easingwold. The

West Country Videos crew weredoubly represented on Sundaycapturing all the action at the FourBurrow at Trebudannon and atChaddesley Corbett for theWheatland. Jeff ’s team were alsojoined by Marilyn Sweet of SweetPhotography at the latter.

Neale Blackburn chasdog.comKimblewick at Kingston Blount

Tom Milburn facebook.com/TomMilburnPhotographyBilsdale at Easingwold

Tim Holt [email protected] Harriers and West Somerset at Holnicote

Sweet Photography sweetphotography.comWheatland at Chaddesley Corbett

IN THE FRAMEGO

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Peter Barber pointtopointphotography.co.ukBilsdale at Easingwold


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EVERY SATURDAY IN RACING PLUS

PLUSpointingMay 3-4, 2014

Edition 24

Your weekly Point-to-Point pulloutEVERY SATURDAY IN RACING PLUS

CARL EVANS 8 ● REPORTS & RESULTS 14-19 ● MARK WALL IN THE QUESTION TIME CHAIR 20

The Crudwell Cup – the WelshBorders Classic – takes centrestage at Cold Harbour tomorrow,with My Lil Ledge the one to beat atthe Radnor & West Hereford■ Crudwell Cup big-race spotlightsand preview, pages 10-11

Following his unsuccessful Cheltenham Foxhunter’s bid in March, LaurenBraithwaite’s star Berties Dream could be back in action at Dingley thisweekend in an attempt to land the four-mile Fernie Gold Cup

■ Fernie at Dingley preview, with big-race colours, p4

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JUST WHAT THEDOCTOR ORDERED!Doctor Kingsley was one of the winners on acracking Point-to-Point Championships eveningat Cheltenham on Wednesday. Check out allthe winners and losers in our comprehensiveresults service■ Cheltenham results in full, page 9

Picture:JULIE DREWITT

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CARL EVANS 8 ● REPORTS & RESULTS 12-19 ● GINA ANDREWS QUESTION TIME 20

Camilla Scott’s in-form star isexpected to feature prominentlyin the Tedworth Gold Cup, theSandhurst Area Classic■ Barbury preview, page 5

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Monsieur Jourdain’s out todefend his Grimthorpe Gold Cuptitle in Whitwell-on-the-Hill’slast staging of the Classic.■ Middleton preview, pages 10-11

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Edition 29


CARL EVANS 3 ● STRATFORD AGA NIGHT REPORT 4-5 ● TOM HAMILTON QUESTION TIME 8

Can Current Event end theseason with a fourth straightwin at Bratton Down?■ Tiverton Staghounds, p2

Full report,p4-5

Picture:SWEET PHOTOGRAPHY

Picture: SILVENA TONCHEVA

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CARL EVANS 8-9 ● REPORTS & RESULTS 14-18 ● TOP PERFORMERS 19 ● RICHARD DEFAGO 20

There’s over £4,000 up for grabs at the Knutsford Races Club this weekend, asTabley hosts the richest Point-to-Point meeting of the season, with the LordDaresbury North West Area Classic Final and the Dodson & Horrell PPORA Club

Members Novice Riders Championship Final sharing top billing in Cheshire■ Knutsford Races Club at Tabley preview, pages 10-11

Will Croan Rock andThreapwood be fighting

out the finish of theLord Daresbury?

Fresh fromhis stunningMens Opensuccess atThorpe Lodgelast month,AntoniaBealby’sL’Eldoradocould line up

in the £1,000Novice Ridersfinal under TomChatfeild-Roberts

Gutsy Cottage Oakhanded prolific PalypsoDe Creek only his seconddefeat in his last 14Pointing starts■ Wheatland at ChaddesleyCorbett review, page 14

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AN IMPROVED PERFORMANCE

Everything you need to follow is inyour weekly Point-to-Point

pullout, including:■ In-running comments for all runners

■ Previews / reviews■ Features / news

■ Q&A with pointing personalities

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TOP PERFORMERS 2014/15Current standings for the sport’s major championships

Will Biddick 55 winsJohn Mathias 26 winsDarren Edwards 21 winsJamie Thomas 18 winsRobbie Henderson 17 winsNick Orpwood 16 wins

Dicky Collinson 14 winsTom Hamilton 14 winsJoe Hill 14 winsJames Tudor 14 winsBradley Gibbs 13 winsPete Mann 13 wins

