“No stone has been left unturned” – that’s the message from Jodie Standing as she reflects upon the research for the entries in her 2019/20 Point-To-Point Recruits book.
Despite her current book being just the second edition, the publication has already carved a distinctive niche in what is becoming an increasingly important element of the National Hunt scene with large sums being paid for recruits making the transition from the Irish point-to-point arena to racing under Rules in the UK and Ireland.
The reaction from racing professionals, enthusiasts and media alike has been exceptionally positive and the next edition, scheduled for publication in late autumn of 2020, is already keenly-awaited.
The focus of this meticulously-researched work shines exclusively upon those recruits from the English and Irish point-to-point scene which are considered to be of special interest as they make the transition to racing under Rules, including a hand-picked selection of those with ‘Star Potential.’
Excerpt
Ask A Honey Bee
Fairly exposed between the flags, but tremendously game and sure to have more to offer under Rules.
Ask A Honey Bee showed distinct ability when responding well to finish an eye-catching third on his debut in a hotly contested maiden at Dungarvan in January won by the well-regarded Getaway Pat. He then filled the same position at Knockanard the following month, before finishing a six-and-a-half-length fourth at Lismore where he rallied gamely before tiring in testing conditions.
Finally off the mark at Ballynoe at the end of March, he travelled kindly on the heels of the leaders before being cajoled after the third from home. Despite dropping to fourth position, he fought back tenaciously and challenged for the lead at the penultimate fence before pulling out extra in the dying strides to win by one and a half lengths.
Bought for £38,000 at the Goffs Sale at Doncaster in May by Fergal O’Brien.
He looks a progressive sort and one which his trainer should be able to place to great effect. His game attitude is an asset to him.
Won three times and heads to the Champion Bumper
CONTENT ROUNDUP
Horses to follow
An in-depth analysis of 70 + graduates as they transition from the point-to-point scene to race under rules.
Star Potentials
25 horses selected who have star potential that Jodie believes will do especially well for their new connections.
Entry monitoring
We update a web page weekly listing the entries of horses that feature in this book.
