The impressive stayer Vinnie Boy, ridden by Mr Tom O’Brien, beat the bold jumping Young Thruster, ridden by Freddie de Giles, to the Volkswagen Touareg Gentleman’s Open Point to Point Championship Final at Towcester last night.
Young Thruster had looked the horse everyone had to beat from early in the race as a strong pace saw the 16-strong field become well strung out. O’Brien sensibly bided his time on Vinnie Boy, who jumped cleanly and consistently as the pace got the better of many of his rivals, until he drew alongside de Giles on the run in.
Despite a gallant effort to keep his nose in front, the strong pace had taken its toll on Young Thruster, who was unable to quicken up to retain his lead. De Giles held on to second place from Moscow Court, ridden by Ian Howe, who looked a real danger at the home turn, but lacked the stamina in the run for the line.
Pictured left to right: Ian Johnston from Volkswagen presents the trophies to winning jockey Tom O’Brien and Vinnie Boy’s owner John Burbidge
