11 March 2009 Preview: Fitzwilliam (Milton) - Cottenham
Cottenham stages the last of its four meetings for the 2008-9 season when the Fitwilliam (Milton) fixture gets under way at 1.00pm on Sunday.
Seven races are scheduled, but there are likely to be at least eight as the closing two and a half Maiden has 45 engaged and a maximum allowed field size of 16 so is set to be divided. Foulstons Ruler, who showed plenty of speed when a close second at Higham last time, looks the pick of this huge entry.
Bobbies Ryde may attempt to repeat last year's triumph in the opener, a seven-entry Hunt Race, while Bell Rock, winner of the Ladies' Open at this meeting for the past two years, is among 31 possibles for the same event. However, Scotland Yard, a brilliant winner at last month's Cottenham fixtrure, stands out among his potential opponents.
Alan Hill, trainer of Bell Rock, should be on the mark in the Connolly's Red Mills Intermediate as he has Start Royal, who scored in the day's fastest time at Higham a fortnight ago, among the 22 engaged. Viceroy Close, winner of his last three starts, could provide his stiffest competition.
The steeple chasing will be followed by a pair of children's pony races.
The course is best approached using junction 33 of the A14. Take the A10 signed for Ely then, after passing the new park and ride car park, take the second left turn 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.
