07 January 2009 Preview: PPORA Meeting - Barbury Castle
There has been a massive number of entries for this two day meeting - in excess of 500. Owners, trainers and jockeys plan to travel from all parts of the country and an 11.00am start is planned for both days.
There are five races on the card on Saturday, although due to the high level of interest any of these races could be divided. Trainer Robert Waley-Cohen has his filly Fiddle entered in the Intermediate which is the first race. Fiddle was picked as "one to follow" in The Weekender 2008/09 season's preview.
Polly Gundry has Rockwithacaveman in the Mixed Open who was an unsuccessful hurdler for David Pipe but has found his form now and won six point-to-points last year for Polly. He will be one for the bookmakers to fear on Saturday.
In the Restricted Race Overbury Peal may be one to watch; she's had a modest career to date but now that she's in the care of successful trainer Alan Hill we may well see some improvement.
First race on day two is the Novice Riders' Race. Many of these horses are experienced but are ridden by jockeys that have ridden less than four winners. These are an innovation as it gives less experienced riders the chance to compete within their own sphere. Thisthatandtother will probably leave the paddock as favourite.
The Ladies' Open will take some winning with 30 entries and several top rated horses - Croix de guerre, Honest Endeavour, and Kiama to name but three of them. The Mens' Open is equally well contested. However, Ballylusky could be a winner if he gets out of bed on the right side.
Barbury racecourse is 3m NW of Marlborough. Main entrance off Marlborough to Broad Hinton Road (10m from Exits 15 & 16, M4).
