IMPORTANT NOTICE!
JOSH MOVES 6 CLEAR IN MENS TITLE RACE
VOL 14 14 / FEBRUARY/ 2025
COVER PHOTO: Important Notice & Josh Newman - Intermediate race at Chipley Park
Photo Credit: Tim Holt
THIS WEEK’S GRASSROOTS STORY
SISTER ACT
LUCY AND EMMA BROWN
by Claire Hart, Point-to-Point Correspondent
A family double was enjoyed at Friars Haugh in Scotland on Sunday when sisters Lucy and Emma Brown rode a winner apiece within 40 minutes of each-other at their local track. Chameron produced a solid performance and justified favouritism when landing the Mixed Open under Emma and Amma Lord won the Conditions race under a tactical ride from Lucy.
Home is in the Scottish borders near Hawick where Lucy, aged 24 is based running the yard, whilst Emma aged 21 is a third-year student at Newcastle University studying Agricultural Business Management.
The girls, who were brought up surrounded by horses both admit to being in the saddle before they could walk, Emma tells me: “We did pony club, hunting, I had a real passion for showing and working hunters. Lucy ponyraced, my interest in the racing didn’t really happen until I led Lucy up at the races and decided I wanted to have a go!” Lucy continues: “I love racing, I worked for Pete and Niff Mason whilst at the Royal Agricultural College at Cirencester, I spent more time at the yard than at college, I loved it.”
Chameron, whose illustrious career peaked with an official rating in the mid 140’s when trained by Paul Nicholls as a young horse has proved a most suitable partner for Emma this season with Sunday being their second win together. Emma tells me: “I ride out for Jacqui Stephen, I had bought a horse in May to ride but sadly we lost him. Chameron was set to retire but Jacqui kindly suggested we point-
to-point him and I could ride him. I feel very lucky, it is so kind of them. He is a steering job, He just does it.” Asked of future plans Emma adds: “I think we may go back to Friars Haugh- go for the treble!”
Lucy’s winner, a career twelfth, was on Amma Lord, who she also trains. “He only came to me about six weeks ago from the owners, they have done all the hard work.” Lucy is currently working at home running the yard whilst also trying to ride out a few mornings per week in other yards. She tells me: “We have a few youngsters, holidayers, hunters and the five pointers, I couldn’t do it without the help of Emma when she is home.” In December Lucy’s own horse Rufio made headlines when galloping four miles on the road having unseated her at Musselburgh. “Rufio is a problem child! I bought him at the sales having done little research and we soon realised he was far from ideal for a novice jockey; however; we persevered and he was amazing when we got going. He won me a couple of races with the help and guidance of Pete and Niff but sadly got an injury and had a lengthy absence. Following that I decided to put him in training with Gary Rutherford and see how we got on under-rules. I can laugh now but all in all it was an expensive experiment for me to fall off and for him to gallop four miles down the road! Luckily, he is fine, he came home and is going to run soon in a pointto-point.”
Both girls make it clear that they love point-to-pointing and neither have desires to turn professional. Emma who is in her final year of her degree says: “I love pointing. In
Lucy and Emma after Chameron winning and Annie Magic (3rd) at the Jedforest
my gap year Mum and Dad were incredibly supportive and I had three to run at home. I really got the bug. I intend to go to Australia when I finish university so I will miss next season.” Giggling she follows this up by saying: “After that I suppose I ought to get a proper job to fund my pointing hobby.”
Lucy’s interest in race-riding stemmed from an association with Phillipa Shirley-Beavan. She explains: “I went to help out aged 15 and through her rode Sorcier on whom I had my first three winners. I got a lot of stick, I was useless and lots of people claimed I shouldn’t be doing it- it took me a long time to get going. I owe a lot of thanks to Pete and Niff Mason as they helped me so much and changed my riding style. I schooled a lot for them and they taught me everything.” Improvement and success has followed and gaining her Category B license has seen her have a few rides under-rules against the professionals, albeit on her own horses but has enabled herself to be in a position to be noticed. A quiet hunger is clear within our chat and if opportunity came along for more outside rides it would be grasped in both hands. “I have thought about turning Conditional, but I have decided I would prefer to stay in the amateur ranks and try to be as good as possible and be successful.”
A strong sisterly bond is evident. Lucy explains: “We are so competitive when we race together, the first time Emma won on Chameron at the last Friars Haugh meeting I was third in the race and it was brilliant. Emma helps me at home a lot and when she goes travelling, I will be lost without her.”
Asked of ambitions and dreams the reply in unison is simple “To ride in either of the Foxhunters at Cheltenham or Aintree would be incredible.” Meanwhile both aware and indicating that they realise how hard it is to get there, acquiring a suitable horse and keeping it right.
An underlying air of modesty and appreciation echoes through in the Brown girls, both explaining: “Nothing would be possible without our incredibly supportive parents and for that we feel very lucky.”
A family brought together by dreams achieved and future aspirations within the point-to-point field.
Rufio, Lucy’s favourite horse
Photo: Tim Holt
Amma Lord and Lucy Brown (red) in action at the weekend
Photo: Dennis Penny
Chameron and Emma Brown on the run to the line in front of the Friars Haugh crowd Photo: Grace Beresford
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PREVIEWS
THE COMBINED SERVICES
SUNDAY 16TH FEBRUARY 2025
By BOB BRACHER
The Coronation Gold Cup, one of the four feature races of the point-to-point season, is the highlight of the Combined Services meeting due to be held at Larkhill on Sunday. Always a highly competitive race it has been won by notable horses from the past including from the 1980’s Nostradamus, Tawny Myth and Border Burg and from the 1990’s Fantus, Cavalero and Red Brook Lad and it will be an honour for the 2025 winner to join this famous roll of historic winners. The course is in good condition following their last meeting in January and all of the fences and bends have been moved onto fresh ground with the current going report being good, good to soft in places.
The meeting also features the annual running of the King’s Troop race at 12 noon with the first point to point race scheduled to start at 12.45pm. Entry costs are £15 per person with under 16s free. There will be trade stands, food outlets, bar and the bookmakers to have a bet with.
The Jet Connectivity sponsored Coronation Gold Cup is the fourth scheduled race and contains a high-quality entry headed by Viroflay who was third in this race last season having won both his other outings. This will be his seasonal debut, but he runs well fresh and is the selection. Amongst his potential rivals are the classy My Drogo who won easily at the last meeting and Bardenstown Lad who won at Askham Bryan but both have entries in the Walrus Hunter Chase at Haydock. Due de Bourbon has been in good form this season for trainer Sam Loxton and he may be the main danger to Viroflay. What a Glance is
very consistent and should have come on from his seasonal debut at Horseheath and similar comments apply to Trevada who won a Hunter Chase at Fakenham on his final outing last season. Givega won a competitive race at the December meeting but this is a tougher race.
The meeting begins with the Civica sponsored Conditions race for Novice Riders. Midnight Midge was given a good ride by the promising James Shaw to win a similar race at the last meeting and a repeat may be on the cards. Drop Him In won the Hunt race at Cocklebarrow and is the main danger to Midnight Midge. For Rita ought to improve on her seasonal debut and gets on well with Abigail Henry. Doctor Foley won three steeplechases for Anthony Honeyball and he may be a good recruit for these sort of races. Midnight Midge is chosen.
The Restricted race sponsored by Colt has attracted several previous winners including the impressive Impakt St Georges who won easily at the last meeting for the in form Josh Newman stable. Kilfilum Woods has already won two races this season for trainer Fran Poste and it would not be a surprise if he triumphed in this race. Corporal Jackjones was in second place at Milborne St Andrew when unseating at the last and he has place prospects. Crawter has already won at Larkhill and he is another for the short list. Impakt St Georges is the selection.
The Ladies Conditions race sponsored by QinetiQ may see the seasonal debut of the venerable Southfield Theatre who is now aged seventeen. Despite his years he is still an enthusiastic performer who likes to front run and he may be able to defy his age to record another victory. Givega
holds an entry in this race and if this is chosen, he may be too speedy for his older rival. Paloma Blue appeared to be in the need of his debut at Milborne St Andrew and should now strip much fitter. Switch Hitter is another who would come into the reckoning on his best form but he has a lot to find to reverse the form with Givega who is the choice.
