South Wales & Monmouthshire : Area News : Weatherbys Point-to-Point

Last Updated - 18 May 2007

Fixtures

May

Gelligaer Farmers Preview - 20 May

Recent rain has resulted in good entries for Sunday's meeting at Rhydygwern.

The Hunt race ( 2 p.m.) starts proceedings and looks to be a match between veteran AMARI and TIGU , should the impressive Howick maiden winner turn out here instead of the restricted race.

The Confined race (2.35) has a competitive appearance with several in-form animals among the entries. LADY MYFANWY , currently topping the Weatherbys Chase Young Horse Championship leader board would hold every chance if meeting her engagement here. The Robert's family hold a strong hand with CHESNUT ANNIE and CHESNUT WOOD. The first named was particularly impressive when successful at Howick last weekend and is clearly on the upgrade. HUME THEATRE made a winning seasonal reappearance here a fortnight ago while GOLLY and TITCHFIELD are others to note.

TEDDY BOY has been in good form recently and if travelling from the West Country will be hard to beat in the Mixed Open (3.10). His win at Holnicote last weekend represents solid form and he can give Richard Woollacott a winning ride here. HOWDYDOODY has been most consistent this term and maybe best of the rest, although STEP AND RUN will be a danger if making the trip from Cheshire.

SENEGAL TIGER turned in a decent performance when successful at Banwen Miners two weeks ago and has every chance of a follow up in the Restricted race (3.45). As previously noted TIGU was most impressive when winning at Howick last weekend, quickening well to beat INISSAM STORM by 15 lengths. He must be thereabouts if turning out here. Of the others, This One Is A Boy was noted running on well Atherstone three weeks ago and should be well suited by the Rhydygwern track.

The Confined Maiden for 5, 6, and 7 year olds (4.20) may fall to CARRAIG who's noted staying on well behind Senegal Tiger at Banwen Miners two weeks ago. Obviously a bold effort by the Tiger in the previous race would boost his chances here.

DEVILS TEARDROP and the perennial bridesmaid INISSAM STORM also hold good chances.

LEAHY can record his first win Confined Maiden (8 years plus) which closes the card at 4.55. He was travelling well when capsizing four fences from home at Pentreclwyddau two weeks ago and a clear round should be sufficient for him to succeed here. SOMETIME A PART and LOUGH RYNN appear best of the remainder.

Leading Riders at Rhydygwern 2002 - 2007

Tim Vaughan 9
Lucy Rowsell 4
Tom Faulkner 3

Course winners entered at today's meeting.

Bizarre Native, Chesnut Wood, Grey Kid, High Tech Man, Hume Theatre, Murdinga, Usk Valley, Valjean and Venilla Man (2).

The course is situated 4 miles west of Newport on the A468, at Lower Machen. If using M4 leave at J28

Curre & Llangibby Preview - 12 May

We return to Howick on Saturday for the meeting rescheduled from mid February.

Racing commences at 2 pm with the Members race. TANMEYA held every chance when slipping up approaching 3 out at Coldharbour last Sunday and may recoup losses here. BOWDENS LANE was not disgraced when fourth last weekend at Rhydygwern and is an obvious danger.

SHAFTS CHOICE won a restricted race at Llanfrynach in March and has run well in an intermediate subsequently so he has a favourite's chance in the Intermediate race (2.35). KINGS EURO has been in fine form recently, winning two races in nine days. He won readily at Banwen Miners on Monday and the hat trick is not out of the question.

MISTY GLEN should also be noted.

The Mens Open (3.10) has attracted 23 entries, the best of which may be

LOUGH ENNEL , already an impressive course winner this season. GOOD BONE has been lightly raced this season but must not be ignored if turning out today.

The Ladies Open (3.45) includes entries from BALLYALBERT, FANTASTIC CHAMPION, FATHER TOM and FLEUR DE NIKOS , so a hot race could be in store for racegoers. The last mentioned is marginally preferred.

SAUCYNORWICH was just touched off at Rhydygwern on Sunday and must be hard to overcome if re-appearing in the Restricted race (4.20). If missing the hunt race TANMEYA would be a leading contender while DURSEY ISLAND must be noted if making the journey from over the border.

The Open Maiden(4.55) has 48 entries including many of the usual suspects!

MISS MILLFIELD sidestepped several entries last weekend and has a decent chance here . CLOUD VENTURE has been off the course since running well at Whitwick Manor in February and will be worth a second look if re-appearing. LEAHY and MEMBERS ONLY are others with obvious chances.

