21 April 2010 Preview: Berkeley - Woodford
by Pete Mansell
Pete Mansell previews this weekend's Berkeley Point-to-Point at Woodford.
The meeting has attracted 186 entries, which has resulted in the division of the Maiden race and it looks as though the high standard we have come to expect over the years will be maintained in 2010.
The Members race is always a keenly fought affair. Roger Maggs has won this race in the past and will be keen to do so again with either Mister Putt or Ned the Post. Lord Goschen and Rider Robin Shute will also have their supporters, while Sherston trainer Alison Dare stands a good chance with Rocklandslad.
Deep Hall has not been seen out for some time but on his best form Julie Houldey's runner would be capable of taking the prize back to their North Nibley stable. The Boxer Roche was a consistent performer for Jonjo O'Neill and J P McManus under Rules but it remains to be seen if he a force to be reckoned with for his new stable.
Jamie McGuire and Ivoire de Beaulieu parted company at the final obstacle at Siddington, which left the Rider with a broken collarbone. Providing the experience has had no long lasting effects this combination could score at rewarding odds.
There are 42 entries for the Restricted, so this race may also require division but it throws together some useful performers and the winner should come from Bounds and Leaps, Hivikos, John Daniell, Sonofvic and The Partalonian.
Richard Barber's Dorset stable always does well at this meeting and they stand a good chance of taking the Intermediate with Cappoquin. Others to note in this contest include Bradley, Fort View and Charm of Gold, who has won her last three races for Andoversford trainer James Richardson and must go close with the mare's allowance in her favour.
Polly Gundry became the sport's leading lady Rider earlier this year and as she was raised in the Berkeley country she will be keen to win the Ladies Open with Nobody Tells Me or Rockwithacaveman; both stand good chances of doing so.
Balinova caused a surprise in this race last year and holds A Few Bob Back and Smokey Mountain on that running but it looks a much strong race this time with Big Moment, Badger, Honest Endeavour, Royal Auclair, Sericina and Virginia Preuil among potential opponents.
Cedrus Libani missed his intended run in last weeks Dudley Cup. He would be all the rage if lining up for the Mens Open, although connections have a useful second string in the shape of Horsham Lad, while Celestrial Dragon, Jaunty Times, Ruairi and Worship the Stars all have useful form in this type of company.
William Somers likes soft ground but is unlikely to get that on Saturday afternoon but Owner/Trainer Tim Sage will be keen to support his local meeting so watch out for this one if he lines up.
Normal for Durlow has his first run for Julie Houldey's North Nibley stable in the first division of the Maiden while Paddy Whitelands has been entered for the second; both horses represent good yards so don't expect them to start at long odds.