The meeting concludes with two Maiden races. The first is a Conditions race sponsored by General Dynamic Land Systems, and may be won by City Silk trained by Chris Barber, who was fourth to King de Palma at Wadebridge last month and with that rival winning again at Milborne St Andrew that form ought to be good enough. Of his potential rivals, Luke Price has two entries Echo of Promise and Scoro with the last named a promising third at Cocklebarrow. Blackijo Dagrostis has been placed twice this season and should be on the short list. Two in Tune was third in a better race at Milborne St Andrew whereas Punch Perfect will be making his English debut for Josh Newman’s stable and should be watched. City Silk is the choice if he does not run in the last race.
Taghadoe unseated on his last outing at Charing but has already been placed twice this season and brings the best form for the Palo Alto Networks sponsored Maiden race. City Silk may opt for this race and if so the hint should be taken. Canal Court, a half brother to Chantry House, and this former Chris Gordon trained gelding may be a good recruit to pointing. Ballinoulart was placed at Milborne St Andrew and should give his novice rider Richard Upton a good ride. Fran Poste has entered both the unraced Handsome Bill and Kirsch de Cotte and her selection should be considered. A chance is taken with Canal Court.
PUCKERIDGE AND ESSEX HUNTS
SUNDAY 16TH FEBRUARY 2025
By GRAHAM BISHOP
The third and final meeting to be held at Horseheath this season, takes place on Sunday with the action commencing with two pony races from 11am to start the day, and after their presentations the six scheduled steeplechases will commence at 12 midday.
The first of six point-to-point races is a Level 2 Conditions race in which All Is True and Aramax are entered, both seeking trebles around this course this season. All Is True won a Level 3 Conditions race on New Year’s Eve, with Paper Mill close behind in third and then won a Level 2 Conditions race at the end of January with Mount Pleasant behind in second. Aramax’s wins were in the PPORA Club Members Conditions’ race for Novice Riders at both fixtures. Either side of Paper Mill’s third place he has finished runner-up to Duc de Bourbon in two Conditions races at Larkhill. Imnottalkingtoyou, formerly trained by Tom Ellis, won around this course three years ago and finished in the first three in all his seven starts. Last season he was running in Irish points, finishing second in February but failed to complete the course on four other outings.
The entries for the Maiden race have varied backgrounds, three of which might not be competing in this contest had they not been denied in tight finishes. Last season Atlantic Fleet was caught on the line when finishing second at High Easter and Jasmin des Bordes suffered a similar fate at Dingley. Taghadoe was caught by Jullou de Grissay around this course on New Year’s Eve having led from flagfall. The winner has won again since but Taghadoe’s subsequent run at Charing was disappointing. Jasmin des Bordes has run this season, finishing second once again, but a long way behind Barrington John, with Del Amitr further behind in third place. Rounditoff finished a distant third on his first start this season having previously been placed in Irish points. Kirsch de Cotte ran a much better race on his second start of this season when finishing fifth at Revesby Park. Carrickfergus finished runner-up in an Irish point last season, but has not shown anything in three outings this side of the Irish Sea. Eoin’s Charm has yet to run this
season, having previously been running in Irish NH Flat races and hurdle races, finishing runner-up in one. The entries also include the unraced 4 year old Give Me More who will be in receipt of a 21lb allowance.
All bar one of the entries for both the Ladies and Men’s Open races have ratings over 100.
The Ladies Open race includes Learntalot who travelled to Friars Haugh to succeed in the 3 ½ mile Mixed Open race last month. Bardenstown Lad, who is entered in the Men’s Open race too, won at the fourth time of asking this season at Askham Bryan College in the Ladies Open race. Precious Bounty won a “Grassroots Riders” race at Badbury Rings and then finished second (only two finished) to Shentri at Cocklebarrow. Captain Biggles has had one outing, finishing second to Music Drive at Revesby Park and the winner supplemented that success when victorious again at Brocklesby Park. On last season’s form Captain Biggles holds the call over seasonal debutant Tullys Touch, finishing three lengths ahead of him when they met at Ampton in January 2024 with Precious Bounty another ½ length away in 3rd place.
The Men’s Open race includes the aforementioned Bardenstown Lad and Paper Mill.
The 2023 Cheltenham Foxhunter winner Premier Magic is entered for this contest and has the impressive career record of eleven point wins and three hunter ‘chase successes. He has run once this season, finishing second at Chaddesley Corbett at the end of December behind Jeux D’Eau. Last season’s “Horse and Hound Cup” winner What A Glance is also entered and his sole run this season was around this course on New Year’s Eve when he finished runnerup to Allmankind, a winner at Higham last weekend. Trevada, who has yet to run this year, finished in the first three on all six starts last season, culminating with a win in a three-runner hunter ‘chase at Fakenham.
The Intermediate race has the making of an interesting race with the Restricted race winners from the two earlier Horseheath fixtures amongst the entries. Premier Fantasy won the Restricted race on New Year’s Eve, whilst Clashhill won a similar race at the end of January.
Both Capparattin and Kilfilum Woods are from the yard of Francesca Poste. Of the two, Kilfilum Woods has shown the better form this season, winning his Maiden and Restricted before being denied by 1½ lengths, in an Intermediate race at Revesby Park. For One Night Only won a Restricted race at Friars Haugh in January before finishing down the field in a Bangor hunter ‘chase last week. Padjoes Legacy, without a run this year, progressed throughout last season, finishing third in the “Intermediate Final” at Cheltenham and then being denied by a head in the “Restricted Final” at Stratford behind Learntalot. Touch Tight who ran in this race last season finishing second to All The Ammunition and has been runner-up in five races together with two victories from eight career outings.
The final race of the day is a PPORA Club Members Conditions Race for novice riders. Several of these hold entries in earlier races, including Aramax and Mount Pleasant with the only exceptions being Due Reward and Young Rich. Due Reward has yet to run this season, whereas Young Rich has run twice, finishing fourth at Chaddesley Corbett and then finishing third, here at Horseheath, behind Aramax at the end of January.
Wonderful panoramic views of the racing with Trade stands ~ Food outlets ~ Bar (cash)
Come and browse before, during and after racing. Gates open 9am
Early bird tickets available until midnight Saturday 15th February
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Gate Admission: Adults £15 (cash only). Children 15 and under free. Dogs welcome (on short leads)
FORWARD PARKING
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HORSEHEATH RACECOURSE IS SITUATED 4 MILES WEST OF HAVERHILL ON THE A1307. EXITS 9 or 10 off the M11 (SatNav CB21 4QP
THE SINNINGTON HUNT
SUNDAY 16TH FEBRUARY 2025
By MARK ELLIOTT
Duncombe Park at Helmsley on Sunday 16th February is the venue for the Sinnington point to point fixture, now restyled as Helmsley Races, as it celebrates the 50th anniversary of racing in the glorious parkland setting, overlooked by one of England’s greatest houses. With 103 entries having been received for a seven race card which features many good horses from far and wide, a competitive and entertaining day’s racing looks assured.
The opening contest of the day is the Ripon Farm Services Hunt Members Race and has an entry of 10. Will Easterby’s in form stable looks to hold the key here and should provide both Will and brother Thomas with leading chances. Lou Marvelous is a progressive horse who is very much on the up and he won well last time out at Sheriff Hutton beating another of the stable’s entries, Sponthus, into a six length second place and the 5lb penalty shouldn’t stop him confirming the form. Morozov Cocktail is another possible for the yard and he made a successful switch to the pointing field when winning at Alnwick in January. The other Easterby options are Largy Shark who ran a good third in Open company last time out and Long Time Listener who has shown ability from limited opportunities so far. Of the potential rivals, Legalized has winning form at a modest level, Bold Emperor had ability under rules but would need to recapture his form from some time ago whilst last but definitely not least Deep Charm would be a hugely popular winner for his owner,trainer, rider Bertie Hayton who is the secretary of the meeting’s organising committee. A repetition of the good second at Askham Bryan a fortnight ago would put him in the mix.