Leading Riders 2002-2007

Dai Jones 9
James Tudor 7
Tim Vaughan 4
William Oakes 4

The course is situated 2 miles west of Chepstow on B4293. If using M4 from England take M48 at junction 21 and leave motorway J2 after using original Severn Bridge crossing.

First things first! Congratulations to Keith Pritchard, Paul Davies and Dai Jones for their win in the Champion Hunter Chase with Cannon Bridge at Cheltenham on Wednesday. What a performance!!!

Tredegar Farmers Preview - 6 May

FIRST RACE 2 PM - The course has been watered throughout the week, and watering will continue until Saturday evening to provide good ground.

VANILLA MAN and Rebecca Athay attempt to repeat last years victory in the Members race (2 p.m.). He has been running well this season and will not be far away.

SCOTCH CORNER has shown improved form recently and has a favourite's chance if running here instead of the Mens Open.

However, GOLLY's excellent effort when fourth at Cheltenham on Wednesday was an eye-opener and he will take the beating if making a quick re-appearance.

SAUCYNORWICH ran well when beaten by Lough Ennel at Bonvilston two weeks ago. He is sure to be well supported in the Restricted race (2.35). THE BAILLIE was in touch when falling three out at Maisemore Park in early April. In the same race BOWDENS LANE was only beaten by a length although he did not improve on that run when last of five finishes at Bonvilston, but it is fair to assume he is capable of better. ALBORN LAD won a 2½ mls maiden at Kingston Blount under James Tudor and is open to improvement. Of the others DAGENHAM YANK may run well at decent odds.

The Ladies race (3.10) has attracted a very good quality entry. FLEUR DE NIKOS beat FANTASTIC CHAMPION by 15 lengths at Llanfrynach and these two useful types may re-appear here. FANTASTIC CHAMPION has subsequently enjoyed two wins at Llanvapley and Ystradowen and there may not be much between them here. KHATANI reserves his best form for the latter part of the season and this ultra game type will surely run well here. LADY MYFANWY won an Intermediate at Brampton Bryan and is clearly on the upgrade. She will be well suited to ladies races and is one to watch.

If side-stepping the members race, SCOTCH CORNER can make a bold effort in the Mens Open (3.40). His front running style will make him hard to beat. TITCHFIELD and the improving BUCKET AWL may be next best.

The consistent mare SEA SNIPE will be at short odds if making the journey from the West Country for the PPORA Novice Riders Race. (4.20). Her regular partner Nick Schofield is the rising star among young riders, having already ridden 19 winners this season. This combination has already won four races this season and more success is on the cards. Kyle Yates has impressed several good judges with his riding this season and he has a willing partner in T ITCHFIELD. . They may present the biggest obstacle to a SEA SNIPE five-timer. 17 year old JOHN MATHIAS is another to have caught the eye and his 'selected' is sure to run well.

The Open maiden (4.55) closes the card and THE HAIRY MUTT will be a warm order after managing to turn certain victory into defeat when running out at the last fence at Bonvilston recently. He was well clear and, provided this aberration was a one off, he looks too good for the remainder.

MISS MILLFIELD and BILL JONES are improving with racing while INISSAM STORM and LEAHY will be thereabouts.

Leading riders at Rhydygwern since 2002

Tim Vaughan 8
Lucy Rowsell 4
Tommy Faulkener 3
Marc Barber 2
John L Llewellyn 2

Course winners engaged at today's meeting

Bizarre Native, Cannon Bridge, Chesnut Wood, Khatani (2) Like the Buzz Murdinga, Usk Valley, Valjean, Vanilla Man.

The course is situated 4 miles west of Newport on the A468 at Lower Machen. If using M4 leave at J28.

Racegoers are advised that our beloved Millennium Stadium is hosting Rugby League playoffs over the weekend, so allow a little extra travelling time.

April

Llangeinor Preview - 28 Apr

There are plenty of entries for this week's seven races at Laleston. The enthusiastic hunt supporters have been working hard to ensure decent going so good racing is in prospect.

Racing gets underway at 2 p.m. with the Members race. BOBOSH will be hard to beat if meeting his engagement here. Norman Jones has two entered, BUCKLAND BOY and KING'S EURO and either of these can go close.

CHESNUT WOOD made a successful re-appearance at Ystradowen three weeks ago and has a decent chance of following up in the Confined race (2.30).

The Ladies race (3 p.m.) has several useful types entered but if FLEUR DE NIKOS reproduces his Llanfrynach form he will be hard to beat. BOBOSH and KHATANI must also be respected .

