THANK YOU ALAN.
The South East area said a fond farewell to Alan Taylor at the end of last season. Alan has led the start team in the south east for more years than we can remember and his calm but firm manner will be much missed.
The following words are from Warren Marshall;
It’s safe to say that Alan was riding as early as the sixties. My earliest recollection is of him riding a horse called Kipper at Ringmer point to point. He was, for a while, nicknamed Kipper. Always naturally light, he also rode under rules for amongst others Charlie Moore, father, grandfather, and now great grandfather to the Moore racing dynasty.
Alan rode for a colourful character called Cyril Light, later founder of the now highly successful Pyecombe Stud and Show Centre. I can recall him riding a horse, Doubt, for Cyril.
This particular horse had never been able to grasp the concept of being steered during a race. Naturally, they decided to run it at Four Elms on a particularly tight figure of eight course, situated opposite the, now, equestrian centre. I well remember Alan and Doubt still going left when all the other runners were going right, and then vice versa!
fond farewell to Alan Taylor at the end of last season. Alan has led for more years than we can remember and his calm but firm Warren Marshall;
He will always be associated with the kamikaze horse Cefn Taffy. He was probably one of the worst jumpers to ever set foot on a point-to-point course. He seldom ever fell, but, on the other hand, he seldom ever jumped either! His preferred method was to simply gallop straight through them. This necessitated some innovative jockeyship, namely to place one hand on the back of the saddle and literally cling on for grim death! Alan perfected this style and won many opens, on Taffy, for owner Bridger Champion. Incidentally, Alan was not the first to hold onto the back of the saddle in the SE. A gentleman, whose name escapes me, who lost a leg in WW2, rode in point to points equipped with a crude prosthetic limb, made out of cork, by adopting the same tactic.
Probably the best stable Alan was associated with was that of former Royal jockey Tony Grantham. Here, Alan became associated with the class of horse his skill and nerve had always deserved. Rainborough and Helpex amongst others. Prolific winners of point to points and Hunter Chases abounded from this yard, many owned by one of the strongest supporters of point to pointing in the SE there has been, namely Mark Davies. Riding winners for a top trainer owned by a top man was a fitting conclusion to an illustrious career in the saddle.
riding as early as the sixties. My earliest recollection is of him Ringmer point to point. He was, for a while, nicknamed he also rode under rules for amongst ot hers Charlie Moore, great grandfather to the Moore racing dynasty. for a top trainer owned by a top man was a fitting conclusion to an illustrious saddle.
Whilst we bid farewell to Alan, we very much hope he will join us for a day out pointing soon. He has handed the starting rostrum over to James Sarchet who will be ably supported by Amy Westcott and Annette Murphy whom we extend a warm welcome to.
Whilst we bid farewell to Alan, we very much hope he will join us for a soon. He has handed the starting rostrum over to James Sarchet who will by Amy Westcott and Annette Murphy whom we extend a warm
Left to right –
James Sarchet, Amy Westcott, Alan Taylor, Annette Murphy,
Left to right – James Sarchet, Amy Westcott, Alan Taylor, Annette Murphy, Debbie Grantham
THIS WEEK’S GRASS ROOTS STORY
NOVICE RIDERS SHINE
AT STORMY COCKLEBARROW
by Claire Hart, Point-to-Point Correspondent
Storm Herminia swept through Cocklebarrow pointto-point last Sunday and created wet, cold and windy conditions but two young jockeys enjoyed their very first victories in the deteriorating ground and for them it was as if the sun shone bright.
Harvey Barfoot-Saunt, aged 17, rode Mickey Bowen’s eightyear-old Chilinlikeavillain to win the Novice-riders race. The lightly-raced winning hurdler has improved with each run this season and bar unseating at Chaddesley Corbett last time has done little wrong in being a suitable partner to an aspiring young jockey. Barfoot-Saunt, who is relieved to get his first winner is the son of licensed trainer Tracey and Geoff who, himself is a well-known point-to-point jockey and who still race rides.
A childhood surrounded by horses inevitably meant there was only one route- He tells me: “I think I went hunting for the first time when I was about two with Dad on the lead-rein. I was in the Berkeley South Pony-club and did lots of show-jumping. Pony-racing was a big part of my life and I rode ten or eleven winners. Unfortunately lockdown prevented me from doing more.”
Barfoot-Saunt who has dreams to turn conditional in the future is now working for Peter Bowen in Pembrokeshire, he holds his Category B amateur licence and has had a few rides under-rules. He explains how the association with this horse came about. “Peter said one day, what are we going to do with this horse? I showed an interest and he told me if I rode him out each day I could ride him in his races.” A strong partnership has been built between horse and
jockey, Barfoot-Saunt tells me: “He is blind in one eye, he is a bit strange and did have some trust issues- he wouldn’t go on the lorry or trailer nor walk through the stable door in the early days but now we know each other well and he has got better with all those things.” He adds: “He didn’t jump well the day I unseated at Chaddesley but he was brilliant on Sunday.” Mickey Bowen adds: “Harvey came to work for us six or seven months ago, he is a good lad, rides well and will have plenty of rides for us under-rules. The horse ought to be capable of winning a few more points, we may run in a hunter chase at Ffos Las next week and if it doesn’t work out we will go back pointing.”
A long drive home and a celebration with an Indian takeaway. What better way to mark that first winner, no doubt more will follow for this young aspiring jockey.
Madeline Plumb, aged 22 enjoyed her first success in the seven-year-old and over maiden on her own mare Laurel Girl. The mare who was second on debut in Ireland then had a lacklustre career over hurdles had been bought by Plumb from a Facebook advert in 2022.
Plumb who works full-time for Georgie Nicholls in Kingston Lisle, Oxfordshire is a proper amateur has had 18 rides spread over five seasons, two of which came on Sunday. “I rode Bardd in the Restricted for Danni and Steve O’Neil which was my first ride for anyone else, I train him for them and have my others at their establishment, Fawley House Stud near wantage.” Plumb who had a pony filled childhood never did pony-racing but showed workinghunter ponies and enjoyed activities within the Old Berks
A perfect partnership Chilinlikeavillain and Harvey Photo: Neale Blackburn
pony club. Aged 17 she announced to her Dad, Darren who runs an international horse transport business that she wanted to ride point-to-pointing. Spessartine was sourced as a schoolmaster and a love for riding in races was formed. With Plumb weighing little more than seven stone a lot of lead was needed!
Plumb claims she was shocked to win on Sunday and having now achieved the dream of a winner she would definitely like some more, she adds: “I would like to get my amateur license because it would be amazing to have a Hunter-Chase ride around Cheltenham- not until next season though, I am a proper amateur, I do it because I love it and the horses.”
Help from boyfriend Liam Spencer, who also works for Nicholls in the mornings enables Plumb to train three pointto-pointers, an arab- Jeewan - who won at Bath in October
following two years off and also a youngster for her Dad. Fawley House Stud provides superb training facilities which include a straight and a circular gallop.
Laurel Girl herself, known as Midget has a varied routine, Plumb says: “I named her Midget because when we got her she was much smaller than the advert described! She is a pleasure to do, she can be a bit sharp at times- I have been sat next to her rather than on her a few times” she laughs and adds “but on the whole she is great. She is a fantastic hunter and during her time off she did some showing, a proper pet.”
Plumb is a breath of fresh air to chat to and embraces all things point-to-point. Hard-working and seemingly modest regarding future plans and goals, the answer to my next question was inevitable “We had a good celebration, plenty to drink before we even left the point-to-point.”
That winning feeling - smiling despite the mud! Photo: Neale Blackburn
Chilinlikeavillain in full flight at Cocklebarrow Photo Neale Blackburn
Laurel Girl & Madeline heading for the winning post Photo: Neale Blackburn
PREVIEWS
SOUTH DORSET
SUNDAY 2ND FEBRUARY 2025
By BOB BRACHER
A bumper entry of 142 horses are entered for this coming Sunday’s point to point at Milborne St Andrew near Blandford Forum. As a consequence, the first scheduled race has been divided and racing brought forward by half an hour so that the starting time will now be 11.45am. Racing will then take place at half an hour intervals to take into account the huge entry. Milborne St Andrew is always a popular course for owners, trainers and riders and despite the rain that has fallen, this chalk-based course can normally absorb this to provide a good racing surface. Currently the going is reported as good to soft, soft in places with a drying forecast from Thursday onwards.
In addition to the racing there will be trade stands, food outlets, bar and the bookmakers to have a wager with. Entry is £15 per person with under 16s free and race cards cost £3. Milborne St Andrew is located off the A354 Dorchester to Blandford Forum with the Sat Nav code of DT11 0JX and will be signposted off A354.
With a safety factor of 12 and an entry of 25 it was no surprise to see a division of the two and a half Maiden race for four-, fiveand six-year-olds. In Division 1 those with form include Bulletofexpression runner up at Larkhill, Far Out West also runner up at Larkhill in December and Couer d’Alene a promising fourth at Stafford Cross last season and of these the last named is marginally preferred. Both Just a Glance and Perseo won Bumpers on their last appearance and it will be interesting to see how they perform over fences. Of the newcomers notice should be taken of Laudable, trained by Fran Poste, Radical Optimism trained by Gina Andrews and Sonofapirate trained by National Hunt trainer Kim Bailey. Couer d’Alene is a tentative choice.
Division 2 may see the reappearance of Sienna Earth who was still leading when unseating Will Biddick at Larkhill at the second last in December. She will be seeking amends for her enthusiastic owners the Pendil Partnership. Of her potential rivals the most interesting is Canal Court, a half brother to Chantry House the winner of 10 races under Rules and placed in an Irish point and over Hurdles for Chris Gordon,
and now with Anthony Ward-Thomas. There are newcomers from Fran Poste and Gina Andrews stables namely Lystar du Mazet and The Head Waiter and these both come into the reckoning. Sienna Earth is the choice.
The Hunt race has attracted an entry of 14 horses of which two come from the in-form stable of Josh Newman at Woolminstone near Crewkerne, Sixteen Letters ran two weeks ago at Larkihill whereas Paloma Blue who has previously won at Milborne, has not been seen since November 2023 and he may need this outing. Jeremy Pass trained by Hannah Clarke brings winning Irish Hunter Chase form and a run in the Czech Pardubice and this is a drop in class for him and he may be the one to triumph. Between You and Me previously trained by Josh Newman, will be having his first race for Emily Richardson and he should be watched. Rocky Creed won his two final outings last season but was disappointing at Larkhill on his reappearance. If he puts his best foot forward, he could be in the mix.
