Go Pointing | 29 April 2015

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29Ap

ril20

15 GOPOINTINGin association with

the weekly guide to your sport

BEEN POINTINGfrom Woodford & Whitfield

GETTING TO KNOW YOUwith Lara Mahon

5 MINUTES WITHrider Gillon Crow

WINTWO STYLISH PIECES

OF JEWELLERYFROM HIHO SILVER

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HE’STHEMAN


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C O N T E N T S

8 Latest News 13 Meeting Reports 24 Recent Landmarks

5 What’s On This Week

27 Picture Perfect 31 Competition Time 32 The Wizard of Woodway 34 5 Minutes With

36 Getting To Know You 37 Meeting Previews

51 | Top Tweets

52 | Pony Racing Results

53 | Pony Racing Entries

54 | PonyRacingTopScorers

55 | In The Frame

57 | Top Performers

60 | Been Pointing

63 | Fixtures 2015


TERRIFIC TREBLE MOVESGINA CLOSER TO SECONDLADIES TITLEA week on from riding a treble atFakenham, Gina Andrews banged inanother hat-trick to move a step closerto securing her second National LadiesChampionship, this time at theChiddingfold, Leconfield & Cowdraymeeting at Parham.

With Gina’s nearest pursuer HannahWatson drawing a blank over theweekend, wins aboard Seigneur DesBois (Ladies Open), Classic Destiny(Club Members Conditions) andForrest Blue (Open Maiden) movedthe 2010/11 champion seven winsahead, and only one more victory awayfrom equalling her last winning total.

Fellow lady rider, Phine Banks, alsoenjoyed a memorable weekend with afeature race double. Phine partneredInvisible Man to success in the LadiesOpen at Woodford, before taking theLadies race at Whitfield twenty-fourhours later aboard Well Mett.

Whilst the Ladies Championship isstill far from over, the Mens versionhas been wrapped up for a while andWill Biddick continued his ruthless

assault on claiming a fourthconsecutive title with yet anothertreble, this time at the Axe Valemeeting at Stafford Cross on Sunday.

Winning rides on Subtle Sovereign(Mixed Open), Whataknight(Intermediate) and Royalzaro(Restricted) moved Will on to 48 forthe season, which is already six morethan his previous best winning total in2011/12, and is now just nine winnersaway from surpassing Tom and OliverGreenall’s current record of 56.

All three of Will’s winners came forJack Barber, and he himself has almostcemented his first National Trainerstitle hitting the 40 winners mark, 16ahead of last year’s winner Alan Hill.

Elsewhere on Saturday there was ariding double for Nick Orpwood and atraining double for Nick Alexander atBalcormo Mains’ Fife fixture, whilstjockey Kelly Morgan bagged a brace atthe Quorn meeting at Garthorpe.

There were also doubles aplenty acrossthe country on Sunday with GillonCrow (Tabley), Fred Henderson(Whitfield), Jodie Hughes (Lydstep)and Chris Dawson (Easingwold) allamongst the winners.

Turning our attentions to the weekahead now and you may be receivingthis before the action begins at themuch anticipated Cheltenham HunterChase evening, a date everyoneinvolved in Pointing looks forward toeach year. If you are and you aregoing, whether in a spectating capacityor as a participant, may I wish you thevery best of luck.

There is also a feast of Pointing actionto look forward to over the BankHoliday weekend with no less than 16meetings taking place over three days,and details on each individual meetingcan be found in the ‘What’s On ThisWeek’ section.

The Go Pointing team are also back‘On Tour’ on Monday when we will beat the Warwickshire meeting atMollington distributingcopies of GoPointing, so ifyou’re headingthere too, seeyou there!

Ben Roe,Editor

WELCOME FROM THE EDITOR

GOPOINTINGis published by The Point-to-Point RacingCompany Ltd

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

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

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

Front Cover Photo Invisible Man and PhineBanks on their way to winning the Ladies Openrace at the Berkeley meeting at Woodfordby Neale Blackburn chasdog.com

Editorial views expressed in this magazine arenot necessarily those of the Point-to-PointRacing Company

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

Subtle Sovereign took the Mixed Open at StaffordCross to kick-off yet another Barber & Biddick treble

Photo: Tim Holt [email protected]

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NEWS...Top Ladies Open horse IT WAS ME, winner of the Warwick Vase Ladies Open

at High Easter on April 11th, by BOLLIN ERIC.IT WAS ME has beaten Sharp Suit & Berties Dream on his last two starts and

has a record of 2111122111 in Ladies Opens.

BOLLIN ERICImpressive winner of the St Leger, won or was placed 13 times from 18 starts,

11 of those at group level.Ran the third fastest St Leger to date, just 1.5 seconds off the record.

OVER 50% OF HIS LIFETIME RUNNERS WON OR PLACED

COLMER STUDTel: 01297 678 652 •Mobile: 07769 807 220Email: [email protected] • www.colmerstud.co.uk

b. 1999 16.2hh

Shammit (IRE) - Bollin Zola (GB)BOLLIN ERIC

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SATURDAY, 02 MAYLAUDERDALEat Mosshouses (Selkirkshire)4m NE of Galashiels between A7 and A68. TD1 2PGProvisional Going: Good, good to soft in placesFirst Race: 2.00pm (Pony Racing from 1.00pm)Number of Races: 7Number of Entries: 69Admission Prices: £10 per person, including free racecard; under 16s free

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PR

SATURDAY, 02 MAYPENDLE FOREST & CRAVENat Heslaker (Yorkshire)1m SW of Skipton, close to and signposted from A59. BD23 3ABProvisional Going: Good, good to firm in places; watering as requiredFirst Race: 2.00pmNumber of Races: 6Number of Entries: 69Admission Prices: £25 per car or £10 per person, under 16s free

SATURDAY, 02 MAYTREDEGAR FARMERSat Lower Machen (Caerphilly)4m W of Newport on A468 at Lower Machen (Exit 28, M4). NP10 8GHProvisional Going: Good to firm, watering to achieve GoodFirst Race: 2.00pmNumber of Races: 7Number of Entries: 122Admission Prices: £10 car & driver, £5 passengers, £5 pedestrians,under 16s free

SATURDAY, 02 MAYMODBURY HARRIERSat Flete Park (Devon)Off A379 10m E of Plymouth, leave A38 at Ivybridge via A3121Provisional Going: Good to firm, watering (Pony Racing from 1.00pm)First Race: 2.00pmNumber of Races: 6Number of Entries: 76Admission Prices: £20 per car, £10 single occupancy

PR

SATURDAY, 02 MAYSURREY UNIONat Peper Harow (Surrey)Nr A3, 3m W of Godalming, 6m SW of Guildford (15m from Exit 10, M25).GU8 6LAProvisional Going: Firm, rain forecast for Wednesday, will be agrivatingand watering as necessary with the aim of producing Good goingFirst Race: 2.00pm Number of Races: 6 Number of Entries: 71Admission Prices: £10 per person public car park, £15 per adultreserved car park, under 16s free

SUNDAY, 03 MAYDEVON & SOMERSET STAGHOUNDSat Holnicote (Somerset)Near A39, 3m W of Minehead, 2m E of Porlock. TA24 8TEProvisional Going: Good to firm, watering as requiredFirst Race: 2.00pmNumber of Races: 7Number of Entries: 92Admission Prices: £10 per person, max £30 per car

PR denotes Pony Racing at the meeting


SUNDAY, 03 MAYFERNIEat Dingley (Northamptonshire)5m E of Market Harborough, nr A427. LE16 8PJProvisional Going: Watering to achieve as near to Good as possibleFirst Race: 2.00pmNumber of Races: 6Number of Entries: 111Admission Prices: £10 per person, under 16s free

MONDAY, 04 MAYBANWEN MINERSat Llwyn Ddu (West Glamorgan)Located at Glais, near Swansea, alongside the A4067 with parking ofYnysymond Road - accessible off the A4067 (from J45 of the M4). SA7 9JAProvisional Going: Good to firm; watering will commence if necessaryFirst Race: 1.30pm (Pony Racing after Point-to-Point races)Number of Races: 7Number of Entries: 111Admission Prices: £6 per person, under 16s free

PR

MONDAY, 04 MAYEAST SUSSEX & ROMNEY MARSHat Aldington (Kent)South of A20 and M20, 6m SE of Ashford (Exit 10 or 11, M20). TN25 7EJProvisional Going: Good to firm; rain forecast, will water as necessaryFirst Race: 2.00pmNumber of Races: 7Number of Entries: 85Admission Prices: £10 per person, under 16s free

SUNDAY, 03 MAYRADNOR & WEST HEREFORDat Cold Harbour (Herefordshire)Nr Monkland, 3 miles W of Leominster, close to junction of A44/A4110. HR6 0JSProvisional Going: Good, good to firm in places; wateringFirst Race: 2.00pm (Pony Racing from 12.45pm)Number of Races: 7Number of Entries: 117Admission Prices: £10 per person, under 16s free

PR

MONDAY, 04 MAYCATTISTOCKat Littlewindsor (Dorset)3m S of Crewkerne nr A3066 (16m from Exit 25, M5). DT8 3QUProvisional Going: Good, will be watered if necessary to maintain goodFirst Race: 2.00pm (Pony Racing from 1.00pm)Number of Races: 7Number of Entries: 71Admission Prices: £10 per person (max £30 per car), under 16s free,£10 pedestrians

PR

MONDAY, 04 MAYENFIELD CHACE WITH CAMBRIDGESHIREat Northaw (Hertfordshire)2m NE of Potters Bar off A121 (Exit 24, M25). EN6 4NTProvisional Going: Watering to achieve GoodFirst Race: 2.15pm (Pony Racing from 1.00pm)Number of Races: 6Number of Entries: 86Admission Prices: £12.50 per person, under 17s free per person

PR

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PR denotes Pony Racing at the meeting


MONDAY, 04 MAYNORTH SHROPSHIREat Eyton-on-Severn (Shropshire)7m SE of Shrewsbury, nr B4380 via A5 and M54 (Exit 7). SY5 6PWProvisional Going: Firm, watering from ThursdayFirst Race: 2.00pmNumber of Races: 6Number of Entries: 111Admission Prices: £10 per person, under 16s free

MONDAY, 04 MAYWARWICKSHIREat Mollington (Oxfordshire)On A423, 5 miles north of Banbury. OX17 1XPProvisional Going: Good, wateringFirst Race: 2.00pmNumber of Races: 7Number of Entries: 98Admission Prices: £10 per sole occupant, £20 for two & then £30 forthree or more

MONDAY, 04 MAYSTEVENSTONEat Vauterhill (Devon)2m SW of Umberleigh, 10m S of Barnstaple, nr B3217. EX37 9BTProvisional Going: Good to firm, firm in places; will be agrivated if neededFirst Race: 2.00pmNumber of Races: 7Number of Entries: 83Admission Prices: £10 car & driver; £20 car, driver & passenger; £30 car load

MONDAY, 04 MAYZETLANDat Witton Castle (Co. Durham)5m W of Bishop Auckland nr A68, 12 miles from A1(M). DL14 0DEProvisional Going: Good to firm, will water if necessaryFirst Race: 2.00pmNumber of Races: 6Number of Entries: 74Admission Prices: £10 per person

WHAT’S ON THIS WEEKGO

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HUNTER CHASESFriday, 01 MayBangor8:05 James Griffith Memorial Novices' Hunters' Chase, 3m110y

Saturday, 02 MayHexham7:30 Eve Aitchison Heart of All England Maiden Hunters' Chase, 3m1f

Tuesday, 05 MayExeter7:50 Ship Inn Teignmouth Intermediate Hunters' Chase Series Final, 3m

Fakenham4:00 Irl Open Hunters' Chase for the Turner Family Trophy, 3m110y

Wednesday, 06 MayUttoxeter8:00 Mount Argus Open Hunters' Chase, 2m6f110y


Cheshire trainer Oliver Greenall willbe heading to Eyton-on-Severn onMonday hoping to increase hischances of taking a horse to Aintreefor Doncaster Bloodstock Sales’ground-breaking Point-to-Pointbumper.

Meetings around the country duringthe Bank Holiday weekend offer afinal chance to qualify a horse for the£10,000 race, which takes place onMay 15 and is open to Point-to-Pointtrainers. To be eligible horses must beaged four, five or six and to havefinished in the first three in anymaiden race this season – horses whohave run under Rules are ineligible.Riders will claim weight allowances,and the first three horses will beoffered places at DBS’s Spring Sale(May 18 to 20). If the winner returnsto Point-to-Pointing it will be eligiblefor intermediate races.

Greenall has already qualified LateRomantic and Odds On Oscar, whohave both been placed in maidens thisseason, but if the race is over-subscribed and eliminations arenecessary, winners will take priority.He says: “I took Late Romantic toTabley on Sunday hoping he wouldwin, and he was well clear at the lastwhen the saddle slipped and Ed[Glassonbury] was unseated. He hadfinished second at Bangor before thatrun. Odds On Oscar has been placedtwice so he runs at Eyton in the hopehe can win and get into the bumper.

“It’s great that so many people areshowing an interest in the race, and ifit proves popular it could open thedoor to another one next season at asouthern track.”

Greenall has been one of the keyinstigators of the DBS bumper, and

says: “I’ve been pushing for this racefor four years and believe it is a greatconcept. It has taken a while to getpeople on board, but the BritishHorseracing Authority gave its backinglast summer and then DoncasterBloodstock Sales became the idealsponsor.”

Greenall’s father, Lord Daresbury, waschairman of Aintree Racecourse whenit gave its blessing to the project andoffered to stage the first such race.

Point-to-Pointing in Britain is highly-regarded for the quality of its courses,overall training and riding standardsand for its role as a nursery forlicensed jump racing, but the DBSbumper on a Grade One racecourseopens the sport to a new audience andgives owners the chance to showcase ayoung horse they might like to sell.

GREENALL BIDS TO BEATDBS BUMPER DEADLINE

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Late Romantic and Ed Glassonbury before theyparted company due to a slipping saddle at

Sunday’s Cheshire meetingPhoto: Sweet Photography sweetphotography.com


The ‘Walking the Courses’ team madetheir Pointing debut on Saturday whenthey visited the Berkeley Point-to-Point meeting at Woodford.

Richard Farquhar, supported by hisdaughter Minty, is a little over a monthinto a thirteen month quest that willsee him walk between all of the UK's

60 racecourses, a journey that willcover approximately 2,750 in aid ofPancreatic Cancer UK and RacingWelfare.

As is the nature of this quest, Richardand Minty completed a circuit of thetrack accompanied by CaroleGoldsmith (BHA Director of People

and Development), Lucy Price (BHAPoint-to-Point Executive), AnnieDodd (The Horserace Betting LevyBoard Grants Manager), and ClareHazell, Richard Fuller and Nick Suttonfrom the Point-to-Point Authority.After the walk they were interviewedin the paddock and met championrider Will Biddick.

‘WALKING THE COURSES’ GO THEDISTANCE AT WOODFORD

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

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

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


SUBARU RESTRICTED POINT-TO-POINT SERIES 2014/15

Palfrey Boy and Merv Woodward (right) at WoodfordPhoto: Neale Blackburn chasdog.com

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SUBARU SEES OUT BUMPER MONTH WITH TRIO OF QUALIFIERSApril saw the largest number ofSubaru Restricted Point-to-Point seriesqualifiers in one month with the finalweekend hosting three races across thebreadth of the country.

The Subaru Restricted Race atStafford Cross for the Axe Vale Hunton Sunday 26 April contributed to atreble for rider Will Biddick, edginghim nearer to a half-century of winsthis season and, all being well, a fourthconsecutive riders title. Winning onone of the youngest horses to qualifyfor the series, the five-year-oldRoyalzaro, Biddick and trainer JackBarber were presented with theirtrophies by Henry Sharman from theWhite Horse Subaru dealership inExeter.

On the previous day, the mostnortherly qualifier was held on thesame day at Balcormo Mains in Fife,Scotland. The team from Walker’sSubaru of Cupar were in attendanceto present winning rider TomHamilton with his prizes after he madethe running on Mark Thompson’sNelly La Rue to land the spoils.

Also on the Saturday it was a busy dayat the Berkeley meeting at Woodfordwhere Simpsons Subaru of Highworthand the team from ‘Walking theCourses’ joined forces.

Richard Farquhar, of 'Walking TheCourses', who is putting in the milestraversing every racecourse in the UKon foot over 13 months and is being

supported every step of the way in hischarity quest by a new model SubaruOutback as a support vehicle, waspresent with Peter Jenkins ofSimpsons to congratulate rider MervinWoodward who was triumphant afterlanding the race on the Pot BlackRacing Partnership’s Palfrey Boytrained by Patrick Picton-Warlow.

As we fast approach the Series finaleat Stratford-Upon-Avon on 29th May,another three qualifiers will take placethis coming Bank Holiday weekend -at Peper Harrow in Surrey, LowerMachen in South Wales and Dingley inLeicestershire. All of the events willhave representation from local dealersand we wish all of the participants thebest of luck.


THE TBA MARES CLUB RACE SERIES 2014/15

Chosen Milan clears the last en route to victory atlast year’s Cheltenham Hunter Chase meetingPhoto: Julie Drewett racehorsephotos.co.uk

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WHO WILL BE THE CHOSEN ONE IN TBA RACE AT CHELTENHAM?A high-class field of seven has beendeclared for the ThororoughbredBreeders’ Association Mares’Hunters’ Chase (7.05pm) atCheltenham on Wednesday evening(April 29).

Broadcast live on Racing UK andworth £6,000 total prize money, the3m 1f test includes some multiplewinners, including Chosen Milan,who was fifth in the Foxhunter Chaseat last month’s Cheltenham Festival.

Trained in Pembrokeshire by RobertLuke, and ridden by Evan David,Chosen Milan (Milan) has since fallenin the equivalent race at Aintree, but

she won at this meeting last year andhas an outstanding chance.

Executive Benefit (Beneficial), who istrained in Cheshire by Joe O’Shea,won a Hunters’ Chase at Wetherbyrecently and has landed four Point-to-Points this season, while progressiveMiss Gotaway has been successful inher three most recent Point-to-Points.

Trained in Devon by KayleyWoollacott, and homebred by ownerAudrey Goodwin, Miss Gotaway(Midnight Legend) is the baby of thefield at the age of six, and this is hersternest test.

In contrast My Flora (Alflora) is 11,but she showed spring heels to win at

Larkhill earlier this season, a reminderof her talents several years ago whenshe won Stratford’s prestigious JohnCorbet Cup for novices and thenfinished fourth in the FoxhunterChase. Trained by Sheila Crow at thattime, she is now with trainer VictoriaCollins in Shropshire, and will beridden by Hannah Watson. My Flora’sowner, Sarah Dawson, is currentlyfoaling three jumping broodmareswho carry to Great Pretender andUniversal (x2).

Consistent Pointer Roseyroo and thewinning Pointing mares Tandori andWe Never Give Up complete thefield.


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BERKELEY at WOODFORDSaturday, 25 Aprilby Peter MansellPoint-to-Point racing providesvaluable experience for horses at thestart of their racing careers and thewinners of both Maidens at theBerkeley Point-to-Point on Saturdayafternoon have the potential to maketheir mark under National Hunt Rules.

Midnight Luca made his debut forBridgnorth trainer Phil Rowley in the2m4f Maiden. Initially opening at10-1, the bookies were soon on theback foot as the four-year-old wasbacked into favouritism and hissubsequent success took aconsiderable sum out of their satchels.

Midnight Luca's jockey, Alex Edwards,kept his powder dry early on butbegan to make progress when theydisappeared from view at the far endof the course.

A few fences later and they werepoised on the heels of the leadersbefore taking the lead at thepenultimate fence. They were a coupleof lengths clear at one point but BillyHicks forced his way into contentionand had every chance until hampered

by the leader jumping to his left at thefinal obstacle.

