FAQ
What’s pointing?
Point-to-pointing is often described as “racing in a field of its own”. Quite literally, this is true! The majority of point-to-points – there are about 80 courses nationwide –take place in farmers’ fields, used just once or a handful of times a season, with temporary facilities and food and drink outlets and bookmakers turning up on the day. For this reason, point-to-pointing is not just the grassroots of jump racing, but its bedrock and foundation, and is in the DNA of the rural community. Many rules racegoers are introduced to the sport through point-to-pointing, usually through family and friends and often via picnics at the car boot. It is certainly a more relaxed atmosphere than the professional sport – you can wander, eat and drink where you want (within reason), children are allowed to roam free and dogs are welcomed (on a lead, of course!)
In a nutshell A point-to-point is a horse race meeting over fences for amateur jockeys held at racecourses throughout Britain, most of which are rural and set-up specifically for the point-to-point fixture, rather than permanent locations. It's a great day out in the countryside where people come together to enjoy the sport and to socialise with friends and family.
What is a syndicate?
Our Syndicates are formed so you get a real personal experience and connection with your horse. You get the opportunity to meet the trainer, to meet the jockey, the chance to pop down to the yard and gallops to see your horse work, on race days you will receive owners badges/passes and experience the social side by linking up with the other syndicate members whilst enjoying the exclusivity of the paddock and dedicated owners only areas. At Point to Points we can organise a hospitality package served from our car boot in typical pointing fashion!
We also keep you updated with regular photos and videos of your horse via a dedicated WhatsApp group. Plus you will receive your 10% share of any prize money. Each Syndicate horse is actually owned by Pointing Syndicate Company and loaned to each Syndicate formed so you don’t need to worry about the horses purchase fee. Each horse is offered in 10% Memberships so maximum of 10 people per horse, the Syndicate is responsible for covering all running costs. This Cost is payable upfront upon signing to cover the duration of a 12 month period from 1st June to 31st May.
What’s a racing club?
Our Racing club gives you the opportunity to be involved for a very small financial outlay. You get the chance to come down to the yard/gallops to see our Racing Club horses, to meet the trainer & jockey, you will receive regular photo/video updates.
On Raceday you have the chance via a ballot to acquire a owners badge which will include paddock entrance and hospitality. Our Racing Club runs at a fixed monthly concession subscription of just £9.99 per month with unlimited memberships available.
Can I join more than one racing club or syndicate?
Yes that’s absolutely fine. No limitations. Enjoying multiple Clubs or Syndicates will keep you nicely entertained and engaged.
What if I change my mind?
If you have subscribed as a Racing club member and change your mind that’s no problem just shoot us a email and we will stop your direct debit immediately. You can rejoin after a minimum 3 month cooling off period subject to availability of course. If you’re a Syndicate member then you can stop your commitment at anytime just politely please let us know but please remember that all monies paid previously are non refundable, and you are still liable to cover the costs of your share until the end of the term.
How many days at the races will my horse run and where?
With over 80 point to point courses nationwide the options are far and wide. The trainer will decide where is best to run but will always try to be as close to designated yards as possible. It varies considerably on each individual horse how many times they physically can run but realistically a maximum of 6-7 times a season is likely. Younger horses aged 4/5 years old may run a little less say 4-5 times a season.
Can I bring a friend or partner?
Yes sure that’s great! They are welcome at yard visits or on the gallops.
Racing Club & Syndicate members can bring one guest to a point to point meeting to also enjoy the hospitality offerings but not fully restricted from the event. However additional owners passes are not provided. At Hunter Chase meetings owners badges are only available for members, however additional general admittance tickets can be purchased. However you're welcome to bring up to one guest to enjoy the meetup champagne & Macarons.
What’s the dress code for a point to point?
There's no dress code – you can wear what you wish. The season starts in November and finishes in mid-June, so a warm coat and wellies during the colder months are a must, along with thermal undergarments and waterproof clothing, whereas sun cream can be needed as we head into Spring and Summer.