A large entry of 23 has been received for the Open maiden over three miles and of those with form Up Killoughey runner up at Larkhill in December to Southfield Scope may go one better for father and son combination Liam and Rian Corcoran. A Nice Malbec trained by Amie Treacy was runner up in an Irish point and should be on the short list. Another with Irish form is Creegh Native now with Stuart Sampson, and his English debut should be watched with interest. Crouching Tiger showed promise last season but will need to improve on his seasonal debut at Larkhill. Free The Lion was deprived a run in his Hunt race at Chipley last week but his place form last season and his debut this season gives him good prospects in this open looking race.
The Restricted race also holds an entry for Rocky Creed but if he swerves the Hunt race then he comes into the reckoning. Southfield Scope was an impressive winner at Larkhill and he may be the one to beat. Talimar Pearl and King de Palma won Maiden races at the first and second Wadebridge meetings respectively and of the two Talimar Pearl is preferred. Noble Blue was another winner for Josh Newman at Wadebridge and created a good impression. Posh Dude won at Cothelstone last season and he is progressive. Templier d’Habert was placed in Restricted races last season and has each way possibilities.
The Ladies Open has a high-quality entry headed by the Aintree Foxhunter winner Famous Clermont who also holds an entry in the Mens Open. Whichever race is chosen for his seasonal debut it will be interesting to see his return. Will Biddick has entered both Macklin and Mr Glass in the two Opens with Olive Nicholls likely to partner Mr Glass this season. Unbeaten in his two outings last season this classy individual should be competitive for Olive. The Kings Writ is a genuine veteran but he may find several of his rivals in this race too speedy for him. Young Buck ran well last season but has not found his form this season. Will Biddick’s chosen representative is the selection.
The Mens Open has an equally classy entry including Famous Clermont, Mr Glass and Macklin and one of these is the likely winner. Harry Ryall has entered both Another Furlough and Scorseby but they may find the opposition too strong. Dr Rhythm likes Milborne and is bound to have come on for his seasonal debut and comes into the reckoning. One True King has run well in his two outings so far this season and has each way prospects. Take All was runner up at Taunton in a Hunter Chase and if reproducing that form he is another to consider. Windance won two Chases and two Hurdles for Anthony Honeyball and now with Martin Sweetland is an interesting recruit to pointing. If choosing this race Macklin is the selection.
The concluding Countryside Alliance or Point to Point Owners Rider Association Conditions race has received an entry of 25 horses so this is likely to produce a large number of runners. Everything Now was only seen once last season when winning for owner Alexandra Ingram at Chaddesley Corbett in December 2023 and may need this race. Pileon ought to come on from his run at Wadebridge and may find this a good opportunity to score. Punches Cross won two similar races as this last season and should be in the mix as should Southfield Lily, the easy winner of a race at Badbury Rings in November. Neither Finisher nor Knockmoylan have been seen for a while and both may need this outing. Duc de Beauchene boasts winning chase form for David Pipe and now with Liam Corcoran he is one to keep an eye on. Scoresby holds an entry in this race as well as the Mens Open and if this race is chosen he would be the each way selection.
MELTON HUNT CLUB
SUNDAY 2ND FEBRUARY 2025
By NICO MORGAN
The Melton Hunt Club meeting will take place at Garthorpe in Leicestershire on Sunday 2nd February, where there will be six races including two, ladies and mens opens. The first race is at noon.
The old turf of Garthorpe has taken the recent rains well and the going at the start of the week is Good, with Good to Soft in places.
The Ladies Open is the second of two open races on the card and is due to start at 2.20pm and run over three miles. Local trainer Kelly Morgan will have lots of support for Bothwell Bridge (Ellie Callwood), winner of three out of five of his runs between the flags, second in the other two, and Midlands Leading Horse last season. They do have strong competition, though, from Master Templar (Gina Andrews), winner of eleven pointto-point races to date, including three Ladies Opens; and Soldier Unknown (Izzy Hill), winner of four from five runs, most recently at Wadebridge in December. Soft ground won’t bother any of these. Bardenstown Lad was second to Master Templar in December at Chaddesley Corbett so they will be hoping to go one better. You can never discount the Turners at Garthorpe and they bring Janika to one of their favourite tracks.
The Mens Open precedes this at 1.45pm and also includes entries for Bardenstown Lad, Janika and Tanora. Leading the market here will be Fier Jaguen, the prolific gelding trained by Bradley Gibbs who has won nine of his 14 starts to date. He has won at Garthorpe before, unlike his local rival Go Go Geronimo, whose seven wins are far and wide but notably do not include his local track. Summerville Boy makes his point-to-point debut here while Ouro Branco starts their second, both having won under rules several times.
The first race of the day is a conditions race for horses of five-years-old and over for which 13 horses are entered. Julian Sherriff’s Premier Magic, trained by Bradley Gibbs, is a very competent pointer and hunter chaser who has won here at Garthorpe, but they will face a serious challenge from I’m Spellbound, trained by Gina Andrews for the Signy and Marriage families which has won of both its last two outings, most recently on soft and heavy ground. Soldier Unknown is one to watch in this one, a promising younger pointer with a four from five record between the flags. Everything Now is another capable pointer, lightly raced in recent seasons and ridden here by novice rider Alexandra Ingram. Llandinabo Lad has a 100% record so far in points but will probably find this a step up. Morning Spirit is another debutant, a winner under rules, representing the Kelly Morgan yard. Janika is entered here as well as the opens, as is Ouro Branco.
Four and Five-year-old Maiden races are tricky at this time of year because most would prefer better ground for their youngsters and there seem to be similar races at several other meetings this weekend. We do have six forward for the Tattersalls two-and-a-half-miler here, three four-year-olds who will get a stone of weight advantage, and three five. The only one with any racecourse experience is the Bevins’ Kaviar Wood who ran three times last season as a four-year-old. Gina Andrews trains two of the entries, Radical Optimism and The Head Waiter, and so does Francesca Poste - Laudable and Lystar du Mazet.
There are eight entries for the Intermediate race, next. Designed to Win (Dale Peters) has lived up to his name having run twice and won both for David Kemp who has had great success at this course over the years. Crocodile Lounge is another trained by Bradley Gibbs, pulled up last time but won two out of two last year. Arctic Oscar represents the Gina Andrews stable
with a third at Chaddesley Corbett this season after a win here last season. Alex Chadwick will ride Fame And Concrete for Nick Wright, returning after a year out. Paddy Barlow will ride Trojan du Berlais, a three-time winner last year.
The last race of the day is at 2.55pm, when 17 entries will compete for the three-mile maiden with no weight allowances for age, unlike the earlier race. Ifwegetaway, Myneighbour and Radical Optimism would all be making their racecourse debuts, while Bobs Dream, Dontblamejack, Just A joy, Priceforlove and Secret Plan all have some racing experience but are new to points in England. Highway Skyline showed promise when second at Horseheath in December in what looked like an educational run and may be one to watch here. Hollywood Harmon and You And Me Too have also both been placed previously. Bahio Boum ran at Revesbybut seemed to want to go right-handed, so this course should suit.
As usual there will be entertainment for all at Garthorpe on Sunday, including a licensed bar, bookmakers, trade stands and some rides for the children.
SOUTH EAST HUNTS CLUB
SUNDAY 2ND FEBRUARY 2025
BY NICOLA DEAN
Charing Races hosts the first of its fixtures for 2025 on Sunday 2nd February.
The fixture starts with a maiden race over two miles and four furlongs which has attracted fourteen entries. Local trainer David Phelan has Time To Upgrade entered who finished sixth in his only previous start in point-to-points at Horseheath at the end of December over three miles, having been prominent for the early stages of the race so he may appreciate the shorter trip here. Fellow South East Area owner / trainer Katie Featherstone has Crookbarrow entered who was previously with Cynthia Woods. He finished second in a two mile flat race at Larkhill in February 2023. He has run in hurdle races during 2024 finishing fifth on two occasions and eighth on September 24th where he was forty nine lengths behind the winner. He pulled up on his most recent start over three miles in November but has shown he can stay over three miles.
Other locally trained entries include Chris Dennington’s Taghadoe who finished a head second to Jullou de Grissay at Horseheath in December with the winner having subsequently won a restricted race at Cocklebarrow last weekend, suggesting that the form from that race puts Taghadoe in a good position here. William Rekert trained Bolberry Down has run under rules during 2024 and only completed on one of his three starts. The drop back to point-to-points may be beneficial for him and he may also appreciate the shorter distance of this race.
Andrew Pennock based near Bury St. Edmunds has My Jetta Plane entered who also ran at Horseheath in December over the full three miles and finished ten lengths ahead of Time To Upgrade. Monrocco Moonlight from Joe Hill’s stable also has form from this season having finished third over this distance at Friars Haugh two weeks ago. Nigel Padfield trained Patricks Hill was fifth in a maiden at Chaddesley Corbett in May 2024 and prior to this finished second over this distance at Cothelstone, so clearly has ability. Tim Underwood owned and trained Who’s Houdini has also shown form in maiden company finishing six lengths third at Larkhill on December 15th 2024. Alan
Hill trained Ewood Park missed 2023 and 2024 and prior to this ran under rules over hurdles. He was fourth in a hurdle race in 2022 beaten twenty four lengths and this could be a big task.
Michael Kehoe trained Dontblamejack has been placed in an Irish point-to-point at Dromahane in December 2024 and could run well if he starts here. Amber JacksonFennell’s Bobbarelli has pulled up in both starts to date this season, but his races have been over the three mile distance and he has pulled up in the closing stages, so he should find this shorter distance easier. The final three entries all have yet to race, Ifwegetaway is a six year old from Christy Woods stable and the final two entries are the Francesca Poste duo of Laudable and Lyster du Mazet.
The restricted race follows and will also be run over the shorter two mile four furlong distance. Warwickshire based trainer Julie Wadland has Bushtucker Park entered. She won a mare’s maiden at Larkhill in March 2024 and then comfortably won a restricted over this distance at Holnicote in May 2024. However, she fell in a restricted race at Badbury Rings when challenging for the lead and she pulled up on her most recent start at Larkhill, but this was in the latter stages of three mile races. Tim Underwood’s La Vega Moon finished seventh in this race which is his only start in point-to-points having previously run in Ireland over hurdles. Finishing in this race may give him the advantage over Bushtucker Park. Artiste d’Ainay from Andrew Pennock’s team won a maiden in January 2024 at Horseheath and was a faller in the early part of his first start in restricted company at Larkhill in February 2024. He then ran at Guilsborough in March and was in contention until the penultimate fence. He has not started since but would be a danger here.