In the dash to the line the winnerproved just the stronger and drewclear of his rival near the finish.

Rowley explained: "He was going toAlan King's to run in Bumpers, butconnections thought he was the typeto benefit from a run in Point-to-Points. He is only a four-year-old butlooks six. I'm resigned to losing himbut that is the job we do - educatethem. He was due to run at Eyton andBitterley but we eventually came herebecause they always produce goodground".

Winning Jockey Alex Edwardscommented: "I wanted to get himsettled because I knew I had the gearsto get back at the leaders when Iwanted".

The concluding 3m Maiden saw theintroduction of another potential starfrom Sophie Lacey's stable on theGloucestershire/Herefordshire border.

Canopy of Stars still held the lead asthey straightened up for home with aclear advantage over the odds onfavourite Fly Du Charmil on whom

Charlie Deutsch had done well torecover from a bad blunder at the first.

The favourite looked in trouble as theleader was five-lengths clear by the17th, but approaching the nextDeutsch got into the drive positionand slowly but surely they began theirbid for victory.

The two horses were in the airtogether at the last but the favouriteeventually got his head in front halfway up the run in.

Purchased for a considerable sum inIreland last June, the winner willundoubtedly follow a similar path tomany of his ex-stablemates with areturn visit to the Sales beckoning.

Little Sodbury Farrier Charlie Dandohad a day of mixed fortunes withPassage East falling at the last in the2m4f Maiden and this was followed byanother fall on Plettenburg Bay in theConditions race.

However, after this, things took a turnfor the better when he rode PresentingWilliam in the Subaru sponsoredRestricted.

Empyrean held a useful advantageearly in the home straight but

Midnight Luca and Alex Edwards in action at WoodfordPhoto: Neale Blackburn chasdog.com

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Presenting William and Palfrey Boynever gave up the chase and thoseefforts reaped their reward asEmpyrean weakened dramaticallyapproaching the final obstacle.

Palfrey Boy started off up the run inwith a narrow advantage overPresenting William which wasmaintained all the way to the line.

Dando then teamed up with the CliveBennett-owned and Kirsty Adcock-trained Iberico in the Mens Open. JackBarber's mare Posh Totty was all therage in this contest, but Dando wasdetermined not to let Posh Tottydictate proceedings.

These two were still battling it out asthey went out onto their second circuitbut three fences from home werejoined by Cold Knight who looked tobe coasting along in third place.

All three were in with a chance at thefinal obstacle, but Iberico foundhidden reserves and strode away fromhis rivals on the flat.

Dando said later: "The course ridessofter than it walks and that played toour strengths", while the horsesDymock based connections concededlater: "Things are going well for thestable this year".

Berkeley Joint Master John Evans sawhis colours carried to victory in theMembers. Autumn Haze took the leadat halfway but was hotly pursued upthe home straight by Master Marinerand last years winner One to Note.

It looked as though Frances Poole hadtimed her run to perfection on thelatter but Autumn Haze was not goingto be denied and stayed on doggedlyin the hands of Rupert Stearn to winby three quarters of a length.

"Ideally he wants top of the ground soconditions were not ideal but hejumped well," stated connections.

Invisible Man came back to form withan impressive win the Ladies Openunder Phine Banks. The 10-year-oldhas been a little disappointing so farthis season but was prominent formost of this contest before passingMinella Fifty at the third from home.

Having hit the front, Invisible Mankept up his relentless gallop andstormed clear to win in a canter in thefamiliar colours of Pat Tollit.

Winning trainer Alistair Ralphcommented afterwards: "He's hadnothing wrong with him but hasstruggled to find last season's form.Perhaps it's the sun on his back but heis now back to the form we know he iscapable of".

CHIDDINGFOLD, LECONFIELD& COWDRAY at PARHAMSaturday, 25 Aprilby Will HickmanEast Anglian based Gina Andrewsstole the show at Parham, with the 23-year-old riding a treble, propelling hereven further clear in the NationalLadies Championship. Her first winnerof the day was Seigneur Des Bois,

who won the Ladies Open at thismeeting for the second year running.Gina led from the off on the nine yearold and was fifteen lengths clear formost of the race. Rose Grissell andDead Or Alive tried to catch the pair,but they were eventually picked off byBehind The Scenes, who gave hisrider, Ella Darwin, the narrow edgeover Rose in the South East LadiesChampionship.

Gina came out and won the followingClub Members Conditions race, ridingthe odds-on favourite Classic Destinyto victory over local veteranShowman, who just caught the hugelyunlucky Definite Ridge on the line.The nine year old was winning thefourth race of his career and is usuallyridden by Gina’s fiancée Tom Ellis.

Gina’s third winner was DavidPhelan’s Forrest Blue in the OpenMaiden. It wasn’t as easy as the others,but the six-year-old showed greattenacity to hold off the favourite, MyBrother Pat, by a head.

Andrews didn’t go throughout the dayunbeaten, as Running In Heels cameoff second best in the openingIntermediate. That race was won byTim Underwood’s Carnglave Cat,ridden by Katy Lyons who has nowridden several winners at Parham forher boss. The nine-year-old wasfollowing up from a recent Restrictedwin at Kingston Blount, where he hadbeaten the highly rated Celtic Intrigue.

David Phelan himself had a double onthe day, as Charlie Marshall rode

Iberico and CharlieDando on their way towinning the Mens Openrace at the Berkeleymeeting at Woodford

Photo:Neale Blackburnchasdog.com

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Tompatpeg to victory in a dramaticRestricted. Four went to post butHardy Morning didn’t last a circuit,slipping up after the seventh fence.That left three, until Inside Out wasabruptly pulled up coming through thestart the final time. That left Charlie along way clear on Tompatpeg, whoidled badly in front, but was far clearenough to hold off the fast finishingDid You Ever. The win boostedCharlie even further clear in the SouthEast Novice Riders Championship andgave him his third winner in the lasteight days.

The Mens Open had a select field offour runners, where Peyekashe wassent off the short priced favourite.Success looked in doubt two out, asPhil Hall swept to the lead on DanceTempo and looked to have the race inthe bag. But Simon Cobden, ridingPeyekashe, rousted the twelve-year-oldto join his rival over the last andstormed up the run in to victory.

The seventh and final race of the daywas the Hunt race, which went to thePhil York ridden Merrydown Vintage,who cruised home by fifteen lengthswith his rider motionless in the saddle.He was chased by Confederate Grey,while the favourite Captain Crackersfailed to finish in the places.

FIFE at BALCORMO MAINSSaturday, 25 Aprilby Peter BurgonKinneston trainer, Nick Alexander isenjoying one of his best seasonsbetween the flags and increased histally to eight with a double fromRossini's Dancer and Back On TheRoad on Saturday's well supportedFife card at Balcormo Mains.

The versatile Rossini's Dancer has gothis confidence back since beingswitched from running under Rulesand made it two wins from his lastthree starts in the Pentland LandRover Mens Open Race under a welljudged ride from Alexander's son, Kit.The 10-year-old disputed the lead withSome Target from the outset but thecontest was still wide open when thepair were joined two out byDuhallowcountry. Alexander's mountthen asserted his superiority, pulling alength clear of Some Targetapproaching the last and maintainingthat advantage to the line. Alexandersaid: "He enjoyed being able to dictateand saw out the extended three and aquarter mile trip without anyproblems."

Former smart chaser, Back On TheRoad, who ran at the 2009Cheltenham and PunchestownFestivals, joined the Alexander team a

little over two years ago and continuedhis recent revival by landing theLundin Homes NPPA Club MembersRace in the hands of owner, JamieAlexander, Nick's brother. After beingheld up out the back in the earlystages, he moved through smoothly totrack Silk And Roses and Great Gustowith a circuit remaining beforecruising past them to go three lengthsclear three out. Great Gusto battledback gamely under Will Ramsay tolead narrowly at the last but Back OnThe Road would not be denied andedged in front again near the line tosnatch a short head verdict.

More than 19 years after riding hisfirst winner on Fordstown at Lanark,Alexander, 50, remains as enthusiasticand competitive as ever. He said of his13-year-old gelding: "He travelled wellbehind a strong pace and I didn't wanthim to hit the front too soon. He metthe last all wrong and lost momentumbut rallied well to get his head back infront." As well as sending out eightwinners this term, 11 of NickAlexander's other 15 runners betweenthe flags have been placed.

Nick Orpwood, 27 the previous day,extended his lead over Tom Hamiltonin the Northern Area Mens JockeysChampionship to 13 points with adouble on Milano Magic and Havana

Rossini’s Dancer and Kit Alexander (near side) in action duringthe Mens Open race at Balcormo Mains

Photo: Grace Beresford p2pnorthernphotos.co.uk

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Jack. Milano Magic has beenrejuvenated by a spell of Pointing and,after going more than four yearswithout winning, made it threevictories in five weeks in the TurcanConnell Fife Members Race. Sent onafter three out, he left his two rivalstoiling from the next and coastedhome twenty lengths in front of SirWatty. Orpwood said: "He was comingon and off the bridle in a cat andmouse contest and would have beenbetter suited by a stronger pace butwon cosily in the end."

Havana Jack opened his account ononly his fourth career start in anexciting five runner Bruce FarmsOpen Maiden Race. In a slowly runaffair, Poll An Easa jumped soundlyfor Ross Wilson and had madevirtually all when running out at thesecond last. Orpwood's mount, whowas on terms but hanging left at thetime, was then joined at the last bySound Barrier before doing justenough when the chips were down tosecure a short head verdict. Irvine-based owner/trainer, Leonard Kerrsaid: "I bought him for only £1,800 asan unraced 3-year-old at DoncasterSales in August 2013. He is stilllearning the game and really needs aleft handed track as well as bottomlessground."

After taking his career tally under allcodes to 50 on High Fair at Perththree days earlier, Tom Hamiltonextended his winning sequence ofrides at Balcormo to five onNorthumbrian raider Nelly La Rue in

the Subaru Restricted Race. Sent tothe front six out, the 8-year-oldmaintained a relentless gallop andturned the contest into a processionfrom the second last to beat CobhNational by a distance. Hamilton saidof Mark Thompson's charge: "Herjumping won the day again, gainingground at her fences and she's stillimproving." Hamilton's 100% trackrecord finally came to an end withplaced rides on the aforementionedduo, Some Target and Silk And Roses.

Amie Waugh made her first visit toBalcormo one to remember bysteering Whiteabbey to victory in theAlbert Bartlett Ladies Open Race.Dictating a modest pace from theoutset, her mount comfortably keptthe odds-on favourite, Durban Gold atbay on the final circuit to score by twolengths. Winning trainer, RebeccaHewit said of the 10 year old: "He isvery lazy at home and needs plenty ofwork but is concentrating better in hisraces since being fitted withcheekpieces. I wanted to run him hereas I'm away for the next few weeks inmy role as coach to the British JuniorVaulting Team. He might have onemore outing this season in the BorderLadies Open on May 31."

QUORN at GARTHORPESaturday, 25 Aprilby Emma FormanA large crowd enjoyed the springweather and some excellent racingwhen the Quorn held their Point-to-

Point fixture at Garthorpe on Sunday.The highlights included doubles forriders Tom Strawson and KellyMorgan.

Kelly Morgan got the afternoon off toa good start riding the leading horse atGarthorpe Lough Inch in the openingPrestwold Hall Garthorpe Hunts ClubMembers Conditions race. The eight-year-old, owned by Lizzie Harris andtrained by Lizzie and her partnerKelly’s brother Tom Morgan, led fromflag fall and the only sticky momentwas when he made a slight mistake atthe last. “He had loads left and wasgetting cheeky,” said Kelly afterwards.This was a third win at the course in2015 and Lough Inch, who was easeddown close home, now heads for theDodson & Horrell PPORA NoviceRiders final at Tabley on Sunday 17thMay. Val D’Auberge was second andZaffarans Scene was third.

The second race was not quite asstraightforward for Kelly as she wasunseated from her mount Minstaladon the way to the start for the CoppiceHomes PPORA Club Members racefor novice riders causing a delay toproceedings. Nevertheless Minstaladwas always prominent and tookcommand turning out of the backstraight for the final time. He beatDream Garden by two lengths withMurphy’s Promise in third. Minstaladis owned and trained by AlwyneFradley and his partner Faye Ludlowwho bought him privately in Januaryand normally compete with showhorses. These two wins allowed Kelly

Havana Jack and NickOrpwood en route tovictory in the OpenMaiden race at the Fifemeeting at BalcormoMains

Photo:Grace Beresfordp2pnorthernphotos.co.uk

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Morgan to regain the lead for both theD&M Barthorpe Novice rider awardand the lady rider award for theMidlands Area.

Tom Strawson has an unassailable leadin the Mens Championship with justtwo more Midlands meetings left. Hegave Milson Robinson’s Panama Canala perfect ride to take the prestigiousShouler & Son Quorn Gold Cup.Strawson was happy to settle hismount towards the rear as a fast pacewas set by Mac Halen and NightcapJack. He was then able to ease PanamaCanal into the race on the final circuitand go on to win by four lengths fromSandpipers and Otto The Great. “Mywife Christine couldn’t come todayand so I told her I would ring whenthey jumped the ditch for the finaltime. When I rang her she wascheering Tom on; I did say that hewouldn’t be able to hear her!”explained a delighted MilsonRobinson. Milson’s son Simon, whotrains Panama Canal, had won theQuorn Gold Cup as a rider withGolden Moss for Kit Cottinghamsome twenty years ago. His son Tomcollected the cup making it a trulyfamily affair.

Strawson’s second win came with hisown Tomstar in the William HercockBuilders Merchants PPORA Club

Members Conditions race. The eight-year-old, who was purchased at AscotSales in January, beat Proximo by twolengths with TC Spitfire in third. “Thishorse is probably the most intelligenthorse I have ever sat on! I have hadmy doubts about him making aracehorse!” explained the delightedStrawson who is sponsored byAGHAUL Ltd Haulage Contractors.

In the final race the Motorpoint OpenMaiden race, Strawson finished thirdon Roger Jackson’s Lord Golan; herides Gonalston Cloud for the sameowner in the Connolly’s Red MillsIntermediate Final at Cheltenham onWednesday. This race was won byLord Baltimore and Dicky Collinsonfor The 2 Farmers and a ButcherPartnership and is trained by AndrewPennock; the Collinson/Pennock teamare having a fantastic season. BewareThe Bear was half a length away inthird.

The rejuvenated 13-year-old The KingOf Angels took the Kite ConstructionNine Year Olds and Over MidlandsArea Club Members Conditions racein the hands of Pete Mann for whomthis was a twelfth winner of theseason. “I think it’s the fact that Petewas in the saddle and not me that hasmade all the difference. We may go forthe Fernie Four Miler at Dingley next

week as he has won it before,” saidwinning owner Peter Bennett. Thehorse, who is trained by PaulineHarkin, finished a length and a half infront of Carlicue with Count Salazarin third.

The easiest winner of the day wasQoubilai who made it a fourthconsecutive win in the RobertWhowell and Partners Ladies Openrace for Ivan Crane and Jimmy King.The ex-Tim Vaughan eleven-year-oldis now trained by Tom Messenger andridden by Lottie Crane and will beaimed at the AGA Ladies Final atStratford at the end of May. The ridersof the first three past the post scoredpoints for the AGA Lady Riders iTotalControl Championship.

AXE VALE at STAFFORD CROSSSunday, 26 Aprilby Granville TaylorWill Biddick is marching on towardshis half century for the season in hisquest for a fourth consecutiveNational jockeys’ title, and put threemore winners in the bag at the AxeVale meeting. Considering the recentdry spell, the organisers producedremarkably good ground thanks toextensive watering.

Whataknight and Will Biddick on their way tolanding the Intermediate at Stafford Cross


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Subtle Sovereign was untroubledunder the champion’s guidance inbeating his two opponents to win hisfirst Open, easing clear in the homestraight. “This was his eighth win inhis last nine runs. We will probablywait another year before going HunterChasing,” said Jeremy Barber, whoseson Jack was saddling his 38th winnerof the season.

The progressive Whataknight soonmade it 39 for the Dorset trainer,drawing right away from his rivals atthe second last to win theIntermediate, “He is an out and outgalloper and just keeps going,”commented Jack, who trains the six-year-old for owners Terry Hamlin,Martin Dare and John Snook.

The Barber/Biddick treble wascompleted when five-year-oldRoyalzaro beat 12 opponents to winthe Restricted. “He was a cheap buy inFrance and is going the right way,”reported the young trainer.

Kostaquarta almost made if fourwinners for the yard but came offsecond best after a protracted battlewith Fiulin in the Confined. Now withEd Walker, the winner is owned by theCarstairs Clan which consists of Guyand Alex Carstairs and their youngchildren Zak, Oliver and Euan. “Hewas losing ground over his fences in ahunter chase at Newton Abbot theother day and we will stick to Pointingfor a while now,” said the trainer.Fiulin has a remarkable CV. ByGalileo, he fetched 280,000 guineas asa four-year-old. AP McCoy couldn’t

win on him, but apart from hisPointing wins for previous owner RossOliver, the sturdy 10-year-old has wonon the flat and over hurdles, andcompeted at the Cheltenham Festivaland Royal Ascot.

Fiulin’s successful jockey RobbieHenderson was out of luck in theHunt race when 1-4 favouriteHameldown Tor tumbled out of therace when caught by the flailing legs ofMiss Cupcake at the 13th fence. Thisevent went to former hurdles winnerMoyne Nineoseven who waspartnered by Vicky Wade for theNineoseven Partnership. “I boughthim at Ascot last October. He has afew quirks and we have waited forbetter ground,” said trainer SarahPidsley who has four Pointers in heryard at Payhembury near Honiton.

Silver Token was a warm favourite forthe Novice Riders’ race but gave HarryCobden a nasty fall when crashingthrough the wing of the 14th fence.Loose Preformer (Hedley Webb) wasleft clear but failed to withstand thewell timed challenge of Maxi Chop(James King) after jumping the last.Despite an expensive price tag, theseven-year-old did not reach thewinners’ enclosure for Paul Nicholls,but is proving a good novice ride andwas following up his Hackwood Parkwin on Easter Monday. “James Kingand Stan Sheppard are sharing therides and it was the turn of Jamestoday. This horse has bled before andcould finish distressed, but has got his

confidence back now,” reported trainerRose Loxton.

It is not always plain sailing, even forchampions, and after receiving histrainer’s trophy on a euphoric day atSandown, it was down to earth forPaul Nicholls, literally, the next day ina field at Stafford Cross. Four-year-oldSan Satiro carried the championtrainer’s colours in the concludingMaiden. The raw youngster, trained byJack Barber, only got as far as thefourth fence before virtually stoppingand depositing Will Biddick on theDevon turf.

Boymann went on to win the eventunder Leanda Tickle. The seven-year-old was home bred by owner PaulMann. “He was unlucky not to winlast year when he threw away a race atTrebudannon. He needs good groundand is now my third winner with mylast three runners,” exclaimeddelighted trainer Joe Tickle.

FARMERS BLOODHOUNDSat WHITFIELDSunday, 26 Aprilby Andrew NormanRookie owner/trainer/rider AaronMcGlinchey claimed his first everwinner as The Flying Columnprevailed at the Farmers BloodhoundsPoint-to-Point at Whitfield on Sunday.

Third at the track last month, the nine-year-old Irish Point winner stayed onpowerfully in the Restricted to collar

Maxi Chop and JamesKing in full flight duringthe Novice Riders race atthe Axe Vale meeting atStafford Cross

Photo:Tim [email protected]

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hot favourite Mr Jalfrazy in the dyingstrides.

Alvechurch-based McGlinchey, whohad acquired the Dr Massini geldingfrom boss Ian Williams, said: “It’sgreat for all the hard work to pay off.He finished strongly here last time andthe cheek pieces helped him focustoday. It was a competitive Restrictedbut we wanted good ground. I’ve beentaking him through the woods andhopefully I can keep him sweet.”

