6 Devon & Cornwall Point-to-Point Race Calendar 2012


Where does point-to-pointing fit in with racing under Rules?


The connection between the amateur sport of point-to-pointing and the professional world of ‘jumps racing’ remains as strong today as it ever has, serving as a long established breeding ground for emerging talents of jockeys, trainers and horses.


This includes the likes of Richard Johnson, the second most winning jump jockey in history and David Pipe one of the top jumps trainers in the UK.


In more recent years there have been many


young talents whose skills have been nurtured within this amateur sport, including the exceptionally talented jockey Sam Twiston- Davies and equally gifted young trainer Evan Williams.


The horses that have progressed from this sport are endless, but perhaps two of the most prolific to have competed in British point-to-points before attaining stardom under Rules are Teeton Mill (winner of the 1998 King George VI Chase, 1998 Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup, 1999


Mitsubishi Shogun Ascot Chase) and See More Business (winner of the 1999 Cheltenham Gold Cup, 1997 & 1999 King George VI Chase, 1999 & 2000 Charlie Hall Chase, 2000 Aon Chase, 2000 Martell Cup, 2001 Pillar Property Chase).


There are increasingly more opportunities for younger horses in point- to-points, and incentives created to promote the sport’s important role in nurturing tomorrow’s talent under Rules, as well as creating a shop window for vendors of these horses.


It should also be


acknowledged that point- to-point racing can provide an excellent racing environment for older horses whose handicap rating may limit opportunities under rules or who are no longer suited to the rigours of Jump racing, yet still enjoy the game and have much to offer in the amateur ranks; including helping educate our future jump jockeys of tomorrow.


Courtesy of British Horseracing Authority


www.britishhorseracing.com


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