Fingers crossed that conditions come good for next Sunday's eagerly anticipated point-to-points in Knockanard. Hosted by Avondhu Hunt, this meeting has thrown up some very good horses over the years - for instance, last year's 5-year-old geldings race was won by Daniel O'Connell's Capilla (by Beneficial); ridden on the day by Castlelyons' native, Colman Sweeney, Capilla has gone on to win for his new UK trainer, Evan Williams.

First race off at 12.30pm
The aforementioned 5-year-old geldings race is first up at 12.30pm. This race is generously sponsored by Rathbarry Stud and Tattersals, Ireland. Winning connections will receive a trophy from Tattersals, as well as the Liam Cashman Perpetual Cup.

Second race - 6 & 7 year old geldings
The second race on the cards is a maiden race for 6 & 7 year old geldings (certified hunters). As with all the races there will be a special prize for 'best turned out'.

Third race - mares winners of two
BBA Ireland are on board as the main sponsors of this contest.

Fourth race - the open lightweight
Always a competitive affair, this brings together some experienced campaigners seeking to further enhance their reputations. Last year's winner was Gordon Elliott's 11-year-old Hoopy (by Presenting).

Fifth race - adjacent hunts maiden
Locals will go head to head in this one with the 'local' hunts being: Avondhu, Kilworth & Araglin, Coolnakilla and Galtee. 12 months ago, Shane Fenton guided O'Rahilly Row to victory.

Sixth race - 6-year-olds and upwards mares
The final race on the cards is the 6-year-olds and upwards mares race. Winning connections will receive the Dan Barry Memorial Cup and the Tom Archdeacon Memorial Cup - two stalwart supporters of Avondhu Point-to-Points over the years.

A great organizing committee and a loyal group of sponsors
The present committee is led by chairman, John Quane, with Larry Murphy holding the honorary post of president. Clerks of the course are Eddy Kent and Paul Cashman. The committee also wish to acknowledge the support of landowners, Pats Moore and Billy Dawson. Notable sponsors include: Grange/Coolmore, Rathbarry, Glenview and Coolagown Studs, AIB & Bank of Ireland, Riordan's SuperValu, BBA Ireland, Kerin's Bar, McDonnell Bros, Healy Bros, Avondhu Bar, GAIN Feeds and McCarthy Insurance Group.

Special notice re J.T. McNamara dance
Avondhu Point-to-Point committee are delighted to be associated with a fundraising dance in aid of J.T. McNamara, which takes place in The Hazel Tree, Mallow on Monday, 31st March. Dancing to Michael Collins, Trudi Lawlor, Finbarr Dennehy and Big Maggie. Admission €10 - please support this great cause. Enquires to Michael on 087-0687592. 

Race day contact
For any other information relating to Sunday's races, contact race day secretary, Dympna O'Meara (086) 8049283.

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