16 March 2011 Preview: Bicester with Whaddon Chase - Whitfield
by Claire Hart
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OVER THE PHONE: Whitfield could be the next target for recent Hunter Chase winner
photo: Jackie Oliver
Action returns to Whitfield racecourse this Sunday, the course is situated just off the A43 Brackley to Northampton road, postcode NN13 5TQ.
The Hunt Members kicks off proceedings at 12.30; recent Mens Open winner Pocket Park looks the best of them but should he not line up Euro Bleu, Betavix, or Good Man Jack look the best of the rest.
Top class Entries for the Ladies Open include Angela Rucker's Kicks For Free, who remains unbeaten this season, the Hutchinson family's ultra consistent Limerick Leader, The Hookie Bookie who deserves to win a race of this grade and Scotmail Too, who was lying third when falling at the last at Didmarton. It is sure to be a very good race.
It will be hard to oppose Over The Phone in the Mens event should he turn up here, with him having won a Hunter Chase at Leicester recently. He also won his Intermediate here so clearly likes the track, however it would be no surprise to see Coolefind give him a run for his money should he bounce back to his best. Others include Up There, who won at Barbury back in February and James Pine, who is a decent performer on his day.
Dermatologiste may reappear here in her quest up the ladder in the Intermediate; she has been a revelation since returning to Points and she will make use of the 7lb mares allowance. Competition promises to be hot though; Orient legend, trained locally by Jenny Pigeon, continues to improve and following a good run at Godstone three weeks ago he will not be far away. Dammam, who disappointed here back in February, was an impressive winner at Larkhill previously and if back on that form he will run a big race. Others to note are the Julie Houldey-trained Princess Fyona and Alison Dare's New Series.
The Open Maiden has been well supported and has 39 Entries so a split on the day is a possibility; the Restricted race has 24 Entries.
Great racing is promised and there will be lots of tradestands, hot/cold food, childrens entertainment and hopefully some sunshine!
Admission costs are £20 per car.
To hear all updates supplied throughout the week and on the morning of the meeting, call the Talking Point news line on 09068 44 60 61*.
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