26 May 2009 Preview: Exmoor Foxhounds - Bratton Down
by Lucy Johnson
DHU LOCH: a Royal winner at Bratton Down?
photo: Alun Sedgmore
The second of three meetings at Bratton Down takes place next Sunday with the Exmoor Foxhounds the host hunt, and there will be plenty of eyes on Dhu Loch, entered in the Restricted race.
He is owned and bred by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal and is trained by her daughter, Zara Phillips.
The six-year-old has run twice this season, winning his last start at Bredwardine earlier this month and he is sure to be a warm order in the betting. Also among the 22 entries is Redworth Boy, who gave 16-year-old Lizzy Kelly her second win of the season at Treborough Hill, where he won the Members race.
Amber Love is another entry; she won a Maiden race at Kingston St Mary in March and followed this up with second place at Upcott Cross a month later.
Intermediate entries include the Polly Gundry and Ed Walker-trained Carrie On, who has won twice at Flete Park this season, while among the runners in the Ladies Open race could be the Richard Barber-trained Rye Brook, three times a winner this season.
An exciting race is in prospect in the Mens Open with Whizzaar and Tonic Du Charmil both entered.
The Open Maiden race has been divided, and in the first division Oneoneeight and Southway Queen are two to watch out for. In the second division, Alanna's Oscar could improve on second at Ashorne earlier this month.
Seven races get underway at 2pm with the Members race, where Deloughtane could add to his Open Maiden win at Treborough Hill on Saturday.
Following the first meeting at the course, which saw heavy hail storms, the fences have all been moved onto fresh ground.
As well as great racing, a bar, catering, bookies and trade stands are also part of the day's entertainment. The course is situated alongside the A399, 11 miles north of South Molton, postcode EX31 4SG.
Entrance for a car and all passengers is £20, reduced to £10 for single occupant (car & driver).
