Hightown course in great shape for Sunday
CONTINUING A GREAT TRADITION IN BARTLEMY
The east Cork village of Bartlemy has a long association with equestrian activity - be it drag hunting, fairs or pointto-pointing.
This mainly rural area has produced some very good horses over the years, many of whom got their big chance at the annual point-to-points in Hightown.
Given this rich history, it's no surprise that
Bartlemy is home to owners, trainers, jockeys and farriers. They, along with the wider racing public, are looking forward to next Sunday's race meeting, which commences at 2pm sharp.
IMPRESSIVE SETTING
A big problem for a lot of point-to-point committees is retaining their venue. They have no such issues in Bartlemy and there's the added bonus that this is a very highly regarded course that brings out the best in horses and jockeys.
COURSE IN GREAT SHAPE
Thursday's forecasted rain comes at just the right time for race organisers and this, in addition to some recommended 'spiking', will ensure Hightown is in tip top shape for Sunday. There's plenty room for parking and its elevated position means the public have an excellent view of proceedings.
THE ACTION GETS UNDERWAY AT 2PM SHARP
Racegoers are reminded to be in Hightown for a 2pm sharp start. The course will be well signposted and there will be plenty of volunteer stewards on duty. The fact that the races aren't 'clashing' with a Cork hurling fixture is another bonus - Cork play Tipperary in an eagerly anticipated clash on Saturday evening next, 6th May in Páirc Uí Chaoimh.
RACE SCHEDULE 1st Race (2pm)
- Race day action commences with a maiden race for 4-year-old mares - sponsors are Tattersalls & Coolmore.
2nd Race (2.30pm)
- The second race on the card is for 4-year-old geldings - sponsors are Goffs, UK.
3rd Race (3pm) - This is for 5-year-old geldings - sponsors are MIG (McCarthy Insurance Group).
4th Race (3.30pm) - For 5-year-olds and upwards mares - sponsors are Anthony & Associates.
5th Race (4pm) - The second last race of the day is the winners of one - sponsors are Liam Walshe & Associates.
6th Race (4.30pm) - The final contest is a confined race for 5-yearolds and upwards - sponsors are Glenview Stud &
McCarthy Commercials.
A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL THE SPONSORS
Sponsors are vital to the continuing success of Bartlemy Point-to-Points and organisers are delighted that so many businesses have renewed their sponsorship again this year. There are very substantial costs associated with running point-to-points and it would be extremely difficult without sponsors.
SPREAD THE WORD AND BRING A FRIEND
Going on trends this year, a large crowd is expected in Hightown next
Sunday. Here, they can expect some very competitive racing, the chance to make a few quid and of course, an opportunity to meet old and new friends.
GREAT HELP
Workers have been out in force this week preparing the course. A few new volunteers have been signed up and this is very encouraging. At this stage, the countdown is on to
Sunday at 2pm - best of luck to all concerned.
Sunday’s event will be tinged with sadness as it will be the first meet since the passing of Bartlemy racing stalwart Denis Barry, who died last December. The Barry family name has long been associated with Bartlemy Races and Denis will be fondly remembered on the day.