Atherstone Point-to-Point Races
Clifton-on-Dunsmore, CV23 0BB - Sunday, 16th December 2018




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The Atherstone Point-to-Point course at Clifton-on-Dunsmore was formally the Rugby Racecourse in the thirties. The first Atherstone Point-to-Point was run there in 1953 and the very first race, the Members' race, was won by Stan Hewitt’s Midshipman ridden by Norman Swinnerton. Norman became an active member of the Point-to-Point committee and from 1981 to 1990 acted as Starter before taking on the role of Chairman for 18 years, until he handed over the reins to Compton Bill our present Chairman; Compton is the brother of the late Tom Bill who was a successful National Hunt Trainer.




John Docker and Malcolm Arthers are retired Jockeys with much experience and success. John has been a committee member from 1973 and has been the P.P.O.R.A representative for the Midlands area for the past 20 years. Malcolm Arthers was Clerk of the Course for 30 years. Andrew Garland understudied him for 3 years and took over in 2012. Andrew was a winning Point-to-Point rider as was his father Peter. Andrew's wife Sarah continues as Secretary, having been in the position since 2002.
These people are the backbone of the Organising Committee and aim to continue to run a very successful Point-to-Point.

The course has had extensive drainage work done over the years and new portable fences were purchased for the 2011 season. Work always continues to keep the course in excellent condition for race day, with the generous support of Land Owner Miss Tysoe and Farmer Robert Spencer and his wife Jenny. The course is grazed every year by sheep helping to repair the damage to the ground after racing. There are facilities for watering if necessary. The course is one of the best viewing courses in the country with a Reserved Car Park at the centre of the activities. The area is compact with trade stands and children’s entertainment on the outskirts. The course is very accessible being situated adjacent to the A5, 1½ miles North of Junction 18 of the M1.
The hunt of course benefits from our successful meeting but without the help of sponsors, hunt supporters, fence stewards, car parking stewards, health and safety stewards and other generous volunteers throughout the year and on the day our Point-to-Point could not be staged. The Point-to-Point Committee are extremely grateful for everyone’s help and would like to thank them for their continued support.