Go Pointing 2024-25 - Volume 13 by GOPOINTING

GO POINTING

NOVICE RIDERS Shine

COVER PHOTOS: 1st UK PTP Winners for – Top Left to Right – Emily Costello & Felix Foster (Askham Bryan College).

Bottom – Left to Right – Molly Griffiths & Samuel Scott (Milborne St Andrew)

Photo Credit: Top row - Tom Milburn/Bottom row - Tim Holt

THIS WEEK’S GRASSROOTS

STORY

THE COMEBACK QUEEN AMBER JACKSON-FENNELL

by Claire Hart, Point-to-Point Correspondent

If a bookmaker had offered odds on Amber JacksonFennell, aged 23, not riding a winner for 615 days following the superb 2022/23 season that resulted in a Novice Women’s Championship accolade and finishing second in the National Championship behind Gina Andrews; I doubt there would have been any takers.

Bobbarelli- an eight-year-old maiden who Jackson-Fennell also trains and fondly refers to as a ‘lunatic’ ended the dry spell in impressive style in the opening two-mile-fourfurlong maiden at Charing in Kent on Sunday. JacksonFennell tells me: “What a relief- a weight off my shoulders, it felt like it was never going to happen again.” The irony of this tale is Bobbarelli, like many of her previous winners was a maiden. By her own admission ‘horsewoman’ rather than jockey is a term she feels comfortable being known as and whilst no winner is easy to come by it is fair to say that several of Jackson-Fennell’s winners have been harder to come by than others. A good day at Charing concluded with Cooldine Bog finishing second in the conditions race, which provided Jackson-Fennell with two good days following Irascible’s fine run to finish second in the Wetherby Hunter Chase on Saturday, three runs also demonstrating her training skills.

Jackson-Fennell is full of praise for Richard Hobson whom she started her race-riding career with and to whom she offers much appreciation. “I went to work for Richard “the ultimate perfectionist” and loved my time there, he taught me so much, how to school and ride work, and gave me rides under-rules in the U.K. and in France.” An association with the Fran and Charlie Poste team really set the race

riding dream sailing when forming a relationship within their thriving operation. Their support was crucial in the bid to win the Novice Women’s title. Having had such a good start one can’t help but assume that barring the inevitable hiccups and bad days along the way that better things were to come. Jackson-Fennell explains: “I am so grateful to Fran and Charlie for the opportunities they gave me, when I went there it was just to have a job, but things progressed and I never dreamt I would achieve what I did. I left Fran and Charlie on good terms, thinking my decision would open up more opportunities and I felt it would be good to have the freedom to gain new connections. I honestly didn’t think it would be this hard, however I don’t regret leaving.”

In addition to aspiring to be a successful point-to-point jockey Jackson-Fennell also trains seven horses, with the help and support of Mum, Bethan from the yard of Roddy and Rose Richmond-Watson at Heythrop near the old pointto-point course at Dunthrop in Oxfordshire; Jackson-Fennell explains, “Mum actually isn’t around much now, she has to work harder than ever to help fund them all. It’s mad, people think we are rich because we have so many of our own, but honestly we are not! If we didn’t have our own I would have nothing to ride, mum and I chose to work hard to support my dreams from day one, we have had a lot of fun but weirdly I do wonder whether it has the opposite effect because people think I am too busy riding my own to ride theirs but I would always put an outside ride before my own.”

Being stuck in the wilderness for nearly two years has given Jackson-Fennell time to reflect, she says: “Everyone needs a lucky break, I have ridden out for a lot of wonderful people

Amber and Cooldine Bog at Cheltenham’s Hunter Chase evening

Photo: Neale Blackburn

but unfortunately it just hasn’t quite worked out, there has been occasions where I have nearly had the ride on a good horse for one of them and then actually the first choice can now ride it, or some people, again not wrongly just prefer a lad. I just need someone to give me a chance.” That in itself is a comment that is so true to so many young aspiring jockeys, many have a tale to tell about the day they got ‘lucky’. The next remark shocked me “I don’t even ring up for rides anymore- rejection is disheartening.”

Jackson-Fennell now works four mornings a week for exjockey Maurice Linehan in his busy pre-training and hunting yard near Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire and spends her afternoons doing her string: “I went to Mossy’s as a second job after riding out elsewhere in the mornings originally but have ended up making it my priority! Mossy has been brilliantly supportive of me, giving me advice with my riding and helping me to believe in myself again. He has a couple to run pointing later on in the season. It works well because he is flexible, it’s so local to my yard and two mornings a week I ride out for any national hunt trainer who may need me in a bid to extend my contacts. In the afternoons I do the pointers at home, Oli Hayes and Ryan Alderman come in to help me ride them out.”

A nasty fall in August 2024 from a sales livery horse left Jackson-Fennell with a grade three lacerated liver and kidney damage and in hospital for a week. She tells me: “The summers never go well for me; I always manage to get injured! I sold 26 horses, mainly ex-racehorses between March and September last year and managed to have my accident from a coloured cob! During my week in hospital, I lost my appetite and luckily it hasn’t ever comeback- I

have never been lighter- I needed lead at the first pointto-point this season. It also gave me lots of time to reflect and realise that maybe new things are on the horizon. I plan to give this point-to-point season a really good go but this could possibly be my last season having horses to train at home of our own, it is financially unsustainable! I also put an incredible amount of pressure on myself, as the owner/ rider/trainer it adds a whole extra level of responsibility, I question everything endlessly when it goes wrong. I am a big self-critic and on a bad day a journey home with me isn’t fun. Mum gets a lot of unnecessary hardship, along with my long-suffering investors Nanny and Grandad but at least she has her long-awaited grey now.” The grey being Saturdays hunter-chase second Irascible.

An interest in the army or the RAF is a possibility one day, “I have explored those avenues and it interests me but for now it is on the backburner.” Just when I think there is nothing more to learn from Jackson-Fennell she reveals another plan “There is a chance I may turn conditional if the right opportunity came along. It had never crossed my mind before, I honestly assumed my amateur career would take off and I was always too heavy but now with my weight easily controlled it is a possibility.” She adds: “I love pointing, I will make sure I enjoy every moment of it, it is like one big travelling circus, the people in it are amazing and I have made friends for life.”

One thing is for sure whichever path Jackson-Fennell chooses will be one she will give her all too. The extraordinary thing also is that a horrible accident could in the end lead to an incredible next chapter. We conclude by agreeing that “everything happens for a reason.”

Bobbarelli and Amber in winning action at Charing

Photo: Siggy Photography

THE POINT TO POINT PODCAST! BRINGING YOU REGULAR UPDATES, NEWS, VIEWS AND DISCUSSION ON ALL THINGS POINTING. AVAILABLE ON ALL PODCAST PLATFORMS. HAVE YOU LISTENED YET?

BY JAKE EXELBY, SOUTH MIDLANDS AREA PRESS OFFICER

VIDEOGRAPHER: JEFF GUYETT

While videographer Jeff Guyett may not have ridden in a race or trained a point-to-pointer, he’s one of the most familiar faces on the pointing circuit, even if many racegoers’ sightings of Jeff are limited to him at the top of a rickety-looking gantry, wrapped up warm against the elements as he tries to focus his camera on a group of horses several fields away! Jake Exelby caught up with him as he was drying out after the recently postponed fixture at Chipley Park to find out how and why a West London boy started filming races in the Devon countryside.

How old are you, where are you from and where are you based now?

I’m 63 and from Hounslow in Middlesex. My grandfather used to walk from there to Hurst Park, a good seven miles, over fields, then catch a punt across the river to the course. My first meeting was aged five, a flat fixture at Kempton.

How did you get into pointing?

When I was eight, we moved to Wembury, near Plymouth. As my parents liked racing, we used to go to Newton Abbot and Exeter. I went to Kilworthy at 16 and, already hooked on National Hunt racing – I used to bunk off school to watch the Cheltenham Festival – I got the bug for pointing too. I used to cycle or catch the bus to Flete Park, our nearest track, then bought a motorbike and started going to more meetings.

How did you get into videography? And, specifically, videoing point-to-points? When was your first fixture?

I was working for the civil service when I saw a video camera for sale in a shop in Plymouth. I thought I’d film races at point-to-points – I’ve still got some of the old footage and it was totally amateur – then people were asking me for copies of the races. I was keen to make a business of it so gave up my job but had to find something to do in the off-season so – after working in a casino for a while – I started filming showjumping, dressage and motor sport.

