Racing and Trotting

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18579, 29 September 1928, Page 9

Racing and Trotting

NOTES BY

“ARGUS.”

RACING NOTES. The Metropolitan Handicap -will be the chief event at Randwick on Monday. when the Australian Jockey Club's meeting will be continued. Oratrix has fair prospects, but Jocelyn and Spearer are the popular fancies. The Breeders’ Plate, the first two-year-old race of the season, also figures on the programme and should provide a lot of interest. ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ A schooling barrier will be available at Riccarton on Monday morning, and it is likely to be used freely by trainers who have young horses with early engagements. * * * * It is probable that Mr G. D. Greenwood will have two representatives at the Dunedin Jockey Club's spring meeting. The three-year-old Goblin Market will make the trip for the Dunedin Guineas, while the two-year-old Jaleaux (Sultala—Egotism) will go for the M’Lean Stakes. * * a * The imported horse Hoylake registered a very attractive gallop over nine furlongs this morning. He went without a mate and moved very freely from the start. There was a solid pace all the way and he finished very strongly. Hoylake is getting through his tasks in a tradesmanlike fashion and he gives the impression that no journey will trouble him, so that he is likely to come strongly into discussions on the New Zealand Cup. it * * • Count Cavour and Battle Colours were associated in a very useful gallop over a mile this morning. They kept close company all the way and finished almost on terms, Battle Colours being a neck in front. The pace was sound and both horses were running on well at the end of the journey. * * * * The Paper Money mare Watuton is 'the latest addition to F. P. Claridge’s team. • * * * There were four New Zealand Cup candidates among the competitors on the second day of the Geraldine meeting, and one of these was successful. This was Front Rank, who scored. a ridiculously easy win in the concluding event, in which Vaward made a poor show. Rapier and Lucy Locket ran in the chief race. The latter shaped fairly well. Rapier went much below his true form, but he will be much better for some racing. He is the most likely of the four to attract attention in the Cup, as Front Rank will find two miles rather far.

Red Heather won yesterday’s hurdle race at Geraldine in decisive fashion, though only by a narrow margin. His form was much better than on the previous day, when he found difficulty in stretching out, a slight mishap having left him rather stiff. Red Heather lacks stamina, but he ip a useful customer for short hurdle races, and he appears to be staying a bit better now. * * * »i»

Mime was benefited by his hurdle race at Geraldine on Thursday, when he made his first appearance among the jumpers, and in yesterday's contest he was staying on in good style. He is far from perfect in his fencing, but this week’s experience will assist him to an early win.

Carinthia showed up prominently most of the way in yesterday's hurdle race, but he was stopping badly at the end. It was a disappointing performance, judged on his winning effort at the Grand National meeting, where he made his opponents look moderate over a similar journey. * * * *

Chickwheat was not in a racing mood at Geraldine, and his form in two hurdle races was very poor. * * * *•

Tea Girl gave two very different displays at Geraldine. On the first day she got off very badly, and though she moved up a little, she was a long way behind the leaders when she ran very wide at the home turn. Yesterday, in the Wainui Handicap, she jumped out smartly and never let any of her opponents get near her after the first furlong. It was a smart performance for a novice, and she will improve yet. Tea Girl is a three-year-old filly by Tea Tray from Miss Ellice, by Bronzino from the Seaton Delaval mare Elegance. She was bred in Auck land by Mr E. Alison, and was purchased by Mr J. M. Samson as a yearling for 120 guineas, at which she looks a bargain.

Thorndale opened his winning account for the season with an impressive win in the President’s Handicap at. Geraldine. He was always going well and he beat Malmsey and Lucy Locket decisively over the last furlong. Now that he has struck form, Thorndale may soon win another race, as a bit of weight does not trouble him in his own class.

Rapier -was the outsider of the foustarters in the President’s Handicap a Geraldine. He began a trifle slowly, and occupied the rear position all the way, without ever giving the impression that he would trouble the leaders. He will be a much better horse in a few weeks, as his two races at Geraldine should sharpen him up.

Silver Coot did not jump out smartly on the first day at Geraldine, and he never got out of the ruck. In the Stewards’ Handicap yesterday he was in a handy position from the rise of the barrier, and he won easily, though his task -toould have been much more difficult had Buoyant gone out as wj : l as be usually does. Buoyant, after being slow to move, was rushed to the front, and these tactics left him with no reserve for the finish.