If missing the ladies race, KHATANI will be a popular choice in the Mens Open (3.30). He was unlucky when shipping up in this race last year and may gain recompense on this occasion. West Wales entries HOWDYDOODY and TITCHFIELD should both be prominent.

SAUCYNORWICH ran well when second to Lough Ennel at Bonvilston last weekend and may go one better in the Restricted race (4 p.m.). WARYETH had a confidence boosting win at Ystradowen and may continue to improve.

Two maiden races close the steeplechasing part of the card and INISSAM STORM would be a popular local winner of the 5,6, 7 yrs Open (4.30). Another Llangeinor qualifier MISS MILLFIELD stayed on well at Bonvilston and will be a danger if re-appearing.

The 8yrs+ Maiden (5 p.m.) can fall to LEAHY although David Brace has interesting entries in MEMBERS ONLY and ONLYBEGONEANHOUR, either of which would be a leading contender.

Following the conclusion of the Steeplechases, two pony races will be keenly contested and well worth watching.

Leading Riders
7 - Dai Jones
5 - James Tudor
4 - Lucy Rowsell

Course Winners
Amari, Bobosh, Khatani

The course is situated 3mls west of Bridgend near A48 and is 3mls from M4, exit 37.

Next weekend's racing is on Sunday 6th May when the Tredegar Farmers meeting is held at Rhydygwern, Lower Machen. The course will be watered if necessary.

Pentyrch Hunt Preview - 21 Apr

Racing gets underway at 2 p.m. with the Hunt race, which has some of the leading south Wales horses among the entries. CANNON BRIDGE, also in the mixed open, KHATANI and LOUGH ENNEL makes this potentially one of the best races of the season.

LONGSTONE BOY and MINSGULL MANS stand out in the Confined race (2.35) with slight preference for the latter HOT PRODUXION may be best of the others.

The TBA/MFHA/PPORA Mares Maiden (3.10) looks very tricky, ANSHANS DREAM and MISS MILLFIELD appear to have decent chances, but punters beware!

The south Wales area feature race, the south Wales Grand National Mixed Open (3.45) over 3 mls 4 furlongs has attracted 33 entries the best of which may be local qualifier CANNON BRIDGE. After a couple of hiccups, normal service was resumed at Cilwendeg a month ago. Dangers abound, and two west Wales entries HOWDYDOODY and TITCHFIELD will be thereabouts but if CANNON BRIDGE is back to his best, the locals could have plenty to celebrate.

Thirty eight entries have been received for the Restricted race (4.20) including eight winners last time out. The best of these may be MISTER MAMBO although this one has been absent since winning on 24th February. BOWDENS LANE, DOUBLE MEAD and the locally owned BELLA HAZE are definitely three for the shortlist.

Two divisions of 5, 6 & 7 years Open Maidens conclude the point to pointing.

Division One (4.55) looks virtually insoluble BALBEC LEADER was noted making late progress when third at Ystradowen last weekend, while a market move for locally owned LETSPLAY should be noted.

Division Two (5.30) is no easier than division one to untangle, BILLY LANE gave Howard Howard a scare last weekend while UP OUR STREET also has sound claims. SCHOLAR KING may also be worth a second look.

Two pony races follow the 'chasers' and if they are as exciting as last weekend's events at Ystradowen they should be worth watching!

Leading Riders
Dai Jones 16, Tim Vaughan 13, Tom Faulkner 4, Lucy Rowsell 4.

Course Winners entered
BOBOSH, CANNONBRIDGE (3), CHANCY GUY, HOT PRODUXION, KHATANI and ITSALLUPINTHEAIR.

The course is situated 4 miles west of Cardiff near A48 (If using M4 leave at J33 and proceed along A4232 for approx. 3 mls before taking A48).

Ystrad Taf Fechan Preview - 14 Apr

We return to Ystradowen for the Ystrad Taf Fechan meeting where there are seven steeplechases followed by two pony races. The Hunt race (2 p.m.) has attracted thirteen entries. MYFANWY MILES appears to hold the aces with LADY MYFANWY and VALJEAN to select from and either should be good enough. Dual course winner BOYNE SHADOW looks best of the rest.

Course winner ANOTHER ALLIANCE was only outpaced close home here a fortnight ago and will be hard to beat in the Restricted race (2.35) REDHOUSE CHEVALIER was the recipient of a forceful ride under Luke Price when successful here two weeks ago and will be sure to be prominent again while NORMANDY SANDS ran well when second at Llanfrynach, the form of which was franked when third placed Antoine won at Bitterley last weekend. NORMANDY SANDS may be good enough on this occasion.

