There could be a future Gold Cup winner running in a field somewhere very near you - and running against opposition that will never ever trouble a judge.

Point-to-point races (PTP) run countrywide from darkest January until June each year, and there's tons of information for backers wishing to make the most of the fantastic betting opportunities to be had backing horses between the flags. These chases are run by local hunts for amateurs riding horses who qualify by being ridden in the hunting field. Though not under Jockey Club jurisdiction, PTPs are sanctioned by them.

Each year a group of specialist backers make a regular, healthy profit travelling the country backing winners.