I still do the latter and have been for over 20 years. I’ve also done concerts, fashion shows, all sorts of weird and wonderful things, but racing always has – and still does –come first. I think my first ‘official’ meeting was the Bolventor Harriers at Lemalla in 1985. I used to make money from sales, but now get paid by the fixtures, and sales are a bonus.

How many fixtures do you cover a season? And how far do you travel?

The most I’ve ever done is 72, but normally it’s about 50. I’ve been as far north as Bangor-on-Dee and used to go to places like Cottenham, High Easter and Horseheath in East Anglia.

Which are the easiest – and hardest – courses to film at?

Places like Buckfastleigh, Chaddesley Corbett and Cothelstone are easiest, because everything’s in sight and relatively close. Milborne St Andrew is tricky, because trees

Most racegoers see this view of Jeffat a cloudless Black Forest Lodge

mean two fences are out of sight, so I need a second camera. And at Larkhill, the horses can get lost in the dip, so you have to keep your wits about you. (Jeff doesn’t mention his beloved Kilworthy, where he has to swing the camera round 360 degrees mid-race!)

You must have filmed in all sorts of conditions. Tell me about some of the worst.

I’ve never had the camera stop, but it’s been close, and I’ve obviously had lots of bad weather. I remember it snowing mid-race at Cotley and I had to give up once at Buckfastleigh when it rained horizontally all day, and the rain was blotting out the camera by the last race – I got through four chamois leathers and a spare pair of boxer shorts wiping the lens! Then there was the time at Lemalla when I had to walk quarter of a mile in the dark in foot-deep mud to get my scaffolding.

And you must have seen some ‘candid camera’ moments over the years…

I’ve occasionally filmed the ground rather than the horses, but those moments have come more in motor racing. I was once interviewing a driver and was told to p*ss off because I was so crap!

One of my funniest moments was at Kilworthy. After they’d jumped about four fences, the heavens opened, and it started hailing ping pong balls. Half the jockeys pulled up and took shelter in the barn and the winning jockey was so cold, she had to be helped off her horse – her face was red-raw.

What changes have you seen over the years filming at P2Ps?

The courses have changed, Some of the fences didn’t have wings and they never used to omit fences – if you couldn’t go round them, you used to have to jump even if there was a jockey or horse down. But while pointing is professional in all but name now, it’s still run by volunteers and a lot of it has stayed the same.

What would you do if you were in charge of the sport?

I’d arrange fixtures so that they don’t clash, but the problem is that you can’t please everyone. Easter used to be horrific – it’s better now but there are still too many fixtures. It’s important to hold on to the Welsh fixtures so we don’t lose that region, but I think more meetings will go (with further restrictions on hunting). We also need to cut costs and centralisation, not just of the infrastructure like fences and running rails, but of doctors and vets should help get better deals.

Which have been your favourite horses?

Phil Grey, a little grey horse, was my first hero in pointing. I saw him win one day at the old Bowden Pillars course near Totnes when he quickened past seven or eight horses between fences. I followed him since then. Frivolity, another who won multiple races, would be a close second.

Which jockeys and trainers do you admire?

There’s only one jockey, Will Biddick – I call him ‘the master’. He’s

Jeff and Sarah are camera-shy at Ffos Las

Jeff and Sarah at the National Awards dinner

just brilliant, not only in his riding, but at looking after horses –he’ll pull up if he’s got no chance. And he’s great in a finish.

Among trainers, Richard Barber was one of those who set the sport on the road to being professional. I think he had two seven-timers, one at Castle of Comfort and one at Lemalla, and I was there both days. There are some great trainers nowadays, but we lose them to rules.

Which are your favourite courses?

I have great memories of Kilworthy. In its old format, you used to turn right before what’s now the final bend and race on up the hill. It’s the oldest course in Devon & Cornwall and footage still exists of racing there in the 1930s.

Flete Park is what you expect from a point-to-point. It gets massive crowds on a sunny day in spring, is in a beautiful setting and they’re normally lucky with the weather. I hate missing it.

What do you enjoy most about pointing?

I love the racing, the horses, the rural atmosphere and the great people – I’ve made so many friends over the years. It’s

in my blood and I’ll never walk away from it. I’ve even been on the fixture list committee.

What are your non-horsey hobbies?

I’m into genealogy. My great-great-great grandfather went to India aged 13 and - like me – he married a Sarah! He survived a mutiny and multiple diseases before coming back to Britain, so I guess I’m lucky to be here.

Where do you see the future of videography in P2Ps?

Well, I don’t think Sarah will take over if I drop dead tomorrow! It won’t be the same, which is worrying. It’s all about money and people won’t want to film unless they’re getting paid, so they’ll be filming races on smartphones. I wouldn’t be in business if it wasn’t for Weatherbys, Goffs and Tattersalls and it’s a lot harder work than you think.

They’re long days – but happy days. I might be soaked to the skin, but I don’t care!

Racing at Kilworthy - Jeff’s favourite course (Carl Evans)

A younger Jeff (on the red bike) with his brother

PREVIEWS

BROCKLESBY

SATURDAY 8TH FEBRUARY 2025

By EMMA FORMAN

One of the spring highlights of the Lincolnshire sporting and social calendar is due to take place on Saturday when the annual Brocklesby races will be held at Brocklesby Park by kind permission of the Earl and Countess of Yarborough.

92 entries have been taken for the 7-race card starting at 12 noon. Entrance is £15 per person with under 16’s free, and at the beginning of the week the going was described as “good, good to soft in places”. Due to the popularity of the meeting last year, organisers are providing additional space for public parking, however, picnic parking close to the action can be purchased in advance through Ticket Tailor. There will be a range of trade stands, hot and cold food outlets and a licenced bar. There will be a party in the bar after racing with live screening of the England versus France Rugby match from 4.45pm.

14 entries have been taken for the feature Open race sponsored by Baillie Haylage. This race may feature a re-match between Ellie Callwood’s mount, Revesby winner Music Drive and the second that day Captain Biggles, who will be ridden by Gina Andrews, who is in form with a hattrick of wins at Garthorpe on Sunday. Other notable entries are David Kemp’s useful Law of Gold who will be ridden by another in form jockey; Dale Peters, fresh from a double last weekend and the top-rated horse in the entries is Gracchus de Balme for Huw Edwards.

Clark Weightman are kindly sponsoring the PPORA Club members’ Conditions race which has also attracted 14 entries. Rosie

Howarth has had a good start to the current season and could head the Yorkshire raiders once again, she could take the mount on Cherry Coward’s Sheriff Hutton winner Red Opium. Another Yorkshire rider, Jack Teal has a chance if he teams up with Mike Dawson’s Golden Taipan who would be a very popular Brocklesby winner. Others to consider include Perfect Attitude and the veteran Perfect Pirate as well as Benefaktor and Buzzard Trix.

Many of these have the option of lining up instead in the Conditions race (Level 3) for 8-year-olds and up, which is being sponsored by DDM Agriculture, and this race sees the highest number of entries with 21. Dale Peters’ 8-year-old Wallace Olinger could still be on the upgrade and may take some beating. Zac Baker may team up with Francesca Poste’s Trevada, the Britten family may run Ocean Drifter and consideration should also be given to Will Easterby’s ride Morozov Cocktail.

18 entries have been made for the Restricted race which is kindly being sponsored by Brigg Office Supplies. This contest promises to be the most competitive of the day with several Restricted winners looking to defy a 5lbs penalty. Kelly Morgan and Ellie Callwood team up with one such horse that fits this bracket in Bride Rovers Abu; expect to see him up with the pace early on. Other restricted winners include Kilfilum Woods for Francesca Poste and Zac Baker and Dale Peters’ Cash or Card. Other good maiden race winners include The Village Way for Alice and John Dawson and Mumbo Jumbo, a convincing Chaddesley Corbett maiden winner for Gina Andrews.

Racing gets underway with the Brocklesby, Southwold & Burton Members, Farmers and

Subscribers race sponsored by Grimsby Roofing Services which has 3 horses entered. Mike Dawson from Grainthorpe has Drumlee Brexit entered, the 10-year-old returns to the track following a year long absence. Phil Lutman from the Southwold has Kostantina set to line up, however the warm favourite is likely to be Boss Man Fred. A winner of an open race in January, rider James King looks like repeating his success in this race last year when riding Just Your Type; the 10lbs penalty is unlikely to hinder Boss Man Fred and this is a much easier undertaking than his other potential engagement in the Open race.

