November 2011 - A warm welcome to AGA who have confirmed that they will sponsor the Scally Muire Ladies Open race in 2012 as part of their "AGA Ladies Racing for Total Control" Lady Riders' Championship series which culminates in the Hunter Chase Final at Cheltenham on Wednesday, 2nd May 2012.
The North Staffs Point-to-Point is a highlight of the area’s social and sporting calendar with several thousand attending annually. The event on Easter Saturday is a superb day out for all the family. Dating from 1752 the sport operates under the regulation of the Point-to-Point Authority. Held at the picturesque Sandon Hall Estate near Stafford, point-to-point racing is packed with thrills and spills as horses and riders tackle substantial fences at top speed over a challenging 3 mile course.
Some of the finest horses in the country have begun their careers point-to-pointing and there is always the possibility of seeing a Grand National winner of the future. Welsh National winner Riverside Boy has run at Sandon and the winner of the 2008 Ladies Open, Christy Beamish, went on to win the Foxhunters at Aintree over the Grand National fences. Local lady jockey and trainer Sue Sharratt, who rode Christy Beamish to victory and has been champion lady jockey in the North West region six times, will have several rides again this year. Professional bookmakers will be on hand to take bets.
The first race, the Hunt Members, Subscribers and Farmers Race, will be hotly contested again this year between the North Staffordshire Hunt and the Meynell & South Staffordshire Hunt following 2011's successful joint running.
The winner of the Men’s Open Race will receive the prestigious Ingestre Cup which was very kindly awarded by the Earl of Shrewsbury in 2011 for the first time at this Meeting.
The unique layout of the course at Sandon means that all racegoers have a superb view of the course from the grassy banks, which form a natural amphitheatre. Entertainment, both on and off the track, is tailored for all ages with attractions including trade stalls, refreshments, a licensed bar and children’s funfair rides. Many people choose to take their own picnic to lunch whilst watching the action.
There are a wide range of reserved parking, sponsorship opportunities and hospitality packages on offer, which will guarantee an extra special and great value day out for customers, friends and family. A limited number of tickets remain available for the Champagne Reception and Buffet Luncheon in the Sponsor’s Marquee.
23rd April 2011 - A large Easter Bank Holiday crowd enjoyed bright sunshine all day, and some well-contested racing. Sue Sharratt won the opener - the joint hunt race - with the 2 hunters producing a fine finish for 4th place. There were also wins for Sam Allwood (in the 3m Maiden), Hannah Watson (in the Ladies Open), Derek Smith (in the PPORA Members), and a two-timer for Josh Hamer (in the 2m5 Maiden and the Restricted), as well as Richard Burton winning the Mens Open race for his 399th career winner. We hope everyone enjoyed the day.
For further information please contact Sandra Nield on 07866 038122
