17 February 2010 Preview: North Hereford - Whitwick Manor
by Stella Havard
Local enthusiasts are looking forward to the first fixture between the Welsh Border Area flags next Saturday (20th) at Whitwick Manor, Lower Eggleton.
The North Herefordshire meeting usually boasts a bumper card, and there will be a minimum of seven races for the afternoon, starting at midday.
One owner really looking forward to the meeting is Marden-based Ted Brooks, who hopes to have his very first Point-to-Point runner in the Members race. Ted has owned a number of racehorses over the last two decades, but was primarily interested in the Flat code before moving to Herefordshire a few years ago.
"I accompanied Martin Roberts, who has my horses, to several Point-to-Points last season, and thoroughly enjoyed them. The atmosphere and the scenery- marvellous! I bought Sergeant Sharpe through Brightwells, originally intending him to run on the all-weather, but really would love to be involved on the Point-to-Point scene, so I've changed his direction!"
" ‘Sarge' is a five year-old maiden, so there's a certain amount of trepidation in my anticipation for the first appearance - he hasn't jumped a fence in public yet! But it will be a sentimental occasion, as he'll run in the colours of my dear old Dad, which haven't been on a racecourse for almost thirty years."
Rest assured, there will be plenty of long-standing supporters amongst the ‘new boys' at Whitwick, and Shobdon-based trainer Steve Flook will be looking to follow up his success from last week, when Christine Rogers' Rumbury Grey galloped clear at Black Forest Lodge.
Secretary, Frank Morgan reports that initially the popular course is in excellent condition. Whitwick Manor (HR8 2UE) can be found 8 miles north-east of Hereford, close to the Newtown crossroads junction of the A417 and the A4103. Entrance to the course is £10 per person, children under 16 free.