Racing concludes with two maiden races; the first of which is confined to fillies and mares and sponsored by the Jockey Club and Beal Homes. This race has drawn an entry of nine and it could be between Kingston Floss and Miss Tele. In the final open maiden race sponsored by Nunns Isuzu King Roque and Red Letter Day look the most attractive of the horses with form and experience, however there are a number of unraced newcomers to consider such as Gina Andrews’ Nice One Nelson.

Singleton Birch Ltd have kindly sponsored a prize to be awarded to the groom of the best turned out in each race.

The course at Brocklesby is accessed from the B1210 near Humberside Airport and approximately five miles from junction 5 of the M180. Tickets can be bought in advance Select tickets – Brocklesby Races 2025 –Brocklesby Point to Point Course or cash and card on the gate.

TIVERTON FOXHOUNDS POINT TO POINT

SATURDAY 8TH FEBRUARY 2025

By LAUREN REED

As if the weather forecast knew that Chipley Point to Point was on the horizon?! Like every year, Chipley will be a true test of stamina to see home the 3 miles up the very long hill. They have a very strong 7 race card with 94 entries starting at 12pm which includes a very exciting Mixed Open.

Race 1 Members Race

The first race on the card, The G R E Hunt Members Race, looks to have the classy performer, Soldier Of Destiny, back in the Point to Point field, after a good stint for Jamie Snowdon. Reaching a peak rating of 139 under rules, he more recently lost his way and is back with Mark Quinlin, who has been involved with him throughout his career. Lucky Lara comes from the in-form Joshua Newman yard and was 2nd in this race last year. His Own Star for Ron Alford and Stuart Sampson has already had a run this season however the 8lb penalty could pay dividends against Lucky Lara, who has the pleasure of her 7lb mares allowance. If Soldier Of Destiny is back in a good head space, he could be challenging to beat.

Race 2 Mares & Fillies Maiden Race

Far Out West, for Will Biddick, catches the eye in the Jockey Club and Clarke Willmott Mares Maiden Race after finishing 2nd at Larkhill to Crawter, who since has run well in a Restricted. Purchased at Goffs HIT Sale in May, she had a dramatic exit at Dunsmore when running out but can hopefully get off the mark here. The newcomer, Edith Pelham for Gina Andrews, cost £40,000 as a 3 year old and will be an interesting runner but holds entries at Alnwick and Sheriff Hutton which may be easier tracks for newcomers. Star Of Honour for Alan Hill and daughter in law, Izzie, looks to bring some good placed form from Irish Point to Points, having finished 7 lengths behind Jackie Hobbs, who went on to win a National Hunt Flat Race for Harry Derham.

Race 3 Open Maiden

The Tozer Solicitors and AGRII Open Maiden Race has attracted a healthy 21 entries. Ted The Thief was 2nd to King De Palma at Wadebridge two weeks ago and would definitely be in the mix here. Bradley Gibbs knows how to get one ready

and has Barrington John entered after finishing 3 lengths 3rd at Horseheath on New Years Eve. Far Out West could play her hand against the boys and therefore take advantage of her mares allowance in this race opposed to the previous. Radical Optimism and Caratacus Potts, both for trainer Gina Andrews, have brother Jack Andrews booked to ride and no doubt will be classy performers if making their debuts here. A Nice Malbec caught the eye at Chaddesley before unseating and could give Molly Griffiths a first winner in the saddle.

Race 4 Mixed Open

A very strong 12 entries could head to post in The Dilloway and Bosley Mixed Open Race. The anticipation to see the impressive Ihandaya reappear this season would make for a very interesting race if choosing this option over the Ladies Open at Cocklebarrow. After forming a brilliant partnership with Natalie Parker, if winning this, they could have a very exciting spring ahead of them. It won’t be an easy race with the classy Mr Glass entered, who is currently unbeaten in Point to Points. Fighter Allen won the Novice Riders at Wadebridge under promising jockey, Rian Corcoran and could run well again if reappearing quickly. Jetaway Joey looked very useful in his races before heading to the Cheltenham Hunter Chase evening, where he did not look to see out the hill and then looked disappointing when rounding off his season back in Open company.

Race 5 Intermediate

Important Notice looks to head the market in The Exeter Intermediate Qualifier Race. He won the Intermediate at Chaddesley in impressive style, however this was over 2m4f and he now has to lump a 5lb penalty for that win. All Star Boy won at Larkhill this past weekend which would make for a very quick reappearance if heading to post again so quickly. Liberty Rock is 5 from 13 and could run into a place. Bestfriend Barnaby has some very consistent place form for Caroline Robinson and could be another to not be far away at the finish post.

Race 6 Restricted

The Mount Pleasant Inn and Greenslade Taylor Hunt Restricted Race has attracted 16 entries with El Capitaine looking to be one of the picks after winning the Maiden comfortably at the first Wadebridge meeting. Call Me Early has the pleasure of

a 7lb age allowance for the Andrews’ yard and is another to have taken a Maiden race nicely last time out. The very lightly raced Jongleur d’Ainay has not been seen for a year but looked very classy when winning a Maiden at Wadebridge and could give regaining Ladies Champion Jockey, Izzie Hill, another winner. Southfield Scope for Will Biddick, took the Maiden Conditions at Larkhill in December and should be another at the forefront of the market.

Race 7 PPORA Conditions (Level 2) For Novice Riders

The concluding race on the card is The Friends of the late Geoff White and West Country Renovations PPORA Club Members Race. Fighter Allen and The Kings Writ could lock horns again for the third time this season and are both currently one a piece. Doc Carver has taken this race for the past two years for Dennis & Rebecca Pugh, but this renewal could be a lot stiffer. Llandinabo Lad relished the testing conditions at Chaddesley and stormed home victorious under Will Badlan and will be very competitive here. Sidi Ismael went very hard from the front at Wadebridge and just got touched off when it mattered but should be able to run another decent race here. Everything Now for owner/rider Alex Ingram has not been seen for a year but is a solid performer and if fit, will go well.

£15pp, cash on gate. £3 for a racecard or two for £5. Cash bar and hot food and coffee available. Dogs welcome on leads. Gates open at 9.30am. Postcode TA21 0QU.

BERWICKSHIRE

SUNDAY 9TH FEBRUARY 2025

By PETER BURGON

The Northern Area Point-to-Point circuit heads back to Kelso on Sunday 9th February for the Forsyth of Dennysponsored Berwickshire fixture at the picturesque Friars Haugh course where racing has taken place since March 1953.

The opening 3m HPM Cooper (Building & Roofing) Ltd and Press Mains Farm Cottages PPORA Maiden Race at 12.30pm has 14 entries including Where’s Willy, Major Champion, Whatudoing and All Ways And Ever who finished 2nd, 3rd, 5th and 6th respectively behind Great Notions (beaten between two lengths and eight lengths) in the Percy equivalent a fortnight ago. The quartet all have scope for further improvement and should again be in the mix.

Of the others, Norman Sanderson’s mare She Is The Enemy usually runs well here and found only The Village Way two lengths too good in last month’s Jedforest equivalent, High On The Hill has not been seen since finishing fifteen lengths 2nd to Carlenrig on heavy ground at Hexham ten weeks ago, 104-rated Irish hurdler Built BY Rossies was travelling well when brought down at the ninth on his first start for Joe Wright at Askham Bryan last Sunday, while John Dawson’s latest recruit Scalloway Castle showed enough promise when third at Sheriff Hutton to suggest he merits serious consideration.

Built By Rossies and Scalloway Castle also figure among the 8 entries for the 2m4f PPORA Thorburn Group Maiden Race, in which Phantoms Cave is top-rated. He stayed on well from three out when ten lengths 2nd to Trust Me Nate in the Jedforest equivalent in a fast time and is taken to go one better. Chief Wiggum finished twenty-five lengths 3rd to For One Night Only in the Jedforest Restricted on his return from a 22-month break, locally trained Deerstalker was fifteen lengths 4th when unseating at the last in the Jedforest equivalent, while Jack Teal’s unraced Soldier Of Fortune gelding Masterofexpression is related to several jumps winners.

Recent Jedforest Ladies Open winner

Diable De Sivola heads the 9 entries for the 2m4f PPORA Meadowhead Conditions Race but would have to carry 24lb more than he did on that occasion if taking up this option. Trust Me Nate could not

have been more impressive when getting off the mark in a fast time over course and distance last month and is still on an upward curve. The main danger is James Cookson’s evergreen 14-year-old gelding Vivas who shaped well on his reappearance when nine lengths 5th to Diable De Sivola in the Jedforest Ladies Open and this represents a significant drop in grade.

