18 May 2010 Preview: Meynell & South Staffordshire - Garthorpe
by Emma Forman
It is the Meynell and South Staffordshire Hunt's turn to stage its Point-to-Point race meeting at Garthorpe this coming Sunday, 23rd May.
After a great day's racing last year, the MSSH decided to put on more activities for all to enjoy by theming this year's event as a Countryside race day. Charlie Moore, the secretary, said "Last year we were blessed with wonderful weather and the large crowd of picnic - goers enjoyed the mix of a friendly, relaxed atmosphere with the excitement of some competitive racing. This year, whilst we have everything crossed for another warm sunny day, we wanted to offer more to encourage an even bigger crowd to enjoy the countryside and join us for a busy afternoon of activities."
These additional activities include: camel racing, ferret racing, pony racing and a parade of hounds. The National Falconry School will be displaying the owls that they supplied for the Harry Potter films. The gates open at 10.30a.m. and activities are scheduled to begin at 12.30p.m.
A large entry of 202 horses has been taken for the seven Point- to- Point races; the of which is due off at 2.15p.m. and some exciting contests are in prospect. Owners and Trainers can be assured that the track will be watered as necessary and will be in excellent condition.
This meeting also sees the culmination of the Garthorpe Open Race Bonus Championship series. There is currently £1070 in the prize fund and this will go up by £15 for each runner that lines up in the Mixed Open race at 3.45p.m. Richard Hunnisett is currently in the lead with Denvale on seven points. However, this could all change as Ann Arthurs has six points with her mare True Friday. Both these horses are entered on Sunday in what could be a very exciting finale.
Another highlight could be the presence of Jake Greenall, who won three races at Garthorpe's last meeting and also has a chance of winning the National Mens Championship. Greenall, who is nineteen, aims to land an unprecedented family treble. His brothers Ollie and Tom won the title in 2008 and 2009 respectively. Jake, who plans to become a professional jockey at the end of the season, may ride Gunner Jack, My Old Piano or Sonevafushi in the Mixed Open race.
Parkinson and Aztec Warrior, the first and second in the PPORA Novice Riders Series Final at Tabley last Sunday, are both entered in the 3.15p.m PPORA Club Members Novice Riders race.
Bookmakers and the Tote will be in operation for the Point-to-Point races. There will be a large number of trade stands, catering outlets and a children's play area that includes a climbing wall and bouncy castle. The "Grumpy Huntsman" licensed bar will be serving champagne and Pimms as well as the usual drinks.
Garthorpe is a beautiful setting in which to bring the family, a picnic and the dogs for a day out with great views of the surrounding countryside. The track is situated on the B676, five miles east of Melton Mowbray and seven miles west of the A1. The postcode for satellite navigation systems is LE14 2RS. Admission is £15 per car including one occupant with a further £10 charge for each additional occupant (maximum charge £25) in the standard car park. Admission to the forward car park is £40.
