EVE OF BIG RACE

Southland Times, Issue 21658, 21 March 1932, Page 7

EVE OF BIG RACE

PHAR LAP POPULAR

POSSIBILITY OF NEW RECORD HORSE IN GREAT HEART (United Press Assn.—By Telegraph—Copyright.) (Rec. 5.5 p.m.) Agua Caliente, March 19. In the twelfth year of the history of the West’s great race there has been nothing to equal the popularity of Phar Lap. Dr William Neilson said the invader was in the best condition in his life, and with a dirt track here faster than turf Dr Neilson predicted that Phar Lap would establish a new record. Cabezo, a three-year-old son of Carlaris, will probably go to the post with about as much support as Phar Lap. Spanish Play will be another to find heavy backing, while Marine, the Canadian champion, Reville Boy and Rogue cannot be counted out. Phar Lap is considered a slow starter judging by the Australian custom to hold a horse until he gets into his stride. On American tracks horses spring from the barrier. Many good horses have been boxed after a slow start, but apparently this is not worrying Phar Lap’s backers. Phar Lap, who is big and powerful, has the reputation of being able to sprint in a stretch of the toughest race. Possibly his trainers believe he will be able to run wide on a few turns —if he should find it necessary to pass a group of horses —and still have enough to win. Phar Lap' worked out six furlongs in linin 17scc on Friday with no apparent effort. The track is at its best. Phar Lap is still a mystery horse as far as the American race track fans are concerned. Just what the horse can do on this continent promises to remain in the dark to the finish of Sunday’s handicap. He has not been allowed to show what he can do at the local track. His jockey (Elliott), who is a bit heavy as American jockeys go, weighing 9st 31b, declared that his mount was in first-class condition. In work-outs and easy gallops Phar Lap looks impressive. Though 25 horses are still eligible, the indications are that the field would be limited to eleven. Additional probable starters are Dr Freeland, Bahamas, Scimitar, Marine, Sethshope, Joe Flores, Good and Hot and Reville Boy.

D. J. Davis, part-owner, said: “Phar Lap will go to the post a very fit horse. I expect him to run a great race.” Tommy Woodcock, his trainer, stated: “We will do what Epinard and Papyrus failed to do when they invaded America. This Phar Lap is a greater horse than either the French or English racers.” Elliott, the jockey, said: “Nothing will beat Phar Lap.” top form: reached ENTHUSIASTIC ADMIRERS. (Rec. 5.5 p.m.) Agua Caliente, March 18. Phar Lap has reached top form for Sunday’s handicap. Dr. William Neilson, the horse’s veterinarian, on Friday made an enthusiastic statement concerning the Australian invader’s condition. “Phar Lap,” he said, “is in better condition than at any period since he began racing. Not only will he win on Sunday, but in addition I look for him to make a new "record. The big thoroughbred did have some foot trouble, but that is completely clearer! up. Americans do not seem to understand our way of training a horse with slow work, but Phar Lap has never been trained any other way.” The jockey, Elliott, asked whether he thought his mount would win, replied: “I know he will.”