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PREVIEWS
THE ROYAL ARTILLERY
SATURDAY 18TH JANUARY 2025
By BOB BRACHER
After the sad loss of the Larkhill Racing Club meeting due to the cold weather there has now been some relenting of the icy snap and all indications are that the Royal Artillery will be able to hold their meeting on Saturday. They have attracted 90 entries for their seven races so there should be some excellent racing to enjoy on Salisbury Plain. The latest news from the course is that all the fences and bends are being moved since the last meeting in December and the forecast going is for good ground.
Entry costs remain at £15 per person with under 16s accompanied free. Race cards are £3 and £5 for two. There will be an AS90 armoured artillery vehicle with volunteers from the Royal Artillery Museum who will be able to show guests the inner workings of the vehicle and generally chat to the public about military life and the equipment they’ve operated over the years. There will be a number of trade stands including food stalls and a fully licensed bar plus the bookmakers to have a wager or two with. There will also be volunteers with charity buckets fundraising for Children with Cancer UK.
The Pinkham Equine Veterinary Services sponsored Hunt Members race opens the card at 11.30am. This is a race for all Hunts that race at Larkhill and has attracted a total of 9 entries. This is headed by the venerable Southfield Theatre who has just celebrated his seventeenth birthday. When last seen he won his Hunt race at Lockinge last season and despite his age he will be the one to pass if he sets off in front as usual. It would be a great training success for Lily Bradstock if he can beat his rivals. These are headed by the two Barrow Street stablemates of Douglas Longbottom and Gran Paradiso. The first named ran well behind Givega at the last Larkhill meeting and would be the one to give Southfield Theatre the most to do. Harriet Waight has entered both of her stable with Crawter having won his Maiden at the course and Sake of Secrecy but this is much tougher for both of them.
The Ladies of the RA Hunt have sponsored the Maiden race which contains an entry for Sienna Earth who was still leading when unseating his rider at the second last in December. Will Biddick, his rider and trainer, will be keen to seek recompense for his
Masked Marvel mare who did look unlucky. Dorset Dazzler was no match for Snap Fish at Badbury but has place chances. Couer d’Alene ran a race of promise at Stafford Cross when finishing fourth and similar comments apply to Schiapars Magern who was third at Kimble. The ex- Irish pair of At Mangan Bridge and Impakt St Georges come into the reckoning as both have form in that country. At Mangan Bridge was runner up in a point to point at Borris House in December and is now in the capable hands of Michael Kehoe. Impakt St Georges was placed in a point to point and hurdles before moving to Josh Newman’s yard and with his stable in such good form he should be considered.
The Novice Riders race sponsored by Simon Prout raising Money for Children with Cancer UK is headed by Acey Milan who won at Larkhill in December 2023 but was not seen again. At his best he should give his young rider Will Higgs a good ride. Sixteen Letters is another making his seasonal debut and in this class he may be too good for his rivals. Step Back is now at the veteran stage but still should give Daniel Williams an each way chance. For Rita goes well for Abigail Henry and is another to consider. Midnight Midge is an interesting recruit to pointing and this three times chase winner should be a good ride for James Shaw. Sixteen Letters is the choice.
The Moore Barlow LLP sponsored Conditions race also contains an entry for Douglas Longbottom and if this race is chosen over the Hunt race he would be the selection. Of his rivals both Pink Eyed Pedro and Step Back are in the veteran stage and may find younger rivals too speedy. Duc be Bourbon won well at the first Larkhill meeting beating Paper Mill who may reoppose and may be the main danger to Douglas Longbottom. Viva Lavilla was third behind Viroflay last season but has not run since and may need the race.
The Mixed Open race sponsored by Nimrod is the target for the prolific Grace a Vous Enki who is seeking his eighth success at the Wiltshire course. He clearly enjoys the wide-open spaces of Larkhill and will be very difficult to beat. My Drogo made a pleasing point to point debut when third behind Givega and this former classy individual may be the one to give the favourite the most to do. Bardenstown Lad chased home Master Templar at Chaddesley Corbett and Oscars Moonshine trained by Olive Nicholls are others who may have place possibilities.
The Restricted sponsored by Cordings looks a race full of promising horses. Snap Fish demolished a good Restricted field at the last meeting and a repeat of that run will be hard to beat. Talimar Pearl had good place form under Rules and broke his Maiden status at Wadebridge. Kilfilum Woods has already won twice this season including at the last meeting and is on the upgrade. Both Good Boy Eric and L’Aventara have only run twice but won their respective Maidens so are clearly on the upgrade. All Star Boy won two races last season for Chris Barber and is another who is improving. Boys Will Be Boys improved as the season progressed last year and he is worth keeping an eye on. Snap Fish is the selection.
The meeting concludes with the Flat race over two miles where there is little form to go by. Askdaddy trained by Bradley Gibbs was runner up in a similar race last May at Chaddesley Corbett and may be able to put her experience to good use. Defying Gravity ought to come on for his run in December when he finished fourth. Of the newcomers the well related Blue Skies Ahead trained by Graeme McPherson, Tombereau trained by Michael Kehoe and Hard Stare trained by Anthony Honeyball are three to check on in the paddock and with the bookies.
A good days racing expected at Larkhill
Photo: Tim Holt
SOUTH WOLD HUNT
SATURDAY 18TH JANUARY 2025
By Nico Morgan
The Midlands Point-to-point season comes under orders this weekend as the South Wold welcomes us to Revesby Park in Lincolnshire (PE22 7NB) for a six-race meeting which includes a point-topoint flat race. 71 horses are entered for this meeting.
As we emerge from the cold we must thank the team at Revesby for their incredible hard work to prepare the course for this fixture. When entries closed the frost had come out of the ground and the going was officially Good to Soft with a mild week ahead. They thoroughly deserve the far-reaching support which always brings a large crowd to this beautiful course.
Racing begins at 12pm with the Jockey Club Conditions Race for Grass Roots riders. Horses in this contest may not have won a race since October 2022 and their jockeys may not have won more than 20 races. Largy Mountain is the bestrated horse here but no jockey had been booked at the time of writing. Daniel Cherriman rides Galileo Silver, second in the Open at Chaddesley last season, its last outing. Nasee (Miss C. Sheehy) was placed three times last season between the flags. Dale Peters now trains Cuddly Dudley, previously with Laura Morgan under rules, which had a pleasing first run at Horseheath after two years off. Westhill, owned by jockey Miss A. C. Mackenzie and trained by Francesca Poste, had their best result to date when fourth at the Quorn
meeting at Garthorpe last April. Ellie Holder has the ride on Connor Grays The Last Shepherd which starts between the flags for the first time after a career as a hurdler under rules.
The Maiden comes next, at 12.35pm, and has 16 entries including Bahio Boum and Shakermaker who come to pointing for the first time. Drumlee Brexit and Miss Tele were both second on their last runs. The former has since had a season off while the latter benefits from the 7lb mares allowance. Also carrying less will be the mare Cali Dreamer and five-year-olds Kaviar Wood and Kirsch De Cotte.
