The New Forest Point-to-Point event is coming up this Sunday, December 15, at Larkhill. With a full field of 127 horses entered, the event promises an exciting day of racing. This preview will give you a rundown of the key races, horses to watch, and everything you need to know to enjoy the day.
Race Schedule and Entry Details
The event at Larkhill starts with two charity races at 9:45 am and 10:15 am, followed by the first official race at 11 am. These races will feature a variety of horses, including both experienced runners and newcomers. There will be eight races in total, with two races split into divisions due to the large number of entries. Admission is £15 per person, with free entry for children under 16. Racecards will be available for £3.
For food and drinks, there will be a bar and food outlets on-site, along with trade stands and bookmakers to place your bets. Access from the west is recommended, as it avoids some of the rougher roads leading to the course.
Course Conditions and Early Races
The course is in great condition, according to course inspector Robert Fear, and the latest going report indicates the track is good with some soft spots. The racing begins with a divided flat race over two miles. Each division has ten horses entered.
Although there isn’t much form to follow for many horses, there are some notable entries. In the first division, Mrs Pen has already finished second at Great Trethew, which suggests she is in good shape. Perseo, who was third at Godstone last season, could also be competitive. In the second division, Fayrely Fruitful, who was placed at Chaddesley Corbett, has a strong chance. The newcomers, Fountains Blenhein and South Sands, both have good breeding and should not be overlooked.
Maiden and Feature Races
The Maiden race over two and a half miles has a strong field with seventeen horses. Codetalker performed well at Dunsmore earlier this season and could repeat that form here. Will Biddick, a prominent jockey, has entered both Good Boy Eric and Sienna Earth, so keep an eye on which horse he chooses. Dave’s Sister, who placed well in bumpers at Larkhill last year, could also be a contender if she adjusts well to the fences.
The Mixed Open race is the feature event of the day. The favorite is Grace A Vous Enki, who will be seeking his seventh consecutive win at Larkhill. He will face competition from his stablemate Ihandaya, who is also highly rated, but it remains to be seen whether both horses will run.
Additional Races to Watch
In the Restricted race, Bushtucker Park looks to be a strong contender after an unlucky fall at Badbury. Snap Fish, who won his Maiden at Badbury, will also be one to watch. The Conditions race has twenty-three entries, including My Drogo, who might debut in this race. However, there are several strong competitors, including Kayf Hernando, who won at Dunsmore.
The day ends with a Maiden Conditions race split into two divisions. In Division One, Celtic Harmony was looking good before being brought down at the third-last at Larkhill, and Always Force It finished second, so both may have another chance. Division Two may see Southfield Scope, a half-brother to the successful Southfield Theatre, as a strong contender.
Conclusion
The Larkhill Point-to-Point event on December 15 promises to be an exciting day for horse racing fans. With a variety of races, including charity races, Maiden races, and feature events like the Mixed Open, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned fan, Larkhill will offer plenty of action and opportunities to enjoy the thrills of point-to-point racing.
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