Father and son team James andFreddie Henderson landed a doubleon their inaugural visit to theNorthamptonshire track.

Dual chase victor Thanks For Comingreturned to form in the PPORA ClubMembers Novice Riders race. Thewinner jumped the last alongsiderunner-up Coeur De Four butoutstayed his rival by half a length,denying sixteen-year-old Noel George,son of National Hunt trainer Tom, awinning debut in the saddle.

Winning trainer Henderson said: “He’sbeen very disappointing up until nowand Nicky (Henderson, former trainer)has been telling me I can’t train! Hehasn’t been finishing his races butmaybe now he’s got his head in fronthe’ll enjoy it a bit more.”

Oliver James completed the doubleafter having too much class for hisopponents in the Intermediate. Awinner of five of his nine starts, thewinner clocked the fastest time of theday despite pulling off both hindshoes and repelled progressive mareDabinett Moon by two lengths.

Trainer Henderson, who saddled asecond and a third at Garthorpe theprevious day, said: “I felt we had twobetter chances yesterday so it’s a bit ofa surprise having a double! DabinettMoon is a tough little mare so to beather was very enjoyable. Oliver James isa big, stiff horse who isn’t able to runvery often but I’d like to go for aMaiden Hunter Chase.”

Now stationed at Buscot Park nearFaringdon after recently relocatingfrom Lincolnshire, Henderson added:“We’re still learning our newsurroundings and getting to know thelocal courses but it’s been a hugelyenjoyable season.”

The double means rider FreddieHenderson is now just one win behindHarry Cobden in the race for theFuller’s National Novice Riders Title,with the South Midlands Area Noviceaward all but secured.

After five placed efforts in BritishPoints, Nightscape (Clare Wills) finallygot off the mark in the AGA OpenMaiden. A full brother to PerfectlyWilling, the Laura Thomas-trainedgelding led three out and drewcomfortably clear of his nine pursuers.

Owner Steven Astaire, who picked theson of Luso out of the catalogue atDoncaster Sales last September, said:“I’ve had horses with Chris Loggin forthirty years but I thought I’d send oneto Laura, after all she’s a bit betterlooking that Chris! He was unlucky atthe Oakley where he was mugged onthe line. The opposition was weaktoday but he’s a progressive littlehorse.”

Winner trainer Thomas said of herseven-year-old: “They’ve done a greatjob with the watering today but heloves quick ground so he got awaywith it. We’ll keep him going over thenext few weeks.”

Luso also sired the winner of theHunt Members contest with ToweringRun (Shane O’Keeffe) providingNatasha Rose with her initial trainingsuccess.

The victor held off the challenge ofveteran mare Ilongue, winner of thisrace in 2013, leading at the last before

Nightscape and Claire Wills tookthe Open Maiden at Whitfield

Photo: Neale Blackburn chasdog.com

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scoring by a length. Rose, who knewthe horse from working for previoustrainer Chris Loggin, purchased thenine-year-old for her father’s firstownership from the aforementionedSteven Astaire.

Winner trainer Rose explained: “Dad(Trevor Rose) has always wanted aninterest in a horse and as Steven waslooking to sell him, I felt it was a goodopportunity. He’s a bit of a thinker buthopefully I can work on that. Heneeded the run and didn’t really likethe ground at Brafield. He’s a top-of-the-ground horse so we’ll keep himgoing.”

The PPORA Club MembersConditions race also produced initialan ownership success as Bob, Caroland Alex’s Hope’s Paddycards (SamPainting) made all before quickeningclear.

The eleven-year-old winner producedan impeccable round of jumping inrecording his first win in ten startssince completing a double for formerhandler Nick Pearce in 2013.

Winning trainer Sally Randell, soon tobecome a licensed trainer underNational Hunt rules, said: “I ride himmost days and I love him. I thought hewanted quick ground but he seemed toappreciate the give in the groundtoday. We’ve had lots of winners atWhitfield and I consider this to be oneof my luckiest tracks!”

Jubilant winning owner Alex Hopeadded: “He’s given us some great days

out all season without winning. Sallytold us he’d win next time after his fallat Andoversford and that’s what he’sdone!”

Hunter Chase winner Well Mettscored for the first time between theflags in the Ladies Open. The eight-year-old, placed in last season's AGALadies Final, asserted three out underPhine Banks to record a facile success.

“He’s an out-and-out stayer and so thetrack suited him,” said trainerChristine Banks, mother of thewinning rider.

CHESHIRE at TABLEYSunday, 26 Aprilby Rory AlkinGary Hanmer and Gillon Crow shareda double with Time Gentleman andThird Of The Third. In the Confined,Time Gentleman followed up on hisvictory here a fortnight earlier,winning at the course for the ninthtime and he was always travelling wellbeating Irish Anthem by four lengths.Third Of The Third, who fell at thelast at the previous meeting here whenclosing on King Fontaine, won his firstPoint-to-Point proving too strong foranother Sheila Crow runnerAbbeyview in the Intermediate. Theeight-year-old winner, who had won abumper back in September 2012, willnow be aimed at the Lord Daresburyfeature £1,500 race at this course on17th May. Crow was foiled of a trebleon Belton Red Fox in the Restricted

and beaten half a length by ImmyRobinson who led throughout onRoad West and was one of fourwinners on the day who had won heretwo weeks ago.

Another horse who won at the lastmeeting Numbercruncher put up avery impressive performance whenrunning away with the Veteran &Novice Riders race beating GullibleGordon by fifteen lengths in a veryfast time under his owner/trainerDavid O’Brien. He will now be aimedat the Novice Riders Final at the Maymeeting and with his recent courseform will prove a very hard horse tobeat.

Ed Glassonbury rode a double easilywinning the Mixed Open on KingFontaine and enjoying a walk over inthe Mares Maiden on Monica’s Rose.He looked certain to complete a treblewhen the heavily backed favourite LateRomantic was full of running and hadestablished a four lengths lead at thelast, only to unseat after the jumpbecause the saddle had slipped. TrueGold was left in the lead but wasovertaken by Don’t Be Fooled whostayed on strongly to win by two and ahalf lengths for James O’Reilly. Thefive-year-old winner had only movedto Sheila Crow’s yard six weeks agoand is owned by Stephen Turner fromCambridge who had ridden theprevious day in both of the charity flatraces at Garthorpe.

Road West and ImmyRobinson lead the way inthe Restricted race at theCheshire meeting

Photo:Sweet Photographysweetphotography.com

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SOUTH & WEST WILTSat LARKHILLSunday, 26 Aprilby Brian & Gill ArmstrongBrockenhurst trainer James Youngachieved his first-ever double atLarkhill with Mens Open winnerHincheslea Moor and Restrictedheroine Marlpit Oak. The formeralready looked the winner underDaniel Sansom when nearest pursuerKing’s Legacy fell at the second lastwhen eight lengths in arrears. “I can’tbelieve how much he’s improved thisseason,” smiled James. “His secondwind operation has obviously worked,but they must have put in a newengine at the same time.” The winsecured the 2014/15 Larkhill BestHorse Award for Hincheslea Moor,who has now won five races at theWiltshire venue.

Marlpit Oak made all and drew rightaway to provide a second careersuccess for Ben Hicks, who is off for athree-month spell working forperennial French champion nationalhunt trainer Guillaume Macaire. “Ibought this one at the same AscotSales as Hincheslea Moor in June2010,” revealed James. “I had alwayswanted a [horse sired by] MidnightLegend and ended the day with two!”

Henstridge trainer Stuart Penny wasalso in double form with Quedillac(Hunt race) and Trueflyingcolours(Ladies Open). Quedillac led from the10th to delight former owner HazelGoody, who celebrated her 90thbirthday by travelling over from theIsle of Wight especially to see him.Trueflyingcolours pinged off the fastground to record a very fast time (5m47 sec) under Katy Lyons. “It took ayear for him to settle after beingbought out of Richard Barber’s yardbut he loves doing different things –last weekend it was a six-mile funride,” revealed Stuart.

Maiden Bradley trainer Camilla Baylis,who is expecting a baby in September,ended her season on a high whenDaisy Picker put in the better lastfence jump to seal victory overXpectations in the Maiden. DaisyPicker had fallen at the last whendisputing at the Combined Services inFebruary, so was not winning out ofturn.

Jon Pike’s marvellous season – sevenwins provided by just two horses –continued with Intermediate winnerWak A Turtle, who made all underJamie Thomas. A summer jumpingcampaign under Rules is on theagenda.

TIVYSIDE &CARMARTHENSHIRE atLYDSTEPSunday, 26 Aprilby Maria EvansProud parents Peter and Karen Bowennot only watched their 17-year-old sonSean Bowen pick up the ConditionalJockeys title at Sandown on Saturday,but were also at Lydstep on Sunday, atthe Tivyside and CarmarthenshireHunt meeting, to witness their eldestson Mickey saddle his first treble as aPoint-to-Point trainer.

Local girl Jodie Hughes was on boardtwo of his winners, first of which wasSir Du Bearn in the Ladies Open. Itwas almost a steering job for Hughes,who was all smiles coming back intopaddock on her second winner of theseason. Sir Du Bearn seems to havetaken well to life between the flags,with this his second win at this course,clocking up the fastest time of the day.Up until this season, he was withMickey's father, Peter, running underRules.

Winner number two of the day forHughes was Mister Bricolage in theRestricted, again like Sir Du Bearn, aprevious winner at the course thisseason. He was another easy winnerfor the team, who under a patient ride

Sir Du Bearn and Jodie Hughes took the Ladies Openrace at LydstepPhoto: Alun Sedgmore sportingprints.biz

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from Hughes, was always going betterthan the others. This was winnernumber six of the season for thetrainer Mickey Bowen, who says thehorse will go to his father for thesummer jumping season.

Ciaran Gethings, from Wicklow,Ireland, came all the way down fromhis base at Phillip Hobbs in Mineheadto ride Bowen's third winner of theday, Bobs Law. This was their firstouting since finishing seventh in theAintree Foxhunters. In a four runnerrace, he was the only one to comehome after an incident packed circuitand a half. Kusadasi unseated JamesTudor at the 7th, cracking Tudor'scrash helmet in the process. Thathorse then carried out John Mathiason Raffa, leaving Qualviro and BobsLaw alone for half a circuit. Qualviroand Bradley Gibbs were an unluckyfaller at the 12th, leaving Bobs Law onhis own for the final half circuit.

The biggest smile of the day camefrom 18-year-old Elen Nicholas whorode her first winner on Kisha King inthe Hunt Members. This was a fifthwin for Kisha King who has been aloyal servant to owner Dai Rees andhas taught a lot of youngsters how todo the job. Nicholas, who hails fromBangor, and comes from a Pony Clubbackground, now works for Dai Reesin Clarbeston Road.

Harpsy Cord was a runaway winner ofthe West Wales Club MembersConditions Race, beating favourite MyCoranna by an official distance of tenlengths. This was the nine-year-old's

third win of the season, having beenplaced twice on other occasions.

The Conditions Maiden went the wayof Master Ally, who was a winner onhis first time on a racecourse. JohnMathias' Irish recruit was ridden byBradley Gibbs, who came back andsaid the horse had run away with him.The five-year-old is sure to have moreto come, and we might see him oncemore this season for connections.

The Open Maiden was won by ACountry Mile for jockey MathewBarber, and brother Marc. He wassettled in behind the other joint-favourite, Joshella and John Mathias,until joining him on the bend, andgoing three lengths clear by the last.Connections used the word 'tool' todescribe the seven-year-old, who havehad the horse in their yard for threemonths since getting it from Ireland.He looks to be an improving type,that'll keep galloping, and will gobetter on softer ground.

YORK & AINSTYat EASINGWOLDSunday, 26 Aprilby Charlotte RussellPhil Clark and his team's reputationfor working hard to produce excellentracing ground was rewarded with lotsof entries and plenty of runners on aglorious day weather wise, with lots ofmemorable stories among the winners.

The most emotional wasKilmacallogue Bay's win in the DavidWestwood Memorial Restricted race

under Chris Dawson. Owned by thelate Simon Robinson, who partneredKilmacallogue Bay to win his Maidenat this course last year, his final win asa jockey, Chris galvanised the geldingto power up the hill and the pair heldon from Ruby Bay and Emma Todd insecond with Seeyouincourt, ridden byChris' brother John in third. Crossingthe line Chris was only looking oneway and that was up into the sky as hesaluted the clouds and dedicated thiswin to his owner, whose funeral takesplace on Wednesday 29th April. "Youcouldn't have written the script,"enthused the winning rider. "It was atough day but that win meant somuch. He takes his racing really welland I still think there's someimprovement in him. I knew theywould go a good gallop so I rode hima bit more prominently than normaland he just stayed on up the risingground."

Chris had earlier partnered his 100thPoint-to-Point winner when taking theGavin Rhodes Landscapes 4, 5, 6 & 7-year-old Maiden race on his own RollThe Dough. Sent off as joint-favourite, it was no surprise to see himwin having been placed second on hislast two runs. "It was great to ride my100th winner on one of Dad's horsesand it's been an aim all season, buttaking recent events into account I'dbe quite happy to stay on 99 if it hadmeant Simon could still be here to seehis winner," said Chris. He continued:"We've always thought highly of RollThe Dough, he missed last year with a

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Kilmacallogue Bay andChris Dawson on theirway to an emotional winin the Restricted race atEasingwoldPhoto:

Peter Barberpointtopointphotography.co.uk


splint but has done everything rightthis year. I got there soon enough onhim but managed to get the rail whichhelped him and I was impressed withhis win, although he only doesenough." Erica's Dream improvedsignificantly on her Sheriff Huttondebut to finish two lengths back insecond under John Dawson. The four-year-old daughter of Bollin Eric isgoing the right way and can pick up aMaiden before the end of the season.Fairy Mix was third for ElliotBrookbanks.

Another win which will stay in thememories of all connections for yearsto come was Fergus Gregory's win onJames Wyatt in the YAPPC MembersRace. The now former Cherry Cowardinmate provided Fergus with a win onhis first ever Point-to-Point ride,although he has had a ride on the Flatand competed in pony racing.Travelling up from Norfolk onSaturday night, Fergus sat on JamesWyatt at about 5.30pm, rode himround the school, popped him over ahurdle and purchased him on the spotas a schoolmaster. "I just can't believeit," said the young jockey who turned16 in February. "I lost my stirrup atthe first fence, but fortunately got itback quite quickly and made sure I putmy foot right in instead of just thetoe," he added. "You just kept gettingat him and didn't let up on him," saidthe now former trainer CherryCoward. It was quite a performance

from the young jockey who beatRoycano partnered by WilliamEasterby by two lengths with Son ofSwallow running his best race to date,in third under Jack Jordan.

Racing started with the York & Ainsty(North and South) Hunts Members,Subscribers and Farmers racesponsored by Mrs M. Blacker. Six ofthe eight entries went to post but itbecame a duel between Opera Og andDead Ringa with the former pullingclear by 12 lengths under Sean Murray."I thought Dead Ringa would be themain challenger so I didn't want to lethim get too far away," said the winningowner/trainer/rider. "He won easilyand seems to keep getting better," headded. A Novice Riders' race at theBilsdale meeting also held at theEasingwold course looks to be thenext target.

The closest finish of the day came inthe Haighs Farm Shop Ladies Openrace where a mere three lengthscovered the six finishers. Travelling asa tight pack, Renegotiate was the firstto make the run for home andseemed to have the advantage untilbeing swallowed up on the run-in. Itwas the former Royal Ascot winner,Pevensey, that provided Cath Waltonwith her first winner for the Cowardsthis season with a perfectly timedchallenge. "The ground's come rightfor him and the fences aren't toobig," said trainer Cherry Coward.

"The weather's right for him too," sheadded. At the rear throughout, hisfinishing speed was unbelievable andthe pair just got up on the line to winby a length from French Seventyfiveand Emma Todd, with Tasheba andJoanna Walton half a length back inthird.

The Touchdown Mens Open raceprovided the most impressive winnerof the day in Six A Side. Having beenheld up throughout the race Six ASide was produced and ran on well towin in the fastest time of the day."They went seriously quick but hemade up plenty of ground, quickenedup from two out and stayed on well.He's improving like mad and I thinkhe's quite useful," said Will Milburn,the winning jockey. Sposalizio andChris Dawson were four lengths backin second with Billing and RussellLindsay a further head back in third.

Racing finished with The KettlewellsFuels Ltd Open Maiden race andQuinto finally got his head in front totake this by three lengths for RichardTierney. "That's him finished for thisyear but the owners are going to keephim for next year. He had beenunlucky until today, but there is moreto come from him," said the winningtrainer Nicky Tinkler. Up To Scratchran a great race to finish second forElliot Brookbanks and Mr Conductorand Emma Todd were a further sevenlengths back in third.

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Six A Side and Will Milburn took the Mens Open race at EasingwoldPhoto: Peter Barber pointtopointphotography.co.uk


Tom HamiltonPhoto: Grace Beresfordp2pnorthernphotos.co.uk

Chris DawsonPhoto: Peter Barber

pointtopointphotography.co.uk

RECENT LANDMARKSTom Hamilton recorded his 50thcareer success at Perth on Wednesdaywhen landing the Mares’ Hurdle onHigh Fair for trainer Sandy Forster.

It was his eleventh triumph underNational Hunt Rules, to go with 38between the flags and one on the flat.Tom, 19, a Business Managementstudent in Edinburgh, opened hisaccount on Silk And Roses at Overtonin 2012, and he had previously shonein the Pony Racing arena, winning 15races and twice getting to the nationalfinals.

He is currently two behind NickOrpwood in the race for the Northernarea championship, although title-chasing is not on his agenda. He hasno immediate plans to turnConditional, although as it will makeeconomic sense he will considermaking the switch once he has had 75rides against professionals.

Three times Yorkshire area championChris Dawson completed a century inPoint-to-Points when taking the younghorse Maiden at Easingwold on RollThe Dough. His initial victory was on

Pennyman at Hutton Rudby in 2002,and he has also partnered 14 winnersunder Rules.

He dislocated his hip in 2011, and thefollowing year had contemplatedretirement after fracturing his skull,but the camaraderie of the changingroom was too strong a pull, and thethought has been banished from hismind.

Many of the Dawson Pointers arehome-bred, but Roll The Dough wasbought as a three-year-old by Chris’sfather and his sister Anna. Chris doesthe training at the family concern,Nunstainton Stud, which producesnumerous youngsters to bring on andsell.

Less than two hours later Chris was inthe winner’s enclosure again afterlanding the Restricted onKilmacallogue Bay, who was carryingthe colours of the late SimonRobinson, whose funeral takes placetomorrow [April 29th]. It wasunderstandably an emotional occasion.“You couldn’t have written thatscript,” Chris declared. “100 is only anumber, but that puts it all intoperspective.”

Gina Andrews, the 2010/11 nationalchampion, registered her 150th careersuccess with a treble at Parham. Shewon the Ladies’ Open on the DavidBuckett-trained Seigneur Du Bois, theConditions race on Classic Destiny forJenny Pidgeon and the Maiden onForrest Blue, trained by David Phelan.

Classic Destiny completed the centuryand a half, including one between theflags in Ireland, while Forrest Bluebecame the 150th in Britain.

Gina opened her account on MovingEarth at Cottenham in 2008, just aweek after her sixteenth birthday, andher tally includes 37 under NationalHunt rules and three on the flat.

She is currently seven clear of hernearest rival, Hannah Watson, in herbid to regain the national title.