Diable De Sivola (3lb penalty) is much better off at the weights in the 3m Forsyth of Denny Ladies Open Race (9 entries). Jesika Rennie’s mount finished full of running when beating Loughan by five lengths last time and a follow up is on the cards. Of the others, this is one of three options for Vivas who is very versatile as regards trip, Chameron rolled back the years when making all in the Jedforest Scottish Hunts Conditions Race but faces a stiffer task here, Not The Chablis beat Loughermore by three lengths in the Jedforest Grass Roots Riders Conditions Race and would need to improve again in this higher grade, Ashjan kept on well in the closing stages when five lengths 3rd to prolific winner Dundrum Wood at Alnwick a fortnight ago, while last week’s Askham Bryan Ladies Open scorer Bardenstown Lad is also entered at Brocklesby Park, Chipley Park and Higham this weekend.

The 11 entries for the 3m Mountfair Farming Mixed Open Race include the aforementioned trio of Bardenstown Lad, Chameron and Diable De Sivola who are closely matched on ratings, along with dual hurdles winner Shantou Moon who was beaten a maximum of seven lengths in Conditions Races at Hexham and Friars Haugh, and proven stayer West Lawn who deservedly got her head back in front at Alnwick a fortnight ago following solid efforts at Hexham and Alnwick in December.

Loughermore, Not The Chablis and Vivas (10lb penalty) figure among the 12 entries for the 3m Ennova Law NPPA Area Conditions Race in which Eagles Rock looks the one to beat. John Dawson’s mount, an easy winner at Overton and Corbridge last season, wasn’t as fluent over the last three fences as the winner Chameron when going down by two lengths over course and distance three weeks ago and should come on a lot for the run. Of the others, Amma Lord’s sole win came in a Hutton Rudby Restricted on soft ground in March 2023, while Ruby Wyld’s recent acquisition Humps And Bumps finished six lengths 3rd to Not The Chablis at Friars Haugh last month on her first outing for eight months.

The concluding Matthew Lee Joinery Ltd and The Multi Fuel Stove Company Restricted Race has 7 entries including course winners Something Golden and The Village Way. The former came from last to first when opening his account in last season’s 3m Berwickshire Maiden contest but has been beaten a minimum of twenty-five lengths on all three starts this term. After chasing home Slaney Opera at Alnwick in mid-December, The Village Way overcame a slow jump at the last when beating She Is The Enemy over course and distance last month and has scope for further improvement. The quicker the ground the better for Whats The Solution who ran a blinder when only beaten a head by For One Night Only in the Jedforest equivalent on his return from a near 8-month break, while former Luke Price-trained mare Joyzain (5lb penalty) is now with in-form Shrewsbury-based handler Laura Richardson and won’t be making the 500-mile round trip just for a change of scenery.

As usual, the main action is preceded by pony racing from 11.30am. The Wild Plum Escapes 138cm contest has 8 entries, while the Adam and Company Wealth Management 148 cm contest has 9 entries.

Admission is £15 per person including a racecard, with under 16’s free (Cash only).

The Friars Haugh course lies adjacent to the A699, less than half-a-mile west of Kelso, and the post code is TD5 8LT.

SPEED

FIGURES

BROCKLESBY PARK 08/02/2025

12:00 THE BROCKLESBY AND LINCOLNSHIRE HUNTS HUNT MEMBERS, SUBSCRIBERS & FARMERS RACE: Boss Man Fred (IRE) (106)

12:35 THE PPORA CLUB MEMBERS CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 2): Glenmount (IRE) (112) Perfect Attitude (GB) (109) Benefaktor (IRE) (108) Blagthebookies (IRE) (108) Red Opium (GB) (104)

1:10 THE BAILLIE HAYLAGE MIXED OPEN RACE: Gracchus de Balme (FR) (124) Boss Man Fred (IRE) (120) Captain Biggles (IRE) (119) Matts Commission (IRE) (117)

1:45 THE EIGHT YEARS OLD AND OVER CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 3): Salty Boy (IRE) (111) Benefaktor (IRE) (108) Ocean Drifter (IRE) (107) Champagne Glory (IRE) (106)

2:20 THE RESTRICTED RACE: Mumbo Jumbo (IRE) (112) Ask Carla (IRE) (106) Ideal du Tabert (FR) (106) Perryville (IRE) (106) Blagthebookies (IRE) (103) Whats The Solution (IRE) (102)

2:55 THE JOCKEY CLUB MAIDEN RACE, FOR MARES AND FILLIES ONLY: Bean Norty (GB) (63) Doyen For A Gin (IRE) (55) Miss Tele (GB) (55)

3:30 THE MAIDEN RACE: King Roque (FR) (90) Red Letter Day (IRE) (90) Scalloway Castle (IRE) (84) Jardin Carre (FR) (68)

CHIPLEY PARK 08/02/2025

12:00 THE HUNT MEMBERS, SUBSCRIBERS & FARMERS RACE: His Own Star (FR) (101) Lucky Lara (IRE) (99) Raddon Top (IRE) (91) Free The Lion (IRE) (88)

12:35 THE JOCKEY CLUB MAIDEN RACE, FOR MARES AND FILLIES ONLY: Edith Pelham (GB) (92) Far Out West (IRE) (73) River Story (IRE) (61) Middleton Fox (GB) (55)

1:10 THE MAIDEN RACE: Barrington John (GB) (98) Ted The Thief (IRE) (98) I Think He Is (IRE) (80) Doctor Doyen (IRE) (76) Far Out West (IRE) (73)

1:45 THE MIXED OPEN RACE: Acey Milan (IRE) (125) Quintin’s Man (GB) (125) Ihandaya (FR) (121) Jetaway Joey (IRE) (117) Mr Glass (IRE) (117) Fighter Allen (FR) (115)

2:20 THE EXETER RACECOURSE INTERMEDIATE SERIES QUALIFIER RACE: All Star Boy (IRE) (110) Lucky Lara (IRE) (99) Liberty Rock (IRE) (97) Arv Way There (GB) (96)

2:55 THE RESTRICTED RACE: Call Me Early (IRE) (107) Royal Defender (IRE) (96) Tekap (FR) (95) Rue St Denis (IRE) (94)

3:30 THE PPORA CLUB MEMBERS CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 2), FOR NOVICE RIDE RS: The Kings Writ (IRE) (108) Fighter Allen (FR) (105) Llandinabo Lad (GB) (104) Highland Glory (GB) (103)

FRIARS HAUGH 09/02/2025

12:30 THE PPORA CLUB MEMBERS MAIDEN RACE (NWFAA): She Is The Enemy (IRE) (103) Notnowbob (IRE) (84) Scalloway Castle (IRE) (84) Theoldboggroad (IRE) (80) Where’s Willy (GB) (74)

1:00 THE PPORA CLUB MEMBERS MAIDEN RACE: Phantoms Cave (IRE) (84) Scalloway Castle (IRE) (84) Chief Wiggum (IRE) (74)

1:30 THE PPORA CLUB MEMBERS CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 2): Fugitives Drift (IRE) (107) First One d’Ana (FR) (96) Furax (FR) (94) Trust Me Nate (GB) (92)

2:00 THE LADIES OPEN RACE: Not The Chablis (IRE) (122) Bardenstown Lad (GB) (118) Loughermore (IRE) (118) Chameron (FR) (112) Miss Wachit (IRE) (105)

2:30 THE MIXED OPEN RACE: Paramaribo (IRE) (115) Bardenstown Lad (GB) (111) Shantou Moon (IRE) (110) West Lawn (GB) (108)

3:00 THE NPPA AREA CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 3): Not The Chablis (IRE) (105) Loughermore (IRE) (104) Eagles Rock (IRE) (103) Humps And Bumps (IRE) (101)

3:30 THE RESTRICTED RACE: Whats The Solution (IRE) (102) Something Golden (IRE) (98) The Village Way (GB) (98) Joyzain (IRE) (96) Theoldboggroad (IRE) (80)

HIGHAM 09/02/2025

12:00 THE BROWN & CO OWNER-TRAINER CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 3): Quickcharge (GB) (99) First Preference (IRE) (88) The Yellow Mini (GB) (87) Palladium (GB) (86)

