What is Point-to-Point Racing?
What is GB Pointing?
GB Pointing is the grassroots of British jump racing, also known as point-to-point.
What does pointing involve and what happens during a race?
Point-to-pointing is a form of amateur steeplechase racing run over fences, usually across open countryside rather than a conventional racecourse. It’s deeply rooted in rural communities and is often where future stars of the sport – both horses and jockeys – can get their start before moving into professional racing.
What does pointing involve? It revolves around a full race day experience:
- Participants: Horses are typically owned by enthusiasts and trained by amateur trainers. Jockeys are amateur riders, ranging from young up-and-comers to seasoned veterans.
- Race types: There are different races depending on eligibility: maidens (for horses that haven’t won), restricted races, opens (the highest class), conditions races and novice rider races. Find out more about race types here.
- The setting: Meetings take place at temporary tracks set up in fields, giving it a more relaxed, community-driven atmosphere compared to professional racing.
- The social side: It’s as much a day out as a sporting event – families, picnics, local food and a strong social element are all part of the experience.
What happens during a race?
A point-to-point race is a test of stamina, jumping ability and horsemanship:
The start: Horses line up at a start (rather than stalls). When the flag drops, they set off.
The race itself: Races are usually run over 2½ to 3 miles and horses must jump a series of steeplechase fences (solid obstacles similar to those used in professional jump racing).
The pace and tactics: Early on, the pace can be steady as horses settle. As the race progresses, it builds, with jockeys asking more of their horses and making tactical moves.
The finish: After the final fence, it becomes a test of stamina and determination. Horses battle it out in a race to the finish line, often producing exciting, close finishes.
After the race: Winning horses return to the enclosure for presentations. Owners, trainers and jockeys all celebrate together.
Where are they held?
There are 127 fixtures held all over Great Britain, from Fife in Scotland to Trebeurden in Cornwall. There are around 80 different point-to-point tracks nationally. Find your nearest course here.
Why get involved in pointing?
Pointing is a great day out in the countryside with friends and family, and there’s always something for all ages to enjoy. Each fixture has its own unique charm. Many horses start their career in pointing so it’s exciting to be able to see them at the very beginning of their journey. Likewise, some famous horses retire from the big stage and go back into pointing to enjoy their twilight years at a slightly steadier pace.
Pointing allows you to get up close to the action. You can bring your dog, walk the course and stand right next to the fences.
How does the day work?
Pointing can be seen as a less formal and more relaxed day than racing under rules (at a racecourse) as it’s a countryside sport with more viewing opportunities around the course. Whether you want to watch the horse racing, catch up with family and friends, enjoy a picnic, buy food and refreshments or simply soak up the atmosphere, it’s completely up to you.
It’s worth arriving an hour before the first race to park and get settled, or a bit earlier if you want to walk the course. Cars are parked alongside or near the course, giving you the ideal base to watch the racing and enjoy the day. Tickets are sold at the gate when you arrive and most fixtures let under-16s in for free.
What about food, drink and entertainment?
One of the great things about pointing is how unique each fixture is, not just in terms of the setting and course, but what each offers on the day.
While some fixtures have a couple of food stalls and an ice cream van, others really go to town with heated marquees, gift halls, artisan food, a range of clothing, pet goods, equipment outlets and a country fair all running alongside the horse racing.
There can be anything from dog shows to strong-man competitions, face painting, bouncy castles and fairground attractions – even pony racing and side-saddle dashes. There is usually something for everyone!
Some fixtures also have live music and entertainment after racing has finished.
To find out what to expect at each fixture, check out the details on GB Pointing’s Upcoming Fixtures page.
Who can take part?
Anyone is welcome to come along to a point-to-point meeting and enjoy the day as a race-goer or just catching up with family and friends.
If you would like to become a jockey, there’s more information here.
More on being a trainer here.
On being an owner here.
Or you can get more information if you want to volunteer here.
What should I bring to an event?
Family, friends and dogs! You can bring a boot picnic or buy food, refreshments or gifts at the trade stalls. Blankets and chairs to sit on are a good idea and think about your footwear in case it’s muddy – don’t forget to check the weather forecast before you leave home! And bring binoculars if you have them so you can see more of the action.
Where can I find out more?
What-is-point-to-point will help with most of your queries but GB Pointing can be contacted via social media also on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