Race two is the MoneyWeb Conditions Race (level 2) and has 12 entries and Red
Delta looks to be the one to beat here for the Tate family. A progressive six year old he has been running consistently well in good company since winning the Maiden very easily at this fixture twelve months ago. Another to note is Red Opium who backed up her win at Sheriff Hutton with a good second at Brocklesby Park last weekend and will rate a danger if making a quick reappearance. Morozov Cocktail and Largy Shark hold entries here, as well as in the first and are both worthy of consideration for the Easterby brothers should they select this option whilst Blue Sans, Arthur’s Seat, Courting Flow, Surprise Attack and Slanelough all have winning form in point to points which should ensure a good competitive contest.
Race three, the Bedding Barn Free Delivery Restricted Open features several promising young horses amongst the thirteen entries. Shropshire raider Ideal Du Tabert put up a spectacular front running performance at Sheriff Hutton in January to demolish his rivals and a repeat of that will make him very hard to beat though Titanium Bullet also won very easily when leading from pillar to post at Askham Bryan a fortnight ago when giving 18 year old Felix Foster his first ever success in the saddle and that could set up an exciting duel for the lead. The other entry to lose his maiden tag recently is Great Notions who progressed from a good second on his British debut to win up at Alnwick two weeks ago and that rates him a danger. Of the others, the pick of these would be Whats The Solution who was only just touched off in a Friars Haugh Restricted on seasonal debut and should come on for the run, Foxylee who represents the in form stable of Kelly Morgan and she has run consistently well since winning on her first outing last season, Boots Folly who has ability but needs to improve his jumping whilst Wereinthistogether comes from Dale Peters’ successful East Anglia yard having won on only his second outing but has a long absence to overcome.
Race four is the Spillers Mixed Open and it promises to be a very competitive heat as it features a number of quality horses. The high class Summerville Boy made his debut in the care of Charles and Emma Clark when easily beating a useful rival at Askham Bryan two weeks ago and a repeat of that performance would make him the one to beat. Camdonian is a prolific winner in the pointing field and having won on his seasonal reappearance at Sheriff Hutton he is also sure to be a leading player. Go Go Geronimo is a tough, genuine and consistent horse who always gives his supporters a good run for their money and is bound to do so again whilst the same statement applies to Ballydonagh Boy although he is held by the Shropshire raider Bardenstown Lad on their clash in the open at Askham Bryan. The latter isn’t a certain starter however as he holds entries at other meetings round the country over the weekend. Several other raiders also come here with a good chance. Gina Andrews has her horses in top form and her Jetaway Joey ran second to the high class Saint Calvados at Alnwick on seasonal debut, Kelly Morgan’s Dusart was a very good horse under rules and would be a threat to all if finding his form again while finally Scottish horse Eagles Rock looked like a young horse going places last season and he has the potential to keep progressing.
Race five is the Eccles Heddon Conditions Race (level 2) 10yo and over and of the 16 entries, Ballydonagh Boy (10lb penalty), Dusart and Jetaway Joey (5lb penalty) are all engaged here as well as the preceding Open and may take this up as a potentially easier option. The latter of those three holds the highest rating in this contest. Of the remainder the standout is Cherry Coward’s Zhiguli (3lb penalty) who followed up a good third in decent company at Friars Haugh with a stylish success at Askham Bryan and he looks like the sort who will win his fair share of races in this sphere. Not far behind him in the
order of preference would be East Anglian raider Thunderstruck who is a consistent performer in points but he hasn’t the advantage of a previous outing this season, unlike his chief rivals, which may count against him. Several others come into the race with placed form last time out this season with Conqueredalofeurope (7lb penalty), Deep Charm (10lb penalty) and Mance Rayder all finishing runners up and Galileo Silver and The Dubai Way finishing third on their most recent outing. The final one to get a mention is Sultans Pride. Having won seven of his last twelve starts under rules but having not seen a racecourse for three years it is hard to know what to expect but he’s worth keeping an eye on.
Race six is the Carter Jonas Maiden and with a bumper entry of 25 it may be divided on the day. Many of these are either unraced or very unexposed so a lot of guesswork is involved. Of those who have already have had a run, the four who make most appeal are The Last Tooth who has been knocking on the door, most recently when second to a useful newcomer at Sheriff
Hutton, Scalloway Castle who has been placed third on both outings this season, including at Friars Haugh last Sunday, Line Em Up who ran second to the very impressive Ideal Du Tabert also at Sheriff Hutton and lastly Caractacus Potts who was a very promising fourth on debut at Alnwick when only beaten seven lengths in total. Of the newcomers, two of the sport’s leading exponents of the art of producing youngsters to win on their racecourse debut have entries forward. Malton’s Jack Teal unleashed an impressive debutante winner at Brocklesby Park last weekend in Mooserwirt and could try and repeat the feat with the five year old You Did (by Mount Nelson) and Masterofexpression whilst Gina Andrews’ Warwickshire stable has Nice One Nelson (Mount Nelson).
Race seven concludes the day’s action and is the Malton Marquees Flat Race for 4,5 and 6 year olds. With eleven of the sixteen entries making their racecourse debuts, there is very little previous form to go on. The pick of those who have already run has to be Stephanie Easterby’s Brooklynese who was beaten a length into second in
a similar contest at Alnwick two months ago where another entry, Long Hop, was a further ten lengths back in fourth. The benefit of that experience makes her the one to beat. Of the newcomers, one that really catches the eye is Graeme McPherson’s five year old mare Blue Skies Ahead. By top national hunt sire Blue Bresil and from a family packed with useful winners it was no surprise she commanded a price of £50,000 when bought as a store and she has the potential to be very good. Close attention should also be paid to Jack Teal’s unraced trio of Appy Chappy, Matching Energy and Royal Maggs together with Straightnupsoldier from the very successful Dale Peters’ yard.
Gates open at 10.30am with the first race due off at 12 noon. Admission is £15 per person on the gate (under 16s free) which includes a racecard and cash is preferred as the signal for the card machines can be unreliable. There will be homemade food, bar, bookmakers and trade stands. Dogs are welcome on a lead. The postcode for the course is YO62 5EB
THE SOUTH POOL HARRIERS
SUNDAY 16TH FEBRUARY 2025
BY LAUREN REED
I am sure many racing folk will agree that it will be great to be back racing at Buckfastleigh! It was a huge shame to lose all meetings at this popular track last season and therefore the course has been unraced on since 4th March 2023. The last horse to cross the finish line in front on that day was Saint Anapolino, who has since gone on to win two hurdle races for Philip Hobbs & Johnson White and looks a very exciting horse for the future. The South Pool Harriers have been rewarded with a huge entry and what will be some very decent racing! Postcode TQ11 0LT. First race at 12.00pm. £15 entry (accompanied under 16’s go free).
Four and Five Year Old Maiden over 2m4f
The opening race of the day is The Stanley Carpets Four & Five Year Old Maiden, where we hopefully can watch some stars of the future. 14 high quality entries have been received, of which 6 are newcomers. March On Oxo, trained by retired jockey Tom Scudamore, was purchased as a 3yo for €40,000 and comes from a good family of winners including Point winner Don’t Ask Us, who was well known in the D&C Point to Point area. Christopher Barber has homebred Top Of Off entered. He is by Jack Hobbs and out of Definitelyanoscar, who was Chris’ first winner as a trainer back in 2018. Land Of Punt, for Tom Lacey, is another to keep an eye on, having cost €42,000 as a 3 year old. Bloodstock agent, Tom Malone, is double handed with entries with ex Irish recruit Another Notion, who ran well at Damma House to finish 4th. His second entry is They Call Me Hugo, who finished 2nd at Wadebridge to El Capitaine, who has since gone on to score again at Chipley Park in a Restricted. Flash Of Tartan (Francesca Poste) receives a healthy weight allowance from the rest of the field and Gina Andrews has two entered with Nice One Nelson looking to make his debut and Caractacus Potts looking to build on his 4th place at Alnwick.
