SPORTING.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXVII, Issue 17877, 24 August 1918, Page 11

SPORTING.

NEWS AND NOTES. The visiting trainers who assisted at the recent Grand National meeting have all left for thoir homes, and conditions at Riccarton are again normal. Varnish is Btanding up to a lot of useful work, and his trainer is hopeful that the Varco gelding will be able to fulfil engagements at the spring meetings; The Vasco filly Moor abbe ran a good race on tho first day of the Grand National meeting, but she was evidently not ready for two hard contests, as she was never seen on tho second day. She is a speedy galloper, who should turn out useful, but she will have to sober down before she can be regarded as a good racing prospect. At present sho is very difficult to manage. According to a Sydney writer, Biplane iB suffering from a throat affection, which necessitated veterinary treatment, but at latest accounts no serious consequences were anticipated. Among tho recent winners at Canterbury Park, Sydney, was the three-year-old Persianella, by Persian Knight from Aello, ai New Zealand-bred mare by Clanranald—lris. Jean Scott, who finished third in tho same race, is by Herman from Scotch Plaid, by Finland—Miss Lochiel. Finmark and Red Pennant were allowed to drop out of the Caulfield Cup at tho first payment. Desert Gold and Biplane still hold their engagements, while Desert Gold is also in the Melbourne Cup. Three, by The Welkin—Teppo, was sold at auction in Sydney this month, being secured by Mr Hunter White, of tho Havilah stud. Three was formerly owned by the Masterton sportsman, Mr R. Buielc, in whose colours ho raced in New Zealand and Australia. Biplane and the imported horso Redfern aro the most popular Caulfield Cup candidates. Desert Gold, Ethiopian, Edrington and Eusebius aro others regarded as having good chances. For the Melbourne Cup Arch Marella and Desert Gold are looked upon as having good chances. Shadowland, Kennaquhair and Poitrel are also regarded as dangerous candidates.