15 horses are entered for the feature race of the meeting, the Mixed Open race, which starts at 1.10pm. Dusart (T. Chatfeild-Roberts), Foxey (H. Crow), Jacks Touch (Dr. B. Rose), Movethechains (H. Carrington), Musical Drive (Miss E. Callwood), Mylestown Upper (A. Chadwick) are all winners under rules but yet to race in points, while top-rated will be Ragnar Lodbrok, ridden by Alex Chadwick, with ten wins from 15 starts. Jack Andrews has a choice of Captain Biggles (four wins from eight starts) and Loughan (nine from 18), while Camdonian (C. Furness), Lagan Valley (James King), Matts Commission, Zee Man and Back Bar (Izzie Hill) are also multiple points winners. This should be a cracking open.
The Intermediate race, next, has ten entries which include Kilfilum Woods, the mount of Zac Baker, which has won both its point-to-point races since joining Station Yard Racing. Courting Flow, trained by Jack Teal, and ridden by Christy Furness,
has been very consistent to date, only failing to be placed last time out when falling. Julie Wadland trains Glenmount (James King) which won their last three outings of last season before finishing fourth over the shorter distance at Chaddesley in late December. Others to watch include Foxylee (Meisha Micklewright for John Chatfield-Roberts), Karismatik (Ellie Callwood for The Smith Family), Surprise Attack (John Dawson for the Racy Ladies Partnership) and Wallace Olinger, ridden by Dale Peters for Beryl Close and Toby Hunt.
The penultimate race of the afternoon will be the PPORA Level 2 Conditions Race, which has 14 entries, all owned by PPORA members and ten years old or over. This field includes newcomers to pointing who come from professional racing careers and experienced favourites between the flags. John Chatfeild-Roberts Go Go Geronimo (Tom Chatfield-Roberts) will lead the ratings but they will be challenged by consistent performers like Benefaktor (Jack Andrews), Buzzard Trix, Golden Taipan, Golden Tobouggan (Izzie HIll), Mountain Assault (Dale Peters) and Who’s In The Box.
Finally the day’s racing is brought to a close by the point-to-point flat race for four and five year olds, raced over two miles. A number of these will be making their racecourse debuts here, but others have completed these races once or twice, like Askdaddy, second last time.
Revesby races is always well attended and there will be a bar, bookies and trade stands to fill the time between races, so we look forward to seeing you there.
Go Go Geronimo in winning action at Charm Park
Photo: Tom Milburn
THE JEDFOREST HUNT
SUNDAY 19TH JANUARY 2025
By Peter Burgon
The Northern Area Point-to-Point season gets back on track after a five week break with the Jedforest fixture at Friars Haugh, Kelso on Sunday 19th January.
Kindly supported by Kelso and Musselburgh Racecourses, it has attracted 91 entries, a total not matched here since 2015, on a seven race card which starts at 12.30pm.
The opening 3m J A Wilson Contractors and A & S Clarkson Engineering Maiden Race has 14 entries and provides a gilt-edged opportunity for The Village Way. He brings some decent form to the table having already finished runner-up twice this season, most recently when beaten eight lengths by Slaney Opera at Alnwick on his first outing for Alice Dawson’s yard. Of the others, She Is The Enemy enters calculations if reproducing the form shown at Friars Haugh (4th) and Overton (2nd) last season, Notnowbob stayed on from two out when fifteen lengths 5th to Slaney Opera at Alnwick and is open to further improvement, Where’s Willy should come on a lot for his first run over fences in last month’s Alnwick Restricted, while another one to note is Arctic Oscar’s half-brother Maltese Joe who had obviously been showing plenty at home in his previous yard as he was sent off favourite on debut at Dunsmore in November 2023 but trailed in 5th behind Disco Davis and might need the run on his comeback outing for Tom Greenwood.
The 2m4f R & B Painters and Gillon Bloodstock Maiden Race (14 entries) may chiefly concern Deerstalker, debutante Eagle Rare, Hollywood Harmon, Monrocco Moonlight and Trust Me Nate. Slight preference is for well related 5-year-old Wings of Eagles mare Eagle Rare who represents the in-form Warwickshire yard of Gina Andrews and carries the colours of former Northern Area jockey Robert Robinson. 106-rated chaser/ hurdler Deerstalker has joined Kate Mactaggart’s yard since finishing five-and-a-half lengths 4th over this trip in a Uttoxeter Chase six months ago and it’s also worth noting he would have won a 2m4f Shelfield Park Maiden on debut for Philip Rowley in March 2023 had he not fallen at the last. Hollywood Harmon finished eight lengths 5th to the useful Willewonga in a 2m5f Cartmel Maiden Hunters’ Chase last May and a repeat of that effort would put her right in the mix, Monrocco Moonlight has joined Joe Hill’s yard since finishing five lengths 2nd in a 3m Tattersalls Farm Maiden on October 27 and is expected to go close under champion jockey James King, while Trust Me Nate might well have won last season’s 2m4f Buccleuch Maiden had he not been hampered by a loose horse approaching two out.
The 15 entries for the 2m4f Harbro (PPORA) Ladies Open Race are headed by Diable De Sivola. Having led from the off in last month’s Ratcheugh Racing Club Mixed Open, Jesika Rennie’s mount was still four lengths up four out when carried out by a loose horse and drop-
ping back in trip shouldn’t be an issue. Course winner Fightfortheroses has shown his best form on a sound surface, Kingrullah led at the last when beating Killer Clown by two lengths in an Alnwick Conditions Race over this trip last month, while evergreen 14-year-old Vivas goes well fresh and was only beaten a head by Ballydonagh Boy first time out at Overton last March. Of the long distance raiders, prolific Pointing winner Loughan and 127-rated hurdler Music Drive are also entered at Revesby Park on Saturday, while Precious Bounty won a three runner Grass Roots Riders Conditions Race at Badbury Rings nine weeks ago.
The 3m4f £1500 ‘Jockeys & Trainers Supporting Pointto-Points’ Mixed Open, with £1000 to the winner, is the longest and most valuable race staged at the Friars Haugh course since it opened in March 1953. The full list of 15 trainers and 15 jockeys sponsoring this Area Feature Race are: Trainers - Nick Alexander, George Bewley, Daragh Bourke, Susan Corbett, James Ewart, Alison Hamilton, Rebecca Menzies, Katie Scott, Mike Smith, Jackie Stephen, Sandy Thomson, Simon Waugh, Donald Whillans, Ewan Whillans and Willie Young. Jockeys - Callum Bewley, Jonathon Bewley, Henry Brooke, Ross Chapman, Sam Coltherd, Derek Fox, Jamie Hamilton, Brian Hughes, Bruce Lynn, Ryan Mania, Nathan Moscrop, Craig Nichol, Gavin Sheehan, Patrick Wadge and Amie Waugh.
Proven stayer Wild Romance comes here at the top of his game having already landed Mixed Opens at Hexham and Alnwick with a bit in hand and is fancied to defy a 5lb penalty under Shay Halton. Gloucestershire raider Boss Man Fred is expected to go well on his reappearance under James King, the extended trip should suit Cool Desire and Red Opium, 150-rated chaser Dusart is also entered at Revesby Park on Saturday, Oxfordshire raider Learntalot who ended last season on a high by landing the 2m6f Stratford Restricted Hunters’ Chase Final would be a first Friars Haugh ride for champion jockey Izzie Hill, while this stamina test should bring out the best in West Lawn.
