02 February 2012 Preview: Old Raby - Witton Castle
by Charlotte Brader
The Old Raby Hunt Club hold their meeting at Witton Castle on Sunday 5th February where 102 entries have been received for the six race card.
The first race is at 12 noon and is the Old Raby Hunt Club Members Conditions Race. 12 entries have been received for this race and The Fabricator made a good Point-to-Point debut at the Sinnington meeting last February, having been trained under rules and if fit could take all the beating, however Chris Dawson thinks very highly of Will's Lady Lewis and she could be the one to beat.
Connolly's Red Mills are once again supporting the Intermediate Point-to-Point series and again 12 entries have been received for this race. Chip N Pin was running creditably at the Yorkshire Area Point-to-Point until making a mistake on the third circuit and unseating his jockey. He could run closer in this race, although the in form Forge Valley who won at North Carlton is likely to start favourite.
In the Ladies Open, Keeverfield could go well, although will have to improve on the jumping performance from Sheriff Hutton where he tended to jump very right handed. This shouldn't hinder him as much round Witton, however Madison De Vonnas could go well if the ground is good enough.
The Mens Open race has achieved a very good entry of 22 and there is quality among the quantity. Sheriff Hutton ran a good race to finish a close second at Alnwick two weeks ago, Fox Point tends to go well round sharp tracks but this is likely to go the way of Oedipe who is primed for this year's Foxhunters.
In the Restricted race Winter Sunshine is likely to improve from his Sheriff Hutton run, where it was reported that he would improve on better going and if the forecast is correct he is likely to get his ground at Witton.
Witton Castle is located off the A68 and the postcode for satellite navigation is DL14 0DE. Viewing is excellent as the racecourse is located at the bottom of the hill which is used as a "grandstand" by spectators. Admission is £10 for one person, £20 for two people and £5 thereafter.