After the Wainui Handicap, at Gera* dine, yesterday, there was an inquiry into some interference which took place at the entrance to the straight, where L. Woolford, the rider of Pound Note, had a foot crushed on the rails. After hearing the evidence of several of the riders, the stewards decided that there was not sufficient evidence to convict any particular jockey with the offence, and no action was taken.

There are unusual conditions attached to the Kurow programme. It is provided that the winner of any flat race, after the declaration of the handicaps, shall carry a penalty of 71b, and for every additional win a further 71b In the hurdle race, however, a rehandicap, and not a fixed penalty, is provided for. Thorndale, in the Kurow Cup, and Royal Tractor, in the Publicans’ Handicap and Belfield Handicap, will go up 71b. Red Heather will be rehandicapped in the Waitangi Hurdle Handicap.

Royal Tractor gave further evidence of useful hack form when he won the Gladstone Handicap at Geraldine. He was in front all the way, and he hung on to stall off Camisader’s late challenge. Royal Tractor is very well at present, and he is not nearly at the end of his powers as a sprinter.

The form of Front Rank at the Gera! dine meeting was a long way from being consistent. On the first day, in the Squatters’ Handicap, six furlongs, she soon dropped to the rear, and she never looked like getting near the field In the Farewell Handicap, one mile, yesterday, she carried more than four times as much money as on the previous day, though it was not easy to find a reason for such increased support. Jumping out well, she always was within striking distance of the leaders, and she smothered the opposition in the straight. The difference in her running on the two days was the subject of an inquiry, but the explanation was accepted. Front Rank was sold a few months ago by Sir Georgi Clifford to the ex-jockey R. H. Burns, for whom she is trained by J. Boyd, and she looks like doing her new owner further service this season.

Doubts are expressed by the owner of Lysander whether the Absurd horse will ever come back. Always a gross customer, he came into work again very big, and training him has been rather a task. As a type he should make a fine stallion. His two-year-old brother, Ceremony, is at present at Ellerslie, but he has made the Northern trip for educational purposes only, and the Feilding spring meeting will see him make his first public appearance. It was in the Oroua Nursery Handicap at this meeting last year that Episode scored her first success.

F. Davis has only a small team in work so far at Woodville, composed of Great Charter, Doree, and the two two-year-olds Clever and Symballo. Clever was beaten in the Debutante Stakes at Wanganui, but Symballo has yet to run. Symballo is a filly by Psychology from Symbolism, the dam of that -very smart sprinter Killashandra. So far Gascony has not been brought into work after a good spell on his owner’s station.

News of- Episode’s defeat by Consent at Wanganui was rather a big shock, but apparently Mr G. M. Currie anticipated trouble. At Avondale he stated that the Limond filly had coughed right through the winter. In addition, she had a good deal of trouble with her teeth- Accordingly she was anything but her real self at Wanganui. Her future programme is doubtful, and unless the track at Ellerslie is in good order she will not be seen out at the Auckland meeting in the Great Northern Guineas. Whether she runs there or not, it is unlikely that she will be raced again until the midsummer meeting at Ellerslie, when she will be a Derby candidate.

•Those two good horses, Star Stranger and Mask, had their chances of success reduced to nil in the Avondale Cup by the track conditions. Star Stranger’s appearance pleased the critics, and he is considered to be in much more forward condition than he was at the corresponding period twelve months ago. Mask is likely to be a much better horse this year than last, and he is sure to pay his way in the very best company. The meeting of this pair on a dry track at Ellerslie should be very interesting.

T. Metcalf did some smart travelling last week, as after riding at Avondale he hurried south for the Geraldine meeting. Metcalf, who was riding for several seasons in the South Island, has no reason to regret the decision to take up his residence in the North. A strong grown man at a very light weight, he has not lacked mounts during the flat racing term, and just at present he has struck a remarkable sequence of successes. At Wanganui he won the principal handicaps on Catkin, Helotis and Royal Game, and at Avondale on Saturday he won the Cup on Bisox and the Stakes on Supremacy. Apart from the luck which has attended his recent efforts he was fortunate to get the ride on Supremacy. He was engaged to ride Clever and then F. Davis decided not to run Mr Lowry’s filly and informed W. Stone, Supremacy’s trainer, that Metcalf was free to accept a ride, and it was given him. Metcalf also rode Flying Prince and Arikitoa, when they won on Monday. Metcalf will, naturally keep the mount cm Supremacy in the Auckland Welcome Stakes and Clever will be ridden by S. Henderson-

Hunting Song, the first of whose stock in New Zealand have drawn some attention to him thus early in the season, served nine mares in England before he was brought to the Dominion. Three of the mares produced good winners last season in the Old Country.