Nigel Padfield trained Penniless won his maiden at Charing in 2023 and then won a restricted at Parham in 2023. He was also placed in two of four starts in 2024 so is another who could be in with a chance if he starts here. Fred Hutsby trained Joe Kidd won a maiden at Lockinge in April 2023. He was fourth in two starts in restricted company in 2024 but unseated at the eighth fence in his most recent start in February 2024. Fame And Concrete from Nicholas Wright’s yard was previously with Jonjo O’Neill. He won a flat race over two miles in 2020 and was placed in hurdle
races in 2022 and 2023. He missed 2024 but could make a bold bid here.
The final two entries are locally trained. Petite Mike is entered for Katie Featherstone, he won a maiden point-topoint in Ireland in April 2024 and was then placed in a hunter chase in Ireland in May 2024. His form has tailed off since then but he may find this an easier task. Highway Hero, owned and trained by Elizabeth Feakes finished seventh in the restricted at Larkhill in January, but he struggled in 2024 and may find some of these too good.
The men’s open race follows and is an option for Bolberry Down. Bardenstown Lad won two national hunt chases in Ireland in 2024 for Gavin Cromwell. He is now with Sarah Loughnane and has been placed in two starts in point-to-points this season and was fifth in a hunter chase at Warwick on January 20th. Fred Hutsby trained Drakes Well was placed in two of his four starts in 2024. He won his most recent start in a point-to-point at Mollington in May 2024 in a level two conditions race over two miles four furlongs, and was then third in a Hunter Chase at Stratford in his last start to date. Julie Wadland trained Lagan Valley pulled up in a ladies open in December 2024, but was fourth last time out in a mixed open at Revesby Park on January 18th.
Benjamin Case owned and trained Kilbrew Boy has been consistently placed over the past two seasons. He was third in a men’s open at Charing in March 2024 and was third in his most recent start at Kingston Blount in May 2024. Sam Barton has previously raced under rules for Emma Lavelle, but is now with Edward Rees and may be one to benefit with the drop back to point-topoints having appeared to struggle under rules since March 2023 when he finished second behind Flash Collonges.
Definite Dilemma, trained by Ella Gillings, has also proven to be consistent and capable. He finished second ahead of Kilbrew Boy at Charing in March 2024 and was also placed in a men’s open at Parham in April 2024. He was fourth in a hunter chase at Cheltenham in May 2024 on his last start to date and is likely to run well if he starts. Trappist Monk for Surrey based trained Rob Varnham was also consistently placed in 2024. He was second behind Hawkhurst at Charing in February 2024 in a veteran horse conditions race and was then second on his next two starts before
winning the men’s open at Peper Harow in May, and he also has the potential to provide a south east area trained winner. The final entry is Hannah Hickman-Jones trained Joy of Life. He won a chase in Ireland in January 2023 and was second in his subsequent start but has then appeared to struggle throughout the rest of 2023 and 2024. He again may value the drop back to point-to-points.
The ladies open follows and has nine entries, and this is an option for Sam Barton. Rob Varnham has Imperial Esprit entered. He finished second behind Famous Clermont in a hunter chase at Stratford in May 2024 having won his two prior starts in point-to-points. He was fifth on his most recent start at Cocklebarrow on January 26th finishing twenty five lengths behind the winner. Sarah Ashby trained Monkey Puzzle was also consistently placed during 2024, including finishing second at Charing in March only a length behind Back Bar, but he was a faller when challenging for the lead in the ladies open at Parham in April 2024 on his last start. The other locally trained entry is David Phelan’s Carrolls Cottage who has been running under rules in Ireland. He was ninth in a chase in June 2024 but has generally struggled to make an impression under rules.
Lily Bradstock trained Southfield Lily likes to front run, but has already found the winner’s enclosure this season at Badbury Rings in November which was her most recent race. However, Alan Hill trained Soldier Unknown has also won this season having moved through the ranks from maiden status in 2024 with ease. Soldier Unknown won an Intermediate race at Wadebridge in December on his latest start and could be one to challenge if he starts. Francesca Poste has two entries, Westhill and Russian Diamond. Westhill finished four lengths behind Largy Mountain in a level three conditions race for grassroots riders at Revesby Park on January 18th, whilst Russian Diamond has yet to race this season but finished fourth on two occasions in 2024 in novice rider races. Aikenbreakinheart from James Luck’s yard is the final entry here. He has only had one start in point-to-points and
pulled up in the closing stages, but also failed to show any form under rules prior to this.
The level three conditions race for grassroots riders has only attracted five entries and this is an option for both Carrolls Cottage and Westhill. Rob Varnham has Empire de Maulde entered. He ran at Horseheath in December in a level three conditions race and was in contention until the closing stages of the race. Gardie Grissell has Goudhurst Star entered who missed 2024 and much of 2023. He last raced under rules at Plumpton in February 2023 where he was fourth, fifteen lengths behind the winner. The final entry here is Amber JacksonFennell’s Cooldine Bog. He was third in a level three conditions race at Charing in February 2024, but then ran in hunter chases during the rest of 2024 with mixed fortunes.
The final race of the day is the maiden conditions race which is an option for Taghadoe, Time To Upgrade, Who’s Houdini and Monrocco Moonlight. If they choose this option they may come up against At Mangan Bridge from Michael Kehoe’s yard. He was second in an Irish point-to-point in December 2024 but then unseated in his next start at Larkhill on January 18th when in contention. Brian Dowling trained Diamon des Flos has not raced since 2022 but he did show ability then, in four starts, but he may need the run. Tim Underwood’s Windgap Hill has also shown ability having finished second at Lockinge in April 2024, but then fell, pulled up and unseated when trying to refuse on his next three starts in 2024, so will need to find his best form to be in with a chance if he starts. Alan Hill trained Oka Tsuki pulled up in two of his three starts in 2024, however, he should have learnt a lot from those races and cannot be discounted. Francesca Poste has Blue Topaz entered. She was pulled up on her debut at Hexham in May 2024 but she finished fourth in the maiden at Larkhill on December 15th and should improve for that run.
The final two entries are locally trained. Creapapy, trained by Hannah Hickman-
Jones, was placed in four of his six starts in 2024 including finishing second at Godstone in May 2024, where he finished ahead of Taghadoe and Oka Tsuki and Windgap Hill both pulled up. Elder Statesman trained by Sarah Ashby had three starts in 2024. He pulled up on his first two starts but was third on his final start of 2024 at Parham in a race where Windgap Hill was a faller.
Racing starts at 12pm with gates open from 10am. There will be food outlets and a bar and dogs are welcome on short leads. Wrap up and come and enjoy a day at the races.
The postcode for the course is TN27 0JD and What3words is rejoins.freshest. rudder.
Charing railway station is a 10-15 minute walk from the course.
YORK AND AINSTY WITH WEST OF YORE POINT TO
POINT
SUNDAY 2ND FEBRUARY 2025
By MARK ELLIOTT
Askham Bryan College near York is the venue for the second meeting of the Yorkshire Area season which takes place next Sunday 2nd February. A total of 52 entries have been received for the six race card with the first race due off at 1pm.
The opening contest is the Conditions race (level 2) and is sponsored by Askham Bryan College to whom the organisers are most grateful for hosting the event. Of the seven entries forward, Cherry Coward’s Zhiguli must go on the shortlist. A reproduction of his third in good company at Frairs Haugh last time out may well be good enough to see him win here.Crossgalesfamegame is of definite interest too as he comes from the in form yard of Will Easterby who saddled winners at both Sheriff Hutton and Alnwick last weekend. His defeat of the useful Steely Addition at Askham Bryan back in February 2023 shows he handles the course. The negative is that he hasn’t run since that day so he has a long absence to overcome. Another to note is Charles Clark’s Emir Sacree who won two chases under rules for Nicky Henderson and reached a decent handicap mark. If he can recapture his best form he would go close. Whilst his run when pulling up at Alnwick last Sunday wasn’t to that level, it should have brought him on. Of the others, Surprise Attack has winning pointing form and usually puts up a decent show whilst Legalized was a late starter but progressed in her three runs last season to win a little race at Hutton Rudby.
Race two is the Bailey Livestock Maiden and has ten entries. Of those with previous pointing experience, Hollywood Harmon and O’Hallorans Castle have both shown some promise already. The former was second in a Hexham maiden before Christmas and the latter was fourth at Larkhill last time out. Liveyourbestlife comes from Jack Teal’s Malton stable which does very well with its maidens but his Alnwick second last weekend was only in a two runner contest. Jack’s other entry Shalliorsharnti hasn’t shown anything in his two runs to date but could easily come on for the experience. Of the others, the Brown family’s Golden Armour has come from Gordon Elliott’s top Irish yard and boasts one third from
a very light career so far which makes him an unknown quantity a phrase which also applies to the two entries who have yet to see a racecourse. The Tate family’s Gaposchkin should be one to note for the future however Gina Andrew’s Warwickshire raider Radical Optimism may be the answer here. The yard is in red hot form and is noted for producing their youngsters to win on debut as their Edith Pelham did last Saturday at Sheriff Hutton.
Race three is the Haighs Farm Shop Ladies Open. The one they will all have to beat here should be Gina Andrew’s Master Templar who is a high class pointer and won on season’s debut at Chaddesley Corbett last month. Bardenstown Lad was second there, beaten three quarters of a length. He will doubtless go well again but may struggle to reverse the result so chief danger may be Joe O’Shea’s Willewonga who also has plenty of winning form, including a Cartmel hunter chase last May and Joe’s runners always command the utmost respect. Of the others, the evergreen Ballydonagh Boy got back to winning form at Sheriff Hutton last weekend but may be vulnerable in this company whilst Heidi Brookshaw’s Tango Echo Charlie has winning form under rules for Richard Newland.
Race four is the Noble Feeds Mens Open and Joe O ‘Shea definitely looks to hold the aces here. Of the yard’s two entries, the pick looks to be Gracchus De Balme who won well at Knightwick in early season. Following that victory his shrewd handler was making no secret of the regard in which he holds the horse and he must take all the beating. In his absence, the yard has a very able deputy in Paul Marvel who also won easily at Knightwick before running a close second to the very useful Wild Romance in tough conditions at Hexham and this easy track may suit him better. Of the other contenders, Bardenstown Lad also holds an entry here whilst Charles Clark’s high class ex-rules horse Summerville Boy could make his pointing debut. A return to his old form would make him a danger to all however he doesn’t have youth on his side. The final one to mention is Golden Taipan who has winning pointing form and should give a good account of himself once again.
