RICCARTON NOTES

Timaru Herald, Volume CLIV, Issue 22671, 26 August 1943, Page 6

RICCARTON NOTES

(Special) CHRISTCHURCH, Aug. 25. Some rain fell yesterday, while in the night it changed to snow, just enough to give the ground a white coat. As a result there was no work on the tracks this morning, the course being closed. A. McMullan is keeping Big Top busy with a view to spring racing. In his first race for the Riccarton trainer he was second to Royal Brief at Washdyke last month, putting in a great rim in the straight. His next start was in the Cashmere Plate and again he turned on an attractive effort in the straight, this time for an impressive win. Each of these races was at six furlongs but he had his next start at nine furlongs. He was going well in the straight, though he was stopping at the end, and in the meantime seven furlongs or a mile may be far enough for him. He looks like getting some more money. Sir Gundi has done no racing in the last few months, but following a spell A McAulay has had him in strong work again lately. He has been going well and he may be fit to resume racing soon. He won twice last season at a mile and a quarter, giving definite evidence of stamina, and it looked as if he had prospects for good company. A mishap checked his preparation in the autumn and it will be interesting to see how he will shape when serious tests are required. Lord Advocate, who could not race this month as his heels were causing trouble, is back in regular work in preparation for spring engagements. He may have his first start at Geraldine or he may wait for a later meeting, after which important events at Trentham and Riccarton are in view. Salmaform, in R. Wilson’s team, has had a few races lately and though he has not shown up prominently, there is promise of improvement. He shapes as if he would stay.