REAPPEARANCE OF L. J. ELLIS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23191, 10 November 1938, Page 9

REAPPEARANCE OF L. J. ELLIS

[by TELEGRAPH —OWN correspondent] CHRISTCHURCH, Wednesday The failure of Disdain to gain a place in the New Zealand Oaks Stakes was the surprise of the racing at Riccarton to-day. She was supported a 9 if she would outclass her six opponents, but after running second to Kilrobe to the straight entrance and then taking charge, she was soon in trouble and Homily headed her early in the run home, while later, Peerless and Russian Ballet also passed her. The race was won well by Peerless, who was last for over half the journey, but was in a handy position behind the two leaders when the final stages were reached. Peerless then worked her way to the front, and without being seriously called upon, had no trouble in beating Homily. Russian Ballet was a poor third. Good Passage caused a sensation by bolting away riderless from the. barrier and the field was dispatched without her. A cheer arose from the crowd when L. J. Ellis rode Defaulter out to do his preliminary trial for the Canterbury Cup and when Defaulter returned after the easiest win he has had, there was a continuous round of applause. Ellis had intended, on medical advice, not to resume riding until the Christmas meetings, but owing to G. H. Humphries being required for Wild! Chase and the difficulty of getting another rider who understood Defaulter, Ellis was persuaded to take the mount. Defaulter never left the issue in doubt and led throughout. Instead of Defaulter conceding ground after clearing away from the field, he drew further out. The first half-mile took 54 4-ss, and the first mile 1.46 2-ss. The last half-mile was covered in 48 2-ss. It was L. J. Ellis' third win in the Canterbury Cup,