'Open the doors of opportunity' - guest columnist Sally Randell shares her views

My love for point-to-pointing began when I was serving in the army.

In order to take part in military races at Sandown I needed race-riding experience before anyone would contemplate giving me a ride and pointing was the most obvious way forwards. I had passed my lorry test thanks to the army, and used to drive a local trainer's pointers to the gallops in my lunchtime and work them for him. I had my first season racing for him, and although winless I gained the experience needed and was hooked.

My initial attempt at the Grand Military Gold Cup resulted in a second place, but in 2009 on my next ride in it I made history when becoming the first woman to win thanks to Oakfield Legend. Meeting the Queen at a drinks party in Windsor Castle that evening topped off a very special day.