The Countryside Alliance Point-to-Point at Badbury Rings on Sunday 22 February produced a competitive and well-supported nine race card, with strong fields and several notable performances across the afternoon.

The opening Tattersalls Cheltenham Bonus Maiden went to Six Two Three, who made virtually all under Ed Doggrell, giving trainer Will Biddick a deserved success on a day when he fielded five winners. In the Countryside Alliance Club Members’ Conditions Race for Novice Riders, the well-fancied Bass Rock justified favouritism with a polished display under Lucas Murphy, who later acknowledged the impact that hunting has had on his career.

The feature Wessex National Men’s Open saw Macklin deliver a decisive late challenge to collar Famous Clermont, providing Josh Newman with one of his two winners on the day. In the Ladies’ Open, Illico de Cotte gave Molly Armytage – daughter of Grand National-winning jockey Marcus  – her first victory in the saddle and provided the first of two winners of the day for owner Jeremy Hill.

The Restricted was divided, with Jeu Gagnant taking the closest finish of the afternoon in Division One, while Couer D’Alene scored more comfortably under James King in Division Two. Three Maiden divisions rounded off proceedings, producing further competitive racing and ensuring a fitting conclusion to a thoroughly enjoyable day’s sport in Dorset with Amroth Boy (Division 1), Dollanstown (Division 2) and Docket Man (Division 3) landing the honours.

Throughout the day, the crowd was reminded that the threat to the future of trail hunting would have an impact on point-to-pointing too. Sam Butler, vice chairman of the Future for Hunting campaign, addressed the crowd and urged them to support the joint initiative between the British Hound Sports Association (BHSA) and the Countryside Alliance. Representatives from the Countryside Alliance and the BHSA were in attendance to discuss how supporters can take action ahead of the government’s consultation to ban trail hunting which is due to be launched “very soon”.

Tim Bonner, Chief Executive of the Countryside Alliance, expressed heartfelt thanks to all who played a part in organising and supporting the successful event – from the secretary, Clerk of the Course, race sponsors and trade stand holders to Patrons, volunteers, riders, trainers and spectators – noting that the tremendous spirit of the day truly reflected the best of point-to-point racing.

To see the full results, please visit here.