The Confined (3.10) looks best left to KILBREENA who landed a gamble in good style at the previous meeting. CHESNUT WOOD, three times a course winner, is due to make his seasonal debut and is sure to go well.

TITCHFIELD landed the Mixed Open here two weeks ago and followed up with a decent second at Lydstep last weekend. He must be thereabouts in the Mens Open (3.45) Popular veteran DERRING DOVE appears next best.

The Ladies Open (4.20) looks more competitive than the male equivalent with several useful English raiders entered, the best of which may be FATHER TOM, SAILORS FOLLY and FANTASTIC CHAMPION, a comfortable winner at Llanvapley last Saturday. BOBOSH, a winner at Lydstep on Monday appears to be the leading Welsh contender and this doughty battler may come out on top in an intriguing contest.

Herefordshire trainer Steve Flook has a good record here and his entry HOWARD HOWARD has every chance in the Open Maiden (5,6,& 7 yrs) at 4.55. Another English raider MAD VICTOR has sound credentials while market support for MISS MILLFIELD would be of interest.

LEAHY and LOUGH RYNN both ran well in different divisions of Curre and Llangibby maidens a month ago and will hold every chance in the older horses Maiden (5.30) WAREYTH was well held in the maiden at the previous meeting here but a sound performance by his conqueror Redhouse Chevalier in the restricted would enhance his chances.

Don't forget the Pony Racing after the pointing, it's always competitive with no quarter asked or given!

Leading Riders

Tim Vaughan 11
Marc Barber 5
Rhys Hughes 5
Luke Price 3

Course winners engaged at today's meeting Another Alliance, Boyne Shadow(2)

Chesnut Wood (3) Kilbreena, Redhouse Chevalier, Titchfield, Valjean.

The course is situated on the A4222 between Cowbridge and Pontyclun, if travelling via M4 use exit 34 or 35.

Next week's racing is at Bonvilston, where the Pentyrch Hunt host the South Wales Area Fixture Race, the Welsh Point to Point Grand National Mixed Open over 3mls 4 furlongs. First race 2 p.m.

Curre & Llangibby - 12 May

Rearranged meeting information

Please note the following :

ENTRIES WILL CLOSE ON : SUNDAY, 6TH MAY AT 8PM

The FIRST race at Howick will be at 2.00pm , with 35 minute intervals between races.

The SIXTH race on the card will be an OPEN Maiden and not a Confined Maiden as was originally planned for the meeting that was cancelled on the 25th February.

Monmouthshire Preview - 7 Apr

Racing gets off to a low key start with only three entries in the Hunt race (2 p.m.) WADDON HILL won two races in the West Country in 2006 and appears vastly superior to his two rivals.

MINSGILL MANS turned in an excellent performance when successful at Cilwendeg two weeks ago and a repeat will see him go very close in the Confined Race (2.35) MISTER BIGTIME was a useful chaser in Ireland and has taken well to pointing. Prior to a facile win in the hunt race at Llanfrynach he turned in a decent run at Warwick in a hunterchase. There is very little between BUCKLAND BOY and COAL QUEEN and they need to be considered.

The Mens Open (3.10) could see CANNON'S BRIDGE and LOUGH ENNEL locking horns. CANNON'S BRIDGE resumed winning ways at Cilwendeg two weeks ago while LOUGH ENNEL lost nothing in defeat when failing by a neck to overcome Twenty Degrees last weekend. It is difficult to look past these two, but as Titchfield showed at Ystradowen last weekend, racing is a funny game!

Few who were at Llanfrynach will wish to oppose FLEUR DE NIKOS in the Ladies race (3.05). Her jumping and sheer enthusiasm was a joy to witness. BOBOSH appeared to struggle under 12-7 in the mixed open last weekend and will be better suited by the switch back to ladies company. STEP and RUN won this race in 2005 and will be thereabouts.

The Restricted race (4.20) looks competitive. ANOTHER ALLIANCE, BOWDENS LANE and NORMANDY SANDS all turned in useful efforts when second in their last outings. BELLA HAZE was a game winner at Howick on her race course debut and lost no caste when succumbing to Grey Kid at Cilwendeg two weeks ago. BOWDENS LANE and BELLA HAZE may fight out the finish this time.