FULLER’SGENTLEMANPOINT-TO-POINTRIDERSCHAMPIONSHIP

Barring accidents, Will Biddick looks to have his fourth consecutiveGentleman’s Point-to-Point Championship sewn upPhoto: David Simpson

Harry Cobden 11 winsFred Henderson 9 winsPeter Bryan 8 winsDavid Noonan 7 winsJoe Drinkwater 6 winsCraig Hoggart 6 wins

James Nixon 6 winsSam Coltherd 5 winsAll on four wins: Jake Bament,Elliot Brookbanks, RossChapman, Nick Lawton, JohnSmith-Maxwell, Hedley Webb

FULLER’S GENTLEMAN NOVICE P-T-P RIDERS CHAMPIONSHIP

Harry Cobden and Cock Of The Rock on their way to landing the PPORA ClubMembers race for Novice Riders at the New Forest meeting at LarkhillPhoto: Tim Holt [email protected]

Harry Cobden 11 winsSam Coltherd 5 winsJack Andrews 3 winsAndrew Bartlett 3 winsSean Houlihan 3 wins

Ben Hicks 2 winsHarry Marsh 2 wins

DODSON&HORRELLNOVICEAWARDFORTHEWILKINSONSWORD

Harry Cobden and Roseyroo, pictured en route to landing the WAPP Membersrace at the Blackmore & Sparkford Vale meeting at Charlton HorethornePhoto: Tim Holt [email protected]

Gina Andrews 23 winsHannah Watson 16 winsClaire Hart 15 winsCatherine Walton 13 winsKaty Lyons 11 winsLeanda Tickle 10 wins

Page Fuller 9 winsJo Buck 8 winsLara Mahon 7 winsAll on six wins: Bryony Frost,Hannah Lewis, Emma Todd,LucyWheeler, Carey Williamson

LADY POINT-TO-POINT RIDERS CHAMPIONSHIP

Gina Andrews pictured following her success in the Ladies Open race aboardStart Royal at the Kimblewick meeting at KimblePhoto: Neale Blackburn chasdog.com

Lara Mahon 7 winsLucy Wheeler 6 winsLottie Crane 5 winsKelly Morgan 5 winsHannah Welch 4 winsAmy Broome 3 wins

Ella Darwin 3 winsOlivia Hutchings 3 winsHeidi Lewis 3 winsEmma Moseley 3 winsLizzie Reynolds 3 winsAlice Stevens 3 wins

FULLER’S LADY NOVICE P-T-P RIDERS CHAMPIONSHIP

Lara Mahon pictured following her success on Awesome George at the Ferniemeeting at DingleyPhoto: Neale Blackburn chasdog.com

Lottie Crane 5 winsOlivia Hutchings 3 winsHeidi Lewis 3 winsAlice Stevens 3 winsHarriet Bryce 2 wins

Charlotte Dun 2 winsEmma Chaston 2 wins

HOWDEN NOVICE AWARD FOR THE PRINCESS ROYAL TROPHY

Lottie Crane, pictured following her victory on Qoubilai in the Ladies Openrace at the Bicester with Whaddon Chase meetingPhoto: Neale Blackburn chasdog.com

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Harry Cobden 32ptsLara Mahon 26ptsJohn Smith-Maxwell15ptsJoe Drinkwater 14ptsLucy Wheeler 14ptsAmy Broome 12pts

Peter Bryan 12ptsFred Henderson 12ptsKelly Morgan 12ptsAlice Stevens 10ptsBen Brackenbury 9pts

HARLEY RACING PPORA NOVICE RIDERS SERIES

Harry Cobden and Foynes Island, pictured at the Mendip Farmers meeting atSton EastonPhoto: Tim Holt [email protected]

Nick Wright 12 winsJ. Barber 10 winsJ. Simpson 10 winsM. J. R. Bannister 9 winsRichard Hewitt 9 winsMiss Sarah Dawson 8 wins

James Henderson 8 winsVictor Thompson 8 winsT. D. B Underwood 8 wins

LEADING POINT-TO-POINT OWNER

Nick Wright (left) heads the Leading Point-to-Point Owner table thanks to thesuccesses of It Was Me, Patsy Finnegan, Bally Wall, Baroque Style, In A BlueDust & Stress Photo: David Simpson

