The eyes of the bloodstock world and racing enthusiasts alike will turn to Farmacaffley on Saturday, February 28, as the historic Co. Armagh venue stages a high- stakes six-race card beginning at 1:00PM.
Steeped in history, point-to-point racing has taken place at Farmacaffley for well over a century, and the meeting has increasingly become a launchpad for future National Hunt stars. With a blend of unexposed “talking horses” and established champions, Saturday’s fixture promises drama, excitement and potentially the unveiling of the Gold Cup contenders of the future.
Sales Ring Success Stories
Farmacaffley has rapidly developed a reputation as something of a “hunting ground” for talent scouts.
The opening WHR Accountants 4-Year-Old Maiden (1:00 PM) has already proven to be a race of immense prestige. Last year’s winner, Skerry Hill, made headlines when he was knocked down to powerhouse trainer Gordon Elliott for a staggering £205,000 at the Cheltenham Tattersalls Sale. He recently validated that hype by winning a very competitive Bumper at Down Royal in October 2025 as a 4/7 favorite
The race’s short history at the Armagh venue has already produced both high-value sales horses and winners on the track. Intense Approach, who won the inaugural running in 2023, fetched £210,000 at the Cheltenham Sales and has since gone on to win seven times for trainer John McConnell. His successor, Small Town Hero, followed suit in 2024, selling for £75,000 after his Farmacaffley success and recording five victories to date. Both Intense Approach and Small Town Hero currently hold entries at the prestigious Cheltenham Festival.
The trend continued in the McKinney Competitions 5-Year-Old Geldings Maiden, where last year’s winner Bally Free also joined the Elliott operation for £160,000.. highlighting the strength of the Farmacaffley form, Bally Free holds an entry in the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle at next month’s Cheltenham Festival. Owners and trainers will be watching closely to see which of this year’s hopefuls might command a six-figure price tag!
A Test of Grit and Experience
Beyond the blue-chip maiden contests, Saturday’s card offers a varied and competitive programme:
- Dalzells Of Markethill 5-Year-Old Mares Maiden – A valuable opportunity for fillies to demonstrate stamina and future black-type potential
- The Mullan Family Winner of Two Race – Featuring progressive horses aiming to climb the ladder towards the professional ranks
- Philip White Tyres 6-Year-Old and Upwards Maiden – A searching test for late bloomers and seasoned campaigners still seeking that elusive first success
Each contest adds depth to a meeting that blends emerging talent with hardened experience
The Return of a Champion
While the maidens offer a glimpse into the future, the Armagh Construction Ltd Open Lightweight will showcase a living legend of the point-to-point circuit.
The record-breaking Winged Leader heads the bill. The 12-year-old Winged Love gelding trained by David Christie, has etched his name into the history books with an extraordinary 35 wins from 50 point-to-point starts. Four of those victories have come at Farmacaffley, underlining his affinity for the Armagh track.
He returns on Saturday seeking a fourth consecutive Open win at the venue, a feat that would further cement his legacy. For many in attendance, the chance to see a horse of his calibre in the flesh is reason enough to line the rails.
Event Details:
- Location: Farmacaffley, Co. Armagh
- Date: Saturday, February 28th
- First Race: 1:00 PM
- Total Races: 6
- Facilities: Bar, local food outlets and on-course bookmakers
With a potent mix of high-value prospects and a bona fide champion, Saturday’s Farmacaffley meeting is shaping up to be one of the highlights of the early season. For those eager to spot the next star before they light up Cheltenham, there may be no better place to be.