The meeting closes with a tricky looking 5,6, & 7 Confined Maiden race (4.55) BILLY LANE returned to his best form when just outpaced by Merthyr Mawr at Ystradowen last weekend and would hold a decent chance of re-appearing. Both MR WORTH and BILL JONES were well backed at Llanfrynach two weeks ago but neither threatened to get involved at the business end. No doubt better is to come from both animals and Mr Worth may be up to winning today. Once again TIGU should be kept on the right side if appearing, his performance at Didmarton was full of promise.

Leading riders at Llanfrynach since 2002

3 - Dai Jones
3 - James Tudor
3 - William Oakes
2 - Tim Vaughan

Course winners entered at today's meeting AMARI - BUCKLAND BOY - KINGS EURO LOUGH ENNEL - STEP AND RUN.

The course is situated 4 miles east of Abergavenny near B433 and is 4
miles from A40.

Next weeks racing is on Saturday 14th April at Ystradowen, where the
Ystrad Taf Fechan hold their meeting. Racing starts at 2 p.m. and two
pony races will follow the point to points.

March

Glamorgan Preview - 31 Mar

The first of two meetings to be held at Uplands, Ystradowen, takes place this saturday with the Glamorgan Hunt meeting.

Racing commences at 2 p.m. with the Confined Maiden for 5,6, & 7 year olds. Beverley Thomas holds a strong hand with several entries. Of these CARRAIG was running a decent race before capsizing three from home at Tivyside last Saturday.Of the others, MISS MILLFIELD was in the firing line when unseating at Llanfrynach last Sunday and appears to be going the right way.

The Confined Maiden for 8 year olds and upwards (2.35) features several animals involved in the four maiden races at Howick recently. Of these LEAHY and MEMBERS ONLY appear best. SOME TIME APART made a sound seasonal re-apprearance last weekend when second to Mvezo at Cilwendeg. RAGAMIX ran well for a long way at Llanfrynach and may be worth noting if representing the Isaac family instead of Leahy.

The Confined race (3.10) could fall to veteran campaigner LONGSTONE BOY who is making his season re-appearance. If he has retained his ability at 15 he will be hard to overcome. BATCHWORTH LOCK was not beaten far at Tivyside and will hold every chance, while SAINT PAR and ADMIRAL BROWN were only separated by a length in the Confined, also at Tivyside, and must be thereabouts.

While MISTER FELIX was probably flattered by his proximity to Irilut at Siddington last weekend, another useful performer, Full Minty was well behind in third place so the form looks solid and he will be hard to beat in the Mixed Open (3.45). BLUE ENDEAVOUR won this race in good fashion last season and must be respected. MINSGILL MANS stepped up on previous form when storming home in the Intermediate at Cilwendeg beating Hot Produxion by a distance in the fastest time of the day. KHATANI has shown his liking for Ystradowen previously may be the one to catch, particulary if the ground continues to dry out.

The Intermediate (4.20) has the smallest entry with 13 possibles but with four of these having won last time out it looks a decent race. AHEADOFHISTIME looked useful when winning in Restricted at Howick and appears to be progressive. KINGS REPLY was not disgraced when 4th in a Ladies Open last weekend and would benefit in the step down in class here. MIKE GOLDEN won a restricted over the course in Fine Fashion last season and will be a leading contender.

The meeting concludes with the Restricted race (4.55) where comfortable Tivyside winner MVEZO would have his supporters if re-appearing. FREEMANTLE DOCTOR is usually well supported in the market but has been unsuccessful eight times since landing his maiden last season, beating the useful Chitas Flight. Of the others INDIAN TRIX would be of interest if making her seasonal re-appearance, she is quite useful on good ground as her third to Classi Maureen at Rhydygwern proved.

LEADING RIDERS SINCE 2002

Tim Vaughan 11
Marc Barber 5
Rhys Hughes 3

COURSE WINNERS ENGAGED AT TODAY'S MEETING

Another Alliance, Blue Endeavour, Boyne Shadow (2), De Chelly, Khatani, Manhunter, Mike Golden, Mr Nemo.

The course is on the A4222 between Cowbridge and Pontyclun if using M4 use junction 34 or 35.

Brecon & Talybont Preview - 25 Mar

The Brecon & Talybont who now run on the 25th March want to put the start of their first back to 1pm. (original time was 12pm). Therefore everything else will go back the hour.

After an excellent meeting at Howick last weekend, racegoers will be looking forward to an equally enjoyable day at Llanfrynach, undoubtedly one of the most picturesque courses in Britain.

The Hunt race (1.00) looks to be at the mercy of MISTER BIGTIME, his form being vastly superior to the other entrants.