12:35 THE BAILEY HORSE FEEDS PPORA CLUB MEMBERS CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 2): Good Source (IRE) (116) Hardline (IRE) (113) Senior Citizen (GB) (104) Powerstown Park (IRE) (100)

1:10 THE CROWN MILLING MIXED OPEN RACE: Hardline (IRE) (125) Drakes Well (IRE) (123) I K Brunel (GB) (119) Bardenstown Lad (GB) (111)

1:45 THE T WOODROW HAY & STRAW SUPPLIES PPORA CLUB MEMBERS CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 2), FOR NOVICE RIDERS: Kayf Hernando (GB) (109) First Preference (IRE) (94) Shentri (FR) (94) Due Reward (IRE) (88) Rhythm Is A Dancer (GB) (86)

2:20 THE FRAMLINGHAM WEALTH MAIDEN RACE: Graveside Lad (IRE) (96) Oka Tsuki (FR) (69) Time To Upgrade (IRE) (49) Shikantsen Enki (FR) (33)

2:55 THE M GAZE WASTE MANAGEMENT RESTRICTED RACE: Largy Pearl (IRE) (108) Quickcharge (GB) (99) Barrington John (GB) (98) Shanes Passion (IRE) (98) Jullou de Grissay (FR) (93)

IN THE FRAME

Summerville Boy sticks his tongue out at the camera at Askham Bryan

Photo: Tom Milburn

Moytier and Anna Johnston at Milborne

Photo: Tim Holt

IN THE FRAME

Zhiguli and Isla John hightail it to the finish in the Conditions (L2) at Askham Bryan

Photo: Tom Milburn

Take All and Sam Scott (1st) Mens Open Race at Milborne

Photo: Tim Holt

Point-To-Point Social Media

POINTING

LATEST RESULTS

ASKHAM BRYAN COLLEGE 02/02/2025

1:00 1. ZHIGULI (IRE) Miss Isla John 4-7F 2. DEEP CHARM (GB) T.E.Easterby 5-2

3. LEGALIZED (GB) Miss Katriona Brown 3-1 (4 ran).

1:35 1. HOLLYWOOD HARMON (IRE) Miss P. J. Brown 7-1 2. RADICAL OPTIMISM (IRE) Jack Andrews 5-4F 3. O’HALLORANS CASTLE (IRE) B. Lovegrove-Fielden 5-1 (7 ran).

2:10 1. BARDENSTOWN LAD (GB) Miss Emily Costello 6-4 2. BALLYDONAGH BOY (IRE) Miss R. Howarth 2-1 3. ROCCO STORM (IRE) Miss P. J. Brown 8-1 (5 ran).

2:45 1. SUMMERVILLE BOY (IRE) T.E.Easterby 11-8 2. PAUL MARVEL (FR) Huw Edwards 4-5F (3 ran).

3:20 1. BARTON SNOW (IRE) Huw Edwards 8-11F 2. CARRIGLUX (IRE) Joe Wright 13-8

3. PROHUS YANK (IRE) Tommie O’Brien 5-1 (4 ran).

3:55 1. TITANIUM BULLET (IRE) F. Foster 11-2 2. BALLYWHATSIT (IRE) W. J. Brown 11-1

3. BENEFACT (IRE) T.E.Easterby 2-1 (7 ran).

CHARING 02/02/2025

12:00 1. BOBBARELLI (GB) Miss A. Jackson-Fennell 16-1 2. PATRICKS HILL (IRE) Z. Baker 4-1

3. BOLBERRY DOWN (IRE) W.Rekert 16-1 (9 ran).

12:35 1. FAME AND CONCRETE (IRE) A. Chadwick 5-2 2. PETITE MIKE (IRE) S. Mead 12-1

3. PENNILESS (IRE) Z. Baker 5-1 (6 ran).

1:10 1. DEFINITE DILEMMA (IRE) P. York 3-1 2. JOY OF LIFE (IRE) W. Hickman 10-1

3. LAGAN VALLEY (IRE) T. Hutsby 6-4F (6 ran).

1:45 1. SOUTHFIELD LILY (GB) Miss L. Bradstock 5-2 2. MONKEY PUZZLE (GB) Miss Mary Ashby 6-1 (3 ran).

2:20 1. EMPIRE DE MAULDE (FR) S. Mead 9-4 2. COOLDINE BOG (IRE) Miss A. Jackson-Fennell 5-1

3. GOUDHURST STAR (IRE) Albert Symonds 6-1 (5 ran).

2:55 1. MONROCCO MOONLIGHT (GB) Mrs I. Hill 2-1F 2. CREAPAPY (FR) W. Hickman 9-4

3. DIAMON DES FLOS (FR) A. Chadwick 5-1 (7 ran).

GARTHORPE 02/02/2025

12:00 1. I’M SPELLBOUND (IRE) Miss G. Andrews 4-11F 2. MORNING SPIRIT (IRE) T. Chatfeild-Roberts 9-4 3. MYLESTOWN UPPER (FR) T. McCain-Mitchell 10-1 (4 ran).

12:35 1. THE HEAD WAITER (IRE) Miss G. Andrews Evens 2. KAVIAR WOOD (FR) Paddy Barlow 10-1 (4 ran).

1:10 1. DESIGNED TO WIN (IRE) D. Peters 2-1J 2. TROJAN DU BERLAIS (IRE) Paddy Barlow 6-1

3. ARCTIC OSCAR (GB) Miss G. Andrews 2-1J (5 ran).

1:45 1. FIER JAGUEN (FR) B. Gibbs 1-2F 2. GO GO GERONIMO (GB) T. Chatfeild-Roberts 7-4

3. OURO BRANCO (FR) J. Wilmot 25-1 (5 ran).

2:20 1. MASTER TEMPLAR (IRE) Miss G. Andrews 1-2F 2. BOTHWELL BRIDGE (IRE)

Miss E. Callwood 13-8 3. JACKS TOUCH (IRE) Dr Belinda Rose 10-1 (3 ran).

2:55 1. HIGHWAY SKYLINE (IRE) D. Peters 11-10F 2. CONSTITUTION GROVE (GB)

Miss G. Andrews 6-1 3. JUST A JOY (FR) Billy Marshall 7-1 (7 ran).

MILBORNE ST ANDREW 02/02/2025

11:45 1. BULLETOFEXPRESSION (IRE) J. Bament 13-2 2. FAR OUT WEST (IRE) W. Biddick 6-4F

3. COUER D’ALENE (IRE) James King 7-2 (9 ran).

12:15 1. JEWEL IN THE PARK (IRE) James King 4-1 2. OFF THE PRESS (IRE) P. Summers 10-1

3. FROGMAN (IRE) Charlie Sprake 5-1 (6 ran).

12:45 1. JEREMY PASS (IRE) Charlie Marshall 3-1 2. PALOMA BLUE (IRE) J. Newman 6-4F

3. ROCKY CREED (IRE) M. McIntyre 7-2 (8 ran).

1:15 1. A NICE MALBEC (IRE) Miss M. Griffiths 4-1 2. IANTHUS MOME (FR) Mrs J. Supple 10-1

3. MILLBROOK LAD (IRE) W. Biddick 5-1 (9 ran).

1:45 1. UP KILLOUGHEY (IRE) Rian Corcoran 5-2 2. BALLINOULART (IRE) Richard Upton 10-1

3. CREEGH NATIVE (IRE) M. McIntyre 6-4F (9 ran).

2:15 1. KING DE PALMA (FR) J. Bament 7-1 2. POSH DUDE (GB) M. McIntyre 7-2

3. TWO IN TUNE (IRE) D. Andrews 33-1 (12 ran).

2:45 1. MOYTIER (FR) Miss A. Johnston 10-1 2. MACKLIN (FR) Miss O. Nicholls 1-2F

3. L’AIR DU VENT (FR) Miss Megan Bevan 14-1 (9 ran).

3:15 1. TAKE ALL (IRE) Samuel Scott 4-1 2. FAMOUS CLERMONT (FR) James King 4-6F

3. DR RHYTHM (IRE) J. Newman 3-1 (7 ran).

3:45 1. KNOCKMOYLAN (IRE) W. Biddick 7-2 2. ALAPHILIPPE (IRE) James King 7-4F

3. GRANGECLARE GLORY (IRE) J. Veysey 5-1 (10 ran).

4:15 1. PUNCHES CROSS (IRE) W. Biddick 6-1 2. SCORESBY (GB) R. David 2-1J

3. EVERYTHING NOW (IRE) Miss Alexandra Ingram 2-1J (10 ran).

REPORTS

SOUTH EAST HUNTS CLUB

SUNDAY 2ND FEBRUARY 2025

By NICOLA DEAN

Sunshine greeted those who made the journey to Charing on Sunday for the first fixture of the season in the South East Area.

