The Brocklesby Hunt Point-To-Point is scheduled for Sunday 12th February at Brocklesby Park (DN41 8PN), with the first race starting at 12 noon. There are 105 entries for a seven-race card.
The Hunt Members race, the first of the day, is likely to be headed by Somethingwonderful (Tom Strawson). This 9- year-old likes a bit of give in the ground and won here last year. Murphys Promise (H. Burt) and Kayjaydee (Tom Broughton) might compete.
The Midlands Area Club Members Race has attracted a promising 26 entries. Of these it is difficult to look past His Excellency, with Claire Hardwick in the plate, as a favourite, with the likes of Irish Anthem and Green Bank also in with a chance. Other horses which might produce on the day include Aldergale (won a Maiden last time out), Amigo (entered in two other races), Double Dan (if not running at Sinnington meeting), and Gold Patrol (other entries here). As well as these there are a number of horses with little or no form, so anything can happen.
Palypso De Creek is an obvious choice in the Mixed Open race which follows, with four wins from the last four starts and a massive rating. Mr Mercurial is next best rated but is also entered at Chaddesley Corbett where he would be top-rated by some margin. Galant Nuit and Green Bank have won this season, and Mr Madeit and Things Change have lots of talent but may race elsewhere. Monsieur Jourdain and Cork Citizen are also potential winners.
The Intermediate race is part of the Connolly’s Red Mills series and is a close one to call. I like the young Wither or Not over more experienced campaigners such as Exclusive Rights and Shantou Prince. Jack Andrews rides Bingo Star, which won well last time and Tom Strawson’s ride, Aldergale, will have a strong following in spite of the step up in class.
The Club Members Conditions race for nine-year-olds and over is a fairly open race on paper, but given their performance at Thorpe Lodge, last time out, I would expect Denali Highway to be in the frame. Amigo is in this one too (along with two other entries here and one elsewhere) and there are several unknown quantities with good breeding.
Two Maiden races follow, the first of which is the Jockey Club’s Open Maiden for mares only. Tom McClorey’s mount, Demood, and the Ellis-trained Miss Macarno both look hopeful in this one, but I think the Helen Connors-trained Dulwich Hill is a great talent, and only five-years-old.
Finally, the Open Maiden beckons. Semper Invicta is promising here, having lost out to Cornerman last time out at Thorpe Lodge, but there are other in with a chance. Gilliamstown will be there or thereabouts, as will Hurricane Vic. Tara More may choose other races but is one to watch with interest. Lake Balaton another, but may run on Saturday instead.
As usual there will be lots of fun for all the family, with a licensed bar, catering outlets and trade stands all in attendance. We look forward to welcoming you to Brocklesby Park on Sunday.