Miss Sarah A. Dawson 30ptsThe Penwood Racing Club 30ptsS. Nash, A. Hill, Mrs H. Nash & M. Avery 30ptsE. D. Moylan 30ptsMrs K. R. Smith-Maxwell 30ptsThe Troubled Partnership (Mr M. Weston) 30ptsJames Henderson 30ptsAlan Hill 30ptsChristopher & Frances Marriott 30ptsW. Bryan & D. Smith 30pts

AGA ALL-COMERS CHAMPIONSHIP

The Penwood Racing Club & the Fuller family celebrate another great winner &another 10 AGA All Comers championship pointsPhoto: David Simpson

Miss Gotaway 15ptsBiddles Bedouin 12ptsZiggerson Hill 11ptsComedinewithme 9ptsNelly La Rue 9ptsExclusive Rights 7pts

Lady’s Favourite 7ptsMorebutwhen 7ptsFrelia 6ptsTwo Smokin Barrels 6pts

JOCKEY CLUB LEADING NOVICE MARE

Biddles Bedouin and Johnny Bailey (near side), pictured at the Bicester withWhaddon Chase meetingPhoto: Neale Blackburn chasdog.com

Cock Of The Rock 5 winsDicky Bob 5 winsGonalston Cloud 5 winsLotus Pond 5 winsRosies Peacock 5 winsThe Magherally Man 5 wins

Working Title 5 winsSeventeen horses on four wins

CONNOLLY’S RED MILLS LEADING HORSE

Dicky Bob and Jo Buck en route to landing the Restricted race at the EastDevon meetingPhoto: Tim Holt [email protected]

Gina Andrews 50ptsClaire Hart 50ptsCatherine Walton 50ptsHannah Watson 50ptsCarey Williamson 50ptsHannah Lewis 46ptsLeanda Tickle 46ptsJoanna Walton 46ptsPage Fuller 42pts

Katy Lyons 42ptsElla Darwin 40ptsBryony Frost 40ptsEmma Moseley 40ptsPhine Banks 38ptsLouise Allan 36ptsCamilla Henderson 36pts

AGALADIESOPENPOINT-TO-POINTCHAMPIONSHIP

Claire Hart is the latest rider to hit the magic 50 mark in the AGA Ladies OpenPoint-to-Point ChampionshipPhoto: Neale Blackburn chasdog.com

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Jack Barber 43 winsAlan Hill 25 winsKayley Woollacott22 winsGerald Bailey 15 winsTom Weston 15 winsStephanie Easterby 14 wins

Ed Walker 14 winsAndrew Pennock 13 winsRobert Chanin 12 winsSheila Crow 12 winsPauline Harkin 12 winsNick Wright 12 wins

CONNOLLY’SREDMILLSTRAINERSCHAMPIONSHIP(8+HORSES)

Jack Barber heads the charge for the leading trainers title (8+ horses) with alead of eighteen wins from his nearest rivalPhoto: David Simpson

Ciaran Gethings 5 winsClaire Hart 4 winsHarry Bannister 3 winsWill Biddick 3 winsHannah Lewis 3 winsNick Orpwood 3 wins

All on two wins: Nina Carberry,Gillon Crow, Evan David,Darren Edwards,Bryony Frost,Paddy Gerety, Tom Hamilton,Matt Hampton, David Kemp,James Nixon, Tommie O’Brien

LEADING HUNTER CHASE RIDER

Ciaran Gethings is leading the charge for the Leading Hunter Chase Rider titleafter booting home five winenrs this seasonPhoto: Julie Drewett racehorsephotos.co.uk

Volcan Surprise (East Anglia) 62ptsLotus Pond (North Western) 52ptsJepeck (Devon & Cornwall) 40ptsPlay The Ace (East Anglia) 40ptsDabinett Moon (South Midlands) 38ptsOtto The Great (South Midlands) 37ptsAsk The Weatherman (Wessex) 36ptsSix A Side (Yorkshire) 34ptsCecile De Volanges (West Midlands) 32ptsCome On You (South East) 32ptsMinellacelebration (Welsh Border) 32ptsThoonavolla (West Midlands) 32ptsWelstonedruid (Devon & Cornwall) 30ptsDandan (South Midlands) 30ptsRunning In Heels (South East) 30pts

PPORA YOUNG HORSE AWARDS

Rachael Green 9 winsNick Alexander 8 winsWillie Bryan 7 winsJames Henderson 7 winsMickey Bowen 6 wins

