Unique PPORA Race For Grass Roots Riders

Fence Six by Tim Sage

The course at Didmarton is looking good ahead of the Beaufort meeting on Saturday March 1st where the Procam Chemega sponsored PPORA Grass Roots Riders Race is believed to be the only one of its kind.  Unlike other Grass Roots races and Novice Riders races, this one is confined to riders who do not have a licence to ride under National Hunt Rules. 

The race has been framed especially for genuine amateur jockeys who take part in point to points for fun rather than as a stepping stone to a career in racing.  More than half the jockeys in point to pointing aren’t looking to progress beyond the sport and don’t have BHA Category A or B permits; so this race gives them a chance to compete against others like them. 

There are many enthusiastic amateurs who have ridden five winners and therefore can no longer ride in Novice Riders races but only get a few rides and have no ambition to progress beyond enjoying point to pointing; so the Didmarton race fits them perfectly. The race is for members of the PPORA and as well as the usual trophies and mementos, the winning horse will receive a Spillers/PPORA sweat rug and the winning rider will receive a Charles Owen bobble hat and water bottle. 

Entries close at 12.30pm on Monday February 24th. 

By Tim Sage