17 April 2009 Preview: Cotswold Vale Farmers - Andoversford
GRENFELL: entered up in the PPORA Novice Riders' race
There is only one place to go for anybody interested in countryside activities on Sunday and that is the Cotswold Vale Farmers Country Fair with Point-to-Point at Andoversford. Following on from last year's successful venture this weekend's event promises to be even bigger and better.
Gates open at 10.30 am and will be followed by a Terrier Show, Falconry Flying Display, Terrier Racing, Family Dog Show, Pony Racing and finally the Point-to-Point.
Other activities already lined up include the Cotswold Pheasant and Poultry Marquee, Taxidermy Pavilion, Farmers Market, St George's Crafts, Trade Stands and Stalls, Pony Rides, Big Slide and Fairground Stalls, Licensed Bar with local beers.
Point-to-Point racing commences at 2.30 p.m with a majority of the races restricted to Veteran and Novice Riders, which may inadvertently allow David Mansell and Angela Rucker, who are two of more proficient riders in the area, to compete against less experienced riders.
Sam Twiston-Davies has sprung to prominence this year and the demands of the Novice Riders race play to the strengths of Grenfell who will appreciate underfoot conditions and is capable of seeing off the challenge of Ali Sterling on Absolutely Barking who works for Twiston-Davies' father at Naunton.
Angela Rucker is riding better than ever this year so it would not be a surprise to see Blue Business involved at the business end of the Ladies Open, although Man from Highworth is the clear pick on form.
James Pine ran well over this course last year and you wouldn't rule out Charlie Sands mount in the Mens Open, while Itsalf is an out and out stayer who will be putting his best work in at the finish.
Chicago Alley has run consistently all season and could figure prominently in the Conditions race, which finishes the programme at 6 p.m., although she is vulnerable during the last half mile of her races.
A total of 118 entries have been received for this meeting and Shareef should get the meeting off to a good start for favourite backers because he will take some stopping in the Members.
Entry is £10 per person, children and car parking free of charge.
