25/26 All things point to point

The recent statement issued by the PPA raises a number of important questions for all those involved in our sport.

Whilst the statement acknowledges the potential implications of the consultation, it appears to stop short of demonstrating the urgency and leadership that this situation demands. Many within the sport may question whether the response amounts to little more than a neutral position at a time when a coordinated and robust defence of point-to-point racing is required.

Where, for example, is the formal submission from the PPORA, who exist to represent many of us and whose own future could be directly affected? Equally, has enough been done by our governing bodies to encourage every Hunt and Point-to-Point Committee to submit its own individual response to the consultation before the deadline?

Recent commentary made by Ilona Barnett on Pointing Pointers podcast, suggests that new clubs may emerge and that enthusiasts will continue to support and sustain the sport. While optimism is welcome, the reality facing many existing clubs is far more challenging. A significant number are already operating under considerable financial pressure, struggling to attract sponsorship, facing declining public attendance, and relying on an ever-dwindling pool of volunteers. For many, simply maintaining a fixture has become increasingly difficult.

No one can accurately predict the geographical impact of a trail hunting ban. However, the experience in Wales demonstrated how quickly longstanding racing fixtures can disappear when the supporting infrastructure is removed. If further losses occur, will owners and trainers be willing to travel several hours to attend a shrinking number of meetings? Will spectators continue to support fixtures that are increasingly distant from their local communities? These are serious questions that deserve serious consideration.

Point-to-point racing is the grassroots foundation of National Hunt racing. It provides opportunities for horses, owners, riders, trainers, volunteers and rural communities alike. Once fixtures are lost, rebuilding them is exceptionally difficult.

For that reason, I urge every Hunt Committee and Point-to-Point Committee that has not yet done so to submit an individual response to the consultation. This is not the time to sit on the fence. Whatever our individual views, we should be doing everything possible to ensure that the voice of grassroots racing is heard clearly and that every effort is made to protect the future of our sport and the rural communities that support it.