Oratrix and Concentrate, no matter how they fare at Randwick on the first three days of the meeting, are booked to leave Sydney next Friday for Welbngton, as they are to be raced at the Wellington spring meeting. Cimabue, on the contrary, unless he wins The Shorts on Monday, will be kept at Randwick for the other six-furlong event, the Chester Handicap next Saturday. Oratrix has progressed particularly well in Sydney, and even if she does not win a race she should be an infinitely better mare for the trip and hard to beat over a distance oh her return home- Concentrate, of course, has shown winning form and he may show up again during the next few days. TROTTING NOTES. Acceptances for the Methven Trotting Club’s meeting will close at five o’clock on Monday. * * * * In all probability Mr H. F. Nicoll’s two Derby candidates will be started in the race on October 13 at the Auckland Trotting Club’s spring meeting Wrackler (Wrack—Trix Pointer), and Wrackeen (Wrack—Pansy) are now doing well in their training work. jft * * * The three-year-old Guy Denver, will not make the trip to Auckland. His owner-trainer. J. N. Clarke, has not been hurrying the three-year-old in his training work, and therefore he is not so forward as others in the race. Guy Denver is a very useful sort, who should win races before the end of the season. * * * * R. Dunn has the Drusus—Mother Machree pacer moving along in good style in training. He is somewhat on the .small side, but is growing fast. LOoanda Boy has not done much fast work of late, and this fine pacer, who was very well prior to the August meeting, is on the easy list. * * < * Sonoma Child is not likely to be at his best for the Derby, but it is expect ed that the North Canterbury trained gelding will make the trip.

* * * * Elzear i 9 now trotting along in good style. She had an easy time after the August meeting, but is back again in solid work.

Talent is going on satisfactorily in his training work, and should be at his best in November. The New Brighton trained pacer is a brilliant mile and a quarter horse.

Prince Chimes, the winner of the Domain Trot Handicap at Geraldine yesterday, is a four-year-old gelding by Cathedral Chimes from Princess Perfection, a daughter of Prince Imperial. Prince Chimes started twice at the end of last season without earning any money. In yesterday's race, however, he was always pacing smoothly, and he won decisively. The time was not fast, but he will do much better later in the season.

Becky Mine showed fair pace in the Domain Trot Handicap at Geraldine yesterday, but though she finished second, she never looked like overhauling Prince Chimes in the straight. She was well backed each day, but she will need to improve to get beyond the useful class.

Limosa, a four-year-old sister to Pluto and Denver’s Doll, was sent out favourite for. the Domain Trot Handicap at Geraldine yesterday. She has the reputation of being a high-class mare, likely to reach good company before the end of the season, and many people seemed prepared to see her start on her winning career this week. Her backers got a very poor run. She began badly, and even though she showed glimpses of fair speed, she did not realise expectations at any stage of the journey. **

Francis de Oro showed a lot of speed in the Domain Trot Handicap at Geraldine, but could not quite stay the journey out. When he has some more racing he should develop into a smart performer.

t The five-year-old gelding Logan d’Oro was backed very confidently in the Orari Trot Handicap, on the first day of the Geraldine meeting, but after being prominent all the way and looking like a winner at the entrance to the straight, he failed to rim out the last part of the mile and a quarter. He was started again yesterday, in the Winchester Handicap, run over a shorter journey, and he scored a very decisive win. He is a useful pacer, but lack of stamina may prevent him taking high rank.

Ecstacy was backed with great confidence for the Winchester Trot Handicap at Geraldine yesterday. She did not begin smartly, and though she was prominent when the straight was reached, she never looked as if she would win.

Greatway, by Peterwah—Medway, is reported to be a most promising young trotter. His work on Auckland tracks points to him being an early winner.

The trotter Koro Peter is working well on Auckland tracks at present. His companion on the training track is the pacer Native Prince, who raced so well at the August meeting at Addington. Last June, at Auckland, Koro Peter beat First Wrack in a challenge match over a mile and a quarter. The track was very heavy and the young trotters failed to show good form. * * *

In a two-mile harness event recently decided in Melbourne, Snowshoe, wellknown in the Dominion, was on 126 yards and Glideaway, who has recently arrived here, was on 162 yards.