CHESNUT ANNIE turned in a sound effort when second at Howick and looks capable of repeating her course win last year in the Confined race (1.30) BUCKLAND BOY and COAL QUEEN look best of the others although MISTER BIGTIME must be thereabouts if taking up this entry rather than the Members.

BALLYLUSKY will be a warm order if meeting his engagement in the Mens Open (2.00) having already scored four times this season. However, CANNON BRIDGE, BEAUCHAMP ORACLE and HOWDYDOODY will all have their suporters HOWDYDOODY was a most game winner at Garnons last Sunday when outbattling Gallik Dawn. Congratulations to sixteen year old John Mathias on riding his first winner, there are surely many more successes waiting for John in the future.

The Ladies Open (2.30) has attracted a particularly strong entry with GOLF AGENT, FLEUR DE NIKOS (disqualified after being first past the post at Bishops Court last weekend ) and STEP AND RUN setting a high standard. Of the others USK VALLEY was noted making good late progress on his season re-appearance last weekend and would be a decent each way bet here.

There are 37 entries for the Restricted race (3.00) but the most recent run of SHAFT'S CHANCE when narrowly failing to catch Step and Run in a Ladies Open at Eyton on Seven last weekend bears the closest inspection. BOWDEN'S LANE, SAUCYNORWICH and BIZARRE NATIVE could be best of the rest.

INISSAM STORM was only caught close home in a maiden race at Howick and has every chance of going one better in Division One of the Maiden (3.30) TIGU and WORSHIP THE STARS both turned an eye catching efforts on their seasonal debuts and should be kept on the right side.

Division Two (4.00) has a wide open appearance but DAGENHAM YANK ran well enough at Howick to suggest that a visit to the winers enclosure may not be delayed too long.

Leading Riders at Llanfrynach since 2002

Dai Jones 4
Tim Vaughan 4
Nick Oliver 3

The course is situated 3 mls south east at Brecon near B4558 and is within 1ml of A40.

Entrance charges Car and Driver £10, Passengers £5 each. Racecard £2.50

DONT FORGET FIRST RACE 1P.M. NOT AS ORIGINALLY SCHEDULED. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF A LIE IN!!

Curre & Llangibby(2) Preview - 17 Mar

The South Wales season gets underway, belatedly, at Howick on Saturday 17th with the Curre and Llangibby meeting, first race 12 p.m.

Punters should get off to a flying start with BOWDEN LANE in the Members (12.00), a course winner in 2006. He has already turned in two decent performances this season and will take all the beating. Another course winner WILLOUGHBY FLYER may be best of the rest.

Frontrunner FAMILY BUSINESS will take some catching if appearing in the Confined (12.35) His second in the Men's Open at Eyton on Severn last weekend entitles him to be a warm order here. MISTER BIGTIME, placed third in a Hunter Chase at Warwick recently deserves respect. Welsh favourites BUCKLAND BOY, COAL QUEEN and CHESNUT ANNIE will also have their supporters.

Recent maiden winners HIGH RANK and SAUCY NORWICH are likely to be among the market leaders in the Restricted (1.10) slight preference is for the former.

Last year's Mens Open winner BALLYLUSKY became the first horse to win four times this season when scoring at Garthorpe last weekend. If re-appearing in the Mens Open (1.45) he will surely set off as favourite. Welsh hero CANNON BRIDGE has fallen in both his races this season and should improve as the ground dries out. BARNEY'S REFLECTION landed a decent touch at Holnicote for David Brace and is clearly an improved performer. LOUGH ENNEL and MISTER BANJO, an impressive winner last weekend, should also be considered.

The Ladies Open (2.20) has an open appearance, GOLFAGENT, FLEUR DE NIKOS and BOBOSH filled the places at Erw Lon in February and may re-oppose here. STEPANDRUN got off the mark on his seasonal appearance last weekend and must be respected. Possibly BOBOSH may reverse Erw Lon placings .

Four divisions of the Open Maiden will test racegoers stamina and, as always, the betting ring will be punters best guide.

Division One (2.55) PRESENTER (IRE) has been placed several times over hurdles and should set the standard here. SEA PLUME was a fair maiden handicapper on the flat for Lady Herries and must be thereabouts if taking to fences. FLYING TOP was well supported in his two efforts in 2005 and the market will be the best guide for this fellow. Of the others, MR DON is always in the mix, while THE BROGUE ROGUE is sure to make his mark when turning in a clear round.