Kelly Morgan recorded her firstdouble at Garthorpe, and in so doingtook a narrow lead over Lottie Cranein the Midlands area championship.She won the Members’ Conditionsrace on Lough Inch, trained by herbrother Tom, and the Novice Riders’

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


Kelly MorganPhoto: Nico Morgannicomorgan.com

contest on Minstalad, a first runner forAlwyne Fradley and Faye Ludlow.

Kelly, 24, whose father Kevin is alicensed trainer, opened her account atMaisemore in 2007 on Astonville, andshe returned to the fray last seasonafter two years out of the sport due tofinancial circumstances. It was whenher boss Johnny Weatherby, whosePreston Lodge stables she has run forthree years, decided to have hisValance trained from home, that shewas able to pick up the reins again.

She is hoping to ride at the Meynellmeeting on May 30th before jetting offthe next day to Australia for threeweeks to visit a friend, her first“proper” holiday for four years!

The reality of making a winning Point-to-Point debut is still sinking in to 16-year-old Fergus Gregory who, after ascary moment at the first fence, tookthe Riders’ Conditions contest atEasingwold on James Wyatt, whosepurchase from Cherry Coward wascompleted in time for the Gregoryfamily to take him home to Norfolkthat night.

Horses have always been Fergus’snumber one priority – “I neverwatched cartoons on television, onlyfilms like ‘Seabiscuit’ and ‘BlackBeauty’,” he laughed. He enjoyed

success in Pony Racing, and had oneride on the flat at Wolverhamptonearlier this month for ChristineDunnett, for whom he has been ridingout for about four years. He is notlacking in experience, having spent lastsummer at Robert Eddery’s, and healso rides out for Lauren Braithwaite,who will be James Wyatt’s new trainer.

Fergus is currently studying for hisGCSE exams, after which he is goingto France to work for CharlesGourdain for a few weeks beforestarting a full-time job with JohnFerguson.

18-year-old Elen Nicholas opened heraccount in the Members’ race atLystep on Dai Rees’s admirableveteran Kisha King, who has provedan adept schoolmaster over the years,although, laughed Elen, “He’s verynaughty!”

Not wishing to stay on at school afterthe age of 16, Elen, who had noinvolvement in racing but had riddenfor several years, applied to go to theBritish Racing School after seeing anadvertisement for that establishment.She did a week’s work experience withTim Vaughan before attending thenine week course, and was given aplacement at the Rees yard, where shehas now been based for 16 months.

A planned ride last season failed tomaterialise, so her debut was atHowick in March. None of her fiveoutings, all of which have been onKisha King, has been observed by hermother, who is too nervous to watchher daughter in action.

There was an initial success atWhitfield for Aaron Mcglinchey, 23earlier in the week, who took theRestricted on his own The FlyingColumn. Aaron, who has worked forIan Williams for five months, keepsthe nine-year-old locally to theWilliams yard and trains him in hisspare time.

Aaron was involved in show-jumpingbut had always wanted to get intoracing, and originally worked for NickyVaughan in Shropshire, staying on atthe yard when it was taken by TimPitt.

It was his third ride on The FlyingColumn, who was formerly in trainingwith his current employer, and who hedescribes as “slow as a boat, but hestays for ever.” However, Aaron willnot recall his debut, on an outside rideat Cocklebarrow, with any fondness, ashe was unshipped from his intractablehard-pulling mount at the fourthfence.

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2015 Fergus Gregory

Photo: Peter Barberpointtopointphotography.co.uk

Aaron McglincheyPhoto: Neale Blackburnchasdog.com


The first ever public auction ofracehorses being sold specifically intothe sport and riding horse market for acareer after racing will be held byBrightwells on Wednesday 20th May.Brightwells Auctioneers, inconjunction with Retraining ofRacehorses (RoR), will stage the sale attheir Malvern sale ground as part oftheir Sport and Riding Horse Sale.

The idea of a sale dedicated to formerracehorses was one of therecommendations made in thestrategic review of RoR, which wascompleted in 2014. The concept hasthe support of both the RacehorseOwners Association (ROA) and theNational Trainers Federation (NTF).Entry to the Brightwells RoR Sale hasbeen subsidised and costs £50 (+VAT), considerably less than otherthoroughbred sales. Every horse soldat the sale will have a 'Non RacingAgreement' clause added to itspassport preventing the horse from

racing again in its career. The closingdate for entries is Friday 8th May.

Andrew Elliot, Bloodstock Managerand Auctioneer at Brightwells said:"We are very much looking forward tothe sale and we hope it will be thebeginning of a long-term alliance withRoR. While Brightwells alreadyconduct successful thoroughbred salesat Ascot and Cheltenham, this newRoR sale is specifically aimed at horsesleaving the racing industry that havemore to give as future competition orriding horses.

"Not only do owners get a subsidisedentry fee, they also get piece of mindin that every sale will be accompaniedby a change in the horse's passportensuring that it can't subsequently beraced.

"We have received positive feedbackfrom trainers regarding the initiativeand we believe the venture will provereally useful for trainers and ownersand, most importantly, for all suitablehorses."

Di Arbuthnot, Chief Executive ofRoR, said: “In recent years RoR hasfocused on increasing the demand forformer racehorses within the sporthorse and leisure market. The charitystages competitions for thoroughbredsacross a dozen different equinedisciplines, and following the successof these classes demand for formerracehorses has increased.

“There are now over 10,000 horsesregistered on RoR's database as activein a second career and the sale isintended as another step towardsfacilitating the transfer of horses froma training yard to a life after racing.

The Official Retraining of RacehorsesSale with Brightwells coincides withthe launch of an online ‘for sale’facility on the RoR website. Bothinitiatives are designed to help meetthe demand for former racehorses inother equine disciplines and tofacilitate the re-homing of horsesleaving the racing industry.

ROR & BRIGHTWELLS STAGE FIRSTEVER SALE EXCLUSIVELY FOR

FORMER RACEHORSES

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Grand Crus, a top class national hunt performer, now enjoyinghis new career which includes some showjumping


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2015 PICTURE PERFECT

Some great shots from a thrilling weekend’s Pointing

Beside The Sea and Benoit De La Sayette on their way to winning the148cm & under Pony race at the Farmers Bloodhounds meeting at Whitfield

Photo: Neale Blackburn chasdog.com


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2015 Amie Waugh and Whiteabbey set against the stunning countryside at the

Fife meeting at Balcormo MainsPhoto: Grace Beresford p2pnorthernphotos.co.uk

Fergus Gregory aboard James Wyatt (far side) and Roycano under WillEasterby battle it out in the Club Members Riders Conditions race at the

York & Ainsty meeting at EasingwoldPhoto: Peter Barber pointtopointphotography.co.uk


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2015 Invisible Man and Phine Banks in full flight during the Ladies Open race at

the Berkeley meeting at WoodfordPhoto: Neale Blackburn chasdog.com

Boymann and Leanda Tickle put in a perfect leap in the young horse OpenMaiden at the Axe Vale meeting at Stafford Cross



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2015 Runners in the Open Maiden race at the

York & Ainsty meeting at EasingwoldPhoto: Tom Milburn facebook.com/TomMilburnPhotography

Numbercruncher and David O’Brien lead the field in the PPORA ClubMembers race for Veteran and Novice Riders at Tabley

Photo: Sweet Photography sweetphotography.com


Hiho Silver is giving away two stunning pieces of jewellery, including one from the new Touch of GoldCollection, which takes popular Hiho pieces and adds a little bit of 22ct gold plating!

Two pieces that are up for grabs: the Exclusive Sterling Silver and 22ct Gold Plated Double Snaffle ClipBracelet, and Sterling Silver Snaffle Earrings. The bracelet made its debut at the Cheltenham Festival and isnow on its way, with the rest of the range, to Badminton Horse Trials (stand number 182).

The earrings are made from sterling silver and feature scaled down eggbutt snaffles with hooks that passthrough the ears. The bracelet, which is an exclusive Hiho design, features a full, scaled down snaffle whichclips into place to close the bangle, to make it easy to put on and take off. Both products are also available insterling silver only, and matching pieces such as necklaces, bracelets and rings, can also be purchased.

The Exclusive Sterling Silver and 22ct Gold Plated Double Snaffle Clip Bracelet has a RRP of £85, and theSterling Silver Snaffle Earrings have a RRP of £29.

To find out more about Hiho Silver, see www.hihosilver.co.uk or call 01460 221006…or why not pop by andsee the full collection at Badminton Horse Trials?

WIN TWO STYLISH PIECES FROM HIHO SILVER, ONEFROM THE NEW TOUCH OF GOLD COLLECTION!

QUESTIONAt which race meeting did Hiho’s ‘Touch of Gold’ collection make its debut?

A. Cheltenham FestivalB. Aintree Grand NationalC. Epsom Derby

WIN

COMPETITION TIME

Competition closes on 12 May

CLICK HERE TO ENTER

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https://gopointing.wufoo.com/forms/xy72vot06f8q06/

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WOODWAY

Action from the recent Kimblewick meeting at Kingston Blount; Alan and his son Joe look on from past the post.Photo: Neale Blackburn chasdog.com

THE WIZARDOF

PART III


Alan’s comments about his owners andhorses lead nicely on to his views on thestate of the sport. As mentioned before,the Hills run a dual-purpose yard, withAlan training the Pointers and Lawneyholding a professional licence. Alan usesan analogy to explain the basicdifference between Point-to-Point andNational Hunt yards.

“Here at Woodway, we’ve won prizemoney at Royal Ascot and we’ve beenchampion Point-to-Point trainer. Whatyou get if you have a horse with us thebest of both worlds, as well as ourenthusiasm and the chance to getinvolved.” I can vouch for that.

“Most of my owners want grass,” Alancontinues. “Most National Hunt ownerswant tarmac. What we offer here is both– we even run horses on the all-weather!” He clarifies the separationbetween the operations: “We run twoyards. We keep our horses in differentbarns and have two feed rooms and twohorse walkers. We just work our horsestogether. I think having two yards isgood for the sport of Pointing – and ifwe can get just one owner into eitheryard, that’s a positive. Every owner, tome, is a good owner – because if wedon’t have the owners, we don’t have thesport.”Alan was recently appointed to thePoint-to-Point Race PlanningCommittee, a body comprising variousluminaries from different areas of thesport to suggest improvements to thecards to encourage more runners. He’shappy to share his own views. “I’ve beentalking to a lot of people about this –jockeys, fellow trainers, owners, bookies,racegoers in the bar… and most peopleagree that it’s difficult to win a race atthe moment – the standard ofcompetition is high. It’s a challenge justthumbing through the Race Planner tofind a suitable contest.” But what doeshe think might work?

“We've been talking about including oneshorter race at each meeting, not justtwo and a half mile Maiden races, butOpens and Conditions races.” In thepast, Point-to-Pointing was for hunters,but modern thoroughbreds are smallerand speedier. With more of themaround, shorter races would give morepeople the chance to buy a winner. Wewant to get more owners and horses

into the sport and anything to help thatshould be encouraged.”

Hunt races, it seems, are a dying breed –disappearing from the race programmeat a rate of knots. Alan, however, is allin favour of them. “They’re brilliant andthey’ve got to stay,” he enthuses, whilequalifying this with: “But as a seventhrace on the card.” He explains hisreasons. “Neither hunting nor Pointingwould survive without the other. AtKimble on Easter Saturday there wereover 150 volunteers, nearly all of whomcame from the hunt. How else wouldyou find people willing to give up theirEaster Saturday for no money?” He’s ona roll now! “The jockeys are passionateabout hunting too, and people come towatch their mates ride in the Hunt races,which boosts the gate. We shouldencourage that”.

And what about Novice Riders races,on which opinions seem divided? “I wasapprehensive when they came in, butnow I think they’re great. They’re goodfor youngsters starting out and also forowner-riders. The increase in theeligibility from three to five winners is agood thing, as some of the riders have abit more experience. People say that fieldsizes are too large, but there haven’tbeen any major incidents, so whychange?”

Alan is also a fan of Conditions races.“Every meeting that hosts one can settheir own conditions. For example,there’s one at Kingston Blount forhorses that haven’t won for three years.Races like this are ideal for horses thathave lost their way.”Before you start thinking that he hasn’tgot a bad word to say, Alan makes hisviews on certain subjects quite clear.“There’s an idea to let Flat race winnersrun in Maidens. That’s just wrong – amaiden is a horse that’s never won arace, any race.” He’s equally vehementabout the possibility of rotating dates,so that more hunts can benefit from thebig crowds at Bank Holiday meetings.“There’s a historical precedent. Courseslike Kimble and Lockinge volunteeredfor their dates when other tracks didn’twant them – why should they suffer nowEaster racing has become morepopular?” The same goes for sharingrevenues. “What would be the incentivefor a Point-to-Point with a February dateto try to promote the meeting, if they

know they’d get the money anyway? Andit would get far too complicated.”As well as training “about 20” Pointersand sitting on committees, Alan makeshis living farming 1,000 acres of arableland around Aston Rowant. “Of coursemachinery helps, but the farm fits in wellwith the horses,” Alan confirmed. “Busytime on the farm is between July – whenPointing has finished – and October,when hunting starts.” We mustn’t forgetthat Alan has a long association with theVale of Aylesbury Hunt – to see him inaction alongside that well-known huntsupporter Ali G, check this out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3c45T1hc3kAlan’s farm stretches to theneighbouring village of Crowell, the siteof the former Point-to-Point coursecreated by his grandfather in 1944. “Heset up the track in one of his fields andput in eight fences. He told the localHunt that he’d sponsor the first for£500, give the Hunt any profit andswallow any losses. He wanted to makesure that the sport of Point-to-Pointingsurvived after the war. Crowell finallyclosed in 1970, to be replaced byKingston Blount, a course with whichAlan is closely associated. While hedoesn’t currently have an official rolethere, those of us who do are in nodoubt who is responsible for the groundand the track!

Before I go, I ask him the obviousquestions – what does he like mostabout the sport? “I love it that Point-to-Pointing is at the grass roots of sport.As we stand in the middle of a field inour wellies watching the talent of thefuture – human and equine – we couldbe rubbing shoulders with Lords or withoffice workers. It’s competitive, and weall want to win, but the commiserationsare just as heartfelt as the celebration –it’s all about the camaraderie.”He cites the example of the superb mareLady Myfanwy, who cost just £500,retired last year after 35 victories andwho has just had her first foal. “It’s anamateur sport and open to everyone, nomatter what they have to spend.” Assomeone who came to Woodway on arecommendation with a limited budget,and who has now stood in the winner’senclosure on three occasions, Iwholeheartedly agree.

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2015 In the final instalment of this series, Jake Exelby talks to trainer Alan

Hill about the state of the sport...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3c45T1hc3k







5 MINUTES WITHGILLON CROWPhoto: Jackie Oliver graftonwood.co.uk


Date of birth: 11th July 1984.Job or profession: I work as an EstateAgent for Rural & Equestrian Propertyspecialists Jackson Equestrian alongsidethe four-time National Point to PointChampion Richard Burton. I amextremely lucky to have anunderstanding team at work, whichenables me to ride out every morningand have time off to go HunterChasing.Are you from a racing background?If not, how did you get started inPoint-to-Pointing? I have grown upwith horses as a big part of my familylife going through various equestriandisciplines from showing, eventing andthen into racing. My parents both rodein Point-to-Points and my father usedto train. My mother now has onePointer which she trains at home.What was your first ride in public?My first ride ended up being placedsecond - it was at Alnwick on a horsecalled Try Me And See in 2004.First winner – name of the horse,owner & trainer, the date & thecourse: Bold Navigator at NetherbyPark in 2005. He was owned, trainedand bred by my father, Andrew. Westill have him at home aged 25 actinglike a four-year-old!Apart from the first winner, whathas been your most memorableride? Cottage Oak finishing fifth in theAintree Fox Hunters in 2014. It hadalways been a dream to ride round theAintree fences and he gave me afantastic ride. With thanks to JoeO’Shea and Richard Hewitt.Is there a ride you look back on andthink “could have done better?” Ithink this is always what you thinkwhen you come back, always wanting toimprove on what you have just donewhether you have won or lost.For which trainers/owners do youmainly ride? I started out mainlyriding for my parents and then formany local owners/trainers in theNorthern area until ending up in theNorth West, where I have had greatsupport from Anne Hewitt, who has acouple of horses in training eachseason. The majority of my rides,more recently, have been for JoeO’Shea and owned by Richard Hewitt.I am now riding a few for GaryHanmer which has enabled me to ridemy first Classic winner on What ALaugh in the Lady Dudley Cup onApril 19th which was fantastic!Who has been most influential onyour riding career so far? Acombination of a number of people;Anne Hewitt and Joe O’Shea (I know,what a combination!) and of course,my very supportive mother, Caroline.

Which are your favourite courses?And for what reasons? Friars Haugh,a local track to my family home, has tobe one of the most picturesque coursesand is quite difficult to get right. I haveridden a good number of winnersaround there and had my first doublethere also. Bangor-on-Dee has the bestground staff, not just for the excellentcare of the course but also for theirparties in and out of season!What car do you drive? Audi A4 2.0TDi.Name your perfect night in andperfect night out: During the season Idon’t get out much, so a bottle (or two)of champagne after a successful day ofracing can be a good night out for mewith some great supportive friendsaround. Perfect night in - dinner athome after work and then straight tobed.Where do you like to go on holiday?My family have a place in the south ofSpain which is very easy to get to and isnormally hot, so that is a normalsummer break; having spent my schooldays up in the north of Scotland, this isstill a special place to escape to.Who would be your ideal travellingcompanions to the races? I like tocover all eventualities so my idealtravelling companions include a horsevet, a Point-to-Point steward and aWest Country barman with a well-stocked picnic!What music are you currentlylistening to? Ed Sheeran, BenHoward, Catfish and the Bottlemenand Bastille.What are your favourite films andTV programmes? I don’t really watchmany films and so don’t really have afavourite but The Wolf of Wall Streetwould be up there. I think Channel 4Racing’s coverage is fantastic however Idon’t seem to get time to sit down andwatch it much! Bad Education wouldbe a favourite comedy TV series.What has been either your ownfunniest incident, or the mostamusing thing you have seen orheard at the races? There are severalof these when you ride for Joe O’Sheabut most cannot be repeated! When Igot back from my first ride at Alnwick Igot off the horse and my legs wouldnot work, I almost collapsed in thepaddock and someone had to carry mysaddle to get weighed in, it took manya week to recover. My father has toldme how he would always get given pinktights to wear by the valets!Who are your biggest heroes inracing? I really admire AP McCoy’sfocus, drive and talent as a jockey.Philip Hobbs and Johnson White forthe operation they run at SandhillRacing Stables, Somerset. Johnson

White won the Leadership Award atThe Godolphin Stud and Stable StaffAwards this year, which could not havebeen more fitting. It was an honour towork as part of their team as a PupilAssistant for a season.Which particular horse (in anydiscipline) would you like to ride?Another chance to ride a pony calledSmoke Tree Texas Tart, a palominopony I was given on loan, we were both12/13 years old and she was a superstar pony who gave me the real urge tocontinue riding horses. To go back andbe able to ride her again would be somuch fun.Apart from race-riding, in whatother sports do you participate? Iused to play a lot of sport at school butracing has really taken over since then;however, I have started playing cricketagain locally which will be my summersport.Do you have any regrets in yourriding career to date? I try not todwell on regrets, just learn from themand move forward.What ambitions do you have inracing? To ride a treble…I thought Ihad done it this season at SheriffHutton back in January butunfortunately the Judge didn’t think so.I am now even more determined to doso. Winning the Foxhunters or FoxHunters’ would be an ultimate dream. Ihave only ever ridden in one FoxHunter, at Aintree, and you do needsuch a good horse just to becompetitive.Are there any changes that youthink would benefit the sport in thefuture? I have been thinking that areasshould all try and work together tomake the sport more accessible forhandlers, owners and spectators andmake the area an overall working body,like the Jockey Club Racecourses, sothat they all run under the same banner.All profits are divided equally betweenHunts and then races are spread outmore evenly so that each meetingbenefits the next….just a thought!What are your aspirations for therest of season? I have been veryfortunate so far this season and to beNorth West Champion would be theicing on the cake.Can you give us a horse to look outfor this season? I rode Push Ahead atTabley on 12th April to win hisRestricted and I feel there will be moreto come from him.Can you give us an up and comingrider to look out for this season? 15-year-old Josh Bryan, currently racingponies, looks to be one to note - he hasthe look of a talented jockey already.

