AJAX'S PROGRAMME

Taranaki Daily News, 5 August 1937, Page 4

AJAX'S PROGRAMME

NO DEFINITE PLANS Although Ajax, champion two-year-old of the autumn, is a clear favourite for the Melbourne Cup, one of his part-own-ers, Mr. A. W. Thompson, stated last week, that unless the colt shows real stamina in the A.J.C. Derby he will oppose Ajax's ninning in the big Flemington handicap. "It is too early for any definite plans to be made for Ajax," said Mr. Thompson. "Everything will depend first upon the progress and condition of Ajax, and then upon his form. But even an A.J.C. Derby wiri would not assure his running in the Melbourne Cup. If he should only struggle home in the classic I would not be keen on a Flemington . start. I, for one, would never think of knocking about a good colt, no matter what race was at stake," added Mr. Thompson. Despite Mr. Thompson's remarks, however (says a Melbourne writer), backers will continue to support Ajax for the Melbourne Cup. Differing opinions are expressed over his possible stamina. Many good judges declare he is far too brilliant to run two miles, but his rider, Maiirice McCarten, sees no reason why Ajax should not stay, as he corisiders Ajax one of the smoothest gallopers he has ever ridden.