When do the preparations for the point season begin?

The preparations began in August. We start to assess the condition of the ground and get our sponsors in-line. We also must organise the insurance and ambulances. The aim is to have most of the organising well firmed up by September. It certainly takes the bones of two months preparation. We have a small enough committee, there are seven of us of the in total. However, we are blessed that we have an excellent and hardworking committee who truck with our wonderful volunteers to organise a well set-up event.

Does the ground get very damaged by racing?

The ground is usually good for this autumn meeting. We are fortunate enough to be able to run two point-to-point fixtures each year. There is a good bit of work getting the ground right and of course getting the ground back to good condition afterwards as this is very important for the farmer.

What are the costs?

The costs in running a point-to-point are very considerable. The costs include the hiring of the fences, hiring the loos, the ambulances, and of course the price of the insurance! That is to just name a few of the overheads. The aim is to generate a profit for the hunt club. The sponsors and adverts are a necessity. The point-to-point grant from the Turf Club does cover expenses but we are always trying to maximise profit.

How many volunteers are needed? Is it getting harder to find people?

It is impossible to put a figure on volunteers but the more hands and help the better. The hard core hunting people and the parents of children who are members of the hunt are always on site on the day to help and of course the huntsman, hounds and whip are here to lead out the winners. We really are very fortunate that we have a great committee and that everyone gets on. The volunteers are who keep the show on the road!

What have been the biggest changes during your time involved in the point-to-point industry?

In recent years the point-to-point scene certainly has become more professional. There are a smaller number of people with just one or two horses and it is much more up-scale bigger yards now coming to race at the point-to-points. The trainers seem to have the horses ready the first day out in terms of fitness and preparation. It is interesting to note that there are a lot less fallers.

Attracting the general public to attend has become more difficult. I guess without some form of interest in point-to-points and racing, people are less inclined to venture out and without some reasonable weather you can always expect a smaller attendance.

We are very fortunate that the venue for our point-to-point also accommodates other facilities such as a café, horse museum and gift shop. These attractions are of huge benefit as they are all indoors.

What is the running order for Sunday?

Our schedule for next Sunday begins with the four-year-old maiden, five-year-old geldings maiden, five-year-olds mares maiden, open four-year-old plus, winner of one four-year-old plus, and six-year-old plus geldings maiden for the novice rider. This race is one we like to include as it gives the novice rider the opportunity to ride in a competitive race and gain valuable experience.

Are there any changes or improvements you would like to see made?

I feel it is most important to get everyone to work well together and I think everyone is doing their best to get the scheduling right. Of course there is no way to forecast 100% that there will not be clashes on the calendar with other social events but we try out best to find a suitable date. We are holding two meetings this year, this upcoming point-to-point October 15th and the next being held at the end of the season on March 25th 2018.