A case can be made for many of the 13 entries in a competitive-looking 3m Marsh Riddell Gibson Restricted Race. The quintet with the benefit of a recent outing in their lockers are For One Night Only, Jullou
De Grissay, Shantou’s Temple, Slaney Opera and Something Golden. James King’s mount Jullou De Grissay got up in the final strides to land a Horseheath Maiden on December 31 and could have more to offer, while the same sentiment applies to impressive Alnwick Maiden scorer Slaney Opera. Last season’s Berwickshire Maiden winner Something Golden was placed on his reappearance at Hexham, while For One Night Only and Shantou’s Temple finished 4th at Alnwick and Hexham respectively. Main Stage, Surprise Attack, Torngat and Whats The Solution also merit consideration in a tricky puzzle for punters to solve.
Not The Chablis makes most appeal in the 3m Jockey Club & Rowley Mile Equine Conditions Race for Grass Roots Riders. Jess Jubb’s mount was placed at Overton and Hexham last season, and shaped well on his reappearance when fourteen lengths 6th to Kingrullah over a shorter trip at Alnwick, Foxinthebox landed a 3m1f Huntingdon Maiden Hurdle for Olly Murphy in May 2022, while Humps And Bumps and Raecius Felix both found only one too good on their final starts at Hexham last season.
Eagles Rock is taken to get back in a winning groove in the concluding 3m Turnbull & Scott and Midburn Construction Scottish Hunts Conditions Race. Mike Cregan’s charge came from off the pace to record impressive victories at Overton and Corbridge last season but didn’t act on the heavy ground when 7th on his reappearance at Hexham seven weeks ago. Western Run, a dual Overton Mixed Open winner in 2023, and Bintheredonethat are back in calmer waters here, the drop in class could rejuvenate Annie Magic and Chameron, while Shantou Moon was not disgraced when 6th in a quality Mixed Open at Alnwick.
As usual, the main action will be preceded by pony racing from 11.30am, with 8 entries for the 138cm contest and 9 entries for the 148cm contest.
Admission is £10 per person, 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.
Picturesque Friars Haugh
Photo: Grace Beresford
SPEED FIGURES
LARKHILL 18/01/2025
11:30 THE LARKHILL FIXTURES HUNT MEMBERS, SUBSCRIBERS & FARMERS RACE: Southfield Theatre (IRE) (114) Douglas Longbottom (GB) (110) Potters Venture (IRE) (94) Gran Paradiso (IRE) (90)
12:05 THE FIVE YEARS OLD AND OVER MAIDEN RACE: Whatchagotder (IRE) (96) Dorset Dazzler (GB) (88) Schiapars Magern (GB) (87) Kirsch de Cotte (FR) (74)
12:50 THE CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 2), FOR NOVICE RIDERS: Sixteen Letters (IRE) (112) Premier d’Troice (FR) (108) For Rita (IRE) (106) All Loved Up (IRE) (103)
1:25 THE FIVE YEARS OLD AND OVER CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 2): Douglas Longbottom (GB) (110) Paper Mill (GB) (108) Duc de Bourbon (FR) (106) All Loved Up (IRE) (103)
2:00 THE MIXED OPEN RACE: Grace A Vous Enki (FR) (124) L’Air du Vent (FR) (123) Duc de Bourbon (FR) (119) Montanna (GB) (117)
2:35 THE RESTRICTED RACE: Dorset Diamond (GB) (106) All Star Boy (IRE) (105) Kilfilum Woods (IRE) (99) Snap Fish (IRE) (99) L’Aventara (GB) (96)
REVESBY PARK 18/01/2025
12:00 THE JOCKEY CLUB OPPORTUNITY CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 3), FOR GRASS ROOTS RIDERS: Nasee (GB) (90) Westhill (IRE) (89) Galileo Silver (IRE) (78)
12:35 THE MELYVN LEACH MEMORIAL MAIDEN RACE: Whatchagotder (IRE) (96) Shuile Warrior (GB) (90) Kaviar Wood (FR) (87) Machu Picchu (IRE) (82)
1:10 THE PAT BARTHORPE MIXED OPEN RACE: Camdonian (IRE) (132) Loughan (IRE) (121) Captain Biggles (IRE) (119) Matts Commission (IRE) (117)
1:45 THE SPILSBY NFU (PHILIP ODLING) INTERMEDIATE RACE: Glenmount (IRE) (107) Kilfilum Woods (IRE) (104) Courting Flow (IRE) (102) Karismatik (FR) (98)
2:20 THE PPORA CLUB MEMBERS VETERAN HORSE CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 2): Go Go Geronimo (GB) (111) Benefaktor (IRE) (108) The Dubai Way (IRE) (108) Buzzard Trix (IRE) (103) Mountain Assault (IRE) (96)
FRIARS HAUGH 19/01/2025
12:30 THE MAIDEN RACE: She Is The Enemy (IRE) (103) The Village Way (GB) (98) Whatchagotder (IRE) (96) Notnowbob (IRE) (84)
1:00 THE MAIDEN RACE (NWFAA): Hollywood Harmon (IRE) (93) Trust Me Nate (GB) (82) Theoldboggroad (IRE) (80) Clapton Hill (GB) (56)
1:30 THE PPORA CLUB MEMBERS LADIES OPEN RACE: Loughan (IRE) (128) Kingrullah (IRE) (124) Fightfortheroses (IRE) (116) Killer Clown (IRE) (116) Precious Bounty (IRE) (114)
2:00 THE NORTHERN AREA FEATURE MIXED OPEN RACE: Wild Romance (IRE) (126) Nick Lost (FR) (117) Bardenstown Lad (GB) (114) Red Opium (GB) (114) Cool Desire (IRE) (111)
2:30 THE RESTRICTED RACE: Whats The Solution (IRE) (102) For One Night Only (IRE) (100) Shantou’s Temple (GB) (100) Karismatik (FR) (98) Something Golden (IRE) (98) Henry’s Regime (GB) (94)
3:00 THE JOCKEY CLUB OPPORTUNITY CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 3), FOR GRASS ROOTS RIDERS: Not The Chablis (IRE) (108) Humps And Bumps (IRE) (93) Some Operator (IRE) (90) The Macon Lugnatic (GB) (82)
3:30 THE SCOTTISH CONDITIONS RACE (LEVEL 3): Not The Chablis (IRE) (108) Eagles Rock (IRE) (103) Bintheredonethat (IRE) (100) Shantou Moon (IRE) (93)
POINTING PEOPLE: MIKE SMITH
Tell me about your background
I’m 58 and was born in Bristol, where I still live. I’m married to Sue, whose brother-in-law is (former leading professional jockey and point-to-point course inspector) Richard Linley.
How did you get into bookmaking?
