Geri Horner’s horse to run at Bicester with Whaddon Chase

Cartesien, owned by Geri Horner and her husband, former racing driver Christian Horner, will compete in the Edgcote Gold Cup Mixed Open at the Bicester with Whaddon Chase Hunt Point-to-Point on April 12.

The race takes place at Edgcote Racecourse, near Banbury.

Maxine Filby, who trains Cartesien from the Horners’ stables at Marston St Lawrence, said: “We decided to run him at Edgcote as it is so local. They did a really good job with the ground last year.

“We still don’t know what we have got. He could have been flattered at Guilsborough.

“I would be thrilled if he runs a good race and comes back in one piece.”

The six-year-old gelding made a winning start in the UK last month at Guilsborough, ridden by Gina Andrews.

He will line up in the Edgcote Gold Cup Mixed Open, sponsored by Spratt Endicott.

Sixty-two entries have been received for the six-race card, with Clerk of the Course Graham Tawell confirming that watering will be undertaken as needed to ensure good ground.

Other races of interest include the Tattersalls Cheltenham, GB Pointing Bonus, Young Horse Maiden Series Four & Five Year Old Race over 2m 5f, which features a promising line-up of young horses.

Francesca Poste is set to debut Rum N Reggae, with husband Charlie Poste optimistic about the horse’s chances.

Mr Poste said: “His schooling and work has been good.

“He is by an exciting young sire in Crystal Ocean, so it’s fingers crossed.”

Last year’s meeting saw emotional scenes after Glancing Hill’s maiden win, just days after the passing of owner Bridget Gatehouse.

Charlie Poste said: “We lost Bridget, the vet who owned him, a year ago today (Tuesday).

“She hunted him all year with the Bicester, so it would be quite poignant if he runs there and wins that race.”

The event offers a full day of family entertainment, including a hound parade, dog show, falconry, children’s activities, a bouncy castle, and live music after racing from country singer Paul Adams.

Gates open at 11am. Admission is £15 per person in advance via the Edgcote Races website or £20 on the gate, which includes a racecard. Under-15s go free.

Premium parking in the front two rows is available for £50.

Edgcote Racecourse is located approximately six miles northeast of Banbury, near the A361.

Visitors are advised to exit the M40 at junction 11 and follow the A361 to Wardington before turning right at the Hare & Hounds pub for the most direct route.