Race five is the Noble Feeds Intermediate which looks a very open race on paper where all of the eight entries hold some sort of chance. Gina Andrew’s Arctic Oscar has
won four of her seven point to points and was a close third at Chaddesley Corbett on seasonal debut. Barton Snow was second in that race, finishing one length ahead of her but having had the benefit of a previous run, when winning at Knightwick, there will be little between them this time. Whats The Solution finished last season in very good form and was only beaten by a whisker in a tight finish at Friars Haugh on his seasonal debut whilst Prohus Yank, Sunset On Fire, Callmesusie and Surprise Attack and Carriglux all have winning form but would have to show improvement to beat the best here although the last named of those was very well backed at Sheriff Hutton last Saturday but came down when clipping heels on the bend so a good run was clearly anticipated.
The final race of the day is the Holmefield Farm Services maiden (no weight for age allowances) Fourteen entries have been received and it may pay to go for one of those making the transfer from racing under rules. Felix Foster’s Titanium Bullet has a lot of experience and has a number of placed efforts to his name. Joe Wright’s Built By Rossies has come from Ireland and has shown promise in his relatively short career to date. Also making his British debut, but this time from a career in the Irish pointing field, is Shropshire raider Bobs Dream who boasts two good thirds which make him a leading contender too. Of those who already have form in pointing locally, Benefact and Hollywood Harmon have both been placed a few times whilst Bean Norty ran a decent fourth at Alnwick in December. Shalliorsharnti and Constitution Grove both come from top yards and though neither has troubled the judge in a pair of runs each, they could easily progress with the benefit of that experience. Finally Gaposchkin may make her racecourse debut and may be one to watch for another day.
Gates open at 12 noon. Admission is £15 per person with under 16s free and entry is cash only, on the gate. As well as a bar and hot food being served there will be bookmakers along with trade stands providing extra interest. The course is located three miles south west of York alongside the A64 and the postcode for the satnav is YO23 3FR
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FIGURES
ASKHAM BRYAN COLLEGE 02/02/2025
1:00 THE YORKSHIRE AREA CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 2): Legalized (GB) (94) Surprise Attack (IRE) (94) Silvertown (IRE) (91) Zhiguli (IRE) (78) Deep Charm (GB) (70)
1:35 THE MAIDEN RACE: Hollywood Harmon (IRE) (93) O’Hallorans Castle (IRE) (66)
2:10 THE LADIES OPEN RACE: Willewonga (GB) (130) Ballydonagh Boy (IRE) (122) Bardenstown Lad (GB) (121) Master Templar (IRE) (120)
2:45 THE MENS OPEN RACE: Gracchus de Balme (FR) (120) Paul Marvel (FR) (108) Bardenstown Lad (GB) (107) Golden Taipan (IRE) (86)
3:20 THE INTERMEDIATE RACE: Prohus Yank (IRE) (106) Whats The Solution (IRE) (102) Arctic Oscar (GB) (99) Barton Snow (IRE) (94)
3:55 THE MAIDEN RACE (NWFAA): Benefact (IRE) (98) Hollywood Harmon (IRE) (93) Constitution Grove (GB) (82) Bean Norty (GB) (63)
CHARING 02/02/2025
12:00 THE MAIDEN RACE: Taghadoe (IRE) (92) Patricks Hill (IRE) (86) Monrocco Moonlight (GB) (80) Who’s Houdini (IRE) (70)
12:35 THE RESTRICTED RACE: Artiste d’Ainay (FR) (98) Bushtucker Park (IRE) (97) Penniless (IRE) (92) Highway Hero (GB) (68)
1:10 THE MENS OPEN RACE: Drakes Well (IRE) (116) Trappist Monk (IRE) (114) Definite Dilemma (IRE) (112) Bardenstown Lad (GB) (107)
1:45 THE LADIES CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 2): Southfield Lily (GB) (130) Imperial Esprit (IRE) (125) Soldier Unknown (IRE) (121) Russian Diamond (IRE) (111)
2:20 THE ADRIAN HENRY VIVIER MEMORIAL JOCKEY CLUB OPPORTUNITY CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 3), FOR GRASS ROOTS RIDERS: Cooldine Bog (IRE) (100) Westhill (IRE) (89)
2:55 THE MAIDEN CONDITIONS RACE: Creapapy (FR) (96) Taghadoe (IRE) (92) Monrocco Moonlight (GB) (80) Windgap Hill (IRE) (76)
GARTHORPE 02/02/2025
12:00 THE FIVE YEARS OLD AND OVER MELTON HUNT CLUB CONDITIONS RACE (LEV EL 2): I’m Spellbound (IRE) (117) Janika (FR) (110) Premier Magic (IRE) (110) Soldier Unknown (IRE) (107) Llandinabo Lad (GB) (104)
12:35 THE TATTERSALLS CHELTENHAM FOUR AND FIVE YEARS OLD MAIDEN YOUNG HORSE SERIES RACE: Kaviar Wood (FR) (80)
1:10 THE INTERMEDIATE RACE: Designed To Win (IRE) (104) Arctic Oscar (GB) (99) Crocodile Lounge (IRE) (94) Bestfriend Barnaby (GB) (93)
1:45 THE MENS OPEN RACE: Fier Jaguen (FR) (126) Go Go Geronimo (GB) (116) Janika (FR) (110) Bardenstown Lad (GB) (107)
2:20 THE LADIES OPEN RACE: Janika (FR) (124) Soldier Unknown (IRE) (124) Bardenstown Lad (GB) (121) Master Templar (IRE) (120) Bothwell Bridge (IRE) (114)
2:55 THE MAIDEN RACE (NWFAA): Hollywood Harmon (IRE) (93) Bahio Boum (FR) (88) You And Me Too (IRE) (86) Constitution Grove (GB) (82)
MILBORNE ST ANDREW 02/02/2025
11:45 THE FOUR, FIVE AND SIX YEARS OLD MAIDEN RACE (Div 1): I Think He Is (IRE) (80) Far Out West (IRE) (73) Couer d’Alene (IRE) (69) Bulletofexpression (IRE) (65)
12:15 THE FOUR, FIVE AND SIX YEARS OLD MAIDEN RACE (Div 2): Walking It Off (IRE) (55)
12:45 THE SOUTH DORSET & WILTON HUNT MEMBERS, SUBSCRIBERS & FARMERS RACE: Sixteen Letters (IRE) (122) Rocky Creed (IRE) (112) Frontieres Lad (IRE) (96) Between You And Me (IRE) (92)
1:15 THE SEVEN YEARS OLD AND OVER MAIDEN RACE: Dorset Dazzler (GB) (88) Free The Lion (IRE) (88) Tangos Tangerine (IRE) (77) Crouching Tiger (IRE) (76) Doctor Doyen (IRE) (76) Ianthus Mome (FR) (76) Up Killoughey (IRE) (72)
1:45 THE RESTRICTED RACE: Rocky Creed (IRE) (107) Dorset Diamond (GB) (106) King de Palma (FR) (100) Frontieres Lad (IRE) (96)
2:15 THE LADIES OPEN RACE: Famous Clermont (FR) (142) Macklin (FR) (140) L’Air du Vent (FR) (130) The Kings Writ (IRE) (130) Montanna (GB) (124)
2:45 THE MENS OPEN RACE: Famous Clermont (FR) (128) Macklin (FR) (126) Another Furlough (IRE) (125) Take All (IRE) (124)
3:15 THE COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE OR PPORA CLUB MEMBERS EIGHT YEARS OLD AND OVER CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 2): Southfield Lily (GB) (116) Scoresby (GB) (110) Punches Cross (IRE) (105) Pileon (IRE) (101)
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REPORTS
YORKSHIRE AREA POINT TO POINT CLUB AT SHERIFF HUTTON
SATURDAY 25TH JANUARY 2025
By MARK ELLIOTT
Having been frustrated by the arctic weather two weeks ago and then the subsequent challenges to find a suitable new date, the Yorkshire Area Point To Point Club finally managed to hold their hugely popular fixture at Sheriff Hutton on Saturday 25th January which was once again being held in aid of the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. With over £200,000 having already raised and donated to the cause, organisers were hoping to top the quarter of a million pound mark this year. Blessed with bright sunshine on a glorious midwinter day, racegoers were entertained by a good day’s sport.
The meeting is hosted by kind permission of Mick Easterby who was no doubt delighted to witness a family success in the first race of the day, the Racing TV Five Years Old And Over Conditions Race (Level 2). This came via daughter Susan Mason and her husband Ian’s homebred Red Opium who was steered home by Rosie Howarth, one length ahead of Conqueredalofeurope and Felix Foster. Trained by Susan’s sister Cherry Coward, the mare’s delighted owners reported that she just seemed to be in better order than she ever was last season and had benefitted from a run at Friars Haugh last weekend. A return visit to Sheriff Hutton on Sunday 6th April is now on the cards for the classic Grimthorpe Gold Cup where Red Opium will bid to emulate her mother Poppy Day who triumphed in the race for the Masons in 2010.
Following her success in the opener, Rosie Howarth took the day’s riding honours by completing a double when guiding another Cherry Coward inmate, the admirably consistent Ballydonagh Boy to victory in the Labiana Life Sciences Ladies Open, the gelding’s tenth win between the flags. “He’s a superstar and as good as ever” said Rosie who has recently returned from a trip to New Zealand. Cherry’s daughter Jacqueline was keen to highlight the work put in by Isla John to get him fit and ready in Rosie’s absence. The plan is to stick to point to points now. “We’ve tried him in hunter chases and he just isn’t good enough” said Jacqueline.
The highest rated winner of the day was the progressive Camdonian who came home a ready winner of the Labiana Life Sciences Mens Open for Jack Teal’s Malton stable. “It’s nice to have him back” said his delighted jockey Christy Furness who, when asked about any plans for the horse going forward said “just stay fit and healthy and have some fun”. Christy said his mother, Camdonian’s owner Grania Furness, must take a great deal of the credit as she had done a lot of work with him at home before his transfer to Jack’s yard two weeks ago.
The Andrew Jackson Solicitors Restricted developed into a battle between stablemates Lou Marvelous and Sponthus ridden by brothers Will and Thomas Easterby. The former had only just been touched off at Alnwick in December and drew away late on to go one better here for jockey and trainer Will who commented that the winner had done well to defy the five pound penalty. The next target for Lou Marvelous will now be the Sinnington Hunt race on February 16th. “ The original plan was to run here and then go to Askham Bryan” said Will “ but the two week postponement here has messed the plans up as the one week gap between the two meetings is too short for him”.