My paternal grandfather’s friend Dick Reynolds was a bookmaker, established in 1938. My grandfather worked for him and, when Dick passed away, he took over the business and the name. My father Chris – who passed away in November – took over, then so did I, using the name “Mike Smith trading as Dick Reynolds”. I grew up with racing, I worked with my dad from a young age and would sometimes work at the greyhound flapping at courses like Glastonbury, Brean and Trowbridge and ball hare racing (like flapping but racing in a straight line along a field) with my brother Andrew.
What changes have you seen over the years betting at P2Ps?
The likes of computerised tickets, lightboards, strict age restrictions – you have to ask for ID if a punter looks under 25 – and betting using bank cards and machines.
I think I prefer the old days. You had to use your brain more, while new people coming in reply on their computers. You can just press buttons to change the odds without laying a bet and people no longer know the tic-tac.
Where did ‘Mike Smith Says Let’s Hunt On’ come from?
It started in March 2004 when the hunting ban was first discussed. Everyone has their own personal opinion and mine was that I was against the hunting ban, and I believe that it should continue (after all, it’s good enough for the Royals to take part!) I made a temporary sign at the time and got lots of supportive comments from punters. Many said that they were betting with me because of my sign, and many still do.
Do you/have you bet under rules as well as at P2Ps?
Yes, I used to go racing every day, all over the country, but the exchanges have ruined it in my opinion. I still go a few times a year to my local courses – Wincanton, Bath, Chepstow and Salisbury –and I bet at the Cheltenham Festival and Royal Ascot, but I much prefer the point-to-points. I bet at about 40 a season in Wessex and Devon & Cornwall.
What’s the biggest bet you’ve ever taken? Did it win?
Yes, it was a £3,000 to £2,000 (6/4) at Larkhill and yes, it won. David Pipe was the jockey, but I can’t remember when it was, or what the horse was called, I must have erased it from my mind!
Which courses/fixtures tend to attract the biggest punters?
There don’t seem to be any big punters anymore, but the best crowd attractors are the organisers who only put on one fixture each season, such as the Mendip Farmers at Ston Easton, Berkeley at Woodford and Beaufort at Didmarton. They do a great job in making it a family event with side shows, things for kids, stalls, bars
BY JAKE EXELBY, SOUTH MIDLANDS AREA PRESS OFFICER
and they bring the hounds for the people to meet. The Mendip Farmers often put on pony races and charity races. I’ve even taken bets on camel racing at Badbury Rings!
You’re a punter yourself. Tell me about your favourite bet
If I think a price is wrong, I will bet – or lay – to my opinion… and I am very opinionated! My favourite bet would be a ‘thieving’ each-way in an eight-horse race.
What do you think about race programming? How can we make racing more competitive?
I think they do a very good job but would like to see the Maiden races be first on the card, so that the horses are running on fresh ground. I think they have done the right thing with Restricted races, allowing a horse to run in one again after winning, with a 5lb penalty.
Originally, I was against professional trainers running their horses in points, but now we need as many horses as we can attract to keep the sport going.
Which have been your favourite horses?
My dad’s horse Pastoral Pride, who started in points, then won three Hunter Chases in 1992. His best win was at the Cheltenham evening meeting. I went with £1,000 in my pocket to watch the race, it cost me £7 to get in (we didn’t have enough owners badges) and I put £993 on the horse at 2/1. He horse p*ssed up and it was a great day! I had an interest in a horse with my mates Len and Rose Vickery called Subtle Sovereign, who won four out of his six races in 2014.
I also admired Cool Dawn, who won its first point to point at Badbury Rings in 1994, then progressed to win the 1998 Cheltenham Gold Cup. Having backed it at 40/1 ante-post, it was another fantastic day for me.
Which other bookmakers do you respect?
I have a lot of respect for Rich Pittard, another family business that was started by his father Bob. Rich puts the time in to study the form and will bet and lay to his own opinion. I make a book next to him at the most meetings and we have a laugh – he puts up with me bollocking my staff and the punters!
Mark Hill is another bookie who is a very good judge, studies the form and lays a bet.
Which jockeys and trainers do you admire?
Richard Barber was a great point-to-point trainer who kept his horses in points and Hunter Chases, rather than sending them to the sales. I got to know him well over the last few years, he was always ready to offer me a drink and a sandwich after racing and would spend time talking about the day’s racing. His passing was a huge loss to the world of point-to-pointing.
Polly Curling was a good strong jockey. I also admired Polly Gundry, especially with young horses. Nowadays, it’s Will Biddick, who I see riding most weekends.
What’s your favourite course?
Ston Easton, which is local to me. It’s a fair course, with fair fences. I take my family, including the grandchildren and we have a great day out.
Mendip Farmers at Ston Easton - Mike’s favourite fixture
Photo: Tim Holt
We’re the first to arrive and usually the last to leave. When the Mendip Farmers raced at Nedge, we used to make a book on the hill, and it always seemed to snow!
I also like Wadebridge, although I have to leave at an ungodly hour to get there! It’s great for a quirky horse, going round the bends uphill and downhill and over the ‘Melling Road’.
What do you enjoy most about pointing?
The punters are a different breed, will chat to you and have some banter. I see regulars at the courses who bet with me, and the trainers and jockeys are friendly. The organisers do a great job and are always helpful. The best thing is that the punters can make a day of it, take their own picnics and drinks and it’s so much more relaxed than racecourses under rules. The best part for me is socialising with a glass of port after racing, after which I get driven home by my team, who include my son Alex – he’s worked for me for 23 years. I was once left behind before by a driver who was fed up waiting – I returned home two days later!
What would you do if you were in charge of the sport?
I think they do a fantastic job, however I would like to see the pony racing to be held during the other races, as it would be more inclusive for everyone involved, and let the punters watch the up-and-coming jockeys. I would also like to see people get together and organise a few evening fixtures in the spring on a Friday. We had a rearranged fixture last season at Trebudannon, and it was well supported with a big crowd.
What do you think will happen to pointing after a hunting ban?
I think it will be a sad day, though I believe that point-to-pointing will carry on in some way. I hope that the farmers and landowners will
still be willing to lend their land for the sport to continue, as pointing has been the start of many successful racing careers and – if it stops – the whole of racing could die out, as where would jockeys and horses learn their trade?
What are your non-horsey hobbies?
Enjoy holidays, especially the Canary Islands – we’re going to Gran Canaria in February when we have a two-week break from racing –and travelling round Cornwall in our campervan.
I also spend time with my grandchildren and watch Bristol City on occasions.
Tell me something I wouldn’t know from asking these questions
I believe that, if you get something out of the sport, then you should put something back in. I contribute to the pony racing prizes at the end of the season, along with Richard Prince and Paul Nicholls. The kids riding are the sport’s future and should be encouraged – giving prizes is just a small gesture and I’m happy to do it. Harry Cobden and Freddie Gingell still remember to me from their days on the ponies. I always bet on the charity races and happily give to the charities involved, like the air ambulance.
I didn’t go to school very often and would bunk off to be with my greyhounds. We had about 15 of our own flapping at one stage and I used to work at Slough greyhound stadium, where I looked after a dog called Whisper Wishes – after he left the track, he went on to win the Greyhound Derby. When I did go to school, my mates were David Gingell (Freddie’s dad) and Tim Sprake (former jockey and uncle of current pointing rider Charlie Sprake).
