JOHN GRIGG STAKES

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 89, Issue 225, 22 September 1945, Page 6

JOHN GRIGG STAKES

SOUTH ISLAND CLASSIC The John Grigg Stakes, the semiclassic decided at the Ashburton County Racing Club’s meeting last Saturday, attracted the strongest field since the race was instituted, and much public interest was evinced in the contest. Essay was sent out first choice, and ridden a patient race in behind the leaders for six furlongs, made a bold attempt to justify her position but she was outstayed by an* other filly in Swingalong, which was having her first race. Third place Was also filled by a filly, Loyal Lady. Loch Derg was slaw to move off, but was out in front with Greek Slipper at the end of a furlong, and this pair led round the home turn from Essay, Lady Welbeck, Competitor, and Swingalong. Greek Slipper was done with before turning for home, and Loch Derg was first, into the straight from Silver Stream, Essay, Loyal Lady and Swingalong, with Lady Welbeck, Princess Anne and Competitor close up. Loch Derg was slow to move off, but was the run home, and Essay drew out. The first to challenge her was Swingalong, and the pair settled down to a hard tussle, the latter gradually gaining the upper hand to win by a neck. Loyal Ladv was a close third, two lengths in front of Competitor with Confusion finishing fast next, in front of Thornbridge, Sijver Stream, Avonbridge, Greek Slipper, Lady Welbeck Western Front, and Loch Derg, in that order. The winner is by Battle Song from Raphis, a sister to Phar Lap, who was bred by her owner, Mr. K. Austin. She is built on similar lines to her half-brother, John o* London, but promises to be more solid. Essay

was the first horse saddled up by C. H. Fairman since he launched out as a trainer a few months back, and she should do good service for the stable later in the season. Loval Lady, trained at Riverton, made a bold showing, and stayed on well. Competitor appeared to run about a good deal, and gave his rider a difficult task. Confusion was going well passing the half-mile when she was checked by Competitor and lost sufficient ground to ruin her chance. She was hopelessly out of the race turning for home, but put in some telling work over the last, furlong. Thornbridge and Western Front were both slow to move off and were never dangerous. Loch Derg showed her usual gift of speed, but did not carry on.