THE N.Z. FUTURITY STAKES.

New Zealand Illustrated Sporting & Dramatic Review, Issue 1521, 19 June 1919, Page 31

THE N.Z. FUTURITY STAKES.

Our Christchurch correspondent writes: —It is doubtful if any race decided on the Ashburton course has aroused more interest than that evinced in the initial contest for the New 'Zealand Sapling Stakes. Eight particularly well conditioned two-year-olds went out to dispute its possession, the locally-trained Lady Swithin. who looked the most seasoned of the lot, being installed a strong favourite. Soldier’s Dream and Lady Swithin showed nervousness at the start, while Jean Logan, though it was her first public appearance, conducted herself like a veteran. When the word was given Lady Swithin and Soldier’s Dream both went to breaks, the others getting away in nice order. Pacing very solidly Jean Logan showed the way for over a mile with Wildbriar, Doraldina and Saints’ Bell in close attendance. A furlong from home Lady Swithin, by a rare effort, had closed on Jean Logan and Wildbriar, with Doraldina handy. Fifty yards from the post Jean Logan faded right out, and Wiidbriar and Lady Swithin were under pressure. Coming with a great run on the outside Doraldina smothered the leaders for pace, winning in handsome style by two lengths. Doraldina is a levelmade filly by O.Y.M. from Dollar Princess, bred by that keen enthusiast Mr. J. H. Westerman. She has more than an average turn of speed, coupled with rare stamina. Lady Swithin ran a solid race after getting under way, and, better placed in the early stages, may have prevailed. For a first attempt Jean Logan gave a very creditable showing, as did Wildbriar.