Reta M'Kinney, who touched 3.39 2-5 when she ran second to Sunshade at the Invercargill meeting last season, does not look harshly treated in being placed on 3.42 at Kurow.

■3= * * * A two-year-old pacer by Matchlight from Alpha Bingen, is showing promise under J. Henderson’s care at Oamaru The youngster is owned by Mr J. M. Samson.

The Oamaru trainer J. Henderson, has in work a four-year-old mare by Logan Pointer from a Rothschild mare. She is shaping well, and should develop into a winner for her owner, Mr W. Quirk, of Dunedin.

The three-year-old brother to Great Bingen by Nelson Bingen from Bertha Belle, has been named Great Nelson. He carries many of the characteristics of his champion relative.

The good Auckland trotter Betty Moko has been kept going during the winter and she is in capital condition to be hurried along for early engagements. She has been a somewhat unlucky mare, and several times she has just been beaten by more favourably handicapped horses. sje * s{c Harold Logan won very easily at the Waimate Hunt Club’s meeting, and was not required to do anything like his best over the last little bit. The Logan Pointer gelding has done well since then, and looks nicely placed in the Dash Handicap at Kurow. * * * *• After having had a spell since he raced at the winter meeting of the Auckland Club, that fine trotter Waikaha has been put into work again. The son of Gold Bell is a very consistent trotter, and has twice won the Rowe Handicap, the richest event for trotters in the North Island. * * * The appointments and the track on the Oamaru course are well forward, and everything will be ready for the club’s meeting on Labour Day. The material from the terrace on the old course has been transported to the new course, and is now being built up in front of the grand stand. SOUTHLAND NOTES. (Special to the “ Star.”) INVERCARGILL, September 28. Following on several weeks of unsettled climatic conditions with the grass tracks closed down, the weather now is clearing, and fast galloping will probably be resumed on Saturday or Monday on the Southland Racing Club’s property. The two-year-old colt Bachelor Boy, who was injured here last week w’hen being entrained for Riverton, is making progress towards recovery, but he will not be a starter in the M’Lean Stakes at Wingatui. and probably will not race until Christmas time. The locally-owned Australian-bred filly Battlemaid has progressed well since joining up with F. W. Ellis's team. She will probably be left in the Dunedin Guineas to see how the weather conditions stand on the day as she is a veritable mudlark, although on the small side. Had her preparation not been interrupted by the sodden tracks she would have figured as a well prepared contestant for the classic event, but she will now have to be taken on trust. J. A. Rowland is due to return from Riverton next week with Celerity 11, Spean Bridge, Aranoh, Bachelor Boy, Flying Mist, and a youngster by Some Boy ll—Sabor. During their short stay at the seaside Celerity II and Speari Bridge have made marked progress in their studies, but Flying Mist has not done too well. Celerity II and £-oean Bridge may both start in the Electric Handicap on the onening dav of the Dunedin Jockey Club spring meeting as Rowland considers the Mosgiel Handicap beyond Celeritv TT at present. The future programme of ♦he imported pair depend upon how they shape at Wingatui. Aranoh, who has been under suspicion for unsoundness for some time past, has so far sur-

vived his training at Riverton. The two-year-old Sabor filly continues to train on satisfactory, but it will be some time before she is seen at her best.

During the current week F. W. Ellis has been exercising his two-year-old charges The Graphic and Jack a Dandy at the barrier, but both are short of work owing to the grass tracks being out of action. The Graphic was well forward until unfavourable weather closed down on the land. Otherwise she could have been depended upon to play a prominent part in the M’Lean Stakes next month, while now she will have to be taken on trust. A few gallops next week, however, should assist the daughter of Paper Money to make amends for her period of comparative idleness. Jack a Dandy may start at Wingatui, but he will be in a worse plight than his young stablemate as he was laid by for some weeks owing to contracting a cold.

Queen Balboa is coming to hand nicely. It appears that the descendant of Balboa thrives in any kind of weather, and is constituted to handle wet or dry tracks.

The veteran performer Cupidon is now trained at Riverton by G. M’Lean, who is preparing him for hurdle racing. He due to make his next bow in public _in the batten races at the Gore Racing Club’s spring meeting. During the past week at Wendon, at the home of the well-known trotting enthusiast W. Jones, the well known southern pacing mare Jane Wilkes produced her first foal to see the light of day in her home province as a descendant of Happy Voyage. The daughter °f Harold Wilkes—Lauderdale mare visits the Victorian-bred sire again. Among the mares recently sent to Happy Voyage was the Canterburyowned matron by Colenut—Pleasant Mount. The six-year-old gelding Brightling, who has been turned out for some time past in Otago is to be taken up again shortly. The son of Tractor—Marsa, whose owner is now in business in Tnvercareill. intends to have him trained here in future. Briphtling probably will be found in R. stable. Set Sail was not fancied here when she won the Geraldine Cup, southern backers holding the opinion that she would not be forward enough to command success.

