Guest columnist Guy Disney recalls his experience over the National fences

It is difficult to remember how old I was when I became aware of the National fences. Once I started riding in point-to-points the idea of competing over them in the Foxhunters' became a goal. The idea of being wedged between 30 horses jumping over some of the most challenging fences in the world created an itch I was desperate to scratch.

Despite frequently rehearsing my winning speech I soon realised the chances of making the line-up anytime soon were a longshot.

This month the dream came true. To have had a five-year break from the sport and then find myself down at the start alongside riders I had competed against and watched with admiration from an armchair was a phenomenal feeling.