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GETTING TO KNOW YOUDate of birth: 29th November 1989.Job or profession: Racing MarketingExecutive at Cheltenham Racecourse.Are you from a racing background?If not, how did you get started inPoint-to-Pointing? Yes, mygrandfather was chairman of thePPORA and organised the first Sundayracing meeting in the UK. He alsodeveloped the cushioned whip usedtoday. Mum also rode a few winnersunder Rules and Pointing in her day;Dad has ridden and has always had afew Pointers about; older brother Ryanis a professional jump jockey; my twinsister Ella is secretary for trainer DanSkelton and trains a few at home; andmy younger brother Leo also ridesPointing.What was your first ride inpublic? My first ride was onChicuelo at Eyton-on-Severn;I was third to Sam Twiston-Davies who won the race.First winner – name of thehorse, owner & trainer, thedate & the course: Chicueloat Dingley in April 2009,trained by Dad and owned byMum.Apart from the firstwinner, what has beenyour most memorableride? Any one of thewinners I have ridden on TheMagherally Man this season.

Is there a ride you lookback on and think “couldhave done better?” I hadthe pleasure of riding MyWay De Solzen and managedto get him beat!For which trainers/ownersdo you mainly ride? Ella/GabeMahon. They can’t decide betweenthem who is actually the trainer. Also,Tim Eades and Christine Esling.Who has been most influential onyour riding career so far? All thefamily and my boyfriend Will (Telfer).Which are your favourite courses?And for what reasons? BramptonBryan has been a pretty lucky coursefor me. I also like Dingley havingridden my first winner there.What car do you drive? A Skoda Fabia– it’s a granny car and sounds like atractor!

Name your perfect night in andperfect night out: My perfect night inwould be a good film snuggled up onthe sofa with Will and our dog Cecil.Perfect night out would be out withthe girls drinking cocktails on holiday.Where do you like to go onholiday? The family, Will, a fewgirlfriends and I go to Majorca everyyear.Who would be your ideal travellingcompanions to the races? My dogCecil - because she doesn't have anopinion.What music are you currentlylistening to? I like a bit of James Bay,Sam Smith and Rihanna at themoment.

What are your favourite films andTV programmes? I don't really liketo admit it but I've got Hollyoaks onseries link...You can’t beat a goodchick flick too.What has been either your ownfunniest incident, or the mostamusing thing you have seen orheard at the races? My sister’s firstride was hilarious! She dropped outstone cold last and watched everyother novice rider either fall, run outor fall off in front of her. There wereprobably 14 runners and she was theonly finisher! I was also pretty crossthat she had a winner before me.

Who are your biggest heroes inracing? The obvious one would beAP but I really admire the likes ofNina Carberry and Katie Walsh forwhat they are doing for women in thesport.Which particular horse (in anydiscipline) would you like to ride? Iwouldn’t mind a spin on Carruthers inthe Members next season.Apart from race-riding, in whatother sports do you participate? Idon’t really. A few of the girls runaround the track at Cheltenham tokeep fit; I always want to pass the postin front!

Do you have any regrets in yourriding career to date?Before I decided to go toUniversity, I played with theidea of riding as anapprentice. Although I amvery happy with what I amdoing now, I think there willalways be a part of me thatwished I'd given it a go.What ambitions do youhave in racing? I'd like toride round Cheltenhamonce.Are there any changes thatyou think would benefitthe sport in the future?I’ve always thought that abumper would be a greatstart to a young horse’seducation.What are your aspirationsfor the season? To be LadyNovice Rider Champion.Can you give us a horse tolook out for this season?

Awesome George. He hadn't run for afew years and has come out and wontwice for us this season, there'sdefinitely more to come.

Can you give us an up and comingrider to look out for this season?Alice Stevens. Ella helped her get intoPony Racing and then into Pointing;she has ridden three winners fromfour rides in her first season.If you were on an island and couldonly bring three things, what wouldyou bring? Will, Cecil and Ella.

And finally, sum up Point-to-Pointing in one word: Awesome.

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LARA MAHONCurrently leading the race for the Lady Novice Riders Championship, Lara hails from a family synonymous with Pointing.

Another with questionable TV taste, she keeps fit by running around Cheltenham Racecourse but would dearly love to ride it.


LAUDERDALE at MOSSHOUSESSaturday, 02 Mayby Peter BurgonAlthough there are still four fixturesremaining in the Northern Areaseason, the final Scottish action takesplace on Saturday 2nd May with theLauderdale card at the picturesqueMosshouses course, the first timesince 1997 that the meeting hasn'ttaken place on the Sabbath.

It has attracted 69 entries for a seven-race programme starting at 2pm, withthe main action preceded by threepony races from 1pm.

Many owners and trainers are keepingtheir options open with 16 horsesdoubly engaged at Mosshouses andseveral are also listed among a 39-strong entry for the Heart Of AllEngland Maiden Hunters' Chase atHexham, which is being run two and ahalf hours after the Lauderdale'sconcluding contest.

There is plenty of quality among theten entries for the Border Hunts ClubMembers race, in which the veteranRoyal Mackintosh is the only one notentered elsewhere on the card. Six ofthem have already visited the winners'

enclosure on at least one occasion thisseason with The Gotfor Man, CaveHunter and Rolecarr being the highestrated entries ahead of DamiensDilemma, Oscar Stanley and FarmPixie.

The Open Maiden Race for 4, 5, 6 &7-year-olds has six entries. SoundBarrier, who is also entered in theconcluding Maiden, finished 3rd atTranwell over two and a half miles andwas then only beaten a short head byHavana Jack over six furlongs furtherat Balcormo Mains. The lightly racedCatchamat caught the eye when 4th atDalston on Easter Monday and willnot need to improve much to be in thethick of the action here, whileChandos is much better than formfigures of FFP9 might suggest.

The 13 Ladies Open entries includeBeggar's Velvet, Coquet Head,Rolecarr and Whisperdale. Beggar'sVelvet is in the form of his life,winning his last three completed startsunder Rachael McDonald, including aHexham Hunters' Chase. CoquetHead returned from a 106-day breakto finish half a length 2nd toWhiteabbey at Tranwell, Rolecarr hasfinished runner-up on his last two

starts since landing the Berwickshireequivalent, while Whisperdale posted acareer-best effort when finishing aclose 3rd to Drill Sergeant atCorbridge last time out.

Ex-chaser, Royal Chatelier and prolificwinning Pointer, Gunner Jack head theten entries for the Mens Open Race,however, both of them need soft orheavy ground to produce their best.Recent Corbridge scorer, Cave Hunteralso has the option of the 'Heart' atHexham; Indian Print never got onterms with the leaders at BalcormoMains last week; the in-form Back OnThe Road has won Club Memberscontests at Friars Haugh andBalcormo this term, while the ultra-consistent Ballyvesey deserves to goone better after finishing runner-up infour of his last five outings.

Recent Tranwell winner, DannanceysHill is well clear on ratings for theRestricted Race and Amie Waugh'smount looks the one they all have tobeat. Crossford Maiden scorer,Afterclass, chased home CaptainRedbeard and Oscar Stanley in theCumberland Farmers Restricted atDalston; Farm Pixie and ProbablyGeorge were not beaten far when

Ballyvesey deserves a change of luckin the Mens Open race at Mosshouses

Photo: Grace Beresford p2pnorthernphotos.co.uk

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2015 MEETING PREVIEWS


placed behind Oscar Stanley atCorbridge, while Paddy's Wish andWhatsthestoryman got off the marklast time out and may have more tooffer.

If The Gotfor Man bypasses theopening race on the card, he musthave an outstanding chance in theNPPA Club Members after only beingdenied a hat-trick by Splendid Blue inthe Berwickshire Open. Theimproving Great Gusto was onlybeaten a short head by Back On TheRoad last week and might get thechance for revenge on 3lb betterterms, while this would be an easieroption than the 'Heart' for the hat-trick seeking Dun Faw Good.

The concluding Open Maiden Racehas seven entries. Heckley Herbert hasproved to be a doubtful stayer overthree miles so far and it will beinteresting to see how he copes withthe hilly terrain at Mosshouses. SoundBarrier was just touched off byHavana Jack last week, Lucydoli hasfailed to complete in any of her threestarts this year, while the lightly racedAnzinger is better than recent formfigures of PP might indicate.

MODBURY HARRIERSat FLETE PARKSaturday, 02 Mayby Donna HarrisAnother bumper weekend of Point-to-Point horse racing is in store thisweekend in the Devon & CornwallArea starting with the Modbury

Harriers meeting at Flete Park onSaturday, 2 May.

Pony racing will head up the action atFlete Park, with two racescommencing at 1pm, followed by themain six-race card which starts at 2pm.Picnics will be brimming again, andthis course offers fabulous hill parkviewing, with the racetrack below,enclosing on course facilities such as abar, bookies, hot refreshments and ahost of trade stands.

The opening Daniels Plant Hire-sponsored Maiden race has attracted21 entries, in which Follow The Paintis a suggestion after his neck second atthis meeting two weeks ago. BollinSpark is another to note having beenonly a length down in third.

Nudge The Nugget could go well inthe Stanley Carpets-sponsoredRestricted race having won his maidenrace here for the Lewis team underdaughter Heidi Lewis. Doyen Dynamoalso catches the eye after his maidenwin at Kilworthy and second in aRestricted race at Kingston St Mary.Johnny No Cash is another that couldrun well for trainer Nikki Frost havingfinished second here under HannahWelch at the Dartmoor meeting.

The Ladies Open race has beensponsored by the Pinsent family andcould be a good battle between two ofthe local riders. Bryony Frost, whorode Bellflower Boy well to finishsecond in the Open race at theDartmoor meeting here, is likely toface competition from Hannah Welch,

who will be looking to challenge onLadyvie after putting up a goodperformance when second in theConfined on the same card.

Whatastormnorm could go offfavourite in the 2m4f Open Maidenrace having impressed on both of hisoutings so far this season for trainerRobert Chanin. Milan Of Crystal ran acreditable third here for the Frostfamily and looks to have plenty moreto offer.

Trainer Ed Walker holds three of theeight entries for the Totnes &Bridgetown Mens Open race;Hameldown Tor has won his last threeraces, including a win here at the latestDartmoor meeting, and jockey RobbieHenderson was then unlucky to beunseated last weekend at the Axe Valemeeting. Level Spirit also won his raceat the Dartmoor meeting and couldwell be back for more. Before TheWar is the third Walker runner and likehis stable-mates holds strong claimswith two previous wins at this course.Right Enough will need to improve onhis previous run, but is a knowncourse specialist.

The Meadowside & St Francis-sponsored Confined race closes theday's events. This race could be onefor local owner/trainer/jockeyJennifer Davenport on Mic's Delight.They are yet to compete at this track,but have been in the frame on all sixof their starts so far this season,including a win at Bishops Court. Oneof their main challengers could beLevel Spirit, if connections chose this

Level Spirit could be theone to follow in theMens Open race at theModbury Harriersmeeting

Photo:Tim [email protected]

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in preference to the previous Openrace.

PENDLE FOREST & CRAVENat HESLAKERSaturday, 02 Mayby Charlotte RussellThe Pendle Forest & Craven HuntPoint-to-Point takes place at Heslakeron Saturday 2nd May.

Racing starts at 2pm with the YAPPCMembers race. The Coniston HotelRacing Club and Bannister ownedhorses will be out in force to try andprovide winners for the locally basedowners. Both Aldreth and Banny’s Ladare entered and will take all thebeating, with Aldreth possibly comingout on top. Shannon Silver has beenimproving all season but could line upin the Heart of All England HunterChase at Hexham later that evening.Scrum V hasn’t run since 2013 but hisparticipation depends on how heworks during the week. “If he workswell he’s running but the main aim is aPerth Hunter Chase in May, however Ineed to get a run into him first,”reported trainer Nicola Naughton.

According To Dan could go well inthe Restricted following on from hisBedale win and his jockey John

Dawson is confident he can win atRestricted level. Kahn Do It won hisMaiden at the second time of askingon this course and could follow uphere. "He’s a horse I really like andhopefully he’ll go well,” said jockeyWill Milburn. Beau D’Argent won wellat the Hurworth meeting and is likelyto be suited by this track.

16 entries have been received for theTom Bannister Ladies Open, which isno surprise given the prize fund up forgrabs - £1,000 in total, with £600 forthe winner. This is also run over theextended distance of 3m5f. Chip NPin has won twice at this course andJoanna Mason is quite hopeful. “Hehated the soft going at the Middletonand will thrive on the better groundhere. He also loves the Pendle,” shesaid. Palypso De Creek will be themain danger if he turns up but YoungHurricane is looking to make it a four-timer this season. Railway Dillon wassecond again in a Hunter Chase atPerth last week, although his regularrider could be engaged at Hexham.Emma Todd warned: “It looks acompetitive race and I’m not sure ifthe extended distance over that coursewill play in his favour.”

In the Open Maiden Weaverthorpecan finally get his head in front. Smart

Act has been placed twice on his threestarts this season and seems to stayand could be the main challenger.Martha’s Benefit could also take herplace and jockey Will Milburn ishoping for a good display.

Three trainers look after the six horsesin the Hunt Members race and Ganbeican take this for Nick Bannister andtrainer Stephanie Easterby.

Racing concludes with the ClubMembers race for Veteran and Noviceriders. Opera Og has improved allseason, along with his rider SeanMurray, but having won at Easingwoldon Sunday they are likely to miss thisfor the Bilsdale meeting the followingweek. Lem Putt is reported to beworking well at home: “I think he’s abit of an old rogue now who pulledtoo hard at the Bedale meeting,” saidtrainer Nicola Naughton, but thiscourse is likely to pay to his strengths.Fernhurst Lad ran well on his lateststart: “I think he’s turned a corner,”said trainer Cherry Coward.Executive’s Hall ran an excellent raceto beat My Old Piano last time out atthe Bedale meeting and there’s noreason why the tables should beturned on his reappearance.

According To Dan (near side) could follow up his BedaleMaiden success in the Restricted race at Heslaker

Photo: Peter Barber pointtopointphotography.co.uk

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SURREY UNIONat PEPER HARROWSaturday, 02 Mayby Will HickmanFor the first time in years the SouthEast has two Point-to-Points on theMay Bank Holiday, which means PeperHarow’s runners may be takenelsewhere. Even so the entries lookpromising and include plenty fromoutside of the area.

The day starts with a Veteran &Novice Riders race, which isrealistically between three or fourhorses. The top two are TimUnderwood’s Commanche Conflict,who won impressively at the firstParham meeting, and the Phil Yorktrained Hunters Lodge, second in fourruns this season but who was adisappointing favourite on fast groundat Penshurst. The horse that could givethe pair a race is Terra Bleu, a winnerat Hackwood Park on Easter Monday,while Tiermore can’t be discountedwith the in-form Charlie Marshallexpected to ride.

The Restricted follows and has beensponsored by Subaru, making it one oftheir qualifiers. The highest rated isJenna Pride, trained by Nick Pearcewho also has Inside Out, but both areexpected to go to Aldington. Justbehind Jenna Pride at Penshurst wasSpiritofchartwell, who will have amuch easier time without anotherbattle with the mare. ShannonSmacker has placed three times inRestricteds this season, while

Merrydown Vintage could also beexpected to run into a place followinghis facile win at Parham on Saturday.

The Mens Open has nine entries withthe two highest rated hailing from thesame yard. Those two are LauraThomas trained Credit Crunched andFull Trottle, who were both alsoentered at Parham but didn’t run andare also entered elsewhere thisweekend. Should they turn up theircompetition could include Phil Hall’sBroughton Green, Parham MensOpen winner Peyekashe and one ortwo of Ed Turners horses, FrankieAnson and/or Good Order.

The Ladies Open could see anotherquick reappearance of Behind TheScenes, winner of three races thisseason and placed in another three.His rider Ella Darwin is narrowlyleading Rose Grissell in the South EastLadies Championship and she will behoping to score some final pointsbefore the end of the season. Thereare only six other entries but theyinclude Volcan Surprise, who couldonly manage second to Behind TheScenes but has benefitted from anextra weeks rest. Ed Turner hasentered Bavard Court to run, wholooks capable of grabbing a placehaving finished second at Whitfield atthe weekend.

The Open Maiden has attractedsixteen entries where Nick Pearce’sSlidecheck doesn’t appear to have anystiff competition. The eight-year-old

has placed on all three of his startsthis season and the form is stacking upwell. His biggest danger could be MyBrother Pat should he run again afterhis recent Parham second, while SomeSurprise is a decent, well bred, IrishPointer and could improve from hissecond behind Miss Alice Jones lasttime out at Godstone.

The concluding Club MembersConditions race has eighteen entrieswith most of them double enteredelsewhere over the weekend. Thehighest rated is Full Trottle, butBroughton Green, CommancheConflict and Sa Kaldoun are allworthy opponents. Another danger isTim Underwood’s Carnglave Cat, whohas won his last two starts andshouldn’t find this level too much of astep up, while the Sally Randell trainedDonnas Palm is starting to show someof his former talent and won last timeout.

TREDEGAR FARMERSat LOWER MACHENSaturday, 02 Mayby Brian LeeThe Tredegar Farmers Hunt areholding their annual Point-to-Pointsteeplechases at the popular LowerMachen racecourse on Saturday and alleyes will be on Zara Phillips'sFrankenstorm if her six-year-old baygelding lines up for the SubaruRestricted race for which there are 20entries.

Spiritofchartwell (centre)could go close in theRestricted race at theSurrey Union meeting atPeper Harrow

Photo:Julie Drewettracehorsephotos.co.uk

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The Princess Royal's daughter has alsoentered Mr Anton Palmer's DevilsBoys who finished second at theNorth Cotswold on Easter Mondaythe same day that Wales's Tom David,her assistant trainer, won onFrankenstorm.

One hundred and twenty-two entrieshave been received for the seven racesand racing gets under way at 2pm withthe Members race and the ones tonote here are Ski Sunday andHeavinstown.

Some of the horses down to run arealso entered for the Banwen Minersmeeting on May Bank HolidayMonday and it will be interesting tosee where Beth Roberts decides to runher prolific Chesnut Annie whorecently chalked-up her 40th success.Vincitore and Gauvain are two othersof note in this race.

There are 16 entries for the Confinedrace and these include David Brace'srecent winners BringintheBranstonand Dunraven Royal. Of the 15 downto face the starter in the Mens Openrace these include Patricktom Boru,who unseated Evan David four fencesfrom the finish in last Friday'sDunraven Bowl at Chepstow

Racecourse, former national huntperformer Cygnet and DivineIntavention.

In the two-and-a-half mile OpenMaiden race, Captain Camelot,Golanzine and Boost The Power lookthe pick of the 22 entries while in theOpen Maiden over the three milesSahara Haze, Millys Delight and ToHell And Back could fight out thefinish.

DEVON & SOMERSETSTAGHOUNDS at HOLNICOTESunday, 03 Mayby Brian & Gill ArmstrongGhizao is fancied to provide anotherwinner for the Jack Barber/WillBiddick combination in the 13-entryDevon & Somerset Staghounds MixedOpen at Holnicote near Minehead thisSunday. The former top chaserreturned to his best with a brilliantdisplay at Kingston St Mary after sixwayward efforts earlier in the season.Opposition may include Lake Legend,who is unbeaten in his seven racesbetween the flags to date, including acourse win in 2012, Hameldown Tor,who may seek a retrieving missionafter losing his rider when sent off1-5F for Sunday’s Axe Vale Hunt race,Chipley Park winner Parkam Jack and

Moscow Blaze, who was caught on theflat in the Kimblewick’s recent 4mmarathon. Certain Flight, who hackedup on last season’s correspondingcard, is another for the shortlist, butGhizao is a confident selection.

