A Day Out at the Races: Capturing the Thrills of Point to Point at Lower Machen

The Excitement of Point-to-Point Racing

I had the absolute pleasure of joining four fellow photography enthusiasts for a day out at the races in Lower Machen, Newport. Despite the damp and chilly weather, the atmosphere was electric as we prepared to witness the thrilling spectacle of point-to-point cheeple chase. With six exhilarating races set to unfold over distances of 2 and 3 miles, it was an opportunity we simply couldn’t miss!

Getting Ready for a Full Day of Action

We arrived at the racecourse early, bundled up against the cold, but excitement was in the air. As we set up our cameras, we couldn’t help but discuss the best vantage points for capturing the riders and their horses as they thundered towards us. The anticipation was palpable; you could feel it in the chatter around us and see it in the eager faces of attendees. Everyone was ready for a day filled with racing and camaraderie—a perfect mix for any photography lover!

Chasing the Fun: Capturing the Races

Once the first race kicked off, it was a whirlwind of hooves thundering against the ground, vibrant colours of jockey silks whizzing past, and the cheer of the crowd ringing in our ears. Each photograph we snapped told a story—the intensity of the horses as they jumped over the obstacles, the determination of the jockeys, and the exhilaration of the spectators. We chatted excitedly between races, sharing tips about settings and compositions, all while warming our hands against steaming cups of coffee.

Even as the weather turned drearier, with raindrops occasionally splattering down on us, our spirits remained high. Truth be told, there’s something about seemingly challenging weather that makes the experience even more memorable. The shared laughs and experiences with my fellow photographers turned what could have been a damp day into a delightful adventure.

Reflecting on a Day Well Spent

By the end of the day, we left Lower Machen with not only an impressive collection of photographs but also cherished memories. Each race brought its own unique vibe, and we captured everything from thrilling finishes to peaceful moments before and after the race and even one fall which was heart stopping, both horse and rider were fine albeit a little muddy and shookup. As we drove home, we discussed our favourite shots and our plans to meet again for future races. It wasn’t just a day out at the races; it was a reminder of the joy of shared passions.

In conclusion, if you ever get a chance to experience point-to-point racing, I highly recommend it. Bring along your camera, grab a friend or two, and create lasting memories while embracing the thrill of the races—a day you certainly won’t forget!

Special thanks

I have to give a shout out to my pal Kev who got me there, without him this would have been impossible for me. THANKS MATIE