SIX days later than was originally scheduled, the Laois Foxhounds staged the last of their two spring point-to-points at Stradbally, where Kruzhlinin (2/5-1/1 favourite) became the first horse to reach 12 victories in a point-to-point season in the ladies open. One of the dominant forces within the open division this season, Gordon Elliott’s 12-year-old kept his champion pointer title hopes alive by avenging his Necarne defeat at the hands of Sound Money, when accounting for that rival by 10 lengths in the hands of Lisa O’Neill. Winning owner Camilla Sharples, who watched the race from behind a tree, such were her nerves during the race, was understandably relieved afterwards as she said: “I was so nervous, I just wanted him to get around safe and sound. He has just been unbelievable this season – I’m delighted!”

Avenue to success