Points dates revealed

THE AUTUMN point-to-point season is almost upon us as the Wexford trainers and riders set out to maintain the dominance they have exerted for the past few years. Jockey Barry O’Neill and trainer Colin Bowe will be keen to defend their national titles, although they can expect a lot of tough competition - many of it from within the confines of the county.

Action begins at Toomebridge, Co. Antrim, on Saturday, October 7, with the Westmeath Foxhounds racing at Castletown-Geoghegan the next day.

Local fixtures are: Shillelagh and District at Tinahely on October 22; Wexford Hunt at Ballinaboola, November 12; Killinick Harriers at Lingstown, November 19; Carlow Farmers at Borris House on December 10, followed by the Christmas break.

The racing fixtures for 2018 have been announced and the Wexford track at Bettyville has retained its eleven meetings, with the programme very similar to this year.

The dates are: St. Patrick’s Day, Saturday, March 17; Friday evening, April 6; Saturday afternoon, May 5; Wednesday evenings, May 23, June 6 and 20; Friday, July 6 and 27; Saturday afternoon, September 8; Festival bank holiday weekend, Sunday, October 28, and Monday, October 29.

This year’s final meeting at Bettyville is on Sunday and bank holiday Monday, October 29 and 30.