Charlotte Fuller 6 winsGabe Mahon 6 winsJessica McKie 6 winsKaty Price 6 wins

CONNOLLY’SREDMILLSTRAINERSCHAMP(7ORLESSHORSES)

Cock Of The Rock, who has scored five times for Rachael Green who currentlyleads the race for the leading trainers title (7 or less horses)Photo: Tim Holt [email protected]

All on two wins:Enda Bolger, Mickey Bowen,Sheila Crow, Henry Daly, MikeDawson, Christine Drury,Gavin Hamilton, Alan Hill,Chris Honour, David Kemp,

Rose Loxton, Rob Luke, PaulNicholls, Jonjo O’Neill, JoeO’Shea, Glyn Slade-Jones,Nigel Twiston-Davies

LEADING HUNTER CHASE TRAINER

The success of On The Fringe at Aintree has seen Enda Bolger join the list oftrainers on two Hunter Chase wins this seasonPhoto: Mark Cranham

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Mrs S. Fryer’s Volcan Surprise leads the field in the race for the PPORA YoungHorse AwardsPhoto: Julie Drewett racehorsephotos.co.uk

TOP PERFORMERS 14/15


BEEN POINTINGKimblewick at Kingston Blount

in association with

& David Simpson ‘The AGA Man’

A win for Otto The Great has put James Henderson into ajoint share of the lead in the AGA All Comers Championship

A win for Dabinett Moon means Chris & Fran Marriott are also into a share of the leadin the AGA All Comers Championship

L-R: Lawney Hill, Emily Roads & Gaby Hill

Brodie Hampson & Sally Randall

The Wheeler family, Andrew, Lucy & Carolyn

I can see you, Laura Horsfall

Pens are poised to record somemore words of wisdom from Big Al

“Please take our photo” said Sylvia(right), & I’m thinking, this is nailed

on for Been Pointing!Gracie Nailor leads up

The Applebobber

Hannah Watson & Gina Andrews fly the flagfor the Anglo-Irish challenge

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Andy Powell (centre) watches as Ruddy Article leaves thepaddock ahead of the Ladies Open

A role reversal for Phine Banks asshe is on leading up duty today

Michael Dawson takes a card fromMarilyn Sweet who has just captureda great shot of His Excellency

Judith Healey (left) & Jen Hancox watching the world go by

David Simpson (left) & AGA Ambassador, Adam Giles from the PunchbowlInn, Bridgnorth (right) flank the victorious Wayward Pilgrims Partnership

Tom George is presented with the Kennedy Challenge Cup after hisCoeur De Fou won the Members Conditions race

A great photo after Golanzine had bagged the Open Maiden,“a long time coming” said jockey, Mark Wilesmith

“Does the colour suit me” says JoPriest (yes, says the AGA man)

It’s our cheeky AGA champion,Hannah Lewis

Graham Tawell & Jackie Hunt studythe form before the Open Maiden

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2015 Wheatland at Chaddesley Corbett BEEN POINTING


Sat 16 May

Clifton-on-Teme, UPPER SAPEYFitzwilliam (Milton), DINGLEY

Gelligaer Farmers, LOWER MACHEN

South Durham, MORDON

Sun 17 May

Dulverton West, BRATTON DOWNGolden Valley, BREDWARDINE

Grafton, WHITFIELD

Haydon, HEXHAMKnutsfordRacesClub(formerlyNorthWestPoint-to-PointClub),TABLEY

Sat 23 MayCumberland, ASPATRIA - rearranged fixture

Sun 24 May

Berks&BucksDraghounds&SandhurstDraghounds,KINGSTONBLOUNTWest Somerset Vale, COTHELSTONE

West Wales Area Club, LYDSTEP

Mon 25 May

Albrighton & Woodland (South), CHADDESLEY CORBETTSouth Tetcott, UPCOTT CROSS

Sat 30 May

Meynell & South Staffordshire, GARTHORPE

Sun 31 May

Border, HEXHAMExmoor, BRATTON DOWN

North Hereford, HEREFORD RACECOURSE

Sat 6 JunePembrokeshire, TRECOED

Sun 7 JuneTiverton Staghounds, BRATTON DOWN

Sat 13 June

Torrington Farmers, UMBERLEIGH

FIXTURES 2015 Fixtures in Blue denotes Pony Racing at the meetingGO

POIN

TING

13M

ay20

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The course at Umberleigh; the unique setting for the final meeting of the season

go pointing | 13 may 2015

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