Finally I am a cancer survivor and have been clear for seven years.
Mike’s father Chris betting as Dick Reynolds
Leading-in Pastoral Pride after Cheltenham success
Mike takes bets at Larkhill
Photo: Caroline Exelby
Subtle Sovereign in winning action
Photo: Tim Holt
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LATEST RESULTS
WADEBRIDGE 12/01/2025
11:30 1. HOLIDAY FUND (IRE) J. Newman 11-4 2. JET SMART (IRE) Rian Corcoran 1-3F
3. RADDON TOP (IRE) J. Dawkins 25-1 (5 ran).
12:05 1. FIGHTER ALLEN (FR) Rian Corcoran 6-4 2. THE KINGS WRIT (IRE) Miss Hannah Morgan 5-4F 3. CANASTERO (IRE) Ashley Dascombe 12-1 (10 ran).
12:40 1. DALAMOI (IRE) Edward Vaughan 4-1 2. SIDI ISMAEL (FR) L. Morris 10-1
3. DR RHYTHM (IRE) M. McIntyre 7-1 (11 ran).
1:15 1. KING DE PALMA (FR) J. Bament 50-1 2. TED THE THIEF (IRE) J. Newman 2-1F
3. NELSON CRIQ (IRE) D. Andrews 9-2 (12 ran).
1:50 1. CLONDAW DRAKE (IRE) J. Newman 9-4F 2. DESIGNER DESTINY (IRE) Edward Vaughan 5-1 3. LIWAH (FR) W. Biddick 16-1 (13 ran).
2:25 1. NOBLE BLUE (FR) J. Newman 6-4F 2. MASTER MCSHINE (IRE) Miss A. Johnston 6-1 (8 ran).
EXETER SUPPORTS HUNTER CHASING
THE UK’S LEADING INTERMEDIATE SERIES
#55 QUALIFIED HORSES IN 2023
EACH QUALIFIER IS RUN FOR A MINIMUM OF £500
EXETER OFFER A MINIMUM OF £5000 PRIZE MONEY
ALL RUNNERS QUALIFY FOR INTERMEDIATE SERIES FINAL ON HALDON HILL (CLASS 5)
2024
SUNDAY 10 NOVEMBER
Dunsmore Club – Dunsmore
SUNDAY 24 NOVEMBER
East Cornwall – Great Trethew
SUNDAY 8 DECEMBER
Cornwall Hunt Club – Wadebridge
2025
SUNDAY 26 JANUARY
Tiverton – Chipley Park
SUNDAY 16 FEBRUARY
South Pool – Buckfastleigh
SUNDAY 16 MARCH
Dart Vale – Buckfastleigh
SUNDAY 23 MARCH
Lamerton – Kilworthy
LAST QUALIFIER
SUNDAY 30 MARCH
South Cornwall – Trebudannon
INTERMEDIATE FINAL ENTRIES
SATURDAY 5 APRIL, 2025
INTERMEDIATE FINAL FRIDAY 11 APRIL, 2025
Twenty-five-year-old Megan Lawrence from Patchacott in Devon, near Upcott Cross point-to-point course trained five-year-old King De Palma to win the maiden race at Wadebridge at 50/1 last Sunday (12th January).
Given a good ride by Jake Bament he jumped well and won nicely beating some useful looking prospects. The gelding, who was sent off favourite for a bumper at Larkhill last season for previous connections dead-heated for third on that occasion but following that had four more runs showing little and Lawrence explains to me how they came to buy him: “I had seen an advert for him on Facebook and we were looking for a pointer, my Uncle Richard and I, had been to look at one at Victor Dartnall’s which we didn’t fall in love with so whilst out on the road I suggested we call in to Ian Chanin’s to look at this lad-we bought him straightaway.”
Lawrence is from an eventing background and has competed successfully to Intermediate level. She tells me how the involvement in point-to-pointing started: “Uncle Richard and his wife Carol have always had the pointers and through that I have always taken interest, I had a bit of exposure to point-to-pointing when I worked for Charlotte Rowe but really until recently eventing has been my thing.”
Visits to Gordon Treacy’s or Tim Dennis’s all-weather gallops sometimes prove necessary but mainly the use of the moor and the beach provide Lawrence with natural training facilities that enable a variation in the routine. She has five in for this season and hopes to extend the string in the future. “We have just put up a new barn with eight more stables and I would like to have some more.” Like many getting started hard work is part and parcel and Lawrence adds: “I have help from my Mum; Jenny, and Zac Donaldson comes twice a week and in the evenings, I have a waitressing job.”
THIS WEEK’S GRASS ROOTS STORY MEGAN LAWRENCE
by Claire Hart, Point-to-Point Correspondent
Winning Jockey Jake Bament, who is sponsored by Angela Prouse; Mortgage advice Bureau; has recently ridden two winners’ under-rules at Exeter for Tim Dennis is looking forward to King De Palma for the future and tells me: “He’d had a few runs and when he finished fourth at Wadebridge before Christmas I felt ridden handier he could improve, he travelled and jumped nicely Sunday.” Devon-based Bament who is now working as a bricklayer adds: “I went conditional for a period but came back to amateur ranks and got a ‘proper’ job. I can now enjoy the race-riding and the pointing. I am earning good money, and I can enjoy life.” I surmise that he, like many is a professional amateur.
King de Palma is owned by Carol Lawrence, Megans Aunt and she has lived in Burrington, Devon since she moved down form Durham in North Yorkshire and married Richard. Point-to-pointing has always been part of life and they enjoyed lots of success with horses she trained such as O’Ech and her daughter O’Flo. She reminisces “Bryony Frost won on O’Flo at Bratton Down, we had the Farrant brothers, Ashley and Rodney rode for us, also Joe Tickle and Nick Scholfield. We had a mare win a maiden first time out at Black Forest Lodge in 2005, she was called No Way A Lady- Tom O’Brien rode her.” Having stepped away from the pointing for about ten years, the bug is back and chatting to Carol it is clear that the involvement within the sport is enjoyable for all the family.
It is exciting to learn that King De Palma’s future exploits will be within the British point-to-point field and that he will not be sold, he will hopefully be one for the Lawrence family to enjoy for many seasons. Buckfastleigh on 16th February is a possible target for him - one thing is for sure he won’t be 50/1 again.
King De Palma, Jake Bament (1st) leads Ted The Thief, Josh Newman at the last, 4,5&6yo Maiden
Photo: Tim Holt
ON THE CLOCK
Clondaw Drake (108) continued his improvement with a ready win at Wadebridge. Given the office on the run to the home straight, he showed an impressive turn of foot to hit the front two from home and kept on well to the line to finish five lengths clear. He tends to carry his head a little high but in this sort of form further success seems inevitable.
Despite appearing second top on the figures beforehand (fourth placed City Silk was top-rated), King de Palma (93) was sent off at odds of 50/1 in the 4-, 5- & 6-year-old maiden. He had run promisingly early last season before disappointingly on his last outing, but here, racing prominently throughout, he showed plenty of resolve to hold off Josh Newman’s Ted The Thief (94) – the pair finishing well clear. King de Palma should be able to find a small Restricted in due course, whilst losses are only lent on the runner-up -though a step down in trip may assist as he looked to be simply outstayed in the closing stages.