Lara Mahon may seek to consolidateher lead in the National Novice LadyRiders table aboard Awesome Georgeor The Magherally Man in the PPORAClub Members (Novice Riders) race.The former is unbeaten in two outingsthis season, including a HowickConditions contest in March whenreturning from a 40-month absence.The Magherally Man, a Holnicotewinner in 2012, is unbeaten in five2015 outings for trainer Tim Eades,familiar to West Country Pointing fansas a stalwart of David Pipe’s Pointingyard in the early 2000s. Dangersinclude the prolific Barneys Mate andHedley Webb’s Loose Preformer,denied a four-timer when caught onthe flat by Maxi Chop in Sunday’shigh-class Axe Vale contest. LaraMahon’s selected runner is fancied toget the better of Loose Preformer.

Certain Flight is a confident selectionto repeat his 2012 win in the Huntrace if connections take this option.Keith Cumings could also berepresented by Kingston St Marywinner Steel Brush and Go On Henry.

Ghizao and Will Biddick are fancied toland the Mixed Open race at HolnicotePhoto: Tim Holt [email protected]

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Upcott Cross winner Cinevator andLittlewindsor winnerTempestatefloresco are two more forthe shortlist, but Sarah Tickle’s dual2015 winner Way Before Dawn maygive Certain Flight most to do.

The Confined race has attracted 12entries, including Cinevator, six-timewinner Whenharrymetsally andPasternak Jack, who provided HeidiLewis’ first-ever success at Flete Park.Jepeck can continue owner Jon Pike’smarvellous run by landing his fifth winof the season.

Earthpower, who ejected Will Biddickat the last when clear at ChaddesleyCorbett, and Hackwood Park winnerPorlock Bay look the two for theRestricted. Doyen Dynamo wasrunner-up to Siege Of Troy atKingston St Mary and can completethe placings.

Two Maiden contests complete thecard. Kingston St Mary runner-upAthreeothree looks the one for the2m4f event. Littlewindsor secondWotzizname can go on better in the3m contest.

FERNIE at DINGLEYSunday, 03 Mayby Emma FormanThe second Dingley races of 2015takes place on Sunday when the Ferniehold their annual Point-to-Pointmeeting. 111 entries have been takenin total for the 6 races starting at 2pm.

The feature race at the meeting andindeed of the Midlands Area season isthe Fernie Four Miler Mixed Openrace with a £400 prize to the winnerand an exciting race is in prospect at3.45pm. Gerald Bailey has EmpireBuilder entered but this horse is likelyto have taken up an engagement in aCheltenham Hunter Chase onWednesday evening so is unlikely to gohere. Instead punters have the classyGunmoney to consider. This horsestays well and is a previous winner ofthe Quorn Gold Cup over three and ahalf miles. Richard Russell’s geldingcomes here having just been touchedoff in a Hunter Chase at Warwick lastweek by Vincitore. Sam Hutchinson’sArkose won at the last meeting hereand Panama Canal may make a quickre-appearance having won the QuornGold Cup at Garthorpe last Saturday.

Racing begins with the Midlands AreaClub Conditions race for horses aged10 and over. Sandpipers has won threetimes on this course and has to be onefor the shortlist; he will be ridden byAlex Vaughan-Jones and the duo weresecond behind Panama Canal in theQuorn Gold Cup last Saturday. TheMahon family have the lightly raced11-year-old Awesome George who haswon two out of two this season andSmith’s Hill may run here; he comesfrom the in-form Tommy Morganstable and won on his last start.

Smith’s Hill has the option of runningin the following PPORA ClubMember’s race for novice riders.Jockey Kelly Morgan has regained the

lead in the D & M Barthorpe Ladyrider’s Championship for the MidlandsArea but there is still all to play forwith Lottie Crane only two pointsbehind and expected to be in actionon Mister Philson. This horse won thenovice riders race at the last meeting atDingley and has a good chance ofrepeating this on Sunday. Lara Mahonhas the choice of Awesome George orThe Magherally Man who is unbeatenin five starts this season.

The two and a half mile Open Maidencould go the way of Gerald Bailey’sNo Dosh who ran well to be second atthe Atherstone meeting; this was onlyhis second race and he may be suitedby this shorter distance. Others tonote include Dido who is trained byDale Peters and has been placed twicethis season and the mare ClonmoreDew who was second in the Mare’sMaiden at the Atherstone.

The first three horses past the post inthe Restricted race will qualify for theSubaru Restricted Point-to-PointSeries Final at Stratford on Friday 29thMay. Dale Peters may run Miller’sGlen here; this horse has lost his formsince finishing fourth behind ShinrockPearl last season but the stable rateshim and he may be able do better.Dream Mistress from Chris Bealby’sstable is in the running for the D & MBarthorpe leading mare award and sheshould run well here. However, thewinner could be Haughton’s Bridgefor Andrew Pennock and DickyCollinson. This horse won his Maidenat Garthorpe nicely at the end of

Gunmoney could be theone to follow in theFernie Four Mile MixedOpen race at Dingley

Photo:Jackie Olivergraftonwood.co.uk

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March and has been second in aRestricted since.

The final race at 4.55pm is the OpenMaiden race where Dicky Collinsonhas another good chance of a winnerwith either Violet Crack or Silvogan’sHook. The latter ran a promising raceto be third at Thorpe on EasterMonday. Over To You was third at thelast meeting at Dingley and should beable to fill a place for leading MidlandsArea rider Tom Strawson.

BANWEN MINERS at LLWYN DDUMonday, 04 Mayby Maria EvansBank Holiday Monday’s BanwenMiners meeting takes place at LlwynDdu for the first time after the oldcourse at Resolven was sold last year.The course, which is situated right inthe heart of Swansea, has been wellsupported with a bumper entry of 112and the first race is due off at 1.30pm.

The Hunt Race is divided between theVale of Clettwr Hunt and the BanwenMiners, and we see six entered here.The pick of the crop here looks to beBoyfromnowhere who is an ex-Rebecca Curtis inmate. Still owned byAlan Rhead, the 8-year-old has movedinto the hands of Gareth Moore, and

a change of discipline is sure to suitBoyfromnowhere fine.

14 are entered for the Confined, andon paper it looks very competitive.Harpsy Cord was a runaway winner atLydstep on Sunday, andBringinthebranston was just asimpressive at his owners Pyle meetinga couple of weeks ago. The horse hebeat on that day, Tiger Rag, holds anentry here too. David Brace also hasDunraven Royal entered, who is twofrom two on Welsh courses thisseason.

There are also 14 entered for the MensOpen where Sir Du Bearn will belooking to improve trainer MickeyBowen’s tally of winners for theseason. The horse was an easy winnerof the Ladies Open last weekendunder Jodie Hughes, and also holds anentry for that race here. RosiesPeacock is also entered, but is unlikelyto go as he was entered to run atCheltenham on Wednesday night inthe Bonhams Mens Point-to-PointChampionship Final.

In the Ladies Open 16 are entered andSir Du Bearn would be the one to beatif preferring this to the Mens feature.Connections also have Cygnet enteredhere; he was unlucky at Lydstep onEaster Monday when slipping up.

Sagalyrique has been entered byAngela Rucker, who seems to likebringing her horses down to thismeeting. Sagalyrique was a winner lasttime out at the Pytchley, and has aPoint-to-Point record that any ownerwould be happy with. Louis Ludwig isalso an interesting entrant but hasn’tbeen seen since 2013 when runningunder Rules with Tim Vaughan;Jonathan Phillips now trains the 10year old, and could be one to watch.

In the Restricted, 16 are entered,where last week’s easy Lydstep maidenwinner Master Ally, looks hard toignore. C Me In Oz, who was last seenrunning in Chepstow’s DunravenHunter Chase when he looked to beoutclassed, should be more suited tothis and should go well. Dream Bolthas been knocking on the door allseason and is sure to pass the post infront sometime soon.

A maximum field of 15 could run inthe Intermediate, and this race lookspretty open. My Coranna finishedbehind Harpsy Cord last weekend, buthad promised more beforehand.Mister Bricolage and Jodie Hugheshave teamed up to be a successfulpartnership and would be sure to gowell here if they turned up again.Dunraven Royal, Colley Row and MrSawyer look the pick of the rest.

Sir Du Bearn (right) has a number of options at the Banwen Miners meetingPhoto: Alun Sedgmore sportingprints.biz

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The Open Maiden has a bumper 31entries and could well be split on theday. Earth Tremor always seems to bethe bridesmaid in his maidens, anddeserves to pass the post in frontsoon. Millys Delight is another onewho should be losing her maiden tagthis season. Boost The Power andBrideberry have improved with everyrun, so are ones to watch. Perky Boband Joshella look to be the pick of therest.

CATTISTOCK at LITTLEWINDSORMonday, 04 Mayby Brian & Gill ArmstrongNational Novice Champion-electHarry Cobden can choose between in-form pair Cock Of The Rock andSilver Token for the Cattistock MensOpen at Littlewindsor on BankHoliday Monday. The formercompleted a hat-trick for Harry at theSeavington, while Silver Token hadwon four consecutive races beforecrashing through the wing at the AxeVale on Sunday. Wadebridge winnerBefore The War, who was turned overat long odds-on at Flete Park, BellsinniRon, who has yet to reach his best thisseason and Champagne Rosie, whohad favourite backers sweating at theSeavington, are three longer pricedalternatives, but Harry Cobden’schosen mount will be the selection.

Champagne Rosie is among the 11entries for a quality Ladies Opencontest. Contenders include JohnDaniell and Kawana Cove – second

and third here in April – the consistentLadyvie, who has finished in the framein nine Point-to-Points withoutwinning, Cheltenham Hunter Chasewinner Rebel Du Maquis and three-time French winner Tiger D’Oust,who ran well at Ystradowen. TheMagherally Man is unbeaten in fiveoutings this season and is a confidentselection to make it six.

Barneys Mate can record his 22ndcareer success – including three underRules – in the CA Club MembersConfined Conditions contest. GreatTrethew runner-up Ned The Post andOtis Tarda, a winner at last season’scorresponding meeting, can fill theplacings.

Walker Ridge ran on strongly to takethe Seavington Restricted and canfollow up in the Hunt Members race.The Jack Barber-trained pair BarneysMate and Mangans Turn are theobvious dangers.

Polo The Mumm, who made asuccessful UK debut at Great Trethew,and Wyndcrest, third to Walker Ridgehere in April, are two to consider forthe Restricted, but Seavington winnerNever Say Never and Porlock Bay arefancied to fight out the finish.

Two Maiden races complete the card.Athreeothree and Overland Flyer holdentries in both and are selected to wintheir respective contests.

Two pony races, the 2015 Wessex AreaOpen Finals, open proceedings at1.00pm, prior to the first of sevenraces between the flags from 2.00pm.

EAST SUSSEX & ROMNEYMARSH at ALDINGTONMonday, 04 Mayby Will HickmanWith Peper Harow two days beforeand Northaw on the same day, it wasunknown as to how many entriesAldington would attract, but any fearscan be put to rest as the meetingreceived a healthy 85 for its seven racecard.

The meeting begins with the EastSussex & Romney Marsh Hunt race,which has eleven entries, seven ofwhich hail from the yard of RoseGrissell. Those seven include themaiden Boy Of Boru, AldingtonRestricted winner De Clare Man,Kornati Kid, Orfeo Conti,Owenacurra, Sam Whiskey andTobougg Welcome, while CharlotteMarshall could run either Bollin Ali orLord Multifix.

The Mens Open has twelve entriesand could be a quality race, with theHenrietta Knight trained Port Golanpotentially coming to do battle withDavid Phelan’s South East GrandNational winner Rey Nacarado. Evenwithout these two we still have PhilHall’s Adept Approach, who haseffortlessly won both his starts thisseason. Richard Gurney could runeither Wait No More of Witchs Hat,while Duke Of Kentford could makehis first reappearance since givingStewart Wright his first winner on EastSaturday.

Barneys Mate (left) couldwell land his 22nd careersuccess in the ClubMembers Conditionsrace at the Cattistockmeeting


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The Ladies Open could be a similarlyquality race, with local horses BehindThe Scenes, Little Legend and RearGunner all entered to do battle again.They won’t have it between them asthe high class It Was Me is alsoentered, having already claimed thescalps of Sharp Suit and BertiesDream this season. Moscow Blaze isanother horse to mention, having beennarrowly beaten in a four mile MixedOpen at Kingston Blount last timeout.

The Club Members Conditions racehas nineteen entries, with most ofthem unsurprisingly double entered atPeper Harow. One that is almostcertain to line up here is Come OnYou, who has risen through the ranksfrom Maiden level this season and isbidding for the crown of the leadingYoung Horse Award. He will find thishis toughest ask yet as Pete Bull’s MrBennett is entered to run, having wona similar type of race at Aldington onEaster Monday. Also entered is NigelPadfield’s Star Of Massini, whorecorded a bloodless victory againstOut Of Range in a Hunt race at HighEaster earlier this month and willsurely improve for the outing. Shouldthese three run, horses that could berunning for the minor places includeParham Restricted winner Tompatpeg,

De Clare Man and Showman, whileTime Is Tickin can’t be discountedsince he was getting the better ofCome On You at Charing beforefalling.

The Restricted race follows and itcould be a battle between two mares;Penshurst winner Ballybrack Dancerand Jenna Pride, who won nicely atAldington on Easter Monday. Majorthreats to these two include NickWright’s Baroque Style, Rose Grissell’sCharing winner Here I Am, as well asDavid Phelan’s Forrest Blue, who wonhis Maiden at Parham on Saturday.

The Open Maiden has thirteen entriesand the highest rated of them is BollinAli, who improved from previousefforts to finish a close second toBallybrack Dancer at Penshurst. Thistask won’t be any easier as potentialopponents include the Jody Soletrained There You Are, as well as RoseGrissell’s pair Boy Of Boru andIskrabob. The former was second toJenna Pride here last time while thelatter was runner-up behind theimpressive Kingsfold Flare at the firstPenshurst meeting.

The seventh race is a Mares & FilliesClub Members race which hasattracted seven entries. The highestrated of these is Georgina Howell’s

Shropshirelass, who is unfortunatelyunlikely to take part. Tabitha Worsleyhas an able substitute in Zakharyinawho has already won once this season,beating the subsequent winner DukeOf Kentford at Parham. Running InHeels ran well in defeat in theIntermediate at Parham and she hascourse form having won easily here onEaster Monday. Nick Pearce isexpecting to run Inside Out, winner ofa Mares Maiden at Clifton-On-Dunsmore before pulling up atParham last week. Marlpit Oak finallywon his Restricted in a two horse raceat Larkhill on Sunday and will behoping for a dry week.

ENFIELD CHACE WITHCAMBRIDGESHIREat NORTHAWMonday, 04 Mayby James CrispeIt Was Me and Berties Dream,arguably the two best Point-to-Pointhorses in East Anglia, could clashagain at the Enfield Chace withCambridgeshire meeting at Northaw,near Potters Bar, on Bank HolidayMonday, May 4.

The pair, who are trained within fivemiles of each other in and aroundNewmarket in Suffolk, served up a

Come On You could contest the Club Members Conditions race at AldingtonPhoto: Julie Drewett racehorsephotos.co.uk

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treat for the massive High Eastercrowd just three weeks ago when ItWas Me prevailed by the minimummargin of a short head having beenmore than a length clear jumping thefinal fence.

They are part of a 15-strong entry forthe Ladies Open Race, the highlight ofan 86-entry six-race card which startsat 2.15pm and runs through until5.10pm. The steeplechasing will bepreceded at 1.00pm by three children'spony races which take place aroundthe regular course but bypassing theobstacles.

Two more recent High Easter winnerscould clash in the opening ClubMembers Race, with the lightly-racedStar Of Massini marginally preferredahead of the strong-stayingDesertmore Valley.

The Intermediate Race also looksintriguing with three of its 11 potentialrunners in red hot form. Play The Acewas denied a fourth consecutivevictory when caught close home byDesertmore Valley at High Easterwhile both Man Of Steel and yetanother High Easter scorer, Po Valley,have each landed their last two starts.

NORTH SHROPSHIREat EYTON-ON-SEVERNMonday, 04 Mayby Rory AlkinThe meeting looks very competitivewith entries received from severalareas. The Mens Open race (2.35)

includes the prolific DivineIntavention, who won the equivalentrace at Andoversford on his seasonaldebut. Lake Legend is another whohas strong form but it may pay to sidewith the mare Fruit Fayre who wonthe Open here at the Easter meetingand is unbeaten at the track havingwon on all her four visits.

Awesome George, Sagalyrique andCottage Oak will all have chances inthe Ladies Open race (3.10) but thepair who fought out the finish in thecorresponding race on Easter MondayKhyber Kim and Gauvain may well bethe main contenders again withpreference given to the latter.

Sheila Crow has a very strong hand inthe Confined race (3.55) withAbbeyview, Irish Anthem and ToodleHorse to choose from but if theimpressive Tabley winnerNumbercruncher runs here, the DavidO’Brien owner/ridden charge is takento prevail.

The Restricted race (4.30) looks like agood opportunity for the OliverGreenall trained Desert Sting toimprove on some good placed effortsin this class. Toby Hunt’s I’llhavealookalso has some useful form but if LukeHarvey’s Porlock Bay runs, theHackwood Park Maiden winner looksto have the best chance here.

In the opening 2m4f Maiden race(2.00) both Clonmore Dew and ShalesHome Mix who were second and thirdin a Mares Maiden at Clifton-on-Dunsmore would have good place

chances. Woodstyle, who ran very wellwhen runner-up to Kalasaya at the lastmeeting here, is taken as a tentativeselection but there are some entriesfrom good stables who may maketheir debut and need to be respected.

In the concluding Maiden race (5.05)Nortonthorpelegend and That’s Mineshould both be competitive but it maybe worth siding with the Mark Wallridden Gett Off My Cloud who ranvery green in his debut run atChaddesley Corbett and shouldimprove for the experience.

STEVENSTONE at VAUTERHILLMonday, 04 Mayby Donna HarrisThe Stevenstone meeting at Vauterhill,High Bickington, offers a great way toenjoy the scenic countryside on BankHoliday Monday, May 4.

This fixture now has seven races onoffer which start with the Lomasfamily-sponsored Members race at2pm, which is in memory of MajorJack & Mrs Margaret Lomas. Entriesinclude Just Seven from the Roy Smithyard; he will be looking to follow upon his five lengths second atLittlewindsor. Ahh Bless, trained byCarol Lawrence, is another to considerhaving been in the frame on two ofhis outings this season when third atBuckfastleigh and Great Trethew.

The Davisons Chartered Accountants-sponsored Restricted race looks verycompetitive. Two of the recent SarahProuse-trained winners are entered;

Berties Dream (pictured)could clash with It WasMe in the Ladies Openrace at Northaw


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Beetle Jack and Cracking Habit bothwon maiden races at Upcott Cross,with Cracking Habit clocking up aquick time under jockey DarrenEdwards. Templeton from KayleyWoollacott's team ran a good onelength second in a 16-runnerRestricted at Kilworthy, andGleannacreim for Charlotte Hawker isanother to have run well at this levelpreviously.

In the Holiday Cottages-sponsoredMixed Open, Steeltown, another fromthe Woollacott team, has already hadhis nose in front this season, winningby 22 lengths at Cotley. Welstonedruidis another who could run well after abreak since winning at Great Trethewin March.