The day concluded with two maiden races and the first of these, the Resdev Maiden (No Weight For Age Allowances) saw the most impressive winner of the meeting when Shropshire based Laura Richardson’s Ideal Du
Tabert clocked the fastest time of the day over the full three mile trip. Jockey Huw Edwards took the race by the scruff of the neck from the outset and built up a long lead which was never seriously threatened before he coasted home to a very easy success The winner had the benefit of a previous outing having run a good second at Chaddesley Corbett over the Christmas period and Huw said of him afterwards “He’s been working well at home and he looks like a good one to go pointing with as he jumps, travels well and stays”.
The KCM Waste Management Ltd Four, Five And Six Year Old Maiden over the shorter two miles four furlongs trip saw Edith Pelham put up a professional performance to win nicely on her racecourse debut. Brought up from the Warwickshire stable of Gina Andrews and ridden to victory by her brother Jack, the former national champion point to point jockey, the mare, a daughter of top stallion Blue Bresil was bought as a three year old for £40,000. “She was a bit big and weak last season” said Jack, speaking after the trophy presentation “so we gave her a bit of time. She was bought with the intention of hopefully selling on, so the plan is now to get her entered with The Cheltenham February sale being a possibility”
The next meeting in the Yorkshire Area season is the York and Ainsty With West Of Yore fixture at Askham Bryan College near York next Sunday 2nd February with the first race due off at 1pm.
A hug and kiss for Ballydonagh Boy from Rosie Howarth after their victory in the Labiana Life Sciences Ladies Open
Photo: Tom Milburn
CAMBRIDGESHIRE WITH ENFIELD CHACE MEETING AT HORSEHEATH
SUNDAY 26TH JANUARY 2025
By MIKE ASHBY
A Gina Andrews riding and training treble was the highlight of a cold, blustery and rainy day at Horseheath. Andrews’ winners were Fairly Famous (Mixed Open), All Is True (Conditions) and Always Groovin (Maiden Conditions).
The latter is owned by a group of former East Anglian jockeys who would have been accustomed to riding in the miserable conditions during their careers but are all finding watching their horse run, from the sidelines, is far more nerve-racking than actually being in the saddle.
The quintet of William Wales, Tim Moore, Nigel Bloom, Simon Cowell and Perry HardingJones all carry injuries from their riding days with the latter recuperating from a second hip replacement undertaken just 2 ½ weeks ago. However, there was definite spring in all their steps as they proudly collected the winners’ trophy at the post-race presentation. Always Groovin winning distance was 3½ lengths having overcome Avichi In The Park and the form looks reasonable, for subsequent races.
Fairly Famous completed a third course win, for the Signy and Marriage Families, after a combative duel, with Law Of Gold on the run-in with just a length separating them at the finish. Gina explained afterwards that
Fairly Famous “ had hardly had a race at the December meeting but this was more of a test and will bring him on”. Fairly Famous will now go straight to the Foxhunter’s Hunter ‘Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, in March, and will not run again till that date where ‘Good to Soft’ ground conditions would enhance his chances.
All Is True went one better to complete his fourth win over the undulating Horseheath course and came with a typical perfectlytimed challenge by Gina, jumping clear at the last. This was only the second time Gina had ridden the 8yo, as her brother Jack normally takes the ride for the owners Oak Partnership, but Jack was competing at Alnwick. The partnership had 3 lengths to spare over trainer Nick Wright’s Mount Pleasant.
Wright had earlier saddled the winner of the Restricted race with his new acquisition Clashhill who according to winning jockey, Alex Chadwick, showed decent potential for the future. The Irish form of the 7yo was not too special after having won his Maiden on his debut. Wright explained the Irish yard had suffered a virus and he was able to acquire the horse for a reasonable price and has given him extensive schooling. Chadwick confirmed his jumping had improved markedly and was even better
today and it was a pleasure to ride him.
Barrington John was an impressive all-theway winner for trainer/rider Bradley Gibbs in the Open Maiden contest and could easily progress through the ranks. Gibbs explained he had intended to go to Chipley Park which would have been a 4 ½ hour journey, The Horseheath journey is considerably less and of course the decision was vindicated with the Somerset meeting being cancelled, prior to the first race.
Aramax and Cian Murphy supplemented their success at the December 31st meeting when taking the opening PPORA Conditions race for novice riders. Employing different tactics to their previous success when they arrived on the scene late, Murphy took up the running from Young Rich and Myth Buster approaching three out and went on to score a comfortable victory by a 7 length margin. This young man, Murphy, has a very impressive strike-rate of 38% with 7 wins from 18 mounts and hopes to partner Aramax once again at Higham, in a fortnight’s time, before obtaining his conditional licence during late February.
A difficult day for racegoers but some interesting contests to make up for the abysmal weather.
Cambridgeshire - Aramax and Cian Murphy
Photo:Graham Bishop
HEYTHROP
SUNDAY 26TH JANUARY 2025
By RUSSELL SMITH
James King completed a superb hat-trick of wins in the Howden Lord Ashton of Hyde’s Cup Men’s Open with victory on Boss Man Fred at the Red Savannah-sponsored Heythrop Hunt Point-to-Point meeting at Cocklebarrow, near Aldsworth, in Gloucestershire on Sunday.
Successful aboard Just Your Type in 2023 and Oscar Montel 12 months ago in the first of the sport’s four ‘classics’, King reigned supreme again as the 11-year-old stripped fitter for a pipe opener at Friars Haugh a week earlier to claim the £1,000 first prize.
Taking up the running from Didero Vallis approaching the fourth-last in the 3m 6f event, Boss Man Fred stayed on powerfully on the rain-softened ground to triumph by six lengths from Daniel Williams’s mount with Beyond Redemption and Rupert Wilks 30 lengths back in third. Favourite Shoal Bay was fourth.
The three-time champion rider’s two previous wins had been for Max Comley, now in the professional ranks, and the Naunton handler was among those celebrating with his partner, Elen Wylie, having taken over the pointing licence.
King said: “It’s the third time, which is absolutely brilliant. Elen had him spot-on for today. The visor has revived him because he never really travelled but just kept going.”
Wylie trains Boss Man Fred for the Cotswold Stars Partnership, which consists of her father, Andrew, Louis Gill, Rachel Surman, Angela Applegate and Michelle Henley.
The winning handler said: “He needed the run last week to get fit. We needed the rain to come and that came. The stars aligned for him. It is our third classic in a row. I ride him every day and he is extra special.”
Driving rain and a fierce wind produced grim conditions as 44 runners faced the starter, but there was still a good-sized crowd in the massive picnic tent, including former Prime Minister David Cameron, his wife, Samantha, and TV presenter Alexander Armstrong.
King and Wylie were completing a double after Jullou De Grissay ran out
an impressive 25-lengths winner of the SE Solicitors Restricted.
Having opened his account in a tight finish at Horseheath, the six-year-old’s success for owners Helen Mobley and Katie Sunderland was never in doubt as he bounded clear from the fourth-last to coast home from Get Bye and Amber Jackson-Fennell, runnersup for the second successive year.
King commented: “In the week I was hopeful of a performance like that, but I was a bit sceptical about the ground. He is a horse that could provide plenty of fun for connections.”
Harvey Barfoot-Saunt was relieved after opening his account at the 38th attempt with victory on Chilinlikeavillian in the Dubarry PPORA Club Members Conditions Race (Level 2), for Novice Riders.
Barfoot-Saunt, 17, produced the Mickey Bowen-owned and trained eight-year-old with a well-timed challenge to collar last year’s winner, The Composeur, and Aimee Jones at the final fence before going on to score by three-quarters of a length.
“It’s relief more than anything,” said the winning rider, who hails from Wottonunder-Edge, near Dursley. “I have had quite a few rides, but it’s brilliant to get the first one out of the way. Hopefully, I can get quite a few more now.”
Barfoot-Saunt, who works for the ownertrainer’s father, Peter, in Pembrokeshire, continued: “Mickey got him at the end of the summer from Dan Skelton for me to ride. I dropped him out at the back and picked them off one by one.”
Owner-trainer-rider Madeline Plumb revealed she had considered retiring before
recording her first winner on Laurel Girl at the 18th attempt in the King’s Head Seven Years Old and Over Maiden.
With the going heavy in places by the last, the nine-year-old galloped home by 15 lengths from the Hutsbys’ I Don’t Know, runner-up in the younger horse maiden here 12 months ago.
Plumb, 22, who trains her mare out of Danni O’Neill’s Fawley House Stud Stables, near Wantage, and works for Olive Nicholls, said: “It is just amazing. It is funny before I went out, I sat here talking to my partner (Liam Spencer) and said I am going to retire. If it wasn’t for my dad, Darren, I wouldn’t be doing it. He is my biggest supporter.”
Laurel Girl had been pulled up at Horseheath last month, and Plumb added: “This is her second run back after two years off because she had done a leg. This horse was bought on a night out. I was looking on Facebook and had had a bit too much to drink, and messaged Louise Allan and bought her.”
Kelly Morgan produced a fine training performance as Shentri made a winning comeback from a life-threatening injury to take the Fleming Architects Ladies Open in good style under Ellie Callwood.
After 1-5 favourite Ihandaya pulled up before the fifth last, Callwood sent the KM Racing Club-owned eight-year-old past her only other rival, Previous Bounty, approaching the fourth last and the gelding powered away to beat Marina Bealby’s mount by 15 lengths.
With Waltham on the Wolds handler Morgan at Alnwick, the winning rider explained: “He had an awful accident in the stable in April last year when he got cast with his near hind stuck through the V-bars.
Mudlarks Chilinlikeavillain and Harvey Barfoot Saunt after their win in the Novice Riders
Photo: Neale Blackburn
PERCY
SUNDAY 26TH JANUARY 2025
By PETER BURGON
The Percy fixture at Alnwick enjoyed much better weather than Cocklebarrow and Horseheath on Sunday as the rain didn’t arrive until the penultimate contest of a seven race card where proceedings were put back an hour to allow pockets of frost around Fences 1, 2 & 3 to come out of the ground, and when racing eventually got the all clear those three fences were bypassed.
The highlights were doubles for jockeys John Dawson and Nick Orpwood, as well as local trainer Jimmy Walton.
Orpwood kept things simple on Walton’s Pointing debutant Eastern Storm in the 2m4f Carr’s Billington Four And Five Years Old Maiden Race. Sent straight into the lead, the five-year-old dictated a modest pace from solitary rival Liveyourbestlife (Lois Teal) and after being briefly joined two out was more fluent at the last before sprinting clear up the run-in to score by four lengths.
Eastern Storm is a home-bred half-brother to Frankies Fire, a six-time winner between the flags, and Orpwood said of him: ‘’He’s still very raw and weak for a big horse, and proved to be a bit of a handful as he wasn’t the easiest to steer at times but had plenty left at the finish and I couldn’t pull him up.’’
