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Easter is a great time for horse racing. The Cheltenham Festival every March, the Grand National meeting at Aintree just three weeks later, and Flagg Races every Easter Tuesday.

That’s right, Flagg Races. While it may not receive the same level of exposure as racing’s two premier meetings, Flagg’s annual point-to-point meeting is a historic event and one which remains essential to many racing aficionados.

What is point-to-point?

Point-to-point racing is an amateur version of National Hunt Steeplechasing (or, simply, Jump racing). Many novice chasers begin their careers in point-to-points under the guidance of amateur jockeys, using the races as a nursery before they graduate to the racecourse proper.

Some of racing’s most legendary names have come through the point-to-point ranks before going on to the highest level of the game. Gold Cup winners such as Best Mate, Denman, See More Business and Cool Dawn all began their glorious careers in point-to-point races, meaning you could be casting your eye over a potential superstar.

Conversely, veteran chasers coming to the end of their National Hunt careers often find themselves running in point-to-point events. They provide a great environment for older horses with limited opportunities in the professional game, yet who still thrive on their racing.

The sport provides enthusiasts with the opportunity to watch thoroughbred racing in areas not easily accessible to racecourses, and brings the live racing and betting experience to new audiences. 

Point-to-point racing draws together local communities and attracts great support from volunteers, who are the cornerstones to its successful running, acting in a wide variety of roles.

Under Starters Orders

Flagg is no different. The first point-to-point races took place on Flagg Moor in 1892 and, aside from the war years and 2001-2003 (when the meeting succumbed to the foot and mouth crisis), the meeting has been held there every Easter Tuesday ever since – attracting bumper crowds of around 6,000.

Flagg’s unique selling point is the Hunt Members' race, which sees horses begin the race in open hunting country between the villages of Flagg and Pomeroy, before jumping limestone walls on their way to a finish on the racecourse proper. As recently as the mid-1980's there were around ten such old-fashioned races in existence, but Flagg is now the only one in the country.

The meeting is held at Flagg Moor, five miles south of Buxton, in beautiful Peak District surroundings. Like any other race meeting, there are food and drink outlets dotted around the course, a licensed bar and, of course, bookmakers for anyone who fancies a flutter.

So while Cheltenham and Aintree are attracting the headlines, don’t overlook Flagg Races - a gem of an event which is not to be missed. 


Sean Cummins

July 2010