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Some of the Kildorrery Point-to-Point committee, who as usual, have put in a huge effort in advance of Sunday’s races in Rockmills. Photo: John Ahern

Judging by the number of horses taking part in a lot of the point-to-points we've seen so far this year, it's fair to say that the sport is going through a challenging time. Undaunted by these swings and roundabouts, point-to-point committees are pressing on regardless and in the process playing a vital role in the Irish horse racing industry.

RACING IN ROCKMILLS

Another challenge for several point-to-point meetings is securing a venue and in this regard Kildorrery are extremely fortunate to have the co-operation, goodwill and practical assistance of the Vaughan family. The Vaughan name is synonymous with horses and point-to-pointing and it's no harm to publicly acknowledge this.

6 RACES - THE FIRST OF WHICH GETS UNDER WAY AT 1pm

First race - No divides are expected on Sunday, however, expect stiff competition in every contest, with a maiden race for 5 & 6 year old mares getting things under way. This is a GAIN qualifier and is sponsored by GAIN and Rockmills Furnishings. Winning connections will receive the Donie Vaughan and Michael Casey Perpetual Cup.

Second race - A half an hour later, the 5 year old geldings will compete for the prize money in addition to the Tom, Ted & Ruby Walsh Cup - the standalone sponsor of this race is the award winning firm of Hanley's Butchers in Mitchelstown.

Third race - This brings us on to the 5-year-old and upwards adjacent hunts maiden for the William Gallagher Memorial Trophy. Sponsorship is generously provided by Bluegrass Horse Feeds and Jonathan O'Grady.

Fourth race - As has been traditional in recent times, Liam McCarthy and Amber Oil are sponsoring the open lightweight - the trophy being presented here is the J.C. O'Keeffe Perpetual Cup.

Fifth race - The penultimate race is the AIB and Crossmore Tyre Recycling sponsored winners of two - winners get The Stackpool Perpetual Cup.

Sixth race - The concluding race is a maiden contest for 6-year-olds and upwards geldings - Dairygold and Rathbarry Stud are long-time sponsors and once again they've renewed the arrangement. The silverware at stake here is the Patrick Walsh Perpertual Cup.

CHRISTY SHERLOCK AND THE LEADING JOCKEY AWARD

Doneraile resident and a loyal supporter of Kildorrery Point-to-Points, Christy Sherlock is sponsoring and presenting the award for 'leading jockey' - Declan Queally took the honours in Knockanard last Sunday and will be hoping his good fortune continues in Rockmils.

A WIDE RANGING 'THANKS'

A lot of things need to fall into place to make a point-to-point meeting a success and the Kildorrery committee, under the stewardship of all round sportsman, John Fouhy, take this opportunity to thank the many individuals and businesses who help make the day possible.

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