We need PTP maidens

Sir, - As a National Hunt breeder I am very concerned with the present suspension of point-to-point racing, which is our shop window for selling the best horses which win hotly contested maiden races for four-, five- and six-year-olds.

As breeders and providers of foals we are the first link in a chain. The sellers of these elite horses are the final link, the value of these animals reflects down the chain.

Even if point-to-point races have to be restricted to horses in the maiden categories it would keep the commercial side of our business moving, especially nowadays as there is no bar tent and social mixing at point-to-points is at a minimum.

Riders may be technically regarded as amateurs, but most of them are equal to the best professionals and have as much experience, many of them competing together with professionals on racecourses.

Hopefully such racing can be restored. Yours, etc., -

Peter Downes

Russellstown Stud,

Mullingar,

Co Westmeath