Conditions look set fair for some excellent racing this weekend.
Grace a Vous Enki is back at his beloved Larkhill and cannot be opposed in the Mixed Open although likely to be set off at prohibitive odds. Interestingly the rather inconsistent L’Air du Vent comes out just one pound behind, and as a course winner may represent value each-way.
The Restricted looks to be a cracker with three of the most promising maiden winners this season entered. The unbeaten Kifilum Woods is sure to give a good account and All Star Boy is also of interest in receipt of five pounds but preference is for Snap Fish – a wide margin winner of both of his starts this season.
Douglas Longbottom is a regular at this course and can make his presence felt in either the Members race or the later Conditions race.
The Midlands Area gets underway at Revesby Park where the Veterans race looks set to be run at a good tempo with Go Go Geronimo and Benefaktor at the head of the ratings. Go Go Geronimo ran well at Horseheath last month but Benefaktor is a dual course winner and will not fail for assistance from the sadldle.
Camdonian is of interest in the Mens Open whilst Glenmount should strip fitter for his outing at Chaddesley and be better suited by likely ground conditions here.
Wild Romance can maintain his winning run in the feature race at the Jedforest where the opening race sees The Village Way attempt to go one better in the maiden after two promising runs this season. A sporting bet later on in the card may be Not The Chablis, top rated in both Conditions races. He ran well without winning on a couple of occasions last season and will strip fitter for his run at Alnwick a month ago.
Douglas Longbottom & Martin McIntyre (maroon cap) has a strong chance this weekend
Photo: Tim Holt
THE NORTH CORNWALL HUNT AT WADEBRIDGE
SUNDAY 12TH JANUARY 2025
By MIKE DROWNE
A sun kissed Wadebridge held the first Point to Point fixture of the Devon and Cornwall area in 2025 on Sunday and it was business as usual, with Josh Newman starting where he left off. The rider enjoyed a fruitful day at their December meeting, training five winners, four of which he rode and he landed the first race of the day on Sunday, the Moores of St Wenn Conditions race (Level 3) with Holiday Fund, who was priced at 11-4. Jet Smart was the hot favourite and looked to oblige, however Josh Newman, who also trains the gelding, used his experience and delivered his mount with a late rattle to deny the favourite by a neck. Reflecting on the success, Josh said; “That gave me a good kick, I didn’t think we could beat Jet smart on form. He (Jet Smart) had a hard race two weeks ago at Chaddesley Corbett so maybe that made the difference.”
The second race on the card, was the JB Estates Conditions (Level 2) for Novice riders. Fighter Allen and The King’s Writ renewed rivalry, the latter had beaten the former by 17 lengths at the last meeting and was 5-4 to win again. The pair engaged in a battle once more and pulled clear of the rest of the field but it was 6-4 shot, Fighter Allen whom came off the better and won by four lengths under Rian Corcoran and trained by David Pipe. The track has been a lucky one for the rider and reflecting on his success he said, “I was in front a lot sooner then I wanted to be, he travelled and jumped and got me there too soon. He grabbed at the second last and then got tight to the last and idled to the line with me but he’s a nice pointer. It’s been a lucky course for me, every time I have been here I have rode a winner, this is my fourth win here now.”
Race three was the Kivells Mixed Open,11 runners and riders went to post for the feature race and it produced a titanic battle for the honours. Sidi Ismael was clear heading to the open ditch for the final time but a mistake at the island fence handed the initiative to his nearest pursuers, Hearts Corner, Dalamoi and 12-year-old Dr Rhythm was running well. Hearts Corner briefly took the lead heading down the hill but Dalamoi took the lead jumping four out and from there, he did battle with Sidi Ismael and the running on Dr Rhythm. Dalamoi, who is a half-brother to Don Poli stayed on the best to win by a neck from Sidi Ismael. Winning trainer, Tim Vaughan, who had made the journey from Wales, said, “The gang at home have done a good job with him. Lucinda, my head girl rides him out every day and has done her own thing with him. He’s tricky to keep
Noble Blue, Josh Newman (1st) 7yo & over Maiden
Photo: Tim Holt
happy and healthy but he’s got loads of ability. He’s a big old boy so it’s trying to give him enough work without putting pressure on him.”
Race four sprung a 50-1 surprise when King De Palma landed the Heltor four-, five- and six-year-old Maiden. The gelding showed rapid improvement from his last run when finishing fourth at the track in December to beat the 2-1 favourite, Ted The Thief by a length under Jake Bament, who is fresh from recent success under rules. The rider said “He’s a nice horse and has come on a lot from his run here last time. He jumps for fun and travelled throughout on testing ground and got every yard of the 3 miles today.”
Trainer Megan Lawrence was having her second ever winner, following on from Minella Jab, who also won at Wadebridge last season. Reflecting on the success the young handler said, “Truthfully, we haven’t done anything differently with him. He was entered for Great Trethew but we never took him because he was coughing, he got over it relatively quickly so we were able to run him last time but he had missed a bit of work. For this meeting, we were lucky he was in good health and the recent snow and ice didn’t affect any of his work too much, so he was able to
show us what we hoped was in there! We would have been happy with a one place improvement so to win was quite unexpected.”
The fifth race was the Lodge and Thomas Restricted Race and it saw Clondaw Drake and Josh Newman follow up from their success at the previous Wadebridge meeting. The gelding is owned by John and Sonia Gardner, who have been big supporters of Point to Pointing for many years and they are certainly getting repaid, with Clondaw Drake winning all three of his races this season. After the race in which he won by 5 lengths from Designer Destiny, Josh said, “Clondaw Drake was good again today, I wasn’t really pleased with him going down the hill, he was trying to tuck in behind the other horses, but jumping three out I thought I would pick them up as long as I came off the bend alright. Once I jumped up past the others I thought unless something behind me was going equally as well then, he should keep going.”
I thought Liwah, also trained by Josh Newman was a horse to take out of the race and ran well to finish third at odds of 16-1.
The sixth and final race of the day was the Nare Hotel Maiden for 7-year-olds
and over, it capped another fruitful day at Wadebridge for Josh Newman. The 32-year-old rode and trained Noble Blue to an impressive victory. Easily the most eye-catching performance of the day, Noble Blue cruised to the line 11 lengths clear of his nearest pursuer, Master McShine to victory. It is hard to gauge how good the performance was due to six of his rivals being pulled up, leaving only two finishers, however visually it was very good. Reflecting on the performance Josh said, “It was a good performance, I’m not sure how good the race was but he couldn’t have done it more impressively. He’s so eager to get on with it, you always have to take a pull and make sure he’s not trying to be over ambitious and then he pops away lovely.”
After yet another successful day, Josh couldn’t help mention his narrow defeat in the fourth race aboard Ted The Thief. I think this just shows the mindset of a very driven and successful man who is currently a force to be reckoned with.