Jepeck is currently on four wins fromsix starts, his latest win coming atUpcott Cross and he should run wellhere in the Kivells-sponsoredConfined race. Minella Web, also fromthe Woollacott stable, took theIntermediate race at Kilworthy inMarch in a notably quick time andcould be the favourite with bookies.

In the Wades-sponsored Intermediaterace, Hallo Dolly is an interestingentry having been off the track fortwo years; she made the frame on allsix of her starts up until then,

including two wins at Trebudannon.Both King Kash, after his second toDiamond Brook at Cherrybrook, andPasternak Jack, after his recent FletePark win under jockey Heidi Lewis,could head the field.

Suggestions in the Brewer Harding &Rowe-sponsored Open Maiden raceare Whatastormnorm after his notablesecond and third at the Great Trethewmeetings. High Priority from the KeithCumings team is also an entry toconsider having recorded a four-lengthsecond behind Applesolutely at FletePark.

The final race of the day is the JockeyClub Mares Maiden race which isbeing run in memory of Jane Wickett.Reuben Chapman's horses have beenrunning well this season and this racecould see Onwegoagain follow up onhis recent second to Annwyl at UpcottCross.

WARWICKSHIRE at MOLLINGTONMonday, 04 Mayby Jake ExelbyThe Warwickshire Point-to-Point onBank Holiday Monday will becelebrating its fourth renewal atMollington following its move fromAshorne in 2012. It looks sure toattract its usual bumper crowd and has

been rewarded with an entry high inboth quality and quantity, with a totalof 98 horses on the card and potentialrunners from far and wide.

Last year's card was dominated by theWaley-Cohen family, who had fourwinners, but this year's honours arelikely to be more evenly spread.Walton trainer and assistant Clerk ofthe Course Fred Hutsby spoke to mehaving just returned from watering thecourse and confirmed that: "Theground will definitely be good andwe'll keep watering to ensure that it is."

Father Ken is Clerk of the Course andthe Hutsby family has a longassociation with this meeting. Fred hasthree entered in the Members Race -sponsored by Butler Sherborn - and ismost likely to run Kristian Gray. "He'llrun if the ground is soft enough,"advised the trainer. "He ran well herelast time (when second to Man ofSteel) and likes the track, but he's a bighorse, so he wants nice ground." Themain danger to the Hutsby horse islikely to be Orang Outan, a good thirdin the Ladies Open at the last meetinghere.

The AGA Mixed Open is thecenterpiece of the day's card and isanother in the AGA All ComersChampionship series, which concludes

Steeltown could go well in the Mixed Open race at VauterhillPhoto: Tim Holt [email protected]

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at Chaddesley Corbett on May 29th. Ithas attracted a high-class entry of 14,including prolific East Anglian Pointer(and former Cheltenham Festivalwinner) Berties Dream. Fred Hutsbyexpects Killimore Cottage - twiceplaced in Hunter Chases this season -to benefit from the application ofblinkers, while Vincitore is anothercoming back from Hunter Chases, inhis case after a recent win at Warwick."We'll run him where we can find thebest ground," trainer-rider Claire Harttold me. "We want to qualify him forthe AGA Ladies Race at Stratford."

The Avonvale Veterinary PracticeConfined race is another extremelycompetitive looking contest, with themajority of the field looking to have agood chance. Pauline Harkin is bullishabout The King of Angels, after the13-year-old bounced back to formwith a vengeance at Garthorpe lastweekend. "He's right back to form,"enthused his trainer. "He won well in aquick time and is full of himself. Youwouldn't know he'd had a race."

Claire Hart intends to run Kazuri Kateand offered an explanation for hisrecent sixth at Chaddesley Corbett:"We gave her a week off after her winat Sandon and only did one piece ofwork with her before Chaddesley, soshe was undercooked," admittedClaire. "It was her first run in a LadiesOpen and she's worked brilliantlysince." Among the others, GeraldBailey continues to have his horses inexcellent form and his selection from

Fearthedark and Sandpipers is worthclose consideration.

There are two Maiden races on thecard, including the opener, sponsoredby F.N. Pile, for younger horses over adistance of about two miles fivefurlongs. As is often the case with thistype of race, proven form is limited.Tom Weston's Bignose Kate looksbest on paper, having finished secondon her debut, but Alan Hill expectsThe Crumpet Mine to improve on hisrecent Kingston Blount third. "Hejumped brilliantly there," Alan said."He's a green and backward seven-year-old and will come on for theexperience." Laura Thomas' BerwickBassett may make his Pointing debut."He's owned by my neighbour, farmerJohn White," Laura told me, "and isworking well on the gallops at home."

The second Maiden race over the fullthree-mile trip is the sixth race of theday and is sponsored by RayRanderson Carpets. Three of thehorses in the earlier Maiden are alsoentered here, but Fred Hutsby favoursthis event for his debutant MidnightFlyer. "We prefer the three-miler if theground is good. She's a big, backwardmare and this will be an education forher." Pauline Harkin is likely to runboth Sea Rock and Ask Away and iskeen on both of them. "We know SeaRock is good, but he hasn't shown ityet. He's still green and undevelopedbut has working really well this week,"she said of the six-year-old who hasbeen placed on all three Pointingstarts, while Ask Away "has come on

really well for her debut at KingstonBlount. She's an out-and-out stayerand we think she's quite special."

The Sir James Shuckburgh BtRestricted race has attracted 19 entriesand it looks hard to pick a winner.Devils Boys, trained by Zara Phillips,was a close second at Paxford onEaster Monday while the Julie Marles-trained Castle Connell and JakeCoulson's Wood Park are on theupgrade and won at Brampton Bryanand Ystradowen respectively last timeout. Celtic Intrigue has been secondon each of his last three runs anddeserves to go one better, while SteelAway J is another improver. "He'll runif it's quick," trainer Chris Loggin toldme, "But it's a big step up from hiswin at Kingston Blount." Mostinteresting of all could be the lightly-raced but talented Fermat, who was aclose third on his reappearance after atwo-year absence.

Racing concludes with the NoviceRiders race, sponsored by ClaydonHorse Exercisers. Tim Sage's PerfectlyWilling has been running in Openraces all season, winning one andplaced in the other five. CitizensArrest has been rejuvenated withsixteen-year-old pilot Alex Stevens thisseason, winning his first three -including a Ladies Open - and was notdisgraced in finishing fourth in a hotMembers race at Upton-on-Severn.Lough Inch is in fine form, havingwon three on the bounce for KellyMorgan, while Hall Kelly andNightcap Jack are admirably consistent

Kazuri Kate looks set tocontest the Confinedrace at the Warwickshiremeeting at Mollington

Photo:Al Johnstonaljohnstonphotography.com

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and win in their turn. Also worth amention is Qianshan Leader, ownedand ridden by 53-year-old JamesMcNeile. Trainer Laura Thomasadmitted that, while his Hunt race winat Larkhill may not stand comparisonwith the form shown by some of theothers, "James achieved his lifetimeambition by winning a 'proper' race. Iwas so pleased for him as he'd wontwo before - but they were bothwalkovers!"

ZETLAND at WITTON CASTLEMonday, 04 Mayby Charlotte RussellWitton Castle is the second of twoPoint-to-Point meetings to take placein Yorkshire over the bank holidayweekend, as the Zetland Hunt hosttheir annual fixture. Racing starts at2pm with the Hunt race and DrillSergeant who won an Open on his lastouting will take all the beating. Archwill be looking to repeat his victory oflast season although odds of 40/1 areunlikely to be seen again and ApacheBlue is another who could be in theframe. There are two unregisteredhorses entered meaning there couldalso be a heavy weight section to thisrace.

Pebbleglen could run a good race inthe Intermediate but it looks like itcould be a closely fought contest withchallenges coming from theprogressive Totem Chief andLortzing. The latter unseated after acircuit at Easingwold and looks wellcapable of scoring at Intermediatelevel.

According To Dan can follow up onhis recent Bedale Hunt race win in theRestricted. "He should go well and Ithink he can win a Restricted," saidjockey John Dawson. Barton Jubilee issuited by faster ground and has beenknocking on the door in Restrictedraces so could be the main dangerwhile The Ketchup Kid is reported tobe going well by Cherry Coward."Shabach will appreciate the quickerground and I think the track will suithim," reported jockey Will Milburn.

In the Mens Open, Know the Ruleswill run a big race if he doesn't takepart in the Heart at Hexham onSaturday night. Newspage won at thesame meeting as Know The Rules lasttime out for William Easterby and willalso put in a big run. Sarah Dent'sExecutive's Hall looked very goodwhen beating My Old Piano at theBedale and Billing could also line up."We'll have to see how he comes outof Sunday's race. We were delighted

with him, he ran his heart out butOpen company is quite a step up,"said the latter's trainer Cherry Coward.

Ockey De Neulliac is becoming a firmfavourite in Yorkshire and is the standout horse in the Ladies Open. CherryCoward could saddle one of the maindangers to the Neil Mechie's stablestar courtest of Fernhurst Lad, andthe trainer commented: "We werereally pleased with him last time outand I think he's turned a corner."Oaklands Bobby is another who is ingreat form and a previous winner atthis course.

John Dawson is hopeful that theconcluding Maiden will split: "I couldhave three rides," explained the jockey,"I think Carols Memory is improvingand could run a nice race," he added.Cherry Coward has four entered in themaiden but is unlikely to make finalplans until nearer to the weekend."Bugler's Dream has been off but hefeels okay now and is ready for a run.We were capped with Game As APheasant last time out at Mordon,"said the trainer. On Vacation has putin some good efforts recently and willget his head in front soon andStagecoach Jasper is another who isimproving.

Executive’s Hall (near side) could line up in the Mens Open race at Witton CastlePhoto: Peter Barber pointtopointphotography.co.uk

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TOP TWEETS hashtag your tweets#GoPointing to feature!

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@AmeliaGlassGetyouracttogether in the paddockbefore running a decent 4th in theladies #gopointing

@pheasieDream team!! Tabley #PointToPointwinners again. David O'Brien and theincredible NumberCruncher!!@GoPointing

@claremarlowHad a great afternoon at the garthorperaces and even managed to back a fewwinners #pointtopoint #horseracing

@bryyy96Lovely dayyy at point to point#staffordcross #pointtopoint

@HeatherTwist93#cheshire #tabley #pointtopoint #p2p#summer #friends

@serena1anneFantastic day at Larkhill where Charlieand Katrina won the Charity race!

@MittyHardyCastle Banquet 2nd in the hunt p2pWhitfield #Racing #horseracing#point2point

@strayfmwillTeam Stray enjoying the sun and acouple of pints #Easingwold@StrayFMCreative

@RoseGrissellOn the way back from great day atParham p2p #tireddogs #puppylove#gopointing


BERKELEY at WOODFORDSaturday, 25 April128cm & under race1 Riff Raff Oscar Palmer2 Ryehall on Broadway Zara Brooks3 Doylan Imagination Poppy Scott4 Zebedee William Jones5 Roel May Marvel Jamie Spencer138cm & under race1 Nook Class Act Minty Bloss2 Mocking Bird Alfie Godfrey3 Diptford Moon Walker Elliot England4 Bronze Lawrence Roisin Leech5 Dutchess Elena Nikou6 Balfour Hill Song George Daly7 Talponiciau Perfect Print Hamish Clarke8 Luanshya Ambassador Becky Wilkins9 Pennway Merlyn Alexandra Geldard148cm & under race1 Regimental Bay Lucy Hammond2 Aries Albie Tufnell3 Tally Ho Tina George Daly4 Otterburn Lady Alfie Martindale5 Tell Me Twice Liam Harrison6 Touch Control Simon Morgan7 Shoot The Moon Jack Dayus8 Chiumbo Luke Scott9 Stambrook Socialite Connor BakerdqCalypso Ben Godfrey

FIFE at BALCORMO MAINSSaturday, 25 April138cm & under race1 Annie Nick Barrattatkin2 Xena Thomas Young3 Mountain Sirocco Elliot Stockwell4 Ardbrennan Beauty Iona Billinge5 Patch Elizabeth Casasola0 Cheval Summertime Jesika RennieNon-runner: Stretcholt Hermes (Charlie Todd)148cm & under race1 Pick Pocket Connor Murtagh2 Perfect Place Bruce Lynn3 Hazelcroft Good Time Lucy Pittendrigh4 Millie Jack Young5 Morgan Abby Robertson6 Jambo Lyall Hodgins7 Caveiro Tara Stockwellur Just Dennis Anna CasasolaNon-runners: How Ya Talkin (Harry Charleton), Miss Tiny (Jessica Swan),Mr Marshall (Rachel Sharpe)

AXE VALE at STAFFORD CROSSSunday, 26 April148cm & under race1 Goldwells’s Gucci Harriet Godfrey2 Shotgun Minnie Tyler Heard3 Vadlawalkover Tamby Welch4 Igo Zuminov James Armstrong5 Barboza Isabel Hunt6 Goodnight Bruce Young7 Springs Thomasina Eyston8 Songbird Finley Marsh9 Two The Manor Barn William Cox138cm & under race1 The Jobs Not Straight Tyler Heard2 Ginger Wizard Chad Bament3 BeccaWalkO’TheWildSide Molly Landau4 Minky Zoe Stanbury5 Park Hill Playboy Joshua Brown6 Broomsdown Heavenly Gift Kelsie Beilby7 Clonamully Danny Boy Archie Woollacottsu Churchill Tamby Welchbd Helsington Vanetta Lewis McdonaldNon-runner: Angelic (Olive Nicholls)

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2015 PONY RACING RESULTS sponsored by

CHESHIRE at TABLEYSunday, 26 April138cm & under race (Division I)1 Gwalch Sian Bach Constance Braunton2 Tango Imogen Kennedy3 Wernlas Shakira Kiera Booth4 Gerdinen Anita Elsa Braunton5 Middle Lake James McMahon6 Emyvale Joker Josh Bridges7 Cui Monte Don James Caldwell138cm & under race (Division II)1 Dillans Girl Ella McCain2 Nomoranun Oakley Brown3 Little Anne Charlie Todd4 Ravara Super Ted Camilla Broster5 Tigga Marnie Green6 Sandboro Sernity Rose Diggle7 Jazz Harry Myddleton148cm & under race1 The Mumbler Ella McCain2 Live Wire Abbie McCain3 Abrickinthewall Harry Myddelton4 Lyle Rio Finnley Green5 Irish Joker Paddy BarlowNon-runners: Otterburn Lady (Alfie Martindale), Quickstep Star (NiallReynolds), Carrowmeer Nick (Lucy Pittendrigh), Finnley’s Diamond (FinnleyGreen), Little Bull (Abbie McCain)

FARMERS BLOODHOUNDS at WHITFIELDSunday, 26 April128cm & under race1 Glebedale Stopwatch Bradley Kent2 Ruby Tuesday Freddie De La Sayette3 Doylan Imagination Poppy Scott4 Rockie Three Alec Voikhansky5 Barkway Harlequin Freddie Curtis6 Kerrells Razzamatazz Ben ColmerNon-runner: Gunthwaithe Royal Secret (Marc De La Sayette)138cm & under race (Division I)1 Glin Road Ger Supple2 Honky Tonk Girl Bradley Kent3 Merryment Top Cat Tristan Durrell4 Stambrook Master Plan Alfie Marshall5 Covenham Generation Luke Scott6 Renaissance III Henry Main7 Ernford Ballot Box Violet Barton8 Dolly Cal Voikhansky138cm & under race (Division II)1 Push The Button Sophie Smith2 Chaceside Catwalk Benoit De La Sayette3 Warmwell Lizzie Connor Fletcher4 Little Lord William William Curtis5 Mouse Olivia Tubb6 Telynau Fabio Alana TaylorPU Palesides Spectator Sarah LongthornNon-runner: Fair N Square (Sophie Smith)148cm & under race1 Beside The Sea Benoit De La Sayette2 Scribblin Ben Sutton3 Keep it Real Samuel Wisbey4 Lynne Alana Taylor5 Little Lucky Lass Tess Murphy6 Basford April Rose Nia KerslakeNon-runners: Viva (Tristan Durrell), She’s Agoodun (Jack Tudor)

TIVYSDIE & CARMARTHENSHIRE at LYDSTEPSunday, 26 April138cm & under race1 Molly Connor Brace2 Tealson Topic Niamh Mason3 Milly Lilly Llewelyn4 Wian Dark Lad Iwan Thomas Bartle5 Calelvador Serendu Thomas Pugh6 Annie May Daniel Ellis148cm & under race1 Don't Tell Dai Connor Brace2 She's a Goodun Jack Tudor3 Captain Hurricane Jessica Llewelyn


LAUDERDALE at MOSSHOUSESSaturday, 02 May138cm & under raceAnnie Nick Barratt-AitkinLittle Anne Charlie ToddMountain Sirocco Elliot StockwellPatch Elizabeth CasasolaXena Thomas Young

148cm & under raceCarrowmeer Nick Lucy PittendrighHazelcroft Good Time Lucy BrownHow Ya Talkin Harry CharletonMillie Jack YoungMiss Tiny Jessica SwanMr Marshall Rachel SharpPerfect Place Bruce LynnPick Pocket Connor MurtaghTricky Vicky Roy Day148cm & under Racetech Novice Riders raceArdbrennan Beauty Iona BillingeCaveiro Tara StockwellJambo Lyall HodginsLlanarh Dafydd Isobel MacTaggartMillie Jack YoungMorgan Abby Robertson

MODBURY HARRIERS at FLETE PARKSaturday, 02 May138cm & under raceBecca Walk O’ The Wild Side Molly LandauChurchill Tamby WelchGinger Wizard Chad BamentJobanker Morning Mist Finn MuirheadMagic Honor WeatherlakeMenedh Jumping Jack Flash Otis MorganMocking Bird Alfie GodfreyThe Jobs Not Straight Tyler HeardWide Valley March Walter Fisher-Barnett

148cm & under raceIgo Zuminov James ArmstrongShotgun Minnie Tyler HeardVadlawalkover Tamby Welch

RADNOR & WEST HEREFORD at COLD HARBOURSunday, 03 May138cm & under raceBalfour Hill Song George DalyDeehaven Chipmunk Ivor HerbertDillans Girl Ella McCainMon Mellisa Ria EvansRavara Super Ted Camilla Broster148cm & under raceAries Albi TufnellBuddy's Girl Jimmy DalyHeavenly Rose Milo HerbertIndian River Jamie PerrettLittle Bull Abbie McCainRegimental Bay Lucy HammondShes A Lady Jamie PerrettTally Ho Tina George DalyTouch Control Simon Morgan

148cm & under Racetech Novice Riders raceAd Al Shama Harry DigwoodChester Tiggy Cowan TaylorEmyvale Joker Josh BridgesPolo Archie BaileyRosevale Seren Salute Katie SinclairWillow Archie JonesZebedee William JonesWoodbine Rosemary Alice Rees

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2015 PONY RACING ENTRIES sponsored by

BANWEN MINERS at LLWYN DDUMonday, 04 May138cm & under raceAnnie May Daniel EllisCalelvador Serendu Thomas PughMilly Lilly LlewellynMolly Connor BraceWian Dark Lad Iwan Thomas Bartle

148cm & under raceCaptain Hurricane Jessica LlewellynDont Tell Dai Connor BraceGoodnight Bruce YoungGollum Isabel HuntShes A Goodun Jack Tudor

CATTISTOCK at LITTLEWINDSORMonday, 04 May138cm & under raceAngelic Olive NichollsBecca Walk O’The Wild Side Molly LandauClonamully Danny Boy Mary WoollacottHelsington Vanetta Lewis McDonaldMayday Black Mink Charlie SprakeMinky Zoe StanburyMocking Bird Alfie GodfreyPenchwintan Dewi BevanTalponciau Perfect Print Hamish ClarkeVeno Star Fergus GillardReserves: Churchill (Tamby Welch), Menedh Jumping Jack Flash (Otis Morgan)148cm & under raceCalypso Ben GodfreyCool Runner Thomas DoggrellHawkesfield Flyer Fergus GillardMick The Miller William BevanPickmere Bond Street Hamish ClarkeShe’s A Lady Jamie Perrett