Orpwood felt privileged to be given the chance to partner former 167-rated chaser Saint Calvados in the 2m4f The Joiners Arms Men’s Open Race and the twelve-year-old duly outclassed his three rivals with the minimum
of fuss, having made the 315-mile journey from Harry Whittington’s Oxfordshire yard on Saturday and enjoyed an overnight stay at Clerk of the Course Nick Hargreave’s farm.
Back in his comfort zone over an ideal trip, the evergreen gelding led all the way and only had to be pushed out with hands and heels for a comfortable five lengths success over oddson favourite Jetaway Joey (Jack Andrews). Whittington said: ‘’It was great to see him finishing off the race so well and I’ll now try to steer owner David Maxwell down the route of the Aintree Foxhunters which is a far more realistic target than the Cheltenham equivalent.’’
Walton’s training double was completed by home-bred mare West Lawn in the Ratcheugh Racing Club NPPA Area Conditions Race. In receipt of 7lb from her two rivals, Charlotte Tailford’s mount was always within a couple of lengths of long-time leader Kingrullah (Laura Fenwick) before taking it up approaching two out and the nine-year-old’s stamina then kicked in as she forged clear to win by ten lengths.
Dawson initiated his third Northern Area double of the season on the Robin Tate-trained six-year-old ex-Irish gelding Great Notions in the 3m Yorkshire Air Ambulance Maiden Race.
However, his task was made much easier when the Gina Andrews-trained debutant Caractacus Potts (Jack Andrews), who was two lengths up and still going well, was badly hampered by a loose horse three out and lost all momentum. Left in front by default, Dawson’s mount kept on strongly in the closing stages to beat the promising Where’s Willy (Nick Orpwood) by three lengths, with Major Champion (Amy Milburn) a further length away in third.
Tate said: ‘’He’s very docile at home but rises to the occasion when he gets to the races, just keeps galloping and will stay even further.’’
Dawson rounded off another good day at the office on Wottinger (bred by Chris Dawson) in the 2m4f Ryecroft Glenton Restricted Race. On his return from a 328-day break, the sevenyear-old Cannock Chase gelding was always travelling well and, after taking over from pace-setting Batsman Jack (Tom ChatfeildRoberts) three out, found plenty in the closing stages to win as he liked by two lengths from last month’s Horseheath Maiden winner Call Me Early (Jack Andrews).
Dawson said: ‘’He’d been working well at home with last week’s Jedforest Maiden winner Trust Me Nate and I knew I had him spot on for his reappearance over an ideal trip.’’
Last season’s form figures under Rules of F3P may not have inspired much confidence in the chances of ex-chaser Morozov Cocktail in the 3m Alncom Conditions Race but the rejuvenated nine-year-old clearly appreciated the drop in class as he ended a losing run stretching back to April 2022 to give jockey William Easterby a 100th British Pointing winner - almost thirteen years after getting off the mark on Gwyre at Dalton Park
Always in the leading pair, he was in command two out and had ten lengths to spare at the line over odds-on favourite Courting Flow (Christy Furness). Easterby said: ‘’I bought him as a foal and have always liked him. He really enjoyed himself today bowling along up front and might well be aimed at the 4m1f Grimthorpe Gold Cup Mixed Open at Sheriff Hutton on April 6.’’
The Ratcheugh Farm course is like a second home to Dundrum Wood who recorded a fifth win in six visits in the 3m Meldrum Construction Group Ladies Open Race under Martha Reeve.
Always prominent and jumping like a stag, Shona Westrope’s evergreen eleven-yearold headed ex-chaser Rath An Iuir (Laura Fenwick) approaching three out and stayed on well down the home straight to score by four lengths, with Ashjan (Joanna Walton) a further length away in third.
The ultra-consistent Dundrum Wood (10 wins and 9 placings from 20 Pointing starts since 9th January 2022) was a fifth winner of the weekend for Gina Andrew’s Warwickshire yard - taking her seasonal tally to 13 from 32 runners, a strike rate of 40.6%.
The weather in December and January has been much better than last season in the Northern Area, with only one meeting abandoned. The 4 meetings held have averaged 80 entries, with a total of 209 runners and a healthy average of 8.04 per race, while the ratio of runners to individual horses entered remains high at 77.12%.
The next Northern Area fixture is the Berwickshire at Friars Haugh, Kelso on Sunday 9th February.
An exciting finish in in the restricted as Wottinger and John Dawson, right, fend off the challenge of Call Me Early and Jack Andrews
Photo: Grace Beresford
IN THE FRAME
Fancy volunteering at a Point to Point Clerk of Course Nick Phillips briefs the weather-hardy team at Cocklebarrow
Photo: Neale Blackburn
Edith Pelham (nearest camera) wins first time out at Sheriff Hutton, with Jack Andrews onboard
Photo: Tom Milburn
IN THE FRAME
Chloe Fox-Pitt and Avalon Dancer (blue, yellow sash) line up alongside their competitors before taking the 138 cm and under Pony race at Cocklebarrow
Photo: Neale Blackburn
A muddy walk for the jockeys in the Maiden Race for 4,5&6-year-olds at Cocklebarrow
Photo: Alun Sedgmore
It was a muddier day for some of the shorter-legged members of the
IN THE FRAME
canine world, at Cocklebarrow Races
Photo: Neale Blackburn
Harry Longsdon and Tiny Dancer focussed their efforts in the 148cm and under Pony race at Cocklebarrow
Photo: Neale Blackburn
IN THE FRAME
Victor Thompson talks to his jockeys Joe Wright and Shay Halton ahead of the maiden race at Alnwick
Photo: Grace Beresford
The Mens Open runners are watched closely at Sheriff Hutton
Photo: Tom Milburn
ON THE CLOCK
The week began with the enigmatic Lift Me Up (116) taking a competitive Hunter Chase at Warwick. This was a high-class renewal with some familiar faces joined by the promising Jeau D’Eau (backed down to favourite receiving weight) and Haydock specialist Lord Du Mesnil, but Lift Me Up did things well, quickening to lead on the run to the straight and holding on well, if idling a little, on the run in. The time was decent if not spectacular and while he deserves a spin at Cheltenham the extended three and a quarter trip coupled with the fact that occasionally he hits a flat spot in his races, might count against him. Nevertheless he has now won 50% of his races. Jeau D’Eau (106) may have faltered on this occasion but is comparatively young and were it not for a mistake three from home would have finished a deal closer. Losses are only lent.
The first of the Classic races of the season, The Howden sponsored Lord Ashton of Hyde’s Cup, provides a significant stamina test – more so this year with the race held in driving wind and rain. Boss Man Fred (116) appeared the only protagonist to truly get home in the conditions but registered a time figure well up to the standard for this race. Whilst he’s been easily brushed aside in the past by rivals with a quicker change of pace, he can win again when conditions are similarly attritional.
Elsewhere there was a deal of success for some promising horses previously highlighted as having clocked above average times. Ideal Du Tabert (102) routed the opposition at Sheriff Hutton being, at one stage, nearly a fence clear with Huw Edwards able to ease down markedly in the closing stages. The merit of his previous second to Mumbo Jumbo had been highlighted at Christmas yet remarkably he was not even sent off favourite here, that honour being bestowed on the Dale Peters’ debutant Line Em Up. Ideal du Tabert’s jumping was again exemplary and there will be great anticipation on his next outing. A rather plain individual Line Em Up (96) was never really at the races, running on steadily from the rear to finish a never dangerous second, but nevertheless showing enough in a relatively fast run event to suggest he has a decent future. He’s by Diamond Boy, sire of Impaire Et Passe and L’Homme Presse.
Earlier on the card Lou Marvelous (108) comfortably carried a penalty to victory in the Restricted. He had gone down only narrowly on his seasonal debut at Alnwick -indeed he has never finished out of the first three in points- and looks capable of further success. Runner-up Sponthus (98) maybe a ten-year-old but has now run up against several useful performers and deserves to find a small opening.
Wottinger (108) was another to build on previous promise when taking the two and a half mile Restricted at Alnwick from the highly thought of Call Me Early (100). The winner has a sprinting pedigree and is always likely to be suited by these shorter distance events.
Small fields dominated at Horseheath with little of note on the clock although Barrington John (98) made mincemeat of some moderate rivals in the Maiden and looks one who can comfortably take the step up to Restricteds. He had been no match for the aforementioned Call Me Early at Horseheath the time before.
There are some high-class horses amongst the entries for this weekend, notably Macklin and Famous Clermont at Milborne. Both hold entries in the Ladies and Men’s Open so it’s conceivable that they might avoid each other but, if so, both will start at short odds. The Ladies looks the easier contest. Pulled up on his seasonal debut, Rocky Creed might prove a value bet in the Restricted while Sixteen Letters should be given another chance in the Hunt Members. Fier Jaguen has his first outing of the season at Garthorpe where he is unlikely to get things all his own way with a race fit Go Go Geronimo in the field, but it will be disappointing if I’m Spellbound fails to deliver the goods in the first. Team Bradstock seem to have found a good opportunity for Southfield Lily at Charing where Taghadoe can take the opening event. He went under by just a neck to impressive Heythrop winner Jullou de Grissay last time. The Men’s Open holds most interest at Askham Bryan with either Gracchus de Balme or Paul Marvel appearing to hold all the aces.
Ideal Du Tabert (Huw Edwards) deservedly broke his maiden last weekend
Photo: Tom Milburn
LATEST RESULTS
SHERIFF HUTTON 25/01/2025
11:45 1. RED OPIUM (GB) Miss R. Howarth 5-2 2. CONQUREDALOFEUROPE (IRE) F. Foster 8-1
3. THE DUBAI WAY (IRE) Felix Barlow 9-2 (6 ran).
12:20 1. LOU MARVELOUS (FR) W. Easterby 7-4F 2. SPONTHUS (FR) T.E.Easterby 16-1
3. KARISMATIK (FR) Miss E. Callwood 8-1 (9 ran).
12:55 1. BALLYDONAGH BOY (IRE) Miss R. Howarth 2-7F 2. MANCE RAYDER (IRE) Miss Eleanor Clark 5-1 3. ABSOLUTE STEEL (IRE) Miss P. J. Brown 9-4 (3 ran).