Exeter Intermediate Series Qualifier Race
The Exeter Intermediate Series Qualifier could be the hottest race of the day with Clondaw Drake, Douglas Longbottom and Snap Fish looking like they will be at the forefront of the betting. Clondaw Drake has been impressive in all 3 runs since joining the Joshua Newman team and remains unbeaten for these connections. Douglas Longbottom has put up some very good performances around the likes of Larkhill but could be a little vulnerable on a stiff testing track like this. Snap Fish has
been very impressive since joining Harry Ryall, but you could slightly question the strength of the races he has won. With that being said, he has a combined winning distance of 70 lengths and I am sure connections will be looking to show how good they think he is. Kilfilum Woods, for Francesca Poste, has won a Maiden and Restricted so far this season but could bump into some stiff opposition here. Joshua Newman also has Lucky Lara entered who was a cosy winner of her Hunt Race at Chipley but this could come too soon for her. Another for Joshua Newman is Whitsand Bay. He deserves a mention after a brilliant campaign last season winning 3 races but will find easier targets at another stage.
Westcountry Champion Chase Winners Only Mixed Open
The feature race of the day is The Totnes & Bridgetown Racing Co. Westcountry Champion Chase, with a healthy entry from horses all around the country. The dual Hunter Chase winner, What A Glance, finished off last season winning the Stratford Foxhunters Champion Hunter Chase after taking the Junior Jumpers Hunter Chase at Cheltenham. Trained by Tom Britten and now with Toby McCain-Mitchell in the saddle, he made his seasonal debut at Horseheath on New Years Eve when finishing 3 lengths 2nd to the very classy Allmankind. Midnight Midge enjoyed the switch back to Point to Points and came home in front at Larkhill for Robert Chanin and young jockey, James Shaw. Call Simon (Robert Chanin) and Fighter Allen (David Pipe) dead heated at Chipley Park in the Mixed Open and could look to make a quick reappearance. His Own Star for Stuart Sampson, was unlucky to be hampered at Milborne therefore unseating Jo Supple and being a course winner, could run well. Jetaway Joey finished 2nd to Saint Calvados but that was only over 2m4f and switching back to a stiff 3 mile track, could find out his stamina. The veteran, The Kings Writ, has been running well this season with hefty weights on his back and could be another to reappear quickly after his 3rd place at Chipley. Connections of Bardenstown Lad seem to be desperately seeking Foxhunter qualification before the cut off date and need to win another Open to gain this after winning a Ladies Open on the 2nd February.
Six Year Old & Over Maiden 3m
19 entries were received for The Hassal Law Maiden Race for Horses & Geldings Six Years and Over over 3m. Master McShine, for Leslie Jefford and Jake Bament, built on his debut run to finish 2nd to Noble Blue at Wadebridge and should go very close here. Nelsons Criq, another for Joshua Newman, has run well in his two previous runs finishing behind the
likes of King De Palma, El Capitaine and Ted The Thief, who have all gone on to win their following races. Blackwater was once held in high regard when M V Magnier paid €90,000 as a Store but did not seem to deliver and was sold to Tom Malone. A stint with Ben Lund did not prove the turning point and now in Tom’s hand training wise, he could find his calling here to get his head in front. One for the Harry Potter fans, Avada Kedavra, for Joanne Priest, brings forward a decent enough National Hunt rating to be able to win a maiden for owner/rider Will Badlan. Ballinoulart was one of the take away horses from Milborne after running very well in the 7yo & Over Maiden and if showing no effects from two quick runs, shouldn’t be far away.
Mares & Fillies Maiden
The Jockey Club Maiden for Mares & Fillies looks a very open race and the newcomer, Posh Chick will most likely start favourite. She is out of one of the most popular prolific Point To Point mares, Posh Totty, who won 16 races throughout her career when trained by Jack Barber. Posh Chick comes from a good yard in Harry Ryall and enjoyed a school around Chipley Park after racing, for some racecourse experience. The 21lb weight allowance is also a huge advantage and could mean a loss of a few suppers for Martin McIntyre. The form of the Maiden race at Larkhill seems to be holding up well and therefore could see 5th place Schiapars Magern run well for Victoria Collins with Will Biddick booked to ride. Islagetaway for Chloe Newman brings forward placed form in Point Flat Races and interesting to see Echo Of Promise now in the hands of shrewd trainer Luke Price and could be one to keep a close eye on.
Restricted
The Toad Hall Cottages Restricted Race could give Joshua Newman another winner with three entered. Noble Blue put up a seriously impressive performance at Wadebridge and never came off the bridle. Liwah ran with plenty of credit to finish 3rd to Clondaw Drake and El Capitaine holds an entry after cantering home unchallenged at Chipley Park in the Restricted. He will therefore have to carry a penalty here. A Nice Malbec was the eye catcher at Chaddesley Corbett, albeit unseating and put amends to that run by winning gamely at Milborne to give Molly Griffiths a first win in the saddle and Amie Treacy a first win as a trainer. He will be sure to run another decent race. Posh Dude brings forward a great seasonal debut run at Milborne, when finishing behind King De Palma and could finish off, what could be, a good day for Harry Ryall and a possible win for half siblings Posh Dude and Posh Chick.
SPEED
FIGURES
BUCKFASTLEIGH 16/02/2025
12:00 THE FOUR AND FIVE YEARS OLD MAIDEN YOUNG HORSE SERIES RACE: City Silk (GB) (87) They Call Me Hugo (IRE) (78) Caractacus Potts (IRE) (62) Succes Fou (FR) (34)
12:35 THE EXETER RACECOURSE INTERMEDIATE SERIES QUALIFIER RACE: Douglas Longbottom (GB) (110) Clondaw Drake (IRE) (108) Kilfilum Woods (IRE) (104) Snap Fish (IRE) (104) Lucky Lara (IRE) (99)
1:10 THE TOTNES & BRIDGETOWN RACES CO. LTD WESTCOUNTRY CHAMPION CHASE WINNERS ONLY MIXED OPEN RACE: What A Glance (GB) (135) Midnight Midge (GB) (123) The Kings Writ (IRE) (123) Jetaway Joey (IRE) (117) His Own Star (FR) (116)
1:55 THE SIX YEARS OLD AND OVER MAIDEN RACE, FOR HORSES AND GELDINGS ONLY: Nelson Criq (IRE) (93) Fongs Way (IRE) (90) See You Kauto (GB) (86) Ballinoulart (IRE) (78)
