Point-to-pointing is an amateur form of horse racing over steeplechase fences. However, don’t be fooled by the term amateur as there is very little amateurishness about the sport, which contributes significantly to the international racing industry.

Horses often begin their racing careers in a point-to-point as an educational and showcasing exercise; signs of early potential in this sphere can lead to championship careers, which of course can lead to hefty six-figure price tags.

For the spectator, the sport is fast, furious and extremely competitive. The nature of the rural tracks means spectators can always get a front-row seat from where they have the opportunity to witness the next potential Gold Cup or Grand National winner.

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Point-to-point jockeys are among the toughest of tough, the most hardy and competitive bunch of people you might meet. It’s not just about the physical fitness; there is no point in being ready to race-ride if you don’t have a ride. Travelling the country trying to make allegiances with trainers, studying form in an effort to work out the winners and analyse the competition is all par for the course. The boys that are at the top of the game dedicate more hours to riding winners than is widely appreciated - none more so than 10 times champion point-to-point jockey Derek O’Connor.

There is little that can be said about Derek as his prolific record requires no further lauding. He has ridden 873 winners and has been champion since 2004, with six of those titles won with a record breaking number of winners. He has ridden 100-plus winners in a single season on three separate occasions.

Eight times Eastern Champion Jamie Codd has been edging ever closer to his nemesis’ National title and last season’s duel looked set to be the toughest match yet until Jamie suffered a season-ending fall. Jamie had worked up a small advantage when breaking his arm. However, the competitive sportsman that Derek is found this to be much less satisfying and admitted to actually missing his familiar competition with Jamie.

Then with four weeks of the season left and with 70 winners ridden, Derek broke his leg, leaving the championship in the balance and Jamie actually considered rushing his recovery in order to try to ride 18 winners at the remaining nine meetings.

Jamie’s plan didn’t materialise, but surely it was for the best. He will now be able to face the coming season with an increased determination to topple the champion who, it is feared, could be at his most vulnerable following a summer of life-affirming events. Marriage, impending fatherhood and turning 31: could Derek be turning soft?

While men undeniably dominate, you will overlook the lady jockeys at your peril. It is a tough sport and it isn’t easy for girls to get the same opportunities but, trust me, if it’s some fierce (friendly) competition you’re after, be sure to keep an eye on the ladies races throughout the season.

There’s drama, excitement and world-class talent, but if you don’t fancy braving the elements first-hand, be sure to stay tuned to these pages for a weekly round-up of all the action, from on and off the point-to-point field.