16 February 2009 Preview: South Devon - Ideford Arch
LORD OF ILLUSION: trained by Sue Popham is entered in the Club Members race
The Hunt race at 12.30pm kicks off the South Devon Point-to-Point's rescheduled seven race card at Ideford Arch on Saturday. Dare Too Dream will be a warm order to continue Camilla Scott's cracking run of form. The Dulverton-based trainer saddled a treble at Black Forest Lodge last month and Dare To Dream, a winner of two competitive open races last season, is sure to kick off his season on a winning note.
Next on the card is the Dodson & Horrell PPORA Club Members Race for Novice Riders. These races have been very well supported this season. Plenty of consistent horses will be coming under orders including Earl of Buckingham, Karinga Lane and Tribal Venture - who was second at the South Dorset meeting on Saturday. Topping the list, however, must be the Sue Popham-trained Lord of Illusion who gave Matthew Griffiths a great ride at Chipley Park two weeks ago to win the equivalent race. The Christie's Foxhunter Steeple Chase at the Cheltenham Festival is his target, and connections will be hoping he adds to his tally of wins here to give him a greater chance of getting among the prize winners at Cheltenham.
A two miles four furlongs Maiden is next on the card. Matako could improve on his pre-Christmas run at Wadebridge. Max's Choice was consistent last year, finishing second on each of his three outings.
The 17 entries in the Marksway Horsehage and Mollichaff Mixed Open include the impressive Higham winner Chilling Place; the once highly rated Contraband, fifth in a Hunter chase at Sandown on Friday; and the Devon and Cornwall area's reigning champion mare Kingsmill Lake.
Restricted races in the area have so far been cracking races, and this one, sponsored by Tate & Lyle, could prove another great contest. Uncle Dan, beaten by a neck at Black Forest Lodge in January, is among those entered. Craigmor was second on the same day in a Novice Riders' race and could well improve, whilst All Thyne Greats is sure to run his race.
Those entered in the intermediate are eligible for the final at Exeter Racecourse in May. Best of the nine entries could be Supreme Royal from Marie McGuinness' successful yard.
The last race of the day is the Open Maiden. Dakota Boy is a likely favourite following his good effort at Barbury Castle in January, where he was second to Mymystery Man.
The course at Ideford Arch is well signposted just off the A380 between Exeter and Newton Abbot. Entrance for a car and all passengers is £20, with single occupants reduced to £10. Check Talking Point on 09068 446061 for latest going reports from the course. As well as great racing, a bar, catering and bookies are also part of the day's entertainment.