2:30 THE JOCKEY CLUB MAIDEN RACE, FOR MARES AND FILLIES ONLY: Schiapars Magern (GB) (87) Echo of Promise (GB) (79) Tangos Tangerine (IRE) (77) Halcyon Dreams (IRE) (72)
3:05 THE RESTRICTED RACE: Liwah (FR) (97) Share A Moment (IRE) (95) Posh Dude (GB) (94) Summer Jam (IRE) (92)
DUNCOMBE PARK 16/02/2025
12:00 THE SINNINGTON HUNT MEMBERS, SUBSCRIBERS & FARMERS RACE: Lou Marvelous (FR) (103) Morozov Cocktail (IRE) (101) Sponthus (FR) (98) Deep Charm (GB) (95)
12:35 THE YORKSHIRE AREA CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 2): Slanelough (IRE) (107) Morozov Cocktail (IRE) (104) Red Opium (GB) (104) Courting Flow (IRE) (102) Red Delta (GB) (102) Arthur’s Seat (IRE) (98)
1:10 THE RESTRICTED RACE: Ideal du Tabert (FR) (106) Whats The Solution (IRE) (102) Sponthus (FR) (98) Surprise Attack (IRE) (94)
1:45 THE MIXED OPEN RACE: Camdonian (IRE) (129) Go Go Geronimo (GB) (123) Jetaway Joey (IRE) (117) Eagles Rock (IRE) (113)
2:20 THE VETERAN HORSE CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 2): Thunderstruck (IRE) (109) The Dubai Way (IRE) (108) Jetaway Joey (IRE) (105) Cool Desire (IRE) (104)
3:05 THE MAIDEN RACE: Benefact (IRE) (98) Line Em Up (IRE) (96) Walk Easy (IRE) (92) The Last Tooth (GB) (89)
HORSEHEATH
16/02/2025
12:00 THE CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 2): All Is True (IRE) (109) Paper Mill (GB) (108) Mount Pleasant (GB) (101) Aramax (GER) (100)
12:35 THE MAIDEN RACE: Atlantic Fleet (IRE) (96) Jasmin des Bordes (FR) (92) Taghadoe (IRE) (92) Del Amitir (IRE) (85) Kirsch de Cotte (FR) (81)
1:10 THE LADIES OPEN RACE: Captain Biggles (IRE) (126) Take To Heart (GB) (122) Bardenstown Lad (GB) (121) Tullys Touch (IRE) (120)
1:45 THE MENS OPEN RACE: What A Glance (GB) (128) Premier Magic (IRE) (120) Paper Mill (GB) (108) Take To Heart (GB) (108) Trevada (GB) (108) Bardenstown Lad (GB) (107)
2:20 THE INTERMEDIATE RACE: Padjoes Legacy (IRE) (110) Kilfilum Woods (IRE) (104) Clashhill (IRE) (102) For One Night Only (IRE) (100)
2:55 THE PPORA CLUB MEMBERS CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 2), FOR NOVICE RIDERS: Mount Pleasant (GB) (101) Aramax (GER) (100) Young Rich (IRE) (98) Monkey Puzzle (GB) (96)
LARKHILL 16/02/2025
12:45 THE CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 2), FOR NOVICE RIDERS: Midnight Midge (GB) (113) Premier d’Troice (FR) (108) Drop Him In (IRE) (106) For Rita (IRE) (106) Tekap (FR) (100)
1:20 THE RESTRICTED RACE: Kilfilum Woods (IRE) (99) Miltown Bridge (IRE) (96) Baunmore Jet (IRE) (82) Crawter (IRE) (80)
1:55 THE LADIES CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 2): Southfield Theatre (IRE) (128) For Rita (IRE) (120) Givega (FR) (115) Monkey Puzzle (GB) (110)
2:30 THE CORONATION GOLD CUP MIXED OPEN RACE: What A Glance (GB) (135) Duc de Bourbon (FR) (119) My Drogo (GB) (119) One For Rosie (GB) (115) Trevada (GB) (115) Bardenstown Lad (GB) (114)
3:05 THE MAIDEN CONDITIONS RACE: City Silk (GB) (94) Fongs Way (IRE) (90) Two In Tune (IRE) (85) Blackijo Dagrostis (FR) (83)
3:40 THE MAIDEN RACE: City Silk (GB) (94) Taghadoe (IRE) (92) Kirsch de Cotte (FR) (81) Echo of Promise (GB) (79)
IN THE FRAME
Ladies open field at Friars Haugh
Photo: Grace Beresford
Fighter Allen, Rian Corcoran farside, jumps with Call Simon, Aran McManus before dead heating, Mixed Open at Chipley
Photo: Tim Holt
The judge and his canine assistant at Friars Haugh
Photo: Grace Beresford
IN THE FRAME
The Restricted Race - Higham Point to Point
Photo: Graham Bishop
The Chipley Park paddock just in front of the bookies
Photo: Tim Holt
The Mixed Open Race - Higham Point to Point
Photo: Graham Bishop
Point-To-Point Social Media
POINTING
POINTING
LATEST RESULTS
BROCKLESBY PARK 08/02/2025
12:00 1. BOSS MAN FRED (IRE) James King 1-6F 2. KOSTANTINA (GB) Miss C. Brewitt 4-1
3. DRUMLEE BREXIT (IRE) J. Teal 7-2 (3 ran).
12:35 1. GLENMOUNT (IRE) James King 2-1F 2. RED OPIUM (GB) Miss R. Howarth 11-2
3. POWERSTOWN PARK (IRE) B. Gibbs 16-1 (8 ran).
1:10 1. MUSIC DRIVE (FR) Miss E. Callwood 4-5F 2. JET OF MAGIC (IRE) B. Gibbs 5-1
3. MOVETHECHAINS (IRE) H. Carrington 8-1 (7 ran).
1:45 1. OCEAN DRIFTER (IRE) Miss C. Brewitt 5-1 2. WALLACE OLINGER (IRE) D. Peters 4-6F
3. CHAMPAGNE GLORY (IRE) Jack Andrews 3-1 (7 ran).
2:20 1. MUMBO JUMBO (IRE) Miss G. Andrews 2-1F 2. CASH OR CARD (IRE) D. Peters 5-2
3. PERRYVILLE (IRE) Miss C. Brewitt 8-1 (8 ran).
2:55 1. SALACIA’S STORM (IRE) Huw Edwards 11-4 2. TENNESSEE ORANGE (IRE) James King 2-1J
3. MISS TELE (GB) J. Teal 2-1J (7 ran).
3:30 1. MOOSERWIRT (IRE) J. Teal 15-8 2. LEWINS GULLY (IRE) Paddy Barlow 7-1
3. EASY RIDER (GB) Miss E. Callwood 7-1 (6 ran).
CHIPLEY PARK 08/02/2025
12:00 1. LUCKY LARA (IRE) J. Newman 2-1 2. RADDON TOP (IRE) J. Dawkins 3-1
3. SOLDIER OF DESTINY (IRE) M. McIntyre 7-4F (5 ran).
12:35 1. STAR OF HONOUR (IRE) Mrs I. Hill 2-5F 2. WALKING IT OFF (IRE) Miss T. Little 25-1
3. AFRICAN LADY (IRE) M. McIntyre 13-2 (9 ran).
1:10 1. TED THE THIEF (IRE) J. Newman 4-5F 2. GOOSEY LUCY (IRE) Charlie Sprake 3-1
3. WESTERNER’S WAY (IRE) Z. Baker 5-1 (9 ran).
1:45 1. CALL SIMON (IRE) Aran McManus 2-1 D.H. 1. FIGHTER ALLEN (FR) Rian Corcoran 1-4F (2 ran).
2:20 1. IMPORTANT NOTICE (IRE) J. Newman 4-7F 2. ARV WAY THERE (GB) H. Moore 7-1
3. LIBERTY ROCK (IRE) Rian Corcoran 9-4 (5 ran).
2:55 1. EL CAPITAINE (IRE) J. Newman 4-9F 2. ROYAL DEFENDER (IRE) M. McIntyre 2-1
3. LA VEGA MOON (IRE) Harry Brown 12-1 (5 ran).
3:30 1. DOC CARVER (IRE) Miss R. Pugh 7-1 D.H. 1. SIDI ISMAEL (FR) Rian Corcoran 4-5F
3. THE KINGS WRIT (IRE) Miss Hannah Morgan 7-4 (6 ran).
FRIARS HAUGH 09/02/2025
12:30 1. WHATUDOING (IRE) Miss J. Walton 5-1 2. MAJOR CHAMPION (GB) Miss Amy Milburn 5-1
3. WHERE’S WILLY (GB) N. Orpwood 9-4 (9 ran).
1:00 1. BUILT BY ROSSIES (IRE) Joe Wright 4-7F 2. DEERSTALKER (IRE) Miss Isobel Mactaggart 4-1
3. SCALLOWAY CASTLE (IRE) J. Dawson 6-4 (5 ran).
1:30 1. TRUST ME NATE (GB) J. Dawson 2-5F 2. FUGITIVES DRIFT (IRE) Miss L. Brown 3-1
3. GET WITH IT (IRE) W. J. Brown 6-1 (6 ran).
2:00 1. DIABLE DE SIVOLA (FR) Miss Jesika Rennie 2-5F 2. ASHJAN (GB) Miss J. Walton 7-2
3. MISS WACHIT (IRE) Miss R. L. M. Duffy 8-1 (5 ran).
2:30 1. CHAMERON (FR) Miss Emma J. Brown 5-4F 2. WESTERN RUN (IRE) S. Cameron 4-1
3. WEST LAWN (GB) Miss C. Tailford 2-1 (5 ran).
3:00 1. AMMA LORD (IRE) Miss L. Brown 9-2 2. WATCH LAW (IRE) N. Orpwood 6-4
3. NOT THE CHABLIS (IRE) Miss J. Jubb Evens (6 ran).
3:30 1. THE VILLAGE WAY (GB) J. Dawson 5-4 2. CINQUE TERRE (FR) N. Orpwood 7-1
3. SOMETHING GOLDEN (IRE) Shay Halton 3-1 (5 ran).
HIGHAM 09/02/2025
12:00 1. THE YELLOW MINI (GB) A. Chadwick 6-4J 2. SOLDIER AT WAR (GER) Connor Baker 4-1 3. PALLADIUM (GB) D. Kyne 12-1 (7 ran).