Division two (3.30) BEESNEEZ turned in a solid effort at Didmarton two weeks ago and should be thereabouts. CHINA CHASE has made the frame twice this season while SHUFFLING PAL was leading when unseating his rider last weekend, having previously finished second at Whitwick Manor. Welsh qualifiers DAGENHAM YANK, LEAHY and RED SEPTEMBER should also be respected.

Division Three (4.05) seems to be an opportunity for MEMBERS ONLY to get off the mark after a valiant second at Holnicote last month when he was remounted after falling two fences from home. This followed a reasonable effort when third at Black Forest Lodge in January. DAISYS RAINBOW and ONE FOR THE LADS have given connections encouragement with seconds this season while TIGU'S run at Didmarton was not without promise.

Division Four (4.00) PIN HIGH'S second at Didmarton behind High Rank (entered in the Restricted) entitles him to be strongly considered in the closing event, while ALBERT HOUSE has been thereabouts in both efforts so far. Of the others WILLIAM SOMERS was noted making late progress at Larkhill over 2½ miles so the additional ½ mile here should be in his favour.

LEADING JOCKEYS (still riding) since 2002

DAI JONES 8
JAMES TUDOR 7
TIM VAUGHAN 4
TOM FAULKNER 3
WILLIAM OAKES 3
LUCY ROWSELL 3

Admission is £15 per car, with a concession for solo travellers.

The course is situated 2 miles west of Chepstow on B4293. If using M4 from England take the M48 at J21 and leave motorway at J2 after using original Severn Bridge crossing.

Racegoers are reminded that the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff is hosting the

Wales v England match this Saturday. While kick-off is not until 5.30 p.m. some additional travelling time is recommended particularly if using the M4 or M5. At least homeward journeys should not encounter too many hold-ups!!!!

Saturday 24th Tivyside at Cilwendeg , Nr. Boncath . First race 12p.m.

Sunday 25th Brecon & Talybont at Llanfrynach , Nr. Brecon 1 p.m

nb . The re-arranged Brecon/ Talybont meeting. First race is 1 p.m. not 12 p.m.

February

Curre & Llangibby(1) Preview - 25 Feb

**HOT OFF THE PRESS ** DUE TO WATERLOGGING (UNABLE TO GET SERVICE VEHICLES ON COURSE) MEETING POSTPONED TO 12 MAY

The south Wales season gets underway on Sunday with the first Curre & Llangibby meeting at Howick

The Members race (12.00) has attracted five entries, the best of which may be BOWDENS LANE , a course winner in 2006, who has already run creditably in two races this season. WILLOUGBY FLYER won a members race here in 2005 and is a fair performer on his day but after a season off he may have to play second fiddle to Bowdens Lane on this occasion.

LADY MYFANWY will be a leading contender in the Intermediate at 12.35. She has already recorded two wins this season, the most recent at Chipley Park on 27 th January. BEASLEY was only just beaten in a Confined race by BUCKLAND BOY at Erw Lon while CHESNUT ANNIE was a facile winner of the Restricted on the same card.

BOOLABAWN, NO STRANGER, and COPPINGERS COURT are English raiders to respect having recorded wins this season while Irish import MISTER BIGTIME is one to bear in mind. This could be a most competitive affair with BOOLABAWN just preferred to LADY MYFANWY.

The Mens Open (1.10) may see the rapid reappearance of CANNON BRIDGE after his fall at Erw Lon last Saturday. LOUGH ENNEL has already won twice at Howick and has shown his wellbeing this season with a game win over Irilut at Chaddesley Corbett three weeks ago. MAGICIEN, SELASSIE and prolific N.H. winner BURUNDI are others to consider but CANNON BRIDGE is sure to be sharper for his recent run and may add to his course win in 2004.

GOLFAGENT was most impressive when landing the Ladies Open at Erw Lon last Saturday from BOBOSH and will take some beating in the LADIES OPEN (1.45). REVIEWER and BOBOSH won the Ladies Open races at Howick in 2006. REVIEWER won at Tweseldown on 4 th Feb. and appears as good as ever while BOBOSH will be sharper for his run last weekend and may get closer to GOLFAGENT. If sidestepping the Mens Open LOUGH ENNEL must also be respected. Also be aware of any market move for ROSETOWN who was useful under rules when trained by Tom George. A hot race is in prospect if all the main protagonists appear and a home win for BOBOSH is not out of the question.

The Restricted race (2.20) looks particularly trappy . AHEADOFHISTIME, COOLCAPPAGH and MY BEAUTY won Irish points in 2006. ONLY FOR JOE and THE BAILLIE both won maidens at Chaddesley Corbett on 4 th February and are hard to separate, slight preference being for ONLY FOR JOE.

