© Newbury Racecourse Carruthers enroute to winning the (then) 2011 Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury Racecourse
Thousands are expected to attend the Cazenove Capital OBH Point-to-Point and Family Day this Monday, and could see locally based Cheltenham Gold Cup winning trainer Mark Bradstock, saddle his 2011 (the then) Hennessy Gold Cup hero – Carruthers.
Carruthers, fifteen years young features amongst the twenty-nine entries in the mixed open (race 3). Carruthers is trained by Mark Bradstock, who won the blue ribband of jumps racing at the Cheltenham Festival with Coneygree, a half-brother to Carruthers, in 2015. If declared, Bradstock will saddle Carruthers on behalf of his daughter Lilly, who will ride.
Trainer James Henderson will be hoping for back to back wins of the members trophy (race 2). The grey, Otto The Great, has won both his previous visits to the venue for the Faringdon based trainer and has leading claims to maintain his perfect record. Opposition includes Medieval Chapel, who landed this race in 2016 for Nicky Henderson’s daughter Camilla, who will also ride the horse on Monday. Medieval Chapel also holds an entry in the member race (race 1).
© Olivia Pile The Cazenove Capital OBH Point-to-Point and Family Day at Lockinge is a popular fixture on the Easter Bank Holiday Monday
Camilla, from Lambourn, Berkshire, and is a sports psychologist for Swindon Town Football Club, commented;
“We are keen to run Medieval Chapel as we haven’t had much luck in getting to the races of late due to the weather. I am looking forward to riding at Lockinge, there’s always a great atmosphere, plus it’s my local course. My horse wouldn’t want the ground too soft, however we feel this track should suit him, so I am praying for drying weather between now and Monday!”.
Being his local meeting, James Henderson is also likely to target Abricot de L’Oasis for this fixture in the mixed open (race 3). The eight-year-old was not disgraced, finishing runner-up to Cheltenham Festival Foxhunters third; Cousin Pete at Barbury last time out.
Away from the racing there is also plenty of entertainment and family Easter fun, including two pony races. The popular Food and Craft marquee has been extended for 2018, offering seasonal and locally made produce, as well as plenty of shops and a fun fair to enjoy in between races. Furthermore, The OBH parade of hounds is another highlight, taking place before racing, where all are welcome meet the pack of hounds.
Entry on the gate: £10/per person under 16’s Go Free. Dogs on leads welcome. For more information visit www.obhpointtopoint.co.uk
