'We wanted to become a must-attend social event' - Cocklebarrow draws huge numbers again even in bad weather

Local celebrities Jeremy Clarkson, Alexander Armstrong and David Cameron have all been spotted enjoying themselves at the Cocklebarrow point-to-point in Gloucestershire in previous years and Sunday’s meeting attracted another terrific crowd despite the pouring rain and strong winds.

The annual meeting, traditionally held in January, often contends with winter weather, but a bold decision made a few seasons ago has paid off, drawing huge numbers year after year.

The introduction of a large, heated marquee has revolutionised the event, offering shelter for everything except the racing itself. This central hub — akin to the Guinness Village with more tweed — houses bookmakers, food outlets, games, a bar, shops and televisions broadcasting the races outside. Additionally, an area designated for picnic lovers allows families to purchase a ‘pitch’, ensuring a warm and comfortable spot regardless of the weather.

Meanwhile, dedicated point-to-point fans and participants brave the elements in wellies and waterproofs to enjoy the outdoor action. Isuzu, which recently joined as a new national partner with the Point-to-Point Authority, had an on-course presence.

Meeting secretary Luke Morgan explained: “Organising a day that often ends in a mudbath in freezing conditions requires innovative thinking. We wanted Cocklebarrow to become a must-attend social event. Unlike National Hunt racecourses, where indoor areas offer shelter and amenities, we needed to create that appeal here with the marquee. Without it, only those directly supporting participants would attend, as standing in a muddy field in grim weather is far from appealing.

“We aim to accommodate all ages — more than 60 children participated in the tractor-pulling competition and engaging them is crucial for the sport’s future. Securing strong sponsorships is vital and providing sponsors with excellent facilities ensures their continued support. We also build relationships with figures like Kaleb Cooper and sell Hawkstone produce to attract a broader audience. An officials’ tent offers connections of declared runners vouchers for tea, coffee and sandwiches.”

Nigel Twiston-Davies: daughters Rosie and Poppy rode in pony racesCredit: Edward Whitaker

Licensed trainers Nigel Twiston-Davies, Charlie Longsdon and Graeme McPherson attended to support their children in pony races. Rosie and Poppy Twiston-Davies finished fourth and fifth, while Harry Longsdon claimed his fifth career victory in the 148cm division. Eliza McPherson, 15, marked her 100th and final pony race with a third-place finish, a day after her father and his training partner Dave Killahena had celebrated Grade 2 success at Doncaster with Yellow Car, who had won a British point-to-point as recently as May.

McPherson said: “I’d sell him to keep in the yard. He’s a character and Saturday was a pleasant surprise. He showed so little at home last year, hence running him pointing for the experience, but he clearly improves on the track.”

Ben Pauling saddled two runners owned by himself and his wife Sophie, becoming another trainer using the pointing route to support and encourage staff within the yard. “Sam Scott and Ryan Alderman, who rode my runners, are both good lads who work in the yard,” he said. ”I always have a couple of pointers to run and basically anyone who is willing to work hard and get their licence can ride them. It's brilliant experience for those who want to be jockeys.”

Elsewhere on Sunday, Saint Calvados, who finished second in the Ryanair Chase at the 2020 Cheltenham Festival behind Min and reached a rating of 167, was a welcome winner for Harry Whittington at Alnwick in Northumberland.

Whittington, who stopped training under rules in April 2023, said: “It was quite emotional. He gave me some great days. Latterly he had been in training in France with Louisa Carberry, who recommended to his owner David Maxwell that he could come back to me to go pointing. We would like to qualify him for Cheltenham and Aintree.” 

Point winner off to Elliott

Off the track last weekend, British point-to-point maiden winner Panjandrum was sold to Gordon Elliott for £95,000 at the Tattersalls sale at Cheltenham. The five-year-old had been in the care of Tom Ellis, who said: “We’re very pleased with the sale. He’s a lovely horse, a proper chaser in the making, and he’s gone to a great place.”

Weekend fixtures

Sunday
Garthorpe, Leicestershire, LE14 2SJ. First race 12.00. 6 races, 60 entries.
Milborne St Andrew, Dorset, BH20 7JF. 11.45, 8 races, 142 entries.
Charing, Kent, TN27 0JS. 12.00. 6 races, 56 entries.
Askham Bryan College, Yorkshire, YO23 3FR. 1.00. 6 races, 52 entries.

Sign up to receive On The Nose, our essential daily newsletter, from the Racing Post. Your unmissable morning feed, direct to your email inbox every morning.