New Hands and Heels Novice Rider Series Launches at Larkhill

The Point-to-Point Authority is delighted to announce the launch of a brand new Hands and Heels Novice Rider Series, jointly sponsored by The Point-to-Point Authority and The Jockey Club.

Kicking off at Larkhill on Sunday 4 January, the series places point-to-pointing firmly at the forefront of innovation within the sport, trialling new initiatives designed to support rider development and promote best practice. Entries for the Larkhill fixture close at 12:30pm on Monday 29 December.

Supporting the Next Generation of Riders

Aimed specifically at Novice Riders, the Hands and Heels Series has been designed to assist with rider education and training, encouraging strong fundamentals, balance and horsemanship in race conditions.

The series will consist of 10 qualifying races across the country throughout the 2025/2026 season, with riders accumulating points for placed rides. A National Hands & Heels Champion Rider will be crowned and presented with their award at the PPA National Awards at Cheltenham in June 2026.

Hands and Heels Conditions

As part of the series conditions, every rider must carry a whip, however its use is strictly limited. Riders may only use their whip:

• Down the shoulder in the backhand position, with both hands on the reins, when approaching an obstacle
• For clear and unequivocal safety purposes, for example:
  • Where a horse continues to hang significantly despite the rider visibly attempting to straighten their mount with the reins
  • To prevent a horse from running out

These conditions are designed to reinforce good riding technique while prioritising horse welfare and rider safety.

How Points Are Awarded

Points will be awarded in each qualifying race as follows:

• Winner – 5 points
• Second – 3 points
• Third – 2 points
• Fourth – 1 point

The overall series winner will be the rider who has accumulated the most points after the final race. In the event of a tie, the result will be decided by:

1. Most winners ridden
2. Then seconds
3. Then thirds
4. Then fourths

Hear from Charlie Poste

In the accompanying video, Jockey Coach and PPORA Chairman Charlie Poste explains the thinking behind the Hands and Heels Series, its importance for novice rider education, and how point-to-pointing continues to lead the way in developing initiatives for the future of the sport.

Watch the video to hear Charlie’s insight and learn more about what this series aims to achieve.