Tallow sees the return of point-to-point action on Sunday - FIRST RACE IS 12.30PM -

With regard to crowds at next Sunday's point-to-points in Tallow, it's a case of 'the more the merrier'. As she drummed up support for the first of the 'local' point-to-points, long serving committee member, Gerty Murphy, was upbeat.

"It's great to have restrictions lifted and a return to 'full' crowds, it's been a tough time for the sector, however, there's a lot of optimism that things will bounce back".

With regard to the thorny issue of insurance, Gerty has this to say, "Solicitor, Barry O'Driscoll and our insurance company have worked hard to ensure everything is in order for Sunday, it's a source of great relief," she said.

SIX COMPETITIVE RACES TO LOOK FORWARD TO (COMMENCING AT 12.30PM)

First race: (12.30pm). The Fifty Stars 4-yearolds maidens race

Second race (1.00pm). A 5&6 year olds mares maiden sponsored by The Old Road Stud and GAIN Equine Nutrition.

Third race (1.30pm). A 5-year-olds geldings maiden sponsored by Goffs UK Aintree Sales.

Fourth race (2.00pm). 6-year-olds and upwards geldings sponsored by Coolmore Stud.

Fifth race (2.30pm).

Open lightweight sponsored by Rathbarry and Glenview Studs.

Sixth race (3.00pm). 5-year- olds adjacent maiden sponsored by the Goulding and Connery families and B.H. Tree Services.

GREAT RACING AND LOTS MORE

Catering is by Kearney Catering and Boardwalk Coffee. Free and secure car parking will be available on site for patrons.

IT ALL STARTED IN TALLOW

Tallow has been a nursery for some top class chasers such as the legendary Grand National winner, Monty's Pass. Point-to-points are also an important step on the equine industry ladder for young male and female jockeys.

Tallow has a rich tradition behind it and with the necessary support, it will continue to be an important point-to-point destination for many years to come.

REMEMBERING SOME OF THE GREAT STALWARTS OF TALLOW POINT-TOPOINTS

When speaking with The Avondhu this week, Gerty Murphy was keen to acknowledge the contrbutions of deceased Talllow Point-to-Points volunteers, who have passed away since the last meeting 2 years ago.

They include: Denis O'Brien, Mossie Hartnett, Toss Morrison and Billy Hannon. All gave generously of their time and worked tirelessly for the betterment of the pointto-points.

May they rest in peace.

(Pic: John Ahern) BARTLEMY WINNER IN TALLOW: The Eileen Barry owned French bred, C’est Le Bonheur and the winning Bartlemy connections, celebrating after victory in the maiden race for 6-year-olds and upwards geldings at the 2018 point-to-points in Tallow - the winning jockey was Darragh Allen from Araglin.

(Pic: John Ahern) RIGHT: FLASHBACK TO 2017: Amy O’Connell and Amy Molloy from Ballynoe, who had a great day out at Tallow point-to-points in 2017.

(Pic: Seán Burke) Locals out in the fresh air and enjoying the 2020 Tallow Point-to-Point Races.