ENFIELD CHACE WITH CAMBRIDGESHIREat NORTHAWMonday, 04 May128cm & under raceGlebedale Stopwatch Brad KentGoldfinger Emma ShawRockie III Alec VoikhanskyRuby Tuesday Freddie De La SayetteRyehall On Broadway Zara BropoksSilaz Ted FeatherstoneShooting Star Emma D’Angibau138cm & under raceBoolagh Mississippi Emma BuckleChaceside Catwalk Benoit De La SayetteDolly Cal VoikhanskyDough Boy Noah Brazg CarrellHonky Tonk Girl Brad KentLittle Chick William CarverLongbourne Rose William FeatherstoneMoorhall Royale George BassNook Class Act Minty BlossReuben Benjamin BromleyStambrook Master Plan Laura PearsonWarmwell Lizzie Connor FletcherThe safety factor for all Pony Races is 10. If more than 10 declare to run onthe day the race will be run in two divisions148cm & under Area FinalBeside The Sea Benoit De La SayetteGwen Joe BradnamHope William HumphreyKeep It Real Sam WisbeyLittle Lucky Lass Tess Murphy


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

THE RACETECH GRADUATE AWARDThe Rider who gains the most points throughout the season viathe Champion Points Series and who plans to go on and ride inPoint-to-Point Races the following year will be offeredsponsorship via the Riders Sponsorship Scheme (RSS) fromRaceTech – this only applies to those riders who turn 16 duringthe 2015/16 Point-to-Point Season.The RSS is a sponsorship initiative created by the Point-to-PointAuthority, which enables riders to source sponsorship to assistthe costs associated with riding.For further information please contact: Lucy Tucker 01258817604 / 07771 518258 / [email protected]

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TOP SCORERS138CMS & UNDER PONIES

Molly 40Diptford Moonwalker 34Honky Tonk Girl 34Mocking Bird 28Bronze Lawrence 27Little Chick 26Dough Boy 24Ginger Wizzard 24Nomoranun 24Willow The Wisp 24Chaceside Catwalk 23

Benoit de la Sayette 40Connor Brace 40Brad Kent 34Elliot England 34Charlie Todd 29Alfie Godfrey 28Roisin Leech 27William Carver 26Sophie Smith 25Chad Bament 24Oakley Brown 24

Harriet Godfrey 37William Carver 34Lucy Hammond 31Connor Murtagh 28Isabel Hunt 26Ben Godfrey 25Abbie McCain 24Bruce Lynn 18Ben Sutton 17Alfie Martindale 14Jamie Perrett 14Rachel Sharpe 14Will Thirlby 13Finnley Marsh 12Jack Young 11Sam Burton 11Izzie Marshall 10Thomasina Eyston 10Francesca Flinton 8Josh Bryan 7William Cox 7Katie Sinclair 6Jimmy Daly 5Michael Treneer 4Cameron Hillhouse 3George Bass 3Jessica Swan 3William Rekert 3Harry Charleton 2Morgan Winstone 2Honor Whyte 1Kieren Rundell 1

138CMS RIDER RACETECH GRADUATE

148CMS & UNDER PONIESBeside the Sea 42Goldswell Gucci 37Don’t Tell Dai 33Regimental Bay 31Hope 29Flo Tinaway 28Pick Pocket 28She’s Agoodun 27Calypso 25The Mumbler 22

Connor Brace 47Benoit de la Sayette 42Harriet Godfrey 37Lucy Hammond 31William Humphrey 29Connor Murtagh 28Cosmo Ball 28Jack Tudor 27Isabel Hunt 26Ben Godfrey 25

148CMS RIDER

Pony RiderBonita Polly Ann SmithCailin Katy MossCaverio Tara StockwellClonamully Danny Boy Archie WoollacottDenny Royal Lady Charlie WoodsDutchess Elena NikouGoldfinch Jessy Ellie VaughanLongbourne Rose Will FeatherstoneMillie Jack YoungMilly XI Joshua SmithMorgan Abby RobertsonMountain Gerwyn Ruby HallMountain Sinbad Harvey CarringtonPebbles Sophia WaringPenway Merlin Alexandra GeldardRosevale Seren Salute Katie SinclairRowfantina Fancy Man Freddie GingellRoyal Oak Rose Lad Emma SmithShena Rory DavidsonSong Bird Finley MarshSpring Daisy WhiteStambrook Socialite Connor Baker

QUALIFYING COMBINATIONS FOR THERACETECH NOVICE RIDERS FINAL AT

GARTHORPE - SATURDAY, 30 MAY 2015

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

REMAINING QUALIFYING RACESMeeting Course Date Entries closing AreaLauderdale Mosshouses Sat 2 May Sat 25 Apr NorthernRadnor & West Hereford Cold Harbour Sun 3 May Sun 26 Apr Welsh Border CountiesDulverton West Bratton Down Sun 17 May Sat 9 May Devon & CornwallGrafton Whitfield Sun 17 May Sat 9 May South MidlandsKnutsford Races Tabley Sun 17 May Sun 10 May North Western

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Who was capturing the action last weekend?

Our photographers and film crews travelled far and wide yetagain last weekend to ensure all the action was captured inone way or another. On Saturday it was Jeff Guyett and hisWest Country Videos team that took in the first leg of adouble-header. They were in attendance at the Berkeley atWoodford where they were joined by snappers NealeBlackburn and Tim Holt. The latter also joined forces withthe West Country Videos crew on Sunday at Stafford Crossfor the Axe Vale meeting to take in his second meeting of theweekend.

Elsewhere on Saturday the popular northern duo of photographerGrace Beresford and cameraman Keith Simpson were at BalcormoMains for the annual Fife fixture, ensuring every angle was covered.Sunday was slightly busier with six meetings taking place and DavidJones Media filmed their sole meeting of the weekend, the Cheshireat Tabley, where they was joined by Marilyn of Sweet Photography.Meanwhile, stills were captured by Peter Barber and Tom Milburn atEasingwold for the York & Ainsty, Neale Blackburn at the FarmersBloodhounds at Whitfield, and Alun Sedgmore at the Tivyside &Carmarthenshire at Lydstep.

Neale Blackburn chasdog.comBerkeley at Woodford

Tim Holt [email protected] at Woodford

Grace Beresford p2pnorthernphotos.co.ukFife at Balcormo Mains

Tim Holt [email protected] Vale at Stafford Cross

Marilyn Sweet sweetphotography.comCheshire at Tabley

Neale Blackburn chasdog.comFarmers Bloodhounds at Whitfield

Alun Sedgmore sportingprints.bizTivyside & Carmarthenshire at Lydstep

Peter Barber pointtopointphotography.co.ukYork & Ainsty at Easingwold

Tom Milburn facebook.com/TomMilburnPhotographyYork & Ainsty at Easingwold

IN THE FRAMEGO

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

Will Biddick 48 winsJohn Mathias 20 winsDarren Edwards 17 winsNick Orpwood 16 winsJamie Thomas 14 winsBradley Gibbs 13 wins

Tom Hamilton 13 winsRobbie Henderson13 winsJoe Hill 13 winsGillon Crow 12 winsPete Mann 12 winsJames Tudor 12 wins

FULLER’SGENTLEMANPOINT-TO-POINTRIDERSCHAMPIONSHIP

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

Harry Cobden 9 winsFred Henderson 8 winsPeter Bryan 6 winsJoe Drinkwater 6 winsJames Nixon 6 winsSam Coltherd 5 wins

David Noonan 5 winsRoss Chapman 4 winsJohn Smith-Maxwell 4 wins

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

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

Harry Cobden 9 winsSam Coltherd 5 winsSean Houlihan 3 wins

Andrew Bartlett 2 winsBen Hicks 2 winsHarry Marsh 2 wins

DODSON&HORRELLNOVICEAWARDFORTHEWILKINSONSWORD

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

Gina Andrews 21 winsHannah Watson 14 winsCatherine Walton 12 winsClaire Hart 11 winsPage Fuller 9 winsKaty Lyons 9 wins

Leanda Tickle 9 winsJo Buck 8 winsLara Mahon 6 winsEmma Todd 6 wins

LADY POINT-TO-POINT RIDERS CHAMPIONSHIP

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

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

Ella Darwin 3 winsOlivia Hutchings 3 winsEmma Moseley 3 winsAlice Stevens 3 wins

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

Lara Mahon pictured following her success on Lake legend at The Kimblewickmeeting at Kingston BlountPhoto: Neale Blackburn chasdog.com

Lottie Crane 5 winsOlivia Hutchings 3 winsAlice Stevens 3 wins

Charlotte Dun 2 winsEmma Chaston 2 winsHeidi Lewis 2 wins

HOWDEN NOVICE AWARD FOR THE PRINCESS ROYAL TROPHY

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

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Harry Cobden 28ptsLara Mahon 20ptsJohn Smith-Maxwell15ptsJoe Drinkwater 14ptsLucy Wheeler 14ptsAmy Broome 12 pts

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

HARLEY RACING PPORA NOVICE RIDERS SERIES

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

Nick Wright 11 winsJ. Barber 9 winsRichard Hewitt 9 winsMiss Sarah Dawson 8 winsJ. Simpson 8 winsVictor Thompson 8 wins

M. J. R. Bannister 7 winsSarah Easterby 7 winsJohn Ferguson 7 winsJ. H. Henderson 7 winsJ. M. Pike 7 winssix owners on six wins

LEADING POINT-TO-POINT OWNER

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

Miss Sarah A. Dawson 30ptsThe Penwood Racing Club 30ptsS. Nash, A. Hill, Mrs H. Nash & M. Avery 30ptsE. D. Moylan 30ptsMrs K. R. Smith-Maxwell 30ptsThe Troubled Partnership (Mr M. Weston) 30ptsJ. H. Henderson 30ptsAll on 26pts: Lord Lipsey & Nick Elliott, R. J. Hewitt, W. Bryan & D.Smith, J. H. Young, J. Pike, Norman Thomas, Alan Hill, I. R. Mann

AGA ALL-COMERS CHAMPIONSHIP

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

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

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

JOCKEY CLUB LEADING NOVICE MARE

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

Dicky Bob 5 winsThe Magherally Man 5 winsWorking Title 5 winsAll on 4 wins: Ask TheWeatherman, Crazy Diamond,Executive Benefit, Gonalston

Cloud, Jepeck, Ockey DeNeulliac, Patsy Finnegan,Qoubilai, Rosies Peacock,Silver Token, Six A Side,Subtle Sovereign, That’sRhythm

CONNOLLY’S RED MILLS LEADING HORSE

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

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

Joanna Walton 42ptsElla Darwin 40ptsEmma Moseley 40ptsPhine Banks 38ptsFreya Brewer 34ptsEmma Todd 34pts

AGALADIESOPENPOINT-TO-POINTCHAMPIONSHIP

Hannah Watson is the latest rider to hit the magic 50 mark in the AGA LadiesOpen Point-to-Point ChampionshipPhoto: David Simpson

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Jack Barber 40 winsAlan Hill 24 winsKayley Woollacott18 winsTom Weston 15 winsGerald Bailey 13 winsRobert Chanin 12 wins

Stephanie Easterby 12 winsPauline Harkin 11 winsNick Wright 11 winsSheila Crow 10 winsAndrew Pennock 10 winsEd Walker 10 wins

CONNOLLY’SREDMILLSTRAINERSCHAMPIONSHIP(8+HORSES)

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

Ciaran Gethings 4 winsClaire Hart 4 winsHannah Lewis 3 winsHarry Bannister 2 winsWill Biddick 2 winsNina Carberry 2 wins

Darren Edwards 2 winsDavid Kemp 2 winsMatt Hampton 2 winsJames Nixon 2 winsTommie O’Brien 2 winsNick Orpwood 2 wins

LEADING HUNTER CHASE RIDER

Ciaran Gethings is leading the charge for the Leading Hunter Chase Rider titlealongside Claire HartPhoto: Julie Drewett racehorsephotos.co.uk

Volcan Surprise (East Anglia) 40ptsAsk The Weatherman (Wessex) 36ptsJepeck (Devon & Cornwall) 36ptsSix A Side (Yorkshire) 34ptsLotus Pond (North Western) 34ptsCome On You (South East) 32ptsDabinett Moon (South Midlands) 30ptsMinellacelebration (Welsh Border) 30ptsRunning In Heels (South East) 30ptsBeuvron (Devon & Cornwall) 28ptsThe Mythologist (Wessex) 28ptsChampagne Benefit (S Wales & Mons) 28ptsPlay The Ace (East Anglia) 28ptsThoonavolla (West Midlands) 28ptsFull Trottle (South Midlands) 28ptsSonoftheking (Wessex) 28ptsOtto The Great (South Midlands) 27ptsRadio Nowhere (Yorkshire) 27pts

PPORA YOUNG HORSE AWARDS

Nick Alexander 8 winsRachael Green 7 winsJames Henderson 7 winsMickey Bowen 6 wins

Willie Bryan 6 winsCharlotte Fuller 6 winsJessica McKie 6 winsKaty Price 6 wins

CONNOLLY’SREDMILLSTRAINERSCHAMP(7ORELESSHORSES)

Back On The Road, a multiple winner this season for trainer Nick Alexanderwho leads the Connolly’s Red Mills Trainers Championship (7 or less horses)Photo: Grace Beresford p2pnorthernphotos.co.uk

Enda Bolger 2 winsMikey Bowen 2 winsHenry Daly 2 winsMike Dawson 2 winsGavin Hamilton 2 winsChris Honour 2 wins

David Kemp 2 winsPaul Nicholls 2 winsJonjo O’Neill 2 winsJoe O’Shea 2 winsGlyn Slade-Jones 2 wins

LEADING HUNTER CHASE TRAINER

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

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

TOP PERFORMERS 14/15


BEEN POINTINGBerkeley at Woodford

in association with

& David Simpson ‘The AGA Man’

Charly Prichard & John Mathias fly the Welsh flagfor the Anglo-Irish challenge

The ‘Posh Totty’ crew are in great spirits before the Mens Open

Another Lacey winner for Charlie Deutsch, this one courtesyof Fly Du Charmil

Phine Banks has a full load ahead ofthe Ladies Open

Look who I bumped into down at the start, L-R: Lucy Price (BHA),Clare Hazell (PPA), Matt Hazel & Carole Goldsmith (BHA)

Invisible Man has just qualified for the AGA final at Stratford,he was impressive!

It was a good day for LucyHammond, a pony win on

Regimental Bay & a new AGA hat

Helen Stoneman & Will Biddickwatch AP on the big screen

Jason Kiely is really looking forwardto the Mountain Warehouse Anglo-

Irish challenge on 25th May

Flying the flag for the Anglo-Irish challenge, L-R: AlexEdwards, Midnight Luca, Jacob Cox & Phil Rowley

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Farmers Bloodhounds at Whitfield

Don’t you dare said Harty, so I did!

Paddycards is flanked by Sam Painting andSally Randell, & the lovely Hope family

Sara Moule & Lucy Cowen have justspotted the ice cream man!

And this was before their winner! L-R: Carol Hope,Sally Randell and Alex Hope

The stars of the future line up after a mammothsession of exciting pony racing!

AGA winner, Laura Thomas (centre) isabout to tuck into a well earned burger!

A first ever AGA win for Steven Astaire & Clare Wills,the AGA hat looked better on Clare!

Two ‘veterans’ of the weighingroom, Phil York (left) & Tom Ellisbefore the AGA Open Maiden

This bloodhound shows exactly whathe thinks of my request for a photo!

The Flying Column has just won theRestricted for Aaron McGlinchey

BEEN POINTINGGO

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Founded in 1992 to promote Harris Tweed, Glenalmond Tweed Company continues to do just that throughtheir collection of clothes for men and women, bags, luggage, hats, caps and cushions, all made in theUnited Kingdom.

Glenalmond Tweed made the original Tweed Bag. They are made of Harris Tweed backed with rubberonto cotton canvas. They are waterproof and very hardwearing.

The collection can be viewed online at www.glenalmond.com as well as at the Perthshire shop and at variousshows and events throughout the year.

A GORGEOUS ‘BUCHANTY’ BAG FROM OURFRIENDS AT THE GLENALMOND TWEED COMPANY

QUESTIONWhat makes Glenalmond Tweed bags waterproof?

A. They are sprayed with a waterproof solution.B. The tweed is already waterproof.C. The tweed is backed with rubber onto cotton canvas.

WIN

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Competition closes on 5 May

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Sat 2 May

Lauderdale, MOSSHOUSESModbury Harriers, FLETE PARK

Pendle Forest & Craven, HESLAKER

Surrey Union, PEPER HAROWTredegar Farmers, LOWER MACHEN

Sun 3 MayDevon & Somerset Staghounds, HOLNICOTE

Fernie, DINGLEY

Radnor & West Hereford, COLD HARBOUR

Mon 4 May

Banwen Miners, LLWYN FARMCattistock, LITTLEWINDSOR

East Sussex & Romney Marsh, ALDINGTON

Enfield Chace with Cambridgeshire Hunt, NORTHAWNorth Shropshire, EYTON-ON-SEVERN

Stevenstone, VAUTERHILLWarwickshire, MOLLINGTON

Zetland, WITTON CASTLE

Sat 9 MayCumberland, ASPATRIA

Kimblewick, KINGSTON BLOUNTMinehead Harriers and West Somerset, HOLNICOTE

Sun 10 May

Bilsdale, EASINGWOLDFour Burrow, TREBUDANNON

Melton Hunt Club, GARTHORPEWheatland, CHADDESLEY CORBETT

Wed 13 May

Weston & Banwell Harriers, COTHELSTONE

Sat 16 May

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

Gelligaer Farmers, LOWER MACHEN

South Durham, MORDON

Sun 17 May

Dulverton West, BRATTON DOWNGolden Valley, BREDWARDINE

Grafton, WHITFIELD

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

Sun 24 May

Berks&BucksDraghounds&SandhurstDraghounds,KINGSTONBLOUNT

West Somerset Vale, COTHELSTONEWest Wales Area Club, LYDSTEP

Mon 25 MayAlbrighton & Woodland (South), CHADDESLEY CORBETT

South Tetcott, UPCOTT CROSS

Sat 30 MayMeynell & South Staffordshire, GARTHORPE

Sun 31 MayBorder, HEXHAM

Exmoor, BRATTON DOWN

North Hereford, HEREFORD RACECOURSE

Sat 6 June

Pembrokeshire, TRECOED

Sun 7 June

Tiverton Staghounds, BRATTON DOWN

Sat 13 JuneTorrington Farmers, UMBERLEIGH

FIXTURES 2015 Fixtures in Blue denotes Pony Racing at the meetingGO

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The course at Dingley, the venue for the Fernie and Fitzwilliam (Milton) meeting


PLUSpointing

EVERY SATURDAY IN RACING PLUS

PLUSpointingMay 3-4, 2014

Edition 24

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

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

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

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

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

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

Picture:JULIE DREWITT

PLUSpointingApril 5-6, 2014

Edition 20


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

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

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

PLUSpointingJune 7-8, 2014

Edition 29


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

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

Full report,p4-5

Picture:SWEET PHOTOGRAPHY

Picture: SILVENA TONCHEVA

PLUSpointingMay 17-18, 2014

Edition 26


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

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

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

Will Croan Rock andThreapwood be fighting

out the finish of theLord Daresbury?

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

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

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

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AN IMPROVED PERFORMANCE

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

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

■ Previews / reviews■ Features / news

■ Q&A with pointing personalities

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Go Pointing | 29 April 2015