1:30 1. CAMDONIAN (IRE) C. Furness 4-9F 2. MOVETHECHAINS (IRE) H. Carrington 4-1
3. LARGY SHARK (GB) W. Easterby 7-2 (4 ran).
2:05 1. IDEAL DU TABERT (FR) Huw Edwards 5-2 2. LINE EM UP (IRE) D. Peters 9-4F
3. SCALLOWAY CASTLE (IRE) J. Dawson 12-1 (10 ran).
2:40 1. EDITH PELHAM (GB) Jack Andrews 11-10 2. THE LAST TOOTH (GB) T.E.Easterby Evens 3. LONG TIME LISTENER (IRE) W. Easterby 6-1 (5 ran).
ALNWICK 26/01/2025
12:00 1. EASTERN STORM (GB) N. Orpwood Evens 2. LIVEYOURBESTLIFE (IRE) Miss L. Teal 4-9F (2 ran).
12:30 1. GREAT NOTIONS (FR) J. Dawson 13-8 2. WHERE’S WILLY (GB) N. Orpwood 5-1
3. MAJOR CHAMPION (GB) Miss Amy Milburn 10-1 (10 ran).
1:00 1. MOROZOV COCKTAIL (IRE) W. Easterby 6-1 2. COURTING FLOW (IRE) C. Furness 4-6F
3. FURAX (FR) Joe Wright 8-1 (6 ran).
1:30 1. SAINT CALVADOS (FR) N. Orpwood 6-4 2. JETAWAY JOEY (IRE) Jack Andrews 1-2F
3. PARAMARIBO (IRE) Shay Halton 5-2 (4 ran).
2:00 1. DUNDRUM WOOD (IRE) Miss M. Reeve 2-5F 2. RATH AN IUIR (IRE) Miss L. Fenwick 9-4
3. ASHJAN (GB) Miss J. Walton 8-1 (5 ran).
2:30 1. WOTTINGER (GB) J. Dawson 3-1 2. CALL ME EARLY (IRE) Jack Andrews 3-1
3. SLANEY OPERA (IRE) Joe Wright 3-1 (6 ran).
3:00 1. WEST LAWN (GB) Miss C. Tailford 4-6J 2. KINGRULLAH (IRE) Miss L. Fenwick 4-6J (3 ran).
COCKLEBARROW 26/01/2025
12:00 1. DROP HIM IN (IRE) T. Hutsby 4-9F 2. SFORZA CASTLE (IRE) Samuel Scott 9-4 (3 ran).
12:35 1. JULLOU DE GRISSAY (FR) James King 5-4F 2. GET BYE (IRE) Miss A. JacksonFennell 9-1 3. BAUNMORE JET (IRE) Miss Molly Armytage 9-1 (9 ran).
1:10 1. CHILINLIKEAVILLAIN (IRE) H.Barfoot-Saunt 11-2 2. THE COMPOSEUR (IRE) Miss Aimee Jones 7-2 3. MILADYGRACE (GB) Freddie Keighley 6-1 (10 ran).
1:45 1. SHENTRI (FR) Miss E. Callwood 5-2 2. PRECIOUS BOUNTY (IRE) Miss M. Bealby 5-1 (3 ran).
2:20 1. BOSS MAN FRED (IRE) James King 2-1 2. DIDERO VALLIS (FR) Daniel Williams 4-1 3. BEYOND REDEMPTION (IRE) R. Wilks 7-2 (5 ran).
2:55 1. MOUNT ANGLESBY (IRE) T. McCain-Mitchell 5-4F 2. WHATCHAGOTDER (IRE) D. H. P.Lewis 10-1 3. SCORO (FR) James King 5-2 (9 ran).
3:30 1. LAUREL GIRL (IRE) Miss Madeline Plumb 7-1 2. I DON’T KNOW (FR) T. Hutsby 2-1 3. BALLINOULART (IRE) Richard Upton 4-1 (5 ran).
HORSEHEATH 26/01/2025
12:00 1. ARAMAX (GER) Cian Murphy 4-6F 2. RED MAPLE (IRE) W. Barnett 4-1 3. YOUNG RICH (IRE) Miss Molly Legg 6-1 (9 ran).
12:35 1. CLASHHILL (IRE) A. Chadwick 7-2 2. MAIN STAGE (IRE) Miss G. Andrews 7-4F 3. CHABICHOU DUPOITOU (GB) Miss Ellie Holder 9-4 (5 ran).
1:10 1. FAIRLY FAMOUS (IRE) Miss G. Andrews 1-4F 2. LAW OF GOLD (IRE) D. Peters 2-1 3. LE BOULEVARDIER (GB) A. Loweth 8-1 (3 ran).
1:45 1. BARRINGTON JOHN (GB) B. Gibbs 4-5F 2. JASMIN DES BORDES (FR) Mrs V. Frost 2-1 3. DEL AMITIR (IRE) W. Hickman 3-1 (6 ran).
2:20 1. ALWAYS GROOVIN (IRE) Miss G. Andrews 1-5F 2. AVICHI IN THE PARK (IRE) B. Gibbs 2-1 3. ROUNDITOFF (IRE) Miss Ellie Holder 3-1 (4 ran).
2:55 1. ALL IS TRUE (IRE) Miss G. Andrews 4-5F 2. MOUNT PLEASANT (GB) Cian Murphy 7-2 3. CHAMPAGNE GLORY (IRE) D. Peters 4-1 (7 ran).
FIXTURE LIST 2024/25
AREA FIXTURE COURSE DAY DATE
MID Melton Club Garthorpe Sunday 02 February 2025
W South Dorset Milborne St Andrew Sunday 02 February 2025
SE South East Club Charing Sunday 02 February 2025
Y York & Ainsty and West of Yore Askham Bryan Sunday 02 February 2025
D & C Tiverton Foxhounds Chipley Park Saturday 08 February 2025
MID Brocklesby Brocklesby Park Saturday 08 February 2025
N Berwickshire Races Friars Haugh Sunday 09 February 2025
EA Waveney Harriers Higham Sunday 09 February 2025
W Combined Services Larkhill Sunday 16 February 2025
EA Puckeridge & Essex Horseheath Sunday 16 February 2025
Y Sinnington Duncombe Park Sunday 16 February 2025
D&C South Pool Harriers Buckfastleigh Sunday 16 February 2025
SAND Kimblewick (February) Kingston Blount Saturday 22 February 2025
N College Valley & North Northumberland Alnwick Sunday 23 February 2025
MID Cottesmore Garthorpe Sunday 23 February 2025
W Countryside Alliance Club (Wessex) Badbury Rings Sunday 23 February 2025
WALES Curre & Llangibby Howick Sunday 23 February 2025
SE South East Club Charing Sunday 23 February 2025
WM Duke of Beaufort's Didmarton Saturday 01 March 2025
W South & West Wilts Larkhill Sunday 02 March 2025
EA Suffolk Ampton Sunday 02 March 2025
Y Yorkshire Jockeys Club Charm Park Sunday 02 March 2025
N Buccleuch Friars Haugh Saturday 08 March 2025
EA High Easter Racing Club High Easter Saturday 08 March 2025
W Blackmore & Sparkford Vale Charlton Horethorne Sunday 09 March 2025
MID Pytchley with Woodland Guilsborough Sunday 09 March 2025
WM Sir W.W. Wynn's and Flint & Denbigh Bangor-on-Dee Sunday 09 March 2025
Y Hurworth Hutton Rudby Saturday 15 March 2025
W Quantock Cothelstone Saturday 15 March 2025
WALES Curre & Llangibby Howick Sunday 16 March 2025
D&C Dart Vale & Haldon Harriers Buckfastleigh Sunday 16 March 2025
SM Oakley Brafield on the Green Sunday 16 March 2025
SE Old Surrey & Burstow and West Kent Penshurst Sunday 16 March 2025
MID Belvoir Garthorpe Saturday 22 March 2025
AREA FIXTURE COURSE DAY DATE
MID Pytchley with Woodland Dingley Saturday 19 April 2025
W Seavington Cotley Saturday 19 April 2025
WM Worcestershire Chaddesley Corbett Saturday 19 April 2025
D&C Four Burrow Trebudannon Monday 21 April 2025
WM North Cotswold Paxford Monday 21 April 2025
SM Old Berkshire Lockinge Monday 21 April 2025
WM South Shropshire Eyton on Severn Monday 21 April 2025
W Taunton Vale Foxhounds and Taunton Vale Harriers Cothelstone Monday 21 April 2025
N Tynedale Corbridge Monday 21 April 2025
WM Berkeley Woodford Saturday 26 April 2025
SE Chiddingfold, Leconfield & Cowdray Parham Saturday 26 April 2025
N Fife Pusk Saturday 26 April 2025
MID Quorn Garthorpe Saturday 26 April 2025
D&C Axe Vale Stafford Cross Sunday 27 April 2025
D&C Flete Park Races –Totnes & Bridgetown Racing Co Ltd Flete Park Saturday 03 May 2025
SE Mid Surrey Farmers Godstone Saturday 03 May 2025
W Devon & Somerset South Hill Sunday 04 May 2025
MID Fernie Dingley Sunday 04 May 2025
WM North Shropshire Eyton on Severn Monday 05 May 2025
D&C Stevenstone Vauterhill Monday 05 May 2025
SM Warwickshire Mollington Monday 05 May 2025
Y Zetland Witton Castle Monday 05 May 2025
W Minehead Harriers and West Somerset Holnicote Saturday 10 May 2025
Derwent –Scarborough Races Charm Park Sunday 11 May 2025
Eggesford Upcott Cross Sunday 11 May 2025
Kimblewick (May) Kingston Blount Sunday 11 May 2025
Weston & Banwell and West Somerset Vale Cothelstone Wednesday 14 May 2025 N Haydon Hexham Saturday 17 May 2025
SE Surrey Union Peper Harow Saturday 17 May 2025
D&C Dulverton West Bratton Down Sunday 18 May 2025
SM Grafton Edgcote Sunday 18 May 2025
WM Knutsford Races Club Tabley Sunday 18 May 2025
MID Fitzwilliam (Milton) Dingley Saturday 24 May 2025 Wales Welsh International Ffynnondruidion Saturday 24 May 2025
SM Berks & Bucks Draghounds Kingston Blount Sunday 25 May 2025
D&C Exmoor Bratton Down Sunday 25 May 2025
WM Albrighton & Woodland Chaddesley Corbett Monday 26 May 2025
D&C South Tetcott Upcott Cross Monday 26 May 2025
D&C Tiverton Staghounds Bratton Down Sunday 01 June 2025
D&C Torrington Farmers Umberleigh Saturday 07 June 2025
BY JAKE EXELBY, SOUTH MIDLANDS AREA PRESS OFFICER
TRAINER TALK: CHRIS BARBER
27-year-old Chris Barber is part of Dorset point-topointing’s ‘royal family’, as grandson of the legendary Richard – one of the leading trainers of all time – and cousin to fellow champion Jack. In seven seasons at his previous, Seaborough, base, he saddled over 70 winners between the flags, as well as 2023 Aintree Foxhunters winner Famous Clermont, and gained a reputation as one of the shrewdest handlers of young horses on the pointing circuit.