Both divisions of the maiden have difficult early season appearances.

SEA PLUME would be a warm order in DIVISION ONE (2.55) if able to reproduce his Flat form when trained by Lady Herries which includes a close second at Newmarket over 2mls in October 2003. DAGENHAM YANK was second in two maiden efforts at Howick in 2006 while ROOM ENOUGH produced similar performances in 2005.

THE BROGUE ROGUE has been frustrating for David Brace so far this season and is surely due for a change of luck while TAR BRIDGE ran respectably when second at Erw Lon last weekend.

Division 2 (3.30) is no easier to unravel than division one. MEMBERS ONLY produced a decent run when third at Black Forest Lodge in January and will have a leading chance. DAISYS RAINBOW kept on at one pace when beaten by Flinski last weekend and holds a chance here. LOUGH RYNN showed enough promise when trained by Henrietta Knight and Charlie Mann to suggest that he may be capable of making a mark between the flags.

LEADING JOCKEYS (still riding) since 2002

DAI JONES 8
JAMES TUDOR 7
TIM VAUGHAN 4
TOM FAULKNER 3
WILLIAM OAKES 3
LUCY ROWSELL 3

Admission is £15 per car, with a concession for solo travellers.

The course is situated 2 miles west of Chepstow on B4293. If using M4 from England take the M48 at J21 and leave motorway at J2 after using original Severn Bridge crossing.

Racegoers are strongly advised to allow additional travelling time, particularly if using the M4 from England , as the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff is 'hosting' the Carling Cup Final on Sunday.

Fixtures 2007

Date	Hunt	First Race
10 Feb	Vale of Clettwr at Erw Lon Sec: Mr & Mrs A Lewis - 01559 371282	12.00
25 Feb	Curre and Llangibby at Howick Sec: Lottie Bowyer - 01594 528179	12.00
10 March	Brecon & Talybont at Llanfrynach Sec: Clive Thomas - 01874 611554	12.00
17 March	Curre and Llangibby at Howick Sec: Lottie Bowyer - 01594 528179	12.00
24 March	Tivyside at Cilwendeg Sec: Mr & Mrs W D Lewis - 01994 419272	12.00
31 March	Glamorgan and Ystradowen Sec: Jane Jones - 01656 659050	2.00
7 April	Monmouthshire at Llanvapley Sec: Liz Egerton - 01873 890448	2.00
9 April	S. Pembroke at Lydstep Sec: Mrs Jan Mathias - 01834 871667	1.00
14 April	Ystrad Taf Fechan at Ystradowen Sec : Eileen Popham - 01443 225273	2.00
15 April	Llandeilo at Cilwendeg Sec: Mr & Mrs A Lewis - 01559 371282	1.00
21 April	Pentyrch at Bonvilston Sec: Phil Williams - 01656 890660	2.00
28 April	Llangeinor at Laleston Sec: Judith Tudor - 01656 650001	2.00
7 May	Banwen Miners at Pentreclwydau Mr Lode De Smet DVM, MRCVS, MFH - 01269 595873	2.00
6 May	Tredegar at Rhydygwern Sec: Colin Cross - 02920866453	2.00
20 May	Gelligaer at Rhydygwern Sec: Shirley Turner - 01633 440885	2.00
28 May	Countryside Alliance at Bonvilston Sec: Beverley Thomas - 01437 767919	2.00
2 June	Pembrokeshire at Trecoed Sec: Mr & Mrs D Roach - 01437 710643	2.00

The following South Wales meetings are also holding pony races at their Fixtures:-

14 APRIL - YSTRAD TAF FECHAN
21 APRIL - PENTYRCH
28 APRIL - LLANGEINOR
28 MAY - COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE

For further information contact Colin Cross, Area Secretary 02920 866453. Email cross.da@iscali.co.uk or the individual point to point secretaries shown above.

For further information regarding Pony Racing contact secretary shown for appropriate meeting or William Pugh, South Wales & Mon Pony Racing Committee Representative 01656 646804 or Mobile 07866260782.
Email wpugh@manning-online.com

The following west Wales meetings are also holding Pony Racing at their fixtures:-

9 APRIL - SOUTH PEMBROKESHIRE
7 MAY - BANWEN MINERS
2 JUNE - PEMBROKESHIRE

For further details regarding Point to Pointing and Pony Racing fixtures in west Wales contact :- Mrs Cynthia Higgon, 07774835224 Email: c.higgon@virgin.net