12:35 1. SENIOR CITIZEN (GB) Mrs I. Hill 9-4 2. RHYTHM IS A DANCER (GB) T. Hutsby Evens (5 ran).
1:10 1. ALLMANKIND (GB) A. Chadwick 8-11F 2. I K BRUNEL (GB) Mrs I. Hill 9-2 (5 ran).
1:45 1. KAYF HERNANDO (GB) T. Hutsby Evens 2. WILLIAM EWART (IRE) C. Brennan 10-1 3. SOUTHFIELD ROYALE (GB) Jude Fernandes 10-1 (5 ran).
2:20 1. GRAVESIDE LAD (IRE) A. Chadwick 9-2 2. THE ORCHARD BOY (IRE) Edward Vaughan 5-2 3. OKA TSUKI (FR) Mrs I. Hill 2-1 (4 ran).
2:55 1. GREAT VALLEY (FR) G. Sankey 4-7F 2. TANGO ARUMBA (IRE) Tommie O’Brien 4-1 (3 ran).
REPORTS
THE BROCKLESBY HUNT
SATURDAY 8TH FEBRUARY 2025
By James Morgan
Point to Point races Saturday 8th February 2025 – Review
Record crowds flocked to Brocklesby Park on Saturday to witness the annual pointto- point races run on ground officially described as “good, good to soft in places”. From 92 entries 46 runners contested the 7-race card with highlights including a scintillating performance from Music Drive in the feature race, a double for jockey James King and an impressive debut from maiden winner Mooserwirt.
Music Drive lined up in the feature Baillie Haylage Mixed open race where, in the fastest time of the day; 6 minutes 13 the 8-year-old saw off his nearest pursuer the Bradley Gibbs trained Jet of Magic by 10 lengths. Music Drive and rider Ellie Callwood, let Jet Of Magic take command of proceedings early in the race before setting sail for home and to win decisively by a comfortable margin. “He will go straight to Cheltenham for the St James Palace Festival Champion Hunters Chase’’ confirmed winning trainer Kelly Morgan in the winner’s enclosure. Kelly is training a dozen pointers this season from her base in Leicestershire.
James King dominated the first hour of racing firstly with the widest margin winner of the day, Boss Man Fred in the opening Grimsby Roofing Services Brocklesby and Lincolnshire hunt members, subscribers and farmers race who put 15 lengths between himself and his two rivals. Boss Man Fred started a 1-6 favourite and totally outclassed his opponents despite Mike Dawson’s Drumlee Brexit’s attempts to defy over a year’s absence from the track. Jack Teal’s mount rallied in the final half mile but was no match for Boss Man Fred. Phil Lutman’s Kostantina and Clara Brewitt
finished in third place. Mike Dawson collected a trophy from Lady Yarborough for owning the first locally owned and trained horse past the post.
King very much had things on his own terms once more in the Clark Weightman PPORA Members Conditions Race (Level 2) with Glenmount trained by Julie Wadland. The 7-year-old Court Cave gelding looks to be on the upgrade and beat nearest rival the Cherry Coward trained Red Opium, by 8 lengths. “He’s a nice progressive young horse and this track and ground have really suited him today but he wouldn’t want it any quicker; he’s a big horse”, said the delighted winning rider.
Clara Brewitt, who finished third in the opening members race and had the previous day been beaten just a length and a half in a Bangor hunter chase on Willewonga, gained compensation in the DDM Agriculture 8- year olds and over conditions race (Level 3) when Ocean Drifter outbattled Dale Peters and Wallace Olinger in the closing stages. “He likes a flat track and this course has suited him much better than Horseheath on his last start. It wasn’t the plan to be in front but I couldn’t really hold him and every time something came to his girths, he took off again.” commented the winning rider who did the steering for keeper Tom Britten and family.
The Brigg Office Supplies Restricted race promised on paper to be a competitive event and it did not disappoint. Favourite backers were in luck as it was market leader Mumbo Jumbo who came with a perfectly timed run approaching the last fence, relegating Cash or Card and Dale Peters to second place. Mumbo Jumbo was a seventeenth training winner of the
season for trainer / rider Gina Andrews and prevailed by 2 lengths. “Mumbo Jumbo goes on wetter ground than this but gave me a much better feel on this surface. He is versatile trip wise, stays well and has a turn of foot. We shall aim for the Intermediate final as an end of season target.” she said.
The Jockey Club and Beal Homes sponsored the mares and fillies maiden race which was won by Nick Wright’s Salacia’s Storm. This victory brought about a change of luck for Wright who previously hadn’t enjoyed the best of times at Brocklesby and Huw Edward’s only other ride for him had been a faller. “She jumped and travelled well; they didn’t go a mad gallop and the good ground has suited her.” he said.
The closing Nunns Isuzu Ltd Maiden race saw the impressive 5- year old Mooserwirt quicken 10 lengths clear in decisive fashion for Jack Teal. Bought by Jack in partnership with Roger Marley for 34000 at Goffs as a 3-year-old, the Sholokhov gelding will head back to the sales now at Tattersalls Cheltenham. “He will go on softer ground but he has enjoyed this good ground today. I am really pleased with the way he has jumped the Brocklesby fences and he quickened away nicely.” explained Jack.
TIVERTON FOXHOUNDS
SATURDAY 8TH FEBRUARY 2025
By Donna Harris
On behalf of Devon & Cornwall Point-to-Point Association
The cold weather didn’t dampen down the spirits of racegoers at the re-arranged Tiverton Foxhounds Point-to-Point meeting which was held at Chipley Park on Saturday 8th February. It was a memorable day for trainer/ jockey Josh Newman who was triumphant, after riding an impressive four-timer at the meeting.
His epic result started in the opening race of the day, being the GRE Ltd Hunt Members race, which was run in memory of John Pearcey and Marion and Brian Summers. Of the five runners, Soldier of Destiny was sent off favourite and set the pace, however a patient ride by Josh on Lucky Lara, who stayed on well up the hill, running into the lead over the last, coming home the three-length winner. Owners Terry and Rachel Hamlin had bought the mare two years ago from Kayley Newman (nee Woollacott) and were thrilled with her run, improving on her second in this race last season. The mare gave Josh his thirteenth winner of the season extending his lead in the gentleman’s championship. Josh quoted “They went quite quick early on, but she stayed on strongly up the hill, and knuckled down well.”
The second part of Josh’s four-timer came in the Agrii & Tozers three-mile Maiden race, when he partnered Ted The Thief, another which he trained, this time for the Blackmore Racing Club. Ted The Thief was sent off favourite, and didn’t disappoint his backers, having extended up the final hill taking on Goosey Lucy, who made a blunder at the last, leaving Ted The Thief to run home a four-length winner with Goosey Lucy under Charlie Sprake in second. Josh quoted “I needed something to aim at and he stayed on well up the hill.”
Important Notice, the odds-on favourite, gave Josh Newman his third winner of the day, in the Exeter Racecourse Intermediate Series Qualifier. Again Newman rode a patient race tucked in behind until two fences out, taking the lead over Arv Way There and Liberty Rock, coming home the six-length winner, defying the 5lb penalty he was given for winning the Intermediate at Chaddesley Corbett. Owners Tom and Sally Dalley, who own and run the Stables Business Park at Burnham on Sea, were thrilled having bought Important Notice from Kayley & Josh after the Cothelstone win, “He will run either in the Hunter Chase at Exeter or Cheltenham depending on ground,”
Josh Newman’s fourth winner of the day was also sent off odds-on favourite in the Greenslade Taylor Hunt & Mount Pleasant Inn-sponsored Restricted Race. This race resulted with the Newman trained and ridden El Capitaine, another held up tactically during the race, and produced up the hill three out, winning by eight-lengths, leaving Royal Defender under Martin MacIntyre, six-lengths back in second, and Le Vega Moon under Harry Brown in third. Delighted owner Ian Thompson, who runs his own Sausage Shed Business, quoted “I bought him out of Goffs Ireland sale last May privately, and hopefully he is good enough to go under rules”.
