THE DUKE’S RIDE

Grey River Argus, 2 January 1935, Page 5

THE DUKE’S RIDE

A Good Showing HORSE LEADS TILL FINAL STAGE (Per Press Association.) THE CHATEAU, January 1. Exhibiting superb horsemanship in riding at the races to-day, the Duke of Gloucester piloted his mount into fourth position in the Ladies* Bracelet. of one mile and 137 yards. He rode the topweight, Blackman, owned bv Mr C. L. Bull, and coupled with Red Flush. In lhe opinion t»f expert turf observers, the Duke had almost an impossible task to ride to victory with the weight of thirteen stone two, which was* a concession of two stone to the next horse running. He did remarkably well, and led the field most of the way, to have his number hoisted as fourth. The weather was brilliantly fine. The Prince drew number four at the barrier. All went off to a perfect start. There was a roar from the crowd, when, before a furlong was covered, the Duke of Gloucester had Blackman in front, and he held the lead right into the straight on the rails. At the distance, when Blackman was in a winning position, and a challenge came from The Arc, Conference and Royal Papa, the Duke’s mount appeared to falter and go slightly lame, and a chance of capping a brilliant effort disappeared. The challengers fought it out in the order; given, while his Highness wa§ content! to finish fourth, with Blackman under a tight rein. The Duke of Gloucester was accorded a memorable reception on returning to weigh in, and cheering was renewed when the time, 1.51 4-5, was announced. The Duke remained a spectator until the seventh race, and presented trophies. The Duke of Gloucester is spending all to-morrow at Mr Duncan’s estate at Otire, riding and seeing shearing operations and broken country farming. He rejoins the royal train at Hunterville at 9 a.m. to go New Plymouthwards.