A final mention has to go to everyone who has helped at both Wadebridge meeting’s this season, they have put on two fabulous days racing and it has been a joy to watch two very competitive cards with plenty of great action.
the
(Level
IN THE FRAME
Jockeys come out for the Maiden Race at Stafford Cross
Photo: Tim Holt
Restricted Race runners pass the crowd
Photo: Tim Holt
Runners in
Conditions
2) For Novice Riders Photo
Photo: Tim Holt
FEATURE: STABLETOUR- WILL BIDDICK
By Bob Bracher, Wessex Area Press Officer
On New Year’s Eve I visited Will at his yard at Queen Camel just off the recently opened section of the A303 in Somerset.
The visit coincided with his recent milestone of riding 600 point to point winners at Larkhill but this was an opportunity to talk to him about the horses he plans to run from his stable during the season and the hopes he has for them. At the end of the visit he watched, surrounded by a number of his staff, the final National Hunt race of the year at Warwick, a 2 mile Bumper race. The reason was that the horse in question he particularly wanted to watch was No Drama This End. Bought by Will at Goffs July 2023 sale for 26K Euros as a three-year-old store for himself and Geoffrey Brown he had made a tremendous impression when winning a Maid-en at Badbury Rings last February and was then sold to Paul Nicholls at the Cheltenham Sale the following month for £160K. The race at Warwick was his first run under Rules and the manner of his victory under Harry Cobden was to say the least breath taking. With his new trainer now considering much higher targets Will hopes that with-in his stable there may be others who he purchased last
summer who may be able to progress to a similar level and advertise his talents on the purchase and training of young horses. Will began his tour with his two recognized stable stars starting with Macklin. Owned by John Studd he has been a model of consistency for Will since arriving from France. The winner to date of five p oint to points and a Hunter Chase at Taunton last season he met his only defeat at the hands of Ihandaya at Chaddesley Corbett when ridden by Gina Andrews in a Ladies race. This was no disgrace and it is hoped that he will start his season at Milborne St Andrew. Will explained that ‘he loves the top of the ground and this is key to him’. He may run in Ladies races and Will did not rule out the return to Hunter Chases for him
Mr Glass – Unbeaten in his two outings last season at Chipley Park and Charlton Horethorne he is likely to be seen at Chipley again at the end of the month. Owned by Paul Nicholls and John Gane he will be partnered by Olive Nicholls this season and if he can remain sound this classy individual can give her some great rides in 2025.
Will riding Macklin to victory in the Mens Open, at the Seavington in April of 2024
Photo: Tim Holt
It’s a Diamond. A six-year-old Diamond Boy gelding who won a Maiden for John Dawson at Dalton Park last sea-son and was then sold for £20K at Cheltenham in April to Geoffrey Brown. Began his career with Will at Larkhill last month when falling at the third last in a hot Restricted race. Will described him as ‘a lovely horse ‘ and was ‘100% after his mishap’ and has been schooled since. He hopes that he will progress through the ranks this season.
A four-year-old gelding by Maxios out of an El Conquistador mare who has already produced six individual winners bought by Will at the Derby Sales in Ireland He is also in the ownership of Geoffrey Brown. He is likely to have a racecourse gallop after racing takes place at Chipley with plans to be formulated after this.
A four-year-old gelding by Shirocco out of a Gold Well mare called Sailingtobyzantium who was a winning Hurdler Bought at the Doncaster May store sale by Will for owners Terry Hamlin, Martin Dare and John Snook he is related to the prolific winner Keeper Hill and further down the pedigree to Make A Stand. He is another for whom plans are yet to be decided.
Sienna Earth, a five-year-old Masked Marvel mare owned by the Pendil Partnership. She made her debut for Will at Larkhill last month and was still leading when unseating him at the second last in a two and a half Maiden race. Will describes her as ‘very straightforward who jumps well’. She has been schooled since her last race and plans are to aim her for a return to Larkhill on 18th January. Her dam Pique Rock won three point to points and three races un-der Rules for Henry Daly.
Il Pino – A seven-year-old gelding by Coastal Path who put up a tremendous performance when finishing third behind Grace A Vous Enki and Time Leader in the Mixed Open race at the last Larkhill meeting. An impressive winner of his only previous point to point for Will when winning at Chaddesley Corbett in December 2023 he was then transferred to Paul Nicholls and won a Novice Hurdle at Wincanton. His only other race under rules was a 4th at Kempton and the decision was made to give this very lightly raced individual another season in the point-to-point arena. Will believes that he will act on any going and will benefit from more experience. Owned by the Pendil Partnership he is one to follow for 2025.
Lassue – owned by Rupert Nuttall (Will’s father-inlaw) and bred by Rupert’s mother Sue Maude from the mare Annie Fleetwood who won three Chases and a Hurdle. Successful for Rupert in a Maiden at Cothelstone under Jack Andrews she was then sold and raced for Fergal O’Brien and won two Hurdle races for him. Bought back by Rupert after her National Hunt career ended she is like-ly to be seen later in the season
Lascar Collonges - An unraced four-year-old gelding by Blek bought by Will at the Derby Sales in Ireland. He is related to numerous winners in France including Heros Collonges placed in the Welsh Grand National. He is in the ownership of Will and Anthony Norman. He is another for whom plans have yet to be determined.
An unraced four-year-old gelding by Great Pretender who is related to the prolific Hitman. He is likely to be going to Chipley after racing before any plans are made about his future.
Goosey Lucy – A five-year-old Cloudings mare owned by Chris Sprake. A half sister to Spin The Coin who won at Hurdle race at Musselburgh for Donald McCain she was due to make her debut at Wadebridge but did not take up this option.
Far Out West – Already has had two outings this sea-son and finished runner up on her last outing at Larkhill. Would have run at the abandoned meeting last week and will be seen again shortly Owned by the Hot Toddie part-nership she ran several times in Ireland before moving to Will’s yard. She is related to Crystal Moon the winner of two races for Alan King.
A Maxios four-year-old gelding called Uncle Bob bought by Peter Inch to run in point to points. Will describes him as ‘a good jumper’ and it is hoped that he will be ready to make his debut in February
Good Boy Eric. A home bred five-year-old gelding by Bol-lin Eric owned and bred by Steve and Brenda Bowditch out of a Halling mare. A winner of the two and a half Maid-en at the last Larkhill meeting when ridden by Fred Phil-lipson- Stow he is another who is likely to be seen again on 18th January in the Restricted race. Described by Will as ‘uncomplicated’ and appreciative of better ground he looks a progressive sort.
Southfield Scope – The second of the two winners at the last Larkhill meeting when completing Fred’s first riding double. A home bred of Angela Yeoman’s he has had all sorts of injuries but overcame these to put in an impres-sive performance in his victory. A half-brother to the ever-green Southfield Theatre he was described by his trainer as ‘quirky’ but ‘talented’. Another who would have run at the abandoned Larkhill Racing Club meeting and the intention had then been to take him to Chipley for the Restricted race.
A four-year-old filly by Walk In The Park out of Miss Bob’s Worth bought by Will at the Derby Sales last year. Owned by Will and Anthony Norman she is out of a full sister to Bob’s Worth who has already bred several point-to-point winners. Will advised that ‘she is jumping well’ and is look-ing forward to running her this season.