Earlier in the day in The jockey Club & Clarke Willmott Maiden race for Mares and Fillies run over three miles, it was Star Of Honour who was sent off the odds on favourite for the Alan Hill team, with daughter-in-law Izzie who took the ride. The horse didn’t disappoint, following up on her good place form in Ireland. Of the nine runners, Star Of Honour was kept handy throughout the race gradually fending off her rivals, coming home by five -lengths, with outsider Walking It Off running keenly, but staying on well finishing second, with African Lady back in third. After the race Assistant trainer Joe Hill quoted “She is owned by the Middleton family and bought out of Ireland, we always planned to come here”. With jockey quoting “They went a good clip and she kept galloping, everything we hoped for, can’t fault her, but may look for left handed track next.”
The Mixed Open which was sponsored by vets Dilloway and Bosley, only attracted two runners, with other entries having run the previous weekend. Fighter Allen for the David
El Capitaine & Josh Newman after their Restricted Race win
Pipe team was sent off odds-on favourite under Rian Corcoran, with Call Simon for the Robert Chanin team heading off at 2-1 under Arun McManus. A tactical race, with Fighter Allen two lengths ahead trying to head away on final circuit, however Call Simons jockey Arun McManus wasn’t giving up and knew he had petrol still left in the tank, provided a thrilling battle up the final hill, resulting in a photo finish and a Dead heat declared by the judges. David Pipe, owner and trainer of Fighter Allen quoted “You don’t always need ten runners in a race to make it a good one, we may run him again next week.” With jockey Arun McManus delighted with his first winner on Call Simon added “I work for Robert Chanin and also Patrick Cooney, previously having work ridden in Virginia, America, Call Simon gave me a lovely trip around and got up when needed.
It wasn’t the only dead heat of the day, with the last race being the Friends of the late Geoff White & PPORA Club members Conditions race for Novice riders also producing one. It also gave trainer David Pipe and jockey Rian Corcoran their double on the day with oddson favourite Sidi Ismael, giving a thrilling battle three fences from home, and up the final hill with Doc Carver joining in on the line under young Rebecca Pugh producing another dead heat, with The Kings Writ under Hannah Morgan staying on for third. Pipe quoted “Sidi Ismael is a good horse for our young jockeys to ride and we plan to keep him pointing”. Doc Carver’s jockey Rebecca Pugh “Dad owns and trains him, he is a brilliant horse, so brave, his third win here in a row”. With Rian Corcoran adding “I work three days a week at David Pipes’, and three days at Dean Summersby’s it’s my first double, Sidi Ismael is a good tough proper stayer”.
Photo: Tim Holt
THE BERWICKSHIRE RACES
SATURDAY 9TH FEBRUARY 2025
By Peter Burgon
Racegoers have been treated to some top quality action on the Northern Area circuit this season and last Sunday’s Berwickshire fixture didn’t disappoint with classy individuals Chameron and Diable De Sivola continuing to prove that age is just a number, while the North’s leading jockey John Dawson recorded his fourth double of the campaign on Trust Me Nate and The Village Way, both trained by wife Alice.
Carrying 14lb less than he did when making all at last month’s Jedforest meeting, Jackie Stephen’s evergreen 12-year-old gelding Chameron produced another gutsy front-running display under final year Newcastle University student Emma Brown to land the 3m Mountfair Farming Mixed Open Race.
Given another positive ride, the 12-yearold maintained a relentless gallop at the
head of affairs and, after finding another gear between the last two fences, wasn’t stopping as he crossed the line three lengths ahead of Western Run (Sean Cameron), with West Lawn (Charlotte Tailford) a further half-length away in third.
Enjoying a new lease of life since being switched back between the flags, the winner will bid to complete a Friars Haugh hat-trick at the Buccleuch meeting on March 8.
Former 136-rated chaser Diable De Sivola made it four wins from his last five Pointing starts in the 3m Forsyth of Denny Ladies Open Race under another accomplished ride from Jesika Rennie. Always up with the pace, the 12-year-old was led down the hill on both circuits by Ashjan (Joanna Walton) before overturning a three-length deficit on the extended run from three out
to lead at the next, and overcame a slow jump at the last to beat a rejuvenated Ashjan by two lengths.
This was another great result for the Jockey Start Scheme, the brainchild of former amateur rider Will Ramsay who also owns and trains Diable De Sivola, following previous wins this season for Jesika, Jess Jubb and Rebekah Duffy. Ramsay said: ‘’His next target with Jesika is a 2m5f Carlisle Hunters’ Chase on March 9 and if he finishes in the frame will then head to the Aintree Foxhunters’ a month later.’’
Last month’s impressive 2m4f Jedforest Maiden winner Trust Me Nate didn’t see another rival when following up in the 2m4f Meadowhead PPORA Club Members Conditions Race to initiate a double for John Dawson.
Commentator, Video man and Stewards take their viewing positions -
Photo: Grace Beresford
The progressive 7-year-old, carrying the well known colours of John and Jenny Nellis, set a strong pace from the outset and was again very slick over his fences. Despite idling a bit in the closing stages after being out on his own for a long time, he still had a couple of lengths to spare over Fugitives Drift (Lucy Brown) at the finish. Suited by a strongly run contest over a shorter trip, his next target is a 2m Leicester Hunters’ Chase on March 7.
After also getting off the mark at Friars Haugh three weeks ago, The Village Way showed that he is still on an upward curve by landing the 3m Matthew Lee Joinery Ltd and Multi Fuel Stove Company Ltd Restricted Race to complete Dawson’s double.
Patiently ridden and always travelling well just behind the leaders, this 7-year-old halfbrother to dual Grade 1 winning hurdler Crambo cruised up the inner on the home turn to hit the front two out and was always doing enough to score by a length from the promising Cinque Terre (Nick Orpwood). Spare a thought for jumps debutant Blue Indigo (Lucy Brown) who was about halfa-length down disputing second place on the run-in when clipping heels with the leader and fell on the flat, but thankfully both horse and rider were unscathed.
The winner, owned by Caroline Thompson and her brother Richard Smith, who rode 80 winners between the flags, might try to defy a 5lb penalty in the College Valley Restricted at Alnwick on February 23.
Former Irish pointer Whatudoing, bought privately out of Tom Keating’s yard last
year and now trained by Bonchester Bridge-based Diana Walton, opened his account in the 3m HPM Cooper (Building & Roofing) and Press Mains Farm Cottages PPORA Club Members Maiden Race.
Positively ridden from the off by his owner Joanna Walton, the 6-year-old was always in the leading trio and, after heading Major Champion (Amy Milburn) three out, kept his rivals at bay on the extended run to the next before staying on strongly down the home straight to beat Major Champion by five lengths.
This was a 35th career Pointing winner, including 10 in Ireland, for Joanna, who said: ‘’He’s a bit slow but has plenty of stamina and didn’t mind the soft ground.’’
104-rated Irish hurdler Built By Rossies deserved a change of fortune after being brought down when travelling well on her British Pointing debut at Askham Bryan the previous week and duly got off the mark in the 2m4f Thorburn Group PPORA Club Members Maiden Race under a confident ride from her trainer Joe Wright.
Produced with a well-timed challenge to head Deerstalker (Isobel Mactaggart) after two out, the six-year-old found another gear when it mattered and had a cosy three lengths in hand at the line. This Walk In The Park mare, bought privately out of Thomas Gibney’s yard since running over hurdles at Fairyhouse in October and now jointly owned by Wright and girlfriend Alex Duckitt, is a half-sister to Pointing and jumps winners Bothwell Bridge and
Royalraise. The best of her four runs over hurdles in Ireland was at Punchestown in June when eleven lengths 4th of 15 to the Willie Mullins-trained Just For Love (now rated 125) and the winner was also in action last Sunday when finishing third in a Listed Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle at Navan. Wright has confirmed that Built By Rossies is now for sale.
Amma Lord (Lucy Brown) relished the soft ground when making a winning reappearance for the second time in three seasons in the 3m Ennova Law NPPA Area Conditions Race. The 9-year-old had a sustained duel with long time leader Watch Law (Nick Orpwood) from two out before edging in front near the finish to secure a short head verdict. Owner Kenny Lynn was relieved that his charge hadn’t bled on this occasion and, all being well, will go straight to the valuable 2m7f Buccleuch Cup Maiden Hunters’ Chase at Kelso on April 7.
