25 November 2008 Preview: Cambridge University United Hunts Club - Cottenham
BURNTOAKBOY: the star turn in the Mens' Open at Cottenham this Sunday
Burntoakboy, a recent Cheltenham Festival winner and a fine third on his return to that stage only eight months ago, is the star turn amongst 89 entries for the season-opening Cambridge University United Hunts Club meeting at Cottenham on Sunday November 30.
Burntoakboy has 13 possible opponents for his British Pointing debut in the Mens' Open. Pick of these could be the talented but tricky Premium First, who is already a seven-time winner between the flags.
The Ladies' Open has 19 engaged including a number of high class performers. Minouchka, who is unbeaten in Points and won two hunter chases last term, may make the long trip down from Scotland to face the likes of Honest Endeavour, Olivier, Madge Carroll and the course and distance winner, Interdit.
The six-race card gets under way at noon with a five-entry PPORA Novice Riders' event and runs through until 2.55pm, when there are 24 possible combatants for a two and a half mile maiden which has an outside chance of being divided on the day as the maximum field size is 16.
Course officials are suggesting a slight change to many people's route to the course owing to a clash with a local football match.
Histon Football Club is staging the biggest match in its history, a second round FA Cup tie against Leeds United, so patrons are advised to avoid junction 32 of the A14, and instead use junction 33 - which is only a marginally slower route on a normal day.
At junction 33, take the A10 signed for Ely. Then take the second left to Landbeach. Go straight through the village of Landbeach, past the playing field, and take the first left out the other side. The course is half a mile further down this road.
Admission will be charged at £12 per head to include a complimentary racecard. Under 17s are admitted free, OAPs at a £2 discount and students and young farmers at £6 per head on production of a valid identity card.
