Bumper entry for Nenagh Point-to-Point

By Shane Brophy

The North Tipperary Foxhounds Point-to-Point returns to Nenagh this Sunday with a bumper entry.

137 horses have been entered for the six races, one of the largest entries for any point to point so far this year, despite the fact there are two other meetings on the same day, with the quality of the Nenagh track cited by many as the main reason why owners and trainers want to send their horses there.

The Nenagh Point-to-Point takes place alongside the Dublin Road at Lisboney on the outskirts of the town and is a galloping track which features two long straights.

The runners begin early in the back straight alongside what is the first of three fences that are positioned on this section of the course.

That fence is bypassed on the opening circuit ensuring a long run to fence number one, with another good run to fence two at the end of the back straight. Turning on the long home bend, the two fences in the home straight are positioned reasonably close together midway along this straight with an even pull all the way home. The bend into the back straight which brings them back to their point of departure features a downhill run midway around the bend.

Leading amateur rider Derek O’Connor said of the Nenagh track: “Nenagh is a great track, very fair and a simple track to ride. There is a great finish with two fences in the home straight.

“It is another track that would make a good introduction for a younger horse. Plenty of good horses have won in Nenagh and Enda Bolger has had a good association with the place over the years.

“I find you can take your time and drop in around here as you have loads of time once they straighten up. The best horse usually wins around here once they can handle tough conditions.”

Traditionally staged in January until 2019, this is the third time that this meeting takes place in its new mid-February slot so that the hunt can include a race for four-year-olds who aren't allowed to race until after February 1st.

Last year saw the meeting postponed twice due to the weather before going ahead on the third time of asking but following the recent dry spell, things look good-to-go for next Sunday with ground conditions very good.

The Nenagh Point-to-Point has always has a good base support with racing set to get underway at 1.00pm with the Tattersalls 4YO Maiden race which has an entry of 28 and is likely to see some of the brightest up and coming horses looking to impress before the Cheltenham Sales next months.

The rest of the card is: 1.30pm – Liam Buckley Car Sales 5Y0 Geldings (33 entries, could divide)

2.00pm – Carey Glass Winner of One (12 entries)

2.30pm – Connolly Red Mills Ladies Open (15 entries)

3.00pm – Thurles Racecourse Mares 5YO & Upwards (28 entries)

3.30pm - Millerect 6yo+ Geldings Maiden (21 runners).

Gates open at 11.00am with parking free to all spectators. Entry is €10 for adults with free entry for children.