IN a bid to attract larger crowds to point-to-points, hunt committees have to come up with new ideas each season and for this autumn campaign side saddle races appear to be in vogue.

Two such events have been advertised already, the Tipperary Foxhounds running a race for side saddle enthusiasts following the regular programme at their meeting in Lisronagh on Sunday, December 4th, with the Carlow Farmers Hunt following suit seven days later at Borris House.

Jacqui Freyne, organiser of the Tipperarys’ contest along with point-to-point secretary Ber Bourke, said she couldn’t believe the interest shown in the race from prospective riders both here and abroad. “We even had one person query if men could take part but, no, it’s strictly for women and they have to be over 18.

“The race will be over a mile and a quarter on the flat and horses will come up the home straight twice which will be good for spectators,” reports Jacqui, performance development manager at Athletics Ireland. “Riders, at catch weight, will need to wear back protectors and helmets but also be in full side saddle hunting costume. No thoroughbred horses are allowed compete.”

JACQUI TO RIDE

Jacqui, whose husband, Lieutenant Colonel Tom Freyne is one of the Tipperarys’ joint-Masters along with being Officer Commanding of the Army Equitation School, hopes to ride in the race herself, although she may have to borrow a suitable mount. “I think I might have found one but I’m going to have to give him a trial first!

“Ber is thinking of taking part as well but, as she has never ridden in a side saddle, the race might come too early for her. We would welcome riders from Britain and further afield and, while we haven’t decided on a safety limit for the race as yet, if it’s oversubscribed, we will divide.

“We plan on making this a big occasion and there will be a Christmas Fayre as well which will hopefully boost crowd numbers.”