16 March 2010 Preview: Bicester with Whaddon Chase - Whitfield
by Claire Hart
Sunday's South Midland Point-to-Point point action comes from Whitfield Racecourse, which is situated on the A43 between Silverstone and Brackley, postcode NN13 5TQ. A bumper entry of 204 reflects the popularity of this new track.
Action gets underway at 12.30 with the Hunt Members race where Arctic Double and Xila Fontenailles could make this a race for sibling rivalry, with Mervyn and Chris Loggin training them respectively.
We are looking forward to the return of the Rosemary Gasson trained Gentleman Anshan and he could take his chance in the Intermediate. An impressive winner of a Maiden and a Restricted at Cottenham last season, it will be no suprise to see him take the honours here. It will not, however, be a one horse race, The Charlie Sands-ridden Smugglers' Run was a good winner of the Restricted here last month and following a disappointing run two weeks ago at Horseheath, he would certainly be worth supporting each way.
Others to note here are Killnascully King, second at Kingston Blount last Saturday, and History Master who was third here in February, has since won his Members race at Eyton and is usually partnered by former champion Richard Burton. This could be the race of the day.
If rain fell and conditions were to suit, following a disappointing run on drier ground at Kingston Blount Desert Tommy will attempt a second track win in the Ladies Open, He is sure to face hot opposition though, Bell Rock won at Cottenham last Saturday and going right handed is definitely his preference. The Hannah Watson ridden Jolly Boys Outing will be an interesting runner as he rises up the ladder to Open company, having won previously on this track and from the in form Gasson stable he is one to note.
Chilling Place won a hot Mixed Open at Barbury Castle in February and will surely go close here in the Mens Open, though following an eyecatching late run in the Open at Didmarton recently Moscow Court is the one to watch especially if the conditions do remain dry. It will be interesting to see how Waynesworld, who recently returned to Pointing by winning his Members at Garnons, handles a step up to Open class.
With 3 maidens on the card, two divisions of the open and a mares event, there will be plenty of opportunities to look out for future stars. Dan Maguire, Emandem's, Jolt, Be Back In Time and Run Out The Guns are a few with some decent place form.
With the forecast seemingly warmer than it has been, Sunday promises to be a action packed, fun filled day for all the family with stalls and shops, hot and cold refreshments available; so come along and support our sport.
Entrance costs £10 per car with one occupant then £5 per person thereafter.