INTERESTING SPORT AT GERALDINE.

THORNDALE WINS PRINCIPAL RACE. The Geraldine Racing Club’s meeting was concluded yesterday in pleasant conditions and with a large attendance, Christchurch sportsmen again mustering in strong force. The fields were nearly up to the first day’s standard, and there was some very interesting sport. The totalisator investments were £IO,IBO, compared with £9171 on the corresponding day last year, making £20,296 for the meeting, against £18,921 10s last year. The meeting was well managed in every department, and the officials, as usual, were untiring in their efforts to make it pleasant. The club’s popular secretary, Mr J. Kennedy, could take credit for another very successful meeting.

close between Red Heather, Mime and Carinthia, who finished up in that order, with only a few pounds separating tljem. It was good picking, as they filled the places. Erin-go-Bragh was first to show out. Royal Land followed him for nearly three furloligs, when Carinthia took second place, Scion being last, with Chickwheat just in front of him. Passing the stand, Carinthia headed Erin-go-Bragh, the pair being well clear of Royal Land, with Mime and Red Heather handy. At the seven-furlong post, Mime took second place, just behind Carinthia. A furlong further on, these two were together, with Red Heather next, followed by Erin-go-Bragh, who was dropping back. There was no change in the order five furlongs from home, but Red Heather then made a forward move, and founding the turn Carinthia, Red Heather and Mime were in a bunch. The first-named pair drew clear at the entrance to the straight. Red Heather had the measure of Carinthia over a hundred yards from the post, and he went on to win easily by a length, while Mime, coming with a late run, got up to beat Carinthia by a neck. Erin-go-Bragh was a poor fourth, with the others following at intervals. The winner was improved by his race on the first day, when he was slow to get going, as a result of stiffness, brought on by a minor mishap a few days previously. Carinthia jumped better than on the first day, but he was very tired at the finish. Mime, on the other hand, was doing best of the lot over the last furlong. None of the others had a chance.

First Raid declined his engagement in the Wainui Hack Handicap, leaving a field of fourteen. Waving Corn was a warm favourite, carrying more than twice as much as Amourette, who just headed Zeuxis for second fancy. Royal Flower was first to break the line, with Campanula and Amourette in close attendance, while Star Raid w’as slow to move. Tea Girl moved up fast, and at the end of a furlong she was out clear of Companula, who was followed by Amourette, Royal Flower and Waving Corn. Racing round the turn Tea Girl still held a good lead from Campanula, while Waving Corn headed Royal Flower. When the straight was reached, W?' T '" n Corn took second

e, but she had no chance with Te. Girl, who won uy two lengths. Royal Flower, after appearing to be beaten, came on again with a late run and got within a head of Waving Corn at the post. Pound Note put up a decent performance, as, after being well back in the early stages, he finished strongly in fourth place. Campanula, who hung on well, was fifth. The winner got off badly on the previous day, and nearly ran off the course at the turn, where Royal Flower went wide. Tea Girl has a nice turn of speed and may develop useful form. Amourette faded out early, while Zeuxis never looked dangerous, after beginning rather slowly. The scratching of Rollo left ten starters for the Domain Trot Handicap. Limosa was a warm favourite, while after a gap Prince Chimes and Becky Mine were soundly supported. Limosa and Prince Chimes were slow’ to move. Becky Mine was smartest out, followed by Little Author, Island Lass and Francis de Oro, while at the end of a furlong Prince Chimes and Limosa were next, after a gap. A little further on Francis de Oro moved up, and when the straight was reached he was in front. Passing the stand Francis de Oro was four lengths clear of Little Author, Becky Mine and Prince Chimes, who were together. Francis de Oro had a lead of six lengths at the six furlong post, where Prince Chimes had headed Little Author and Becky Mine, while Eiffelton Lass was moving up. Francis de Oro, Prince Chimes, Be<Jcv Mine and Little Author were in close order at the home turn. Once in the straight Prince Chimes ran past Francis de Oro, who tired badly in the run home. Prince Chimes held his place to the end, winning by three lengths from Becky Mine, who beat Francis de Oro by four lengths. Five lengths further back Limosa just headed Little