The main action was preceded by pony racing, with both races attracting 8 runners. The 138cm contest, sponsored by Wild Plum Escapes, was won by Little Galway Girl (Neive O’Sullivan) from Silver (Freya Ainslie) and Kitty (Pippa Gibbon), while Judge Fox (Kaden Beasley) landed the Adam & Co Wealth Managementsponsored 148cm contest from She’s A Corker (Freddie Robson) and Dino Royale (Robyn Coulson).
The next Northern Area fixture is the College Valley & North Northumberland at Alnwick on February 23.
THE WAVENEY AND NORFOLK HARRIERS
SATURDAY 9TH FEBRUARY 2025
By Mike Ashby
Jockey Alex Chadwick was in unstoppable form at the Waveney and Norfolk Harrier’s meeting at Higham, landing a winning treble from his three rides, on the day. Chadwick’s successes came on The Yellow Mini, Allmankind and Graveside Lad to take his tally for the season to six.
The opening contest saw owner/trainer Brian Dowling’s The Yellow Mini go one better than last year after the small, but game mare, pressed on after the cross fence and was clear of her rivals from three fences out winning by a comfortable 4 lengths. Unsuccessful on the flat, she has been more competitive since switching to jumping winning a Fontwell hurdle in September 2021. Since her move to pointing with her new owner/trainer the mare has finished runner-up on three occasions and this was her first success.
Allmankind was impressive in the Mixed Open race and had already seen off his rivals before three of them exited at the last obstacle. Saint Calvados was tiring and refused with David Maxwell, hampering Drakes Well and Le Boulevardier, who both unseated. Owner Tim Gredley confirmed a lot of extra
schooling had been undertaken which had improved Allmankind’s jumping performance since his recent Horseheath success. Jockey Chadwick was really pleased with trainer Jenny Owen’s runner echoing the improved jumping, together with “really motoring” from the front and now Cheltenham is on the radar, for this classy 9yo.
Graveside Lad had put in some disappointing displays for trainer Ed Turner but this was a merited display in the Open Maiden to give Chadwick his first winner for the Turner family, in those famous colours. The favourite Shikantsen Enki, James King’s only mount of the day, sadly, broke down on the final turn into the straight, when about to make a forward move.
The PPORA Conditions race saw Senior Citizen make a winning debut in GB points under Izzie Hill when passing the only other finisher, Rhythm Is A Dancer, before three out and storming ahead, finishing 12 lengths clear. Senior Citizen was bought about 18 months ago with the intention to qualify for Aintree and that is still very much the plan going forward, carrying the Myddelton colours.
Shentri, a Higham course winner last season, was an unlucky loser in the PPORA Novice Rider’s contest when falling, when clear, at the second last fence. Shentri’s jockey, Poppy Shaw was having her first ride and looked as though they had seen off the favourite and eventual winner, Kayf Hernando, but crashed out. Poppy suffered a mouth injury as well as being badly concussed but thankfully a resultant CT scan was clear. Tom Hutsby was the fortunate, winning jockey and this was his 9th career win and puts him right in the mix for the Novice Championship.
The closing Restricted race went to the Shropshire-trained, Great Valley, ridden by Guy Sankey who made all to defeat their only two rivals. Another traveller from Shropshire, Tango Arumba, kept on but was still 3 ½ lengths behind her tough opponent, at the finish whilst some indifferent jumping from Ed Vaughan’s mount Shanes Passion resulted in Ed pulling up the Andrew Pennock runner.
A good day of entertaining and competitive racing with 29 runners from the 41 individual horses entered.
Great Valley and Guy Sankey
Photo: Graham Bishop
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ON THE CLOCK
It’s rare that an anticipated duel between two classy adversaries matches expectation – think State Man v Lossiemouth. The Mixed Open at Higham promised much with two high class Rules recruits, both winners last time out, set to do battle over a speed favouring track that would suit them both and held on perfect ground. Allmankind was favoured marginally in the market over the David Maxwell ridden Saint Calvados. The race did not disappoint. There was little between the two for the first couple of circuits with the favourite setting a strong gallop and Saint Calvados hard in his slipstream. By the top of the straight however Allmankind asserted, maintaining a relentless gallop that sapped the stamina reserves of his main rival and leaving the remainder of the field well behind. He was fifteen to twenty lengths ahead when Saint Calvados finally drew stumps, refusing at the last and bringing down two other rivals in the process. Allmankind’s resultant time figure of 130 was exceptional- one of the fastest recorded in points over the past twenty years, and he has now firmly booked his ticket to Cheltenham. That will be a different kettle of fish of course but he has won over the course in his youth and should at least make a bold sight of things out in front.
Another said by connections to be heading to the Festival is Music Drive (120) who ran out a very impressive winner at the Brockelsby, given a confident ride before quickening well on the run to the last and then drawing right away from pointing debutant Jet of Magic (110). Whilst at this stage he appears a little behind the level required to be competitive at the business end of a Foxhunters, Music Drive cannot be entirely left out of calculations given that he was once rated in the 130’s and has run well at Cheltenham before – albeit over hurdles. Of more concern may be his jumping technique which was a little low on occasion.
There was other high-class fayre at the Brockelsby, Mumbo Jumbo (108) confirming the good impression he had a left at Chaddesley with a comfortable victory over Cash or Card (112) in the Restricted. Mumbo Jumbo is to be aimed at the Intermediate final but Cash or Card deserves great credit. He is not very big but, in trying to give the winner weight, he ran very well on this his seasonal debut and should progress through the season.
The Hill yard is not afraid to travel in pursuit of opportunities and Star of Honour (85) made the trip to Chipley Park worthwhile with a ready win in the Maiden. Victory was not unexpected (sent off 2/5 favourite) but her figure was 10 lbs in advance of her form assessment and she should find another small race.
Friars Haugh is a unique course and form there does not translate readily to other tracks. It is therefore to be seen whether Whatuddoing’s form stacks up in the future but on Sunday he took the opening event in the fastest 3-mile time of the day. In truth this time performance is somewhat baffling given that his previous form and that of those that filled the placings behind him, was fairly uninspiring. That this was the largest field of the day might explain things a little but as it stands Whatudoing’s time figure calculates at 106, some 13lbs higher than his form rating and one that suggests he can take the step up to Restricted company.
Two Area Feature races take place this coming weekend with the Coronation Cup at Larkhill and the West Country Champion Chase at Buckfastleigh. What a Glance heads the ratings for the latter having run well on his seasonal debut behind Allmankind. The Coronation Cup sees the re-appearance of past winner Viroflay. What a Glance also appears in the entries for this race but preference here is for My Drogo. City Silk should be better for his first run and can take either of the concluding maidens. It will be interesting to see how Ideal Du Tabert performs at the Sinnington. He was very impressive at Sheriff Hutton but that was on a galloping left-handed track – quite different in nature to Duncombe Park. Line Em Up should take the maiden, however. The card at Horseheath has a familiar look to it and All is True can land his hattrick in the opening event while back at Buckfastleigh, Douglas Longbottom catches the eye in the Intermediate.
A top performance from Allmankind at Higham - Photo: Graham Bishop
FIXTURE LIST 2024/25
AREA FIXTURE COURSE DAY DATE
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
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
Y Holderness Dalton Park Sunday 23 March 2025
D&C Lamerton Kilworthy Sunday 23 March 2025
W Mendip Farmers Ston Easton Sunday 23 March 2025
EA West & North Norfolk Fakenham Sunday 23 March 2025
AREA FIXTURE COURSE DAY DATE
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
FIXTURE COURSE DAY DATE
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 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
CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL BETTING GUIDE
The Complete Guide to The Cheltenham Festival with every fact, stat and trend covered to help you make the most informed bets. DELIVERING WINNERS EVERY YEAR! Content includes:
⬤ Extensive analysis for all 28 races
⬤ Spring Horses To Follow feature
⬤ Feature articles from Guest Authors
⬤ Also includes the Grand National Festival Betting Guide
NATIONAL POINT-TO-POINT CHAMPIONSHIPS 2024/25
SEASON LEADERBOARDS.
• 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.
