THE NEW British point-to-point season gets under way during the second weekend of November when the first of 130 meetings held via a countrywide network of 70 different courses throughout the season in UK takes place in Devon.

The first of the 22 scheduled fixtures between November and next June in the Devon & Cornwall Area will be held on Sunday November 10, at Dunsmore near Silverton, Devon, hosted by the Dunsmore Racing Club.

For newcomers to the exciting world of point to point racing, a few words of explanation might help: It is not unlike “professional” or” licensed” National Hunt (jumps) racing, but has certain advantages. Principally point-to-pointing offers spectators an informal, relaxed day out in the countryside for all the family at a modest cost. Everyone can get a good view of the parade ring plus close up action of the jumps.

Point to point racing could be described as one of the last true remaining amateur sports, albeit properly regulated by the British Horse Racing Authority with delegated powers to the Point to Point Authority. Most point to point races are run over three miles with about 18 jumps.The sport can rightly be seen as a nursery or the grassroots of National Hunt Racing since over 70% of jockeys currently riding under rules started their careers in point to points and several Cheltenham Gold Cup and Grand National winners graduated through the point to point route. Spotting the potential stars of tomorrow can be fascinating- or even profitable.

Pony racing is added to the cards at some meetings from February onwards and again you will get the chance to spot aspiring young riders. Current champion jockey Harry Cobden began on the pony racing circuit.

Plenty of bookmakers are ready to take your bet and most fixtures feature various trade stands. Food and drinks are available or you can choose to bring your own picnic. Dogs are welcome on a lead.

Keep an eye out for previews of every meeting in this media, with detailed locations and a guide to your bets. Meanwhile dates for the diary for the pre-Christmas fixtures in Devon & Cornwall are: Sunday 10th November – Dunsmore Racing Club at Dunsmore, Silverton EX5 4DU first race provisionally 12-30pm (may be earlier depending on entries but will be confirmed in the preview).

Sunday 24th November - East Cornwall Foxhounds at Great Trethew off A38 between Saltash and Liskeard PL14 3PZ.

Sunday 8th December - Cornwall Hunt Club at The Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge off A39 West of Wadebridge PL27 7JE.

Meanwhile, Tiverton Foxhounds’ annual event at Chipley Park will take place on Sunday, January 26 (gates open 10 a.m.).

Granville Taylor