05 May 2009 Preview: Wheatland - Chaddesley Corbett
by Pete Mansell
Horses carrying the royal colours are few and far between at Point-to-Points and the counter attraction of the Badminton Horse Trials will probably prevent H.R.H. The Princess Royal's Dhu Loch running in the Maiden Race during Sunday's Wheatland meeting at Chaddesley Corbett.
The 5-year-old who is trained by her daughter Zara Phillips finished second in Wales a few weeks ago and with the third horse winning that shows the horse is progressing in the right direction.
Victory is by no means guaranteed because Chicago Alley and Northern Season have both shown form displayed some ability in these type of contests, while Present d'Aze is an interesting newcomer from a stable that does well in these type of events.
Abberley trainer Zoe Hammond took Bathwick Lucy to win a Cold Harbour maiden last weekend and based on that performance must stand a good chance in the Club Members race against Fergals Find and Mister Kay Bee.
Angela Rucker will be keen to win the Ladies Open as victory would probably clinch the Area Title for her. Honest Endeavour or Pirate Flagship are the Himbleton based rider's main hopes, although Fleur de Nikos has shown his front running tactics can prevail.
A total of 142 horses have been entered for this meeting, with the Members race being placed at the end of the card. Four Opinions should go well but its debatable whether he will be able to get the measure of The Howardian over the final three fences.
First race is at 1.30pm. Entry is £12.50 per person (including a free racecard), under 16s are free of charge.