Author and Eiffelton Lass. The winner paced a sound race all the way, after going off slowly. Becky Mine stayed on better than on the previous day. Francis de Oro showed speed, but he appears to lack stamina. Limosa ran much below expectations, and her form did not justify the support she received. The chief event of the day, the President’s Handicap, drew only four starters, after Gold Brick had been scratched. Malmsey was a hot favourite, while Rapier was the outsider of the party. Lucy Locket and Malmsey began smartly, leading the other pair out of the straight by two lengths. At the seven furlong post the two leaders were two lengths in front of Thorndale, while Rapier was gradually losing ground. The order was unchanged three furlongs from home, the only difference being that Rapier was fully four lengths behind Thorndale. They ran like this to the home turn, where Thorndale commenced to move up, and he was in close attendance on Lucy Locket and Malmsey at the entrance to the straight. A little further on Malmsey was in trouble. Thorndale finished on strongly, and he won by a length, while Malmsey came on again under pressure to beat Lucy Locket by half a length. Rapier was over four lengths away. Thorndale galloped in good style, showing great improvement over his Ashburton form. Rapier, on the other hand, ran a long way below his best, but his form was so bad that it can be disregarded. Gay Sonnet was the only scratching for the Stewards’ Handicap, and in a field of seven Silver Coot was a hot favourite, carrying more than twice as much as Buoyant, who was second choice. Backers picked it well, as these two led the field home. Buoyant and Ronaki lost a few lengths at the start, but the former moved up fast and at the end of a furlong he joined Polydectes in the lead, just clear of Silver Coot, after whom there was a long gap to Money Mine. Then Ronaki made a run which landed him in fourth place three furlongs from home, where Tuahine was last. Ronaki soon retired again. Polydectes was in trouble at the home turn, where Silver Coot closed on Buoyant, whom he followed to the straight. Going, on with •his run, Silver Coot beat Buoyant easily by a length and a half. Money Mine, who came with a late rush in the straight, was a length away third, with Polydectes three lengths further back. The winner was always going well, and he won in attractive style. Buoyant was a trifle unlucky, as he was set too big a task after his slow beginning, and his early effort left him with no reserve for the final stages. The nine acceptors lined up for the Winchester Trot Handicap. Ecstasy finished up with a good call in the betting over No Fear, and then came Logan d’Oro, after a long gap. No Fear broke up at the start, losing a lot of ground. Hilda Orton was first to show out, followed by Roger Lyon and Logan d’Oro, with Haiold Lee heading the others, several lengths away. Roger Lyon made a skip after passing the six furlong post, and Logan d’Oro ran into second place. A furlong further on Hilda Orton was two lengths in front of Logan d’Oro, with Roger Lyon handy, while No Fear and Young Bingen were next. Logan d’Oro ran to the front half a mile from home and had a good lead at the entrance to the straight, where Hilda Orton, Roger Lyon and Young Bingen were following in that order, with Ecstasy closing up. Hilda Orton tired and Logan d’Oro went on to win easily by three lengths from Roger Lyon, who beat Ecstasy by four lengths, with Young Bingen two lengths away and Hilda Orton fifth. The winner paced well in harness the previous day but the shorter journey suited him.

Star Raid was withdrawn from the Gladstone Handicap and in a field of seven Royal Tractor, Camisader and First Raid were fancied in that order, with not much between them. First Raid and Gaybird began slowly, while Royal Tractor was smartest out, with Camisader and Beaming next. First Raid was rushed through very fast and soon joined Royal Tractor in the lead, three lengths clear of Camisader, who was followed by Rina Mangu. The leading pair raced together to the straight, where Camisader was closing up. First Raid was in trouble a furlong from the post, and Camisader went in pursuit of Royal Tractor. They provided a good finish but Royal Tractor, ridden out, lasted long enough to beat Camisader by a neck. First Raid was three lengths away, with Rina Mangu four lengths further back. The performance of the winner was an attractive one and he may win some more hack sprints before the spring campaign is over. Camisader ran a solid race and should win very soon. First Raid was not handled to advantage.

