The 2017 renewal of the Avon Vale Races was marred by the tragic fatal fall of amateur rider James McNeile, whose horse ran out at the second fence in an early race. Following an airlift to Southampton Hospital, doctors were unable to save James, who became the first fatality in the Point-to-Point sport in 7 years. 

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James took up race-riding late in life, and threw himself with gusto into the sport, following a long tradition of hunting in the McNeile family, who have lived and hunted with the Avon Vale for over 40 years. James was a member of the Point-to-Point committee. Riding at a horserace meeting, but more particularly in Point-to-Points, was on his bucket list.

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His family, led by equally enthusiastic younger brother Peter, have perpetuated James's Corinthian attitude to life by creating the James McNeile Fan Club, in order to fund a race to celebrate James's life for as long as folk wish to celebrate. Members wil receive newsletters in the countdown to the races, and special invitations too. Above all though, this will be a mechanism to bring together friends and family, whether you knew James or not, to celebrate this unique sport, and to raise funds for a designated charity each year. 

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A simple one-off donation of £100 will secure your membership and a participation in the largest Easter picnic in Wiltshire, together with a donation to racing's leading charity. Follow the link to Buy Tickets to join!