In September, Chris upped sticks from his home and relocated to Herefordshire, to train pointers from Little Canwood Stables near Woolhope, at a yard purpose-built by property developer turned licensed trainer Clive BoultbeeBrooks. Chris tells me how the move came about. “I met Clive at Buckfastleigh a few years ago, and you couldn’t meet a nicer human being. Ed Bailey (who also buys for Chris) has bought horses for him, so our paths kept crossing. Then, last year, he said, ‘I’ve got a barn for you to look at –would you be interested in training pointers up here?’ and it snowballed from there. We’re riding out about 30 – including Clive’s youngsters – and will have about 20 to run in points this season. All our owners have come with us – they’re a lovely bunch and we’re lucky to have then – but we’ve had a bit of a clearout since last year and I’m hoping my owners will buy replacements – I’m a big believer in something Ed says, ‘Hang fire until the right one comes along, as they’re
easy to buy, but harder to sell!’” While Chris is not involved with Clive’s rules operation, he does look after his landlord’s youngsters, half a dozen of whom are due to school after the pointers. “We broke then in last September,” confirms Chris. “They’re all well-bred and will run for Clive in 2026, some over hurdles, some in bumpers and some will go pointing.”
Chris’ partner, pointing jockey Ella Orttewell – best-known for her wins on Monsieur Gibraltar – moved from Dorset with him and, while currently sidelined with a broken leg, normally rides five lots every day. Another key member of the team is Ed Doggrell, who works for Chris full-time, and has returned to the saddle after a six-year hiatus. “Our staff are a key factor,” says Chris. “Ed puts the graft in, so I’m giving him opportunities. Will Biddick will continue to have the odd ride, but I want to look after the people who help here – and I can’t ride all the horses myself! Good people are hard to find, particular for young horses. It’s like school – if you have a bad teacher, you won’t learn anything. James King is also a big part of the operation, coming in once or twice a week. Chris smiles. “He tells me I’ll have access to him and the door might be opening, as Max Comley’s yard will have fewer pointers this year and Luke Price doesn’t get going until later in the season, when most of our runners will be four-year-olds.”
“It’s been a massive upheaval,” admits Chris of the move. “I grew up in the valley (where he lived and trained), spent my whole life there and knew the gallops like the back of my hand. But there wasn’t the opportunity for growth. The facilities at Little Canwood are second to none and I’ve got a future here. I’m also lucky to have a good group of friends locally, the likes of Stan Sheppard, Richard Patrick and Ed, who’ve helped me a lot. Stan’s Mum Nickie has also been great – ‘Mrs Shep’ and her husband Matt are real characters, incredibly nice people, and very good at what they do – and it would have been more daunting if I hadn’t known anyone.” With many of his owners still based in the Southwest, Chris will continue to frequent the courses in that region but – as he says candidly – “I’ll go wherever we’ll have winners. I was keen to go to Friars Haugh recently, but my owners weren’t. I can understand why they wouldn’t want to travel several hours to go racing. But I’m looking forward to paying more visits to Maisemore Park, a lovely course with great viewing, and Chaddesley Corbett. I also want to explore further north and am hoping to take a team to Brocklesby Park on Saturday week.”
“Clive used to keep his cattle where the stable block is now,” laughs Chris, “While the indoor school (in which I watch
Wolf Walker and Will Biddick complete a Larkhill treble last season
Photo: Tim Holt
Photo: Caroline Exelby
Chris schooling Peter De La Orme alongside James King on Couer D’Alene and Ed Doggrell on Chief O’Hara) used to be a lambing shed! The facilities here are fantastic. I have the use of Clive’s woodchip gallop, round sand gallop, all-weather schooling strip and schooling fences, which you ride through the woods to get to – you can jump round the whole farm without opening a gate. There’s even a cross-country course.”
Talk turns to Chris’ pointers, starting with the four-year-olds. “Peter De La Orme is likely to be my first such runner. He’s sharp and forward and will like a bit of cut. There’s a schooling day at Chaddesley Corbett next week and he, along with most of my 4yos, will go there.” Chris runs through some of his success stories. “Diamond Dealer, who we bought for just £10,000 and sold for £100,000. His part-owner George Rogers has only been involved with two horses – him and Famous Clermont! He’s been slightly disappointing under rules for Ben Brookhouse, but I still think he’s a 130 horse. Then Revels Hill, with Harry Fry and rated 135, and of course Mr Vango (who won the Peter Marsh Chase recently for Sara Bradstock and is a leading Grand National fancy).”
Chris explains his approach to racing 4yos. “You only get one shot, so I don’t like to run them on extremes of going. Some Irish pointers race in heavy ground, but you can pull the guts out of them doing that. You need to leave plenty in the tank (for when they’re sold to race under rules) and, if they have a hard race, they may not want to do it again.” So why does Chris think Irish pointers continue to sell for such higher prices than their British counterparts? “An awful lot more people are doing it over there, so there’s more substance and history. Charlie Poste is doing a fantastic job trying to promote British pointing, but it takes a while to get going. More people have been producing young horses here over the last three or four years and the mentality’s shifting, but the Irish boys put their balls on the line (!) and are buying stores for £70,000-£80,000. I’ve never spent more than £50,000 and usually pay much less.”
“Famous Clermont had been at Seaborough since he was four and is loving the change of scenery and doing different things, like the woods and the various gallops” Chris tells me of his stable star. “He’s bucking and squealing. He’s been an absolute revelation,” the trainer goes on of Famous Clermont’s career. “We never thought we’d get to Aintree, even the season he won. After his victory at Wincanton, where he headbutted every fence, the owners’ were thinking of Cheltenham, but Will said he was an Aintree horse –quick and economical at his fences. We took him to (Will’s father-in-law) Rupert Nuttall, who was phenomenal with him, showjumping him and teaching him respect for his fences. He won the Walrus at Haydock Park, then went to Cheltenham, where he did everything brilliantly, but emptied two out and I thought I’d ruined his chances for Aintree.”
“At Aintree,” concludes Chris, “he found more when Will squeezed him crossing the Melling Road, jumped the last in front and that was it. I’d grown up with granddad winning both Foxhunters (four Cheltenham, one Aintree) and it was great to emulate him and be a small part of family history. As you could see after the race, I was in tears! The main aim is to get back to Aintree this year. I was never happy with him last season, although he won (the Ladies Final) at Stratford. He may run at Milborne St Andrew on Sunday”
James King and Couer D’Alene let off steam in the indoor school Photo: Caroline Exelby
Chris, Ella, Annie the dog and Famous Clermont Photo: Caroline Exelby
Famous Clermont and Izzie Marshall power to victory at Stratford Photo: Neale Blackburn
Among Chris’s other horses, he has high hopes for Wolf Walker – although the promising six-year-old is having the season off – along with a few fellow youngsters. “Jewel In The Park is a 5yo I bought from Ireland and also entered at Milborne St Andrew. Valentin De Maine is another 5yo, by Bucks Boom. He was babyish last year and pulled up in his only run, having looked likely to win at one stage. And Move With The Beat, another possible runner on Sunday, has come back to us from Emma Lavelle – he’s well handicapped under rules but had a couple of bad experiences. I always liked him as a 4yo (when he won two points for Chris) and think there’s improvement to come. He’ll stay pointing this year then go back to Emma’s.”
Chris is clear where his ambitions lie. “To say I want to be champion point-to-point trainer would be wrong. I’d prefer to build a big successful business with young horses, training no more than 40-50 pointers in total, ideally split 50/50, or slightly in favour of youngsters. That’s a nice number to manage with a good team – I’m not very good at delegation!” Chris is firm in his denial when I ask if he wants to take out a rules licence eventually. “I’ve no wish to.
I don’t have that type of owner, and I much prefer to have youngsters for other people, like grandad did successfully for Paul Nicholls, and Will is doing now. I’d like to build for the future with Clive’s yearlings and young horses, maybe as a satellite yard.”
His owners are clearly uppermost in Chris’ thoughts, which is underlined when I ask what he’d do in the PPA hotseat! “We need to make the sport more accessible to owners and get new ones, although,” he admits, “I don’t know how to
achieve it. Prize money is key – maybe you could raise race entry fees and put the difference into that or get better sponsorship. If you can race in Ireland for £1,000, why can’t we do that here? Point-to-point ownership is a really hard sell,” he confirms. “There’s not much left after transport and other costs, even if you win a race, and it’s hard for trainers too – we train our horses the same way as the professional yards but can’t charge the same amount.”
“We’ve got to open the sport to syndicates, Chris opines. The Pendil Partnership (who had the likes of Il Pino and Regatta De Blanc with Will Biddick) is a great idea. We’ve got to make it affordable to young people – buy a horse for £3,000-£4,000 and get 10-12 friends to chuck in a few hundred quid. When our King Roque (owned by the Haggis Bon Bon partnership) was third at Chaddesley Corbett, we had about 50 people at the back of the car and the atmosphere was brilliant. That broadens interest.” And Chris also has firm views on the limited entry passes that owners receive in points compared to under rules. “Surely it’s better to get people through the gate so they engage with our sport?” he asks rhetorically. “Even if you give away free tickets, you’ll make money back with people spending when they’re there.”
We close on a positive note, as Chris enthuses about the sport of pointing that he loves. “I’ve grown up with it and remember going with grandad. Everyone’s hospitable, nobody judges and if your friends have a winner, you celebrate just as much as if you do. Plus it’s a great grounding for young horses – a phenomenal education.”
Chief O’Hara poses for the camera while being washed down Photo: Caroline Exelby
NATIONAL POINT-TO-POINT CHAMPIONSHIPS 2024/25
• Go s Ladies’ Champion Jockey
• Tattersalls Jockey Club Sales Men’s Champion Jockey
• Highflyer Bloodstock Leading Ladies’ Novice Rider
• Highflyer Bloodstock Leading Men’s Novice Rider
• Foran Equine Champion Trainer
• Foran Equine Leading Trainer (6-14 horses)
• Oriental Club Leading Trainer (5 horses or fewer)
• Point-to-Point Racing Company Leading Owner
• Connolly’s Red Mills Champion Horse
In the event of a tie in any category, the winner will be decided by second placings. If it is still tied, third, then fourth placings will decide the winner. Walkovers will again not count towards any National Championship in 2024-25. ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE YOU
