Wikipedia gives this explanation of Point-to-point racing.
A point-to-point is a form of horseracing over fences for hunting horses and amateur riders.
If you are not familiar with the concept of Point-to-Point horse racing then what actually happens is a horse race meeting run professionally by and for, amateurs.
Jumping The Last
The race meetings are not held at racecourses but usually on farmland over terrain often unkept except for farming use with the course spread across a number of fields with fences made for the occasion, although originally hedges and other natural obstacles would have been used.
The races are organised by local hunt teams but are run under the jurisdiction of the Point-to-Point Owners and Riders Association and the Point-to-Point Secretary’s Association. The sport is overseen by The Jockey Club.
Guided to the start
As a general rule horses that run in point-to-point races must be thoroughbred horses although, in some of the races i.e. Hunt Members races, owners can run their own horse, as long as that horse has been hunting that year, a qualification for entry.
In Control
The safety of horses, rider and the general public is overseen by hunt officials who will often be called upon to look after horses on the way to the races and also round up any that may get loose from a fall or when they unseat a rider.
Commentators
Commentary of the races is often a big part of the enjoyment as many of the local characters are known and are the butt of many lighthearted comments during the race.
Cooling down
Post race
The Debrief
An areas local point-to-point meeting is an interesting, sociable day out. Along with the excitement of hotly contested horseracing and the opportunity of tax-free betting, they also have interests for the general public and people interested in equine or farming, with most meetings having trade stands, a licensed bar and refreshments.
Taking bets on a cold, bright spring afternoon
Taking it easy
I hope my images do justice to the enjoyment experienced during the day of my local point-to-point meeting which is held every April and is reasonably well attended by families often just wanting a day out picnicking and meeting with friends.