A four-year-old gelding by Pethers Moon out of She’s The One who won races for Paul Nicholls. Owned by Will he described him as ‘uncomplicated’ and ‘a neat jumper’. ENDS
FIXTURE LIST 2024/25
AREA FIXTURE COURSE DAY DATE
W Royal ArtilleryLarkhillSaturday18 January 2025
MIDSouth WoldRevesby ParkSaturday18 January 2025
N Jedforest Friars HaughSunday19 January 2025
Y Yorkshire AreaPoint-to-Point Club Sheriff Hutton 25 January 2025
EACambridgeshire with Enfield Chace HorseheathSunday26 January 2025
SMHeythrop CocklebarrowSunday26 January 2025
N Percy AlnwickSunday26 January 2025
D&CTiverton FoxhoundsChipley ParkSunday26 January 2025
MIDMelton ClubGarthorpeSunday02 February 2025
W South DorsetMilborne St Andrew Sunday02 February 2025
SESouth East ClubCharingSunday02 February 2025
Y York & Ainsty and West of Yore Askham BryanSunday02 February 2025
MIDBrocklesby Brocklesby ParkSaturday08 February 2025
N Berwickshire RacesFriars HaughSunday09 February 2025
EAWaveney HarriersHighamSunday09 February 2025
W Combined ServicesLarkhillSunday16 February 2025
EAPuckeridge & EssexHorseheathSunday16 February 2025
Y Sinnington Duncombe Park Sunday16 February 2025
D&CSouth Pool HarriersBuckfastleighSunday 16 February 2025
SANDKimblewick (February) Kingston BlountSaturday22 February 2025
N College Valley & North Northumberland
AlnwickSunday23 February 2025
MIDCottesmore GarthorpeSunday23 February 2025
W Countryside Alliance Club (Wessex) Badbury RingsSunday23 February 2025
WALESCurre & LlangibbyHowickSunday23 February 2025
SESouth East ClubCharingSunday23 February 2025
WMDuke of Beaufort'sDidmartonSaturday01 March 2025
W South & West WiltsLarkhillSunday02 March 2025
EA Suffolk AmptonSunday02 March 2025
Y Yorkshire Jockeys Club Charm ParkSunday02 March 2025
N Buccleuch Friars HaughSaturday08 March 2025
EAHigh Easter Racing Club High EasterSaturday08 March 2025
W Blackmore & Sparkford Vale Charlton Horethorne Sunday09 March 2025
MIDPytchley with Woodland GuilsboroughSunday09 March 2025
WMSir W.W. Wynn's and Flint & Denbigh Bangor-on-DeeSunday09 March 2025
AREA FIXTURE COURSE DAY DATE
Y Hurworth Hutton RudbySaturday15 March 2025
W Quantock CothelstoneSaturday15 March 2025
WALESCurre & LlangibbyHowickSunday16 March 2025
D&CDart Vale & Haldon Harriers BuckfastleighSunday16 March 2025
SMOakley Brafield on the Green Sunday16 March 2025
SE Old Surrey & Burstow and West Kent PenshurstSunday16 March 2025
MIDBelvoir GarthorpeSaturday22 March 2025
N Lanark & Renfrew and Eglinton OvertonSaturday22 March 2025
SMCirencester RacesSiddingtonSaturday22 March 2025
W Wilton Milborne St Andrew Saturday22 March 2025
Y Holderness Dalton ParkSunday23 March 2025
D&CLamerton KilworthySunday23 March 2025
W Mendip FarmersSton EastonSunday23 March 2025
EAWest & North Norfolk FakenhamSunday23 March 2025
SE Crawley & Horsham and Southdown & Eridge ParhamSaturday29 March 2025
WALESGlamorgan YstradowenSaturday29 March 2025
N Morpeth TranwellSaturday29 March 2025
W Tedworth LarkhillSunday29 March 2025
Y Badsworth & Bramham Moor and York & Ainsty Askham BryanSunday30 March 2025
W Cotley Cotley Sunday30 March 2025
WMGloucester Races Maisemore Park Sunday30 March 2025
D&CSouth CornwallTrebudannonSunday30 March 2025
WM Bitterley Races (Ludlow) BitterleySaturday05 April 2025
EAPuckeridge & EssexHigh EasterSaturday05 April 2025
WMCheshire ForestTabley Sunday06 April 2025
Y Middleton Sheriff Hutton Sunday06 April 2025
D&CSpooners & West Dartmoor CherrybrookSunday06 April 2025
SANDVine & Craven Kingston BlountSunday06 April 2025
Y Bedale Hornby CastleSaturday12 April 2025
W Cattistock ChilfromeSaturday12 April 2025
WMCroome & West Warwickshire Shelfield Park Saturday12 April 2025
WALESLlangeinor PentyrchYstradowenSaturday12 April 2025
SE Old Surrey & Burstow and West Kent PenshurstSaturday12 April 2025
SM Bicester with Whaddon Chase Edgcote Sunday 13 April 2025
N Overton Races Overton Sunday 13 April 2025
D&C Silverton Dunsmore Sunday 13 April 2025
EA Essex & Suffolk Higham Friday 18 April 2025
D&C Flete Park Races –Dartmoor Foxhounds Flete Park Saturday 19 April 2025
SM Kimblewick (Easter) Kimble Saturday 19 April 2025
WM North Staffordshire Sandon Saturday 19 April 2025
MID Pytchley with Woodland Dingley Saturday 19 April 2025
W Seavington Cotley Saturday 19 April 2025
WM Worcestershire Chaddesley Corbett Saturday 19 April 2025
D&C Four Burrow Trebudannon Monday 21 April 2025
WM North Cotswold Paxford Monday 21 April 2025
SM Old Berkshire Lockinge Monday 21 April 2025
WM South Shropshire Eyton on Severn Monday 21 April 2025
W Taunton Vale Foxhounds and Taunton Vale Harriers Cothelstone Monday 21 April 2025
N Tynedale Corbridge Monday 21 April 2025
WM Berkeley Woodford Saturday 26 April 2025
SE Chiddingfold, Leconfield & Cowdray Parham Saturday 26 April 2025
N Fife Pusk Saturday 26 April 2025
MID Quorn Garthorpe Saturday 26 April 2025
D&C Axe Vale Stafford Cross Sunday 27 April 2025
D&C Flete Park Races –Totnes & Bridgetown Racing Co Ltd Flete Park Saturday 03 May 2025
SE Mid Surrey Farmers Godstone Saturday 03 May 2025
Fernie Dingley Sunday 04 May 2025
North Shropshire Eyton on Severn Monday 05 May 2025 D&C Stevenstone Vauterhill Monday 05 May 2025 SM Warwickshire Mollington Monday 05 May 2025
Zetland Witton Castle Monday 05 May 2025
and
Eggesford Upcott Cross Sunday
NATIONAL POINT-TO-POINT
CHAMPIONSHIPS 2024/25
ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE YOU CAN FIND SOME EARLY SEASON LEADERBOARDS.
• Goffs 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.
