This year's Countryside Alliance (Wessex) point-to-point held at Badbury Rings on Sunday 19 February saw six competitive races take place in front of a large crowd. In stark contrast to last years' meeting - which was staged between two large storms - this popular fixture provided the perfect family day out at the Dorset course.
The Alliance welcomed many members and supporters on race day, including our much-valued patrons who enjoyed a "stirrup cup" on arrival, a buffet lunch and refreshments throughout the day, as well as a complimentary race card and access to the patrons' marquee positioned alongside the paddock.
The Savills-sponsored Wessex National Mens Open race – the feature race of the day – was won by Cheltenham De Vaige ridden by Tom Broughton and trained by Hannah Lewis, whilst the Ladies Open provided success for Minella Encore, ridden by novice rider Talor Hopkins. To see the full results, please visit https://www.pointtopoint.co.uk/results
Tim Bonner, Chief Executive of the Countryside Alliance praised all those involved in staging this annual meeting: "We are incredibly grateful to all the volunteers who worked so hard to put the meeting on, particularly those from the Portman Hunt. These events take a small army of people to ensure the day runs as smoothly as it did and we are delighted that the enormous effort was rewarded.
"Thank you to all those who supported the point-to-point, including sponsors, patrons and all those who attended in whatever capacity. We look forward to returning to Badbury Rings to run this meeting again next season."
Image credit: Tim Holt