SOUTH MIDLANDS AREA CLUB MEETING AT WHITFIELD DECEMBER 18^TH 2011

South Midland action returns this weekend to Whitfield Racecourse and the popularity of this track is proven by a huge entry.

Organisers have therefore been forced to split the opening Maiden race into three divisions and the Restricted into two to ensure the smooth running of the meeting. Hon Secretary Simon Hart therefore advises that there will now be only 30 minute intervals between races and the first is due to take place at 11am.

With 9 races scheduled it is promised that some exciting racing will be witnessed, the entries in the Open races are not only large in quantity but also in quality.

The AGA sponsored Ladies Open has attracted a large entry of 26 advertising how popular these championship qualifying races are. Not only will the battle be on to win at Cheltenham but with the new incentive of an AGA up for grabs to the highest point scorer these Ladies races promise to be competitive throughout the season providing spectators with excellent racing. With the likes of Kicks for Free, Kalmo Bay, Nevada Royale and Picaroon entered here it is sure to be a highlight on the card.

The Mens equivalent could see the return of the very useful Bradley who missed last season due to injury. The winner of the 2010 Red Mills Intermediate final at Cheltenham could face useful opposition; Offshore Account won in good style at Barbury Castle 2 weeks ago, Minella for Food was the impressive winner of a confined last season and Shouldhavehadthat who lost nothing in defeat when second to Lady Myfanwy in May at Stratford. Others to note are Ravethebrave who gave Joe Hill a memorable first ride/first win at Black Forest Lodge on the opening day of the season and The Rodeo Clown who although disappointing on his return at Barbury Castle connections will be hoping he can put that run behind him.

Both divisions of the Restricted look competitive and we are sure to witness some progressive young horses as they climb their way up the ladder.

In division one Topthorn and Money Tree are likely to be at the head of the market. Both have won their Maidens this season at Barbury and Black Forest Lodge respectively. Arctic Fire and Hall Kelly have some decent place form in this grade and their experience could prove valuable. An interesting entry who’s 7lb mares allowance looks a big positive is She’solonely who won her Maiden in impressive style at Garnons under Jeremy Mahot last season.

Division two of the Restricted also contains some interesting types, both Dougall and Lady Ann Lewis have placed form at Intermediate level and a drop in grade for either could prove victorious. Direct Line and Shrewd Investment were both winners at Black Forest Lodge at end November, the latter being very impressive. Others of interest are Ordelia a winner at Garthorpe in April and Foc I Fum who won a Chaddesley Corbett Maiden last May by 15 lengths.

Phillip York’s Ringa Bay heads the Intermediatte and if he starts the new campaign in the form he left the last one he ought to prove hard to beat. Pauline Harkin will be hoping that her Doctor Kingsley can keep his unbeaten record at this track intact. Miss Lightening, Echo India and Saharas Dream are all winners of Confined races but will therefore have a penalty to carry.

The ground today (Monday 12th December) is good to Soft with Soft patches.

Entrance is £20 per car and £10 single occupancy.

Hot/cold food and drink available all day and trade stands for last minute Christmas shopping!!!