A.J.C. Derby Today

Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31802, 5 October 1968, Page 7

A.J.C. Derby Today

(N.Z.P.A. Correspondent) SYDNEY. The 1968 spring racing carnival begins at Randwick today with the Epsom Handicap and the A.J.C, Derby, two of the richest events on the Australian turf calendar.

The 840,000 Epsom Handicap is Australia’s richest mile, while the A.J.C. Derby, for three-year-olds, is this year worth 850,000, making it the nation’s second richest race.

New, Zealand-bred horses figure high among the top fancies for the events, but bookmakers have framed open markets on both races. The New Zealand-bred Fileur heads markets on the Epsom Handicap, but some bookmakers believe he will be edged out of favouritism by last year’s winner, Cabochon, or the Adelaidetrained Joking. The former New Zealand horse, Rajah Sahib (Pakistan II —Gay Princess), which has not yet justified the reported 840,000 paid for him, Is quoted at 8/1 for the Derby. Gooree King (Alcimedes—Miss Florabunda) has won only one race, but J. B. Cummings is looking for a big effort from him. Wilton Park (Le Filou— Fluent), Broker’s Tip (Summertime—Fatehpur Sikri) and Immediate (Pharamond—Expedite) were also bred in New Zealand. The Derby field is: A.J.C. Darby, 850,000; three-year-olds; lim.—Getup (3), Alireza (9), Wilton Park (1), Ca Va (15), Parma’s Flight (18), Broker’s Tip (10), Royal Account (7), High Ho (17), Planet Boy (8), immediate (14), Rajah (12), Prince Balholmen (5), Always There (4). Gooree King (2), Tails (6), Rajah Sahib (11), Piper’s Wish (13) 8-10.