Racing kicked off with a maiden race over 2 miles 4 furlongs, which brought the biggest priced winner of the day. Bobbarelli, owned, trained and ridden by Amber JacksonFennell had pulled up on two previous starts this season including the weekend previously. However, he was allowed to lead the field of nine runners from the drop of the starter’s flag and did not see another rival winning the race by twenty-five lengths ahead of Nigel Padfield’s Patricks Hill. The only other finisher was Bolberry Down.

Taghadoe who had been sent off the favourite was in contention until three fences from the finish when Bobbarelli started to extend his lead and then unseated his jockey Seb Mead at the penultimate fence. Dontblamejack was also starting to challenge at the top of the hill on the final circuit but was a faller at the first fence coming back down the hill and hampered and brought down Barrow Brook who had also been starting to make a move. Ewood Park, Lystar du Mazet and Who’s Houdini all pulled up.

The restricted race was the second race on the card and was again run over the shorter 2 mile 4 furlong distance. The six runners were tightly grouped throughout their first full circuit of the course with the favourite Bushtucker Park under Izzie Hill leading the way. The first to come under pressure was Joe Kidd who struggled as the other five increased the pace as they made their way up the hill for the second time. At the top of the hill La Vega Moon also found the increasing pace difficult and started to lose touch on the four rivals ahead of him. As the leading quartet turned down the hill, they were all in with a chance of success but it was Nicholas Wright’s Fame And Concrete who moved to the front. Bushtucker Park, Petite Mike and Penniless all tried to stay with Fame And Concrete but approaching the penultimate fence he had a three length advantage and both Bushtucker Park and Penniless were weakening. Petite Mike continued to try

to challenge but could not pull back the advantage Fame And Concrete had gained and a safe jump at the final fence secured the victory for Fame And Concrete. Petite Mike took second with Penniless six lengths further back in third and Bushtucker Park a further six lengths behind in fourth. La Vega Moon also completed, but Joe Kidd pulled up before the final fence.

The mens open race was the first race run over the three-mile distance and provided victory for Ella Gillings trained Definite Dilemma. This was another race where all six runners were in contention until they started to climb the hill for the final time. Sam Barton started to lose touch climbing the hill for the final time and pulled up, and Trappist Monk also started to fade towards the top of the hill leaving Lagan Valley, Joy of Life, Definite Dilemma and Kilbrew Boy to battle it out. The quartet remained together until the third fence from the finish when Phil York asked Definite Dilemma to increase the pace and opened up a fourlength advantage. By the final fence the only danger to Definite Dilemma was his final obstacle which he cleared well to win by eight lengths. Joy of Life took second three lengths ahead of Lagan valley with Kilbrew Boy in fourth. Trappist Monk completed in fifth.

The ladies open saw the smallest field of the day with only three runners facing the starter. Lilly Bradstock aboard Southfield Lily set the pace from the drop of the flag and this proved to be too much for Monkey Puzzle and Mary Ashby who lost touch with his rivals as they turned at the top of the hill for the final time. The battle looked to be on between Southfield Lily and Soldier Unknown with Izzie Hill in the saddle, but a mistake at the first fence coming down the hill saw Soldier Unknown unseat Izzie leaving Southfield Lily clear of Monkey Puzzle. Having negotiated the final three fences with ease, Southfield Lily took the victory with Monkey Puzzle completing to take second.

The level three conditions race for grassroots riders saw five runners declared and again throughout their first complete

circuit they were tightly grouped together. However, Westhill who had been sent off the favourite suffered a slipped saddle which resulted in his jockey unseating at the ninth fence reducing the field to four. Once again as the four runners reached the top of the hill for the second time there was an increase in the pace from Cooldine Bog and Empire de Maulde which neither Goudhurst Star nor Carrolls Cottage could respond to. As the leading duo made their way towards the third fence from the finish Empire de Maulde started to pull away from Cooldine Bog and was another comfortable winner with a twenty-length margin over Cooldine Bog. Goudhurst Star tried to close in on Cooldine Bog, but had to settle for third with Carrolls Cottage completing in fourth.

The fixture ended with the maiden race over three miles and provided Izzie Hill with a winner as Monrocco Moonlight made all and justified favouritism with the bookmakers to win by two lengths ahead of Creapapy who finished half a length ahead of Diamon des Flos. Windgap Hill struggled going up the Charing Hill on the first circuit and was losing touch coming back down the hill, when he unseated at the tenth fence. Elder Statesman was in contention but made a mistake at the ninth fence losing a lot of momentum and was pulled up at the next fence. The other two runners still held a chance turning down the hill for the final time, but once Monrocco Moonlight, Creapapy and Diamon des Flos started to race for the finish, both Blue Topaz and Time To Upgrade lost touch and both were pulled up.

SOUTH DORSET

SUNDAY 2ND FEBRUARY 2025

By KIRSTY BOUTFLOWER

The South Dorset meeting at Milborne St Andrew is considered by many to be the jewel in the crown of Wessex meetings and with the sun shining, a large crowd gathered

to watch 89 horses perform across the chalk downland. There were first time wins for riders Molly Griffiths and Sam Scott, doubles for Jake Bament and Will Biddick

A Nice Malbec and Molly Griffiths fly high to take the Seven Years Old & Over Maiden (Div 1)

Photo: Tim Holt

and a couple of pointing hotpots turned over at odds on. With so many declared runners, races were divided and it resulted in a 10 race card with both maidens split as well as the final Conditions race.

Who doesn’t like A Nice Malbec when it’s on offer and certainly the Griffiths family will be the biggest fans after their horse was pushed six lengths clear of Ianthus Mome in Division 1 of the older maiden by daughter Molly, who was recording her first winner on only her third ride. Left in the lead early on when favourite Free the Lion unseated, Molly who works for the BHA Safeguarding team, was determined to make amends for her own unseat at Chaddesley Corbett the time before. It was also a first time winner for trainer Amie Treacy now husband Gordon has taken out a full licence from their Rathkenny Stud. A relieved owner Sarah Griffiths explained, “Both Roddy and I rode as amateurs and we wanted to find a horse for Molly to have a bit of fun on. Gordon found A Nice Malbec in Ireland for us from Dusty Sheehy and this is his second run for us.”

The second division of the older maiden went to upcoming young rider Rian Corcoran on the family owned Up Killoughey. Rian rides this course particularly well having taken an Open on their other horse Itacare last season and dropped his mount to the rear before cruising past the field to take up the running sooner that he would have liked. A mere 12 lengths between him and his nearest pursuer, Rian explained “He was a little too settled going out for the final circuit so I gave him a slap and he took off!” Owned by Mike Tozer, neighbour to the Corcoran family, Up Killoughey was bought privately from Sam Curling by Liam who felt he was a big horse who had just needed time. As a result there were no immediate plans for him and he wouldn’t be over-raced this season.

Jake Bament kicked off the day’s proceedings with an upset in the first as he flew up the hill on Bulletofexpression to pass favourite Far Out West who had looked a certain winner rounding the bottom bend. With several runners caught out by the dead drying ground, it had the opposite effect as Jake gave his horse a slap over the last and he picked up with immediate effect to win by 2 lengths. Trained by Stuart Sampson, Bulletofexpression is owned by

Alison Harris and her daughter Vicki. Initially purchased with great friend Martin Tucker, he had sadly passed away recently and so this was the first time running in Alison’s colours. Jake’s second winner King of Palma came in the Restricted after he managed to collar long-time leader Posh Dude on the run-in to record a narrow victory. Owned by Carol Lawrence and trained by her daughter Megan, King of Palma isn’t the biggest and was bought by connections three weeks after he had run at Bratton Down.

Two runs ago, Jeremy Pass contested the infamous Pardubice so it was a fair drop in class to run in the Hunt Members here. With course winner and favourite the classy Paloma Blue returning after an absence and looking in need of the run, jockey Charlie Marshall seized the initiative and drove his mount clear for a seven length success over a fading favourite. Running in the Valentine colours of Joy Slater, trainer Hannah Clarke explained the connection came about after Charlie had won the Maryland Hunt Cup and this was the first time the horse had run for them having been trained by Joe Davies previously when Charlie had ridden him at Exeter. A wind operation had clearly benefitted the horse who would now hopefully be targeted at the Cheltenham Festival Hunter Chase.