I'he Farewell Handicap brought a successful. meeting to a close. Chickwheat and Lucy Locket were withdrawn, leaving a field of eight. Gay Sonnet was a hot favourite, with Gold Brick a heavily backed second fancy. The surprise of the betting was tne solid support that came for Front Rank, who was a good third choice. There seemed no justification for backing her so confidently on her form of the previous day. It proved to be good business, however, as she made an exhibition of her opponents at the finish. Gay Sonnet and Gold Brick were first to show out from a walk up start. Gold Brick soon drew clear and at the six furlong post he was three lengths in front of Gay Sonnet, who had Gold Mint, Nine of Spades and Front Rank as her nearest attendants. Half a mile from home Gold Brick had Gay Sonnet and Nine of Spades in close attendance, while after a gap of several lengths Front Rank was at the head of the others. Front Rank improved her position round the turn and she was not far behind the leaders when the straight was reached. Ga * Sonnet then drew away but a little frr ther on Front Rank ran past them am* went on to win with ridiculous ease b3' three lengths. Gay Sonnet beat Gold Brick by a head for second place, while Nine of Spades, who tired over the last furlong, was four lengths further back. The performance o(, the winner was a wonderful improvement on her form of the first day, when she tailed off early and stayed there. Her two per formances were the subject of an inquiry but the explanation of her connections was accepted.

CUP CANDIDATES ARE DISCUSSED.

SUMMARY OF FORM IN TROTTING EVENTS. (By OBSERVER.) What will win the Trotting Cup? This is the question discussed wherever trotting enthusiasts foregather. “The Star” is publishing a series of articles giving light-harness supporters a line on the form and performances of the candidates. BLACK ADMIRAL. Black gelding, .aged, by Brent Locanda—Queen’s Drive. Owned by Messrs Grant and Winter; trained by M. B. Edwards, who also drives him. Handicapped on scratch—or 4.26. His latest efforts are as follows: 1926-27—During the 1926-27 season.

Black Admiral faced the starter on eleven occasions, his record being two wins, two seconds, and one third.

the exception of three races at a mile and a quarter—one of which, the Electric Handicap, 2.45 class, he won from scratch at the Wellington summer meeting, his efforts were all at two miles. For the principal event (4.31 class) on the first day of the Canterbury Park summer meeting, he was made a good favourite, but Peter Bingen, from the same mark (36yds),

beat him home in 4.28, Black Admiral's time being 4.28 2-5. He was unplaced in the principal event the following day, and again in the Dunedin Cup at Forbury. On the second day‘of the latter meeting however, he ran a good third to Sea Pearl and Parkwood, finishing within a length of the winner, Sea Pearl, to whom he was conceding 24yds. Two more unplaced two-mile efforts followed, and he then contested the Easter Handicap at Addington. In this race, a 4.31 class, he just failed from 36yds to beat Escapade (12yds), the latter passing the post on a break, a head to the good. Black Admiral went a great race and ran the distance in 4.25 2-5. On the following day, however, he had his reward, winning the President’s Handicap, 4.30 class, from 36yds behind in 4.26 2-5, after leading for the greater part of the journey. Queen’s Own (24yds), Peter Bingen (48yds) and JLocanda Mac (24yds) were in the places. These two efforts were easily the best of his career, and at this stage it looked as though he was in the top flight and would take high honours.

1927-28—Last season, however, he quite failed to live up to this promise, and in thirteen starts his only moneyearning efforts were four seconds and one fourth placing. The four seconds, strangely enough, were all registered in mile and a quarter events and three of them were on the Wellington TrotLing Club’s course. He started six times m the season in two-mile events, his first outing being his initial appearance in the Cup raoe. He was not prominent in this event, and it was considered that the wet track was not in his favour. His next start was in the Christchurch Handicap (4.29 class) on the third day of the Cup meeting, in which he showed by running fourth from 36yds behind to Jewel Pointer (scr). Great Hope (48yds), and Great Bingen (96yds) that with a firm track he may have made a better showing in the Cup. He also contested the Canterbury Handicap (for which he was favourite) at Canterbury Park summer meeting, the Easter and President’s Handicaps at Addington and the King George Handicap at the Canterbury Park winter meeting, but he was not prominent in any of these. It was altogether a most disappointing season, especially considering his brilliant form at the conclusion of the previous year’s racing.

