POINT-TO-POINTING: VWH at Siddington preview (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Waley-Cohen could prove the star turn on Rumbavu

8:00am Thursday 21st March 2013 in Sport

SAM WALEY-COHEN could have his first ride over jumps since finishing third in the Gold Cup last week at Siddington’s popular VWH point-to-point meeting on Saturday, writes Andrew Norman.

Sam rode a winner at the Cheltenham Festival aboard Rajdhani Express and then finished third behind Bobs Worth on his 2011 Gold Cup winner Long run.

He has entered Rumbavu in the Mixed Open and has an exceptional record on his mount – the pair have never been unplaced in 12 starts – and there is every chance the family will regain the trophy won by Irilut back in 2007.

Elsewhere, on the competitive six-race card, owner Scilla Phillips, represented by Lady Tamara, is bidding to retain her trophy in the opening Hunt Members race, due off at 1.30pm.

Last year’s fortuitous Confined Conditions winner, Ice Bucket, may have a tough task retaining his crown with a stronger entry this season.

Nipper John has won two of his three starts under Brodie Hampson since joining Sally Randell this term, while More Trouble represents the same connections that won this race six years ago with the classy Bon Accord. The promising What A Bluff may reappear in the Restricted after scoring in the fastest time of the day in his Maiden at Tabley last season. Bubbly Breeze and Gemini June both opened their accounts with something in hand this season.

Last year’s winner James Pine will return to defend his Pegasus Club Members title under Annabel Roberts. However, the three to concentrate on may be Timeshift, Tobougg Welcome and Uncle Keef – all with winning form this season.

Seven horses entered for the closing Open Maiden have been placed this season including Old Shyan, owned by last year’s winning rider, Ryan Potter.

In addition to the races, there is a licensed bar, trade stands, refreshments, bookmakers and the tote. Admission is £20 per car with two occupants, £5 for each extra passenger. Cars with single occupants will be charged at £10.

Siddington Racecourse can be found two miles south of Cirencester, near A419 (20 miles from Exit 13 of M5 & Exit 15 of M4). Postcode code for Sat Nav: GL7 6HL.