The two Open races featured odds-on favourites but both were over-turned. In the Ladies Open Moytier was allowed to dominate and under reigning Lady Novice Champion, Anna Johnston this proved decisive. Olive Nicholls on favourite Macklin engaged the turbo button with two to jump but the winner had flown leaving punters with burnt fingers. Moytier had won a handicap chase at Wincanton last February for trainer and part-owner Syd Hosie. Now with Annie Bacon, he was unlucky to unseat Anna on his first start for her at Larkhill and Willem Van Der Horst the other partowner of Moytier, felt he could run next at Charlton Horethorne. The second upset occurred in the Men’s Open when Sam Scott recorded his first winner on his parents Take All, trained by Myles Osborne. Unfancied when staying on well to take second in a hunter chase at Taunton last month, Take All was well-placed in third under Sam for much of the race before collaring a tiring favourite Famous Clermont up the stiff Milborne finish. Sam’s parents Terry and

Martine Scott bought the horse from Shark Hanlon for whom he had won three times and decided to send him to Myles to train as he is local to them. Twenty year old Sam has been with Ben Pauling for 2 years and would like to turn professional eventually.

Current Champion jockey James King and trainer Chris Barber teamed up when Jewel in the Park took the second division of the young horse maiden for enthusiastic owners, the Always Broke Partnership put together by Lucy Doggrell, mother of jockey Ed who would have ridden the winner had he not been stood down for a recent concussion. Described by his trainer as “a very, VERY nice horse,” he looks like he will have plenty of improvement in him and is one to keep an eye one. The syndicates name comes from the family’s Brokewood Farm but Lucy did admit that if you own horses “you are always broke anyway!”

Former Champion jockey Will Biddick left it until late to ride a winner and then bagged the last two after the Conditions Race was divided. Knockmoylan had been retired, was set to be retrained and sold on as a hunter but he had other ideas and so his previous owners were asked if they’d like him to be put back into training. Now with Harry Ryall, he won easily by 10 lengths from favourite Alaphillipe. This was a good training performance as the horse had been absent for over two years and he could be one to follow in this form. The second division produced a tight finish when Punches Cross and Scoresby fought it out with the former prevailing. Despite a Stewards enquiry, the game 12yo kept the race for loyal owners, Mike and Heather Sweetland and trainer Danielle Kenealy.

THE YORK & AINSTY AND WEST OF YORE

SUNDAY 2ND FEBRUARY 2025

By MARK ELLIOT

The York & Ainsty and West of Yore point to point meeting on Sunday 2nd February was blessed with a beautiful winter’s day and a large crowd was treated to some good racing hosted by Askham Bryan College.

Star turn of the afternoon was Summerville Boy, the easy seven length winner of the Noble Foods Mens Open ahead of useful rival Paul Marvel (Huw Edwards). Having had a stellar career racing under rules for Tom George and latterly Henry De Bromhead, the highlight of which was winning the Supreme Novices Hurdle at the 2018 Cheltenham Festival, he is now in the care of Charles and Emma Clark who farm just 20 minutes from Askham Bryan. “We are true amateurs training our own point to pointers. We’ve had success in the past with the likes of Black Op but we’d lost a bit of confidence lately due to a lack of success” said a clearly delighted Charles afterwards. “ he’s such a lovely horse and when we talked with Henry De Bromhead at the sales he told us that when his son, Jack, was tragically killed in a pony racing accident,the comfort he got from Summerville Boy was one of the things that helped him get through, such is his kind nature” A quick reappearance at next Saturday’s Brocklesby meeting is under consideration for the winner.

The Haighs Farm Shop Ladies Open was a competitive contest which saw Bardenstown Lad and Emily Costello come home strongly ahead of the ever-consistent Ballydonagh Boy (Rosie Howarth). The winner is trained at Tern Hill in Shropshire by Sarah Loughnane on behalf of the Stay Between The Ditches Syndicate. Following the trophy presentation, the winning jockey was in a rush to catch a flight home to Ireland from Birmingham Airport, having travelled over in the day for just the one ride. “I’ve ridden three winners previously” said Emily “one in point to points and two under rules. The hope has been to get him qualified for the St James Place Festival Challenge Cup Hunters’ Chase but it has been hard going so far getting it done”.

Another winner with his sights set on higher

targets was Barton Snow who cruised home 12 lengths clear of Carriglux (Joe Wright) in the Noble Feeds Intermediate race. Owned by the MMI Partnership and trained on their behalf by Joe O’Shea, the winner was sent off a hot favourite and never gave his supporters much to worry about. Having won at Knightwick in early season, Barton Snow was then beaten into second last time out at Chaddesley Corbett of which winning jockey Huw Edwards said afterwards “He ran very well when beaten there that day as the testing ground wasn’t ideal and he preferred the better going today”, Barton Snow will be looking to add to Joe O’Shea’s record as one of the leading Hunter Chase trainers of the day and he confirmed afterwards that the Intermediate Final at Cheltenham and Restricted Final at Stratford are both being targeted.

The opening contest of the day was the Askham Bryan College Yorkshire Area Conditions race (Level 2). Having run third in a good contest at Friars Haugh last time out the Richard Morris Racing Club owned Zhiguli was made hot favourite and he lead from pillar to post under Isla John, repelling the persistent challenge of Deep Charm and Tom Easterby by two and a half lengths. “The plan was to go out in front and let him enjoy himself” said Isla afterwards, which he certainly seemed to be doing. Winning trainer Cherry Coward reported that former stable jockey Jack Andrews, who is now based down south, had advised them to buy Zhiguli. “He’s a good old soul” said Cherry of the winner “Jack thought all he needed was sweetening up”.

The Bailey Livestock Maiden race over the shorter distance of two miles four furlongs featured the only runner sent up from the top stable of Gina Andrews in Warwickshire. Despite making his racecourse debut, Radical Optimism (Jack Andrews) was sent

off clear favourite and he travelled like the winner for much of the contest in behind leader Hollywood Harmon however, when they turned for home the favourite ran out of petrol and his rival drew clear again for a decisive victory. Hollywood Harmon (Pippa Brown) was a very popular local winner for the Wilson family being owned by dad Cooper Wilson, known to many through his book “The True Story Of The Yorkshire Horseman” and trained by son Alexander who stables his small string at Foulrice Farm at Brandsby near York, from where Peter Beaumont sent out Jodami to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup. “I bought her to support Alexander who is now in his fourth season training” said a delighted Cooper whose own father Tommy was huntsman of the York and Ainsty pack for many seasons “she only cost me 1000 guineas out of Sam Englands’ yard and she’s a mare with a really big heart”.

The concluding race of the day was the Holmefield Farm Services Maiden (no weight for age allowances) and it provided another hugely popular winner when the Golden Syndicate’s Titanium Bullet winged his way round under 18 year old Felix Foster, galloping home strongly twelve lengths clear to give him a first ever winner on his fourth ride. Based at Menston near Ilkley, where Felix trains his two point to pointers, Titanium Bullet had come across from mum Jo who trained him under rules. “He was placed a few times for mum and has always had ability” said a delighted Felix “from my four rides so far I’ve had a third then a second and now a winner. The plan is to keep him point to pointing now”

The next meeting of the Yorkshire Area season is the Sinnington fixture (Helmsley Races) in the beautiful setting of Duncombe Park on Sunday 16th February.

Barton Snow and Huw Edwards

Photo: Tom Milburn

MELTON HUNT CLUB

SUNDAY 2ND FEBRUARY 2025

By NICO MORGAN

The first of this season‘s Garthorpe fixtures took place on Sunday when the Melton Hunt Club hosted a six race meeting on good to soft ground. There was a treble for Gina Andrews and a double for Dale Peters, both as trainer/jockey.

Clerk of the Course Jim Culloty was universally praised for producing ground which was exactly as he had reported it would be, despite the recent adverse weather conditions. Garthorpe does have its own micro-climate and should never be judged on conditions even a few miles away.

Many-time Champion Jockey Gina Andrews completed her treble in the Browne Jacobsen Ladies Open on Master Templar, after one of the best finishes of the day. Despite going off as a very warm odds-on favourite, Mrs Hayward’s ten-year-old by Robin des Champs, always had the Kelly Morgan-trained Bothwell Bridge (Ellie Callwood) for company. The two jumped the last together, but Andrews found just enough in Master Templar to finish the job and record the horse’s 12th win from 17 starts. “Master Templar has been a great horse for Jenny Hayward. He’s a really tough performer and a three-runner field wasn’t ideal for him, he’d much prefer a big field, but he has loads and loads of ability and just keeps winning,” Gina said. Jacks Touch (Dr Belinda Rose) finished third.