Since the commencement of the present season Black Admiral has started once only—in the New Zealand Cup Trial Handicap at the recent Wellington meeting. Although he did not make a great impression on this occasion, the

race would certainly effect great improvement in his condition. His recent efforts have not shown him in a favourable light as a potential Cup winner, but, going past his rather poor form of the 1927-28 season, we find him racing prominently in good company, a proved stayer and a very fair sprinter, able to • maintain a strong effort. He may not have the attractive gait or commanding presence of some of his rivals, but at his best he is a really solid customer, entitled to respect even in the best company at two miles. At present he is not amongst the favoured division, but if he shows his party that he is back to form and able to give of his best, then he will probably not lack supporters on the machine. Last year he was fourth favourite in a field containing eleven totalisator chances, the quadruple bracket (Kohara, Great Bingen, Great Hope and Acron), Talaro and Cardinal Logan being the only chances preferred to him. His past record suggests that he is a trifle difficult to produce just at his best, but once fit and well he represents good class. Now rated as eight years old. he should be capable this season of showing improvement on his previous best, so, although his chance in the big race does not appeal so much as that of some with better recent performances to their credit, he should not be too readily passed over. LOGANWOOD. Bay gelding, aged, by Logan Pointer —Myrtlewood. Owned and trained by G W Dransfield. He is on scratch, or 4.26. His more recent performances are as follows: 1926-27.—During this season Loganwood was an exceedingly busy horse, •ontesting in all twenty-five races, of which number he won only one. but three seconds and three thirds brought his earnings for the season to the respectable total of £l2Ol. He started in two races of a mile, but was unplaced in each, also in eight events at a mile and a quarter, at which distance he registered two seconds and two thirds. He contested fifteen two-mile events, winning one, and running once second and once third. His first six starts in two-mile races were unsuccessful, but his next outing, in the Park Handicap, 4.34 class, at the Canterbury Park summer meeting, saw him run second from 24yds behind to Tom Thumb scratch. Tom Thumb’s time was 4.30 2-5 and Logan wood's 4.28 3-5. Followng this performance, he contested the Dunedin Cup (4.32 class), and from 24yds behind won in a close finish from Parkwood, scratch, and Sea Pearl, ’6yds. His time was 4.35, the going being on the slow side. Two more efforts at two miles were also unsuccessful. and then he ran a really fine race in the York Handicap (4.30 class) at the New Brighton Royal meeting, at which the Duke of York was present. Those fortunate enough to see this ex-

ellent contest will remember that it was won by Great Bingen (108ydsL with Trenand (scratch) second and Logan wood (24yds) third. The finish was one of the closest possible with half the field lined across the course. The times given were:—Great Bingen, 4.21; Trenand, 4.30 1-5; Loganwood, 4.28 2-5. Loganwood started in four more two-mile races before the close of the season, but was not again in the money.

1927-28.—Last season he started on fifteen occasions, securing three firsts and a third, which netted £IO3O. He opened the season in great style by annexing on the first day of the National fixture the International Handicap (2.14 class—one mile), from 24 yards behind in the fast time of 2.9 3-5. Bonny Logan (48yds) and Concliff (24yds) were in the minor places. The next day he repeated the dose—winning the King George Handicap, of two (4.30 class) from 36yds behind by three lengths in 4min 27 2-ssec. Golden Devon (scr), Man o’ War (60yds behind) and Peterwah (scratch), were the next to finish, and there were a lot of good stayers behind them. At the November meeting at Addington he was unplaced in the Cup race (hie Initial appearance), the Free-for-AU, and the Christchurch Handicap. The New Brighton summer meeting saw K««* again on the winning list when he won the Wainoni Handicap (2.48 class, one mile and a quarter) from 60yds b»hifvL The time was 2.4Bsec. He was unplaced next day in the mile and a quarter event and again in the principal event on the first day at Canterbury Pfcrk. The following day he was 3rd from 48yds, in the 2.46 class mile and a quarter to Terence Dillon (I2vds) and Prince Pointer (60yds). Six more starts, including the principal events at Easter, won by Taurekareka and Padlock respectively, saw him finish down the course.

This season he started three during the Metropolitan meeting in August, but was not in the money. Two of these events were of two Loganwood has the reputation of being a non-stayer, and his record certainly suggests that stamina is not his forte. He appears a good honest sort who comes along to collect the chips when the other horses do not produce anything out of the ordinary. His best time for two miles is the 4-27 2-5 registered in the King George Handicap in August, 1927, so he becomes eligible only because of “handicapped to do 4226 or better "It is fair to say that he represents better class as a sprinter than at two miles, and his chance in the Cup event anl pears rather small. Last year he was ninth favourite. Man o’ War and Prinaa Pointer being the only ones to carry less public support, but it must be rL membered that he was then ped 36yds behind in a 4.28 class, or second tighter than this year. Hi h