The Garthorpe Veterans Men’s Open, likewise, presented an interesting duel between two established winners between the flags. Fier Jaguen, trained and written by Bradley Gibbs, needs little introduction with its 15 wins in points around the country. Likewise, Go Go Geronimo, locally trained by Kelly Morgan for John ChatfeildRoberts, is a seasoned campaigner who has been going very well recently. In the end, though, Fier Jaguen was just too too much horse for any of the challengers, winning by a distance in impressive form. Bradley Gibbs said, “The problem I have is that he really likes to go right-handed and therefore excels on courses like Garthorpe.

The big tracks with finals later in the season all tend to be left-handed and he really doesn’t go well on those. We will continue doing points for the time being”.

The first race of the afternoon was a level two conditions race sponsored by the High Sheriff of Leicesteshire John ChatfieldRoberts, which saw four horses come to post. The Old Meltonians Syndicate’s tenyear-old Morning Spirit (Tom ChatfeildRoberts) made an impressive debut between the flags and made much of the running. It was only with two to jump that I’m Spellbound, owned by the Signy and Marriage families and trained by Gina Andrews, challenged and eventually won by a single length. Mylestown Upper was some way behind in third under Rob Cundy. Gina said, “I’m Spellbound is a really classy horse and got the job done nicely. He’s going to carry on going through the grades and a hunter chase is probably on the cards towards the end of the season.”

The second race was a maiden race for four and five-year-old horses, sponsored by Tattersalls, and was won in fine style by Gina Andrews on The Head Waiter, making an early name for themselves with a 35-length victory over Kaviar Wood (Paddy Barlow), the only other finisher of four starters. “He’s a horse that we have always thought a lot of and to be honest it was no surprise to see him go on and win like that yesterday, given how his homework has been. We gave him a bit of time last year and he’s put up a good performance today”, Gina Andrews said.

We’ve been lucky to see arguably some of the best intermediate horses around in the Midlands area already this season, the first of which was Wallace Ollinger, which won the Intermediate at Revesby and looks to be an excellent prospect. The William Hercock Intermediate Race at this meeting was won by half a length by Designed To Win (Dale Peters), another very good looking prospect. The six-year-old by Getaway was challenged to the line by the Andrew Pennock-trained Trojan du Berlais (Paddy

Barlow), who like the winner, had tracked long-time pace-setter Crocodile Lounge (Bradley Gibbs) until the final straight. “Designed to Win is a very progressive sixyear-old. I think he’s very good. He reminds me of a young Law Of Gold with a bit more class. If he has half that career he’ll be some horse,” jockey Dale Peters said.

Dale Peters was also in the Winners Enclosure after the last of the day, a traditional 3-mile maiden with seven runners, sponsored by Richard Clowes Property Search. This time it was Highway Skyline who came home in impressive style to win by 26 lengths after his previous educational run at Horseheath. This looks like one to watch this season. Dale said, “Highway Skyline is a very tough horse. I didn’t get him until early December but he has fitted straight into our string. Stays really well and will be a lot of fun for great supporter of mine Toby Hunt.”

The next fixture in the Midlands Area is at Brocklesby on Saturday 8th February, where there will be seven races contested by over 90 entries. The going there is currently good to soft, soft in places and you can buy your tickets online via the Midlands Pointing website or on the gate on the day. At the time of writing the forecast is dry up to and including the fixture.

TheKennel Club DNA testing kitsmakeDNA testing simple.Order yourstoday by visiting TheKennel Club website.

Visit TheKennel Club websitetoﬁnd out more thekennelclub.org.uk /kcdnatesting

ON THE CLOCK

In a post-race interview last season, David Kemp opined that Designed to Win had the potential to be the best horse he has trained. High praise indeed from the multiple Horse and Hound Gold Cup winner. That dream remains alive following Designed to Win’s (116) win from a small but select field in the Melton Hunt Club Intermediate. Confidently ridden in rear until making a move on the run to the downhill fence, he came to challenge at the last and quickened to lead close home. Although the winning margin was under a length, he always looked to be holding the upper hand over gallant runner-up Trojan de Berlais (114) and won a shade cosily. He must be followed. This was a welcome return to form for Trojan de Berlais, so impressive on his first two starts last season at Horseheath. A return to that course may prove fruitful.

Earlier in the day I’m Spellbound (120) was fully expected to land the odds in the Conditions Level 2 but was given a much stiffer task than was perhaps anticipated by pointing debutant Morning Spirit (116). Far from underperforming however, the figures suggest I’m Spellbound needed to be close to his best to defeat Kelly Morgan’s charge, a horse latterly rated in the 120’s and rated a good deal higher in his prime. I’m Spellbound jumped a little stickily on occasions and maybe possibly better suited to a left -hand track but this was his seventh win from twelve starts and he is ready for Open company now. The runner-up is an uncomplicated sort and should have little trouble in finding opportunities, although it worth noting that he has never been risked on ground faster than Good.

There were shocks a plenty on Milborne St Andrew’s bumper ten race card. While there may have been valid excuses for Macklin’s defeat in the Ladies (given an injudicious ride in a race run a relatively moderate pace) that may not be the case with Famous Clermont’s abject surrender in the Men’s. Always an enigmatic sort, these traits have come more to the fore in recent seasons and punters would be well advised not to take short odds about him in future. That’s not to take too much away from the eventual winner Take All (118) who would have given Gracchus De Baume something to think about if not running out at Knightwick and who had emerged as the best horse at the weights on his hunter chase debut behind Angels Breath at Taunton. Take All is worth an entry for the Coronation Cup.

There were four maidens on the card – the fastest of which was Jewel in The Park’s (89) victory in one of the two and a half milers. He had shown some promise in Irish points over the standard three miles and fairly stormed home here suggesting he can take a Restricted in time.

The day concluded with a game victory for Punches Cross (110) in the second division of the Conditions race. A consistent sort, he clocked a figure some three pounds higher than his form assessment and looks booked for further success.

At Askham Bryan, The Men’s Open held most interest at the start of proceedings and did not disappoint – Summerville Boy and Paul Marvel having a good tussle before the classy ex-Rules performer Summerville Boy exerted his superiority in the straight. The resultant time figure was underwhelming however and of much greater interest to clock watchers was Barton Snow’s (112) performance in the following Intermediate. He registered a figure some seven pounds higher than his form assessment – particularly meritorious as he was always going easily and won hard held. A neat sort with a consummate jumping technique, Barton Snow can run up a sequence.

There should be further success too for Empire de Maulde (108) who came home unchallenged in the Grass Roots riders Conditions race at Charing. He was rated in the 130’s under Rules and is not devoid of pace having performed creditably over distances a short as two miles in the past.

One of the potential highlights of this coming weekend is the re-appearance of Mumbo Jumbo in the Brocklesby Restricted where he could renew rivalry with Ideal Du Tabert – a ready winner since. Gracchus de Balme is an eye-catching entry in the Men’s Open while Salty Boy might represent some value in the Eight-years-old and over Conditions – he had some stiff tasks last year. It’s difficult to know who will turn up at the re-arranged Chipley Park fixture as several initial entries have run subsequent to its original postponement but Call Me Early makes appeal in the Restricted whilst at Friars Haugh The Village Way can follow up his last time win at the course. Some disappointing sorts such as Largy Pearl and Graveside Lad head the figures at Higham so preference is for course winner I K Brunel in the Mixed Open.

One to watch this weekend - Mumbo Jumbo

Photo: Photo JTW Equine Images

FIXTURE LIST 2024/25

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

N Lanark & Renfrew and Eglinton Overton Saturday 22 March 2025

SM Cirencester Races Siddington Saturday 22 March 2025

W Wilton Milborne St Andrew Saturday 22 March 2025

AREA FIXTURE COURSE DAY DATE

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

Y Derwent –Scarborough Races Charm Park Sunday 11 May 2025

D&C Eggesford Upcott Cross Sunday 11 May 2025

SM Kimblewick (May) Kingston Blount Sunday 11 May 2025

W Weston & Banwell and West Somerset Vale Cothelstone Wednesday 14 May 2025

AREA FIXTURE COURSE DAY DATE

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

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 CAN