SPORTING.

Hokitika Guardian, 5 November 1924, Page 3

SPORTING.

BY TELEGRAPH—PRESS A SUN., COPYRIGHT. MELBOURNE CUP. HOW THE RACE AY ENT. (Received this day at 11.25 a.in.) SADNEY, November 5. Commenting mi the Melbourne Cup tin* “Herald ” says it was a great race. An excellent start was effected, although a hurdle was necessary to keep AYynette and Featheniest in order at the harrier. Ilackwood ran last till file mile post, hut as the horses swung into the .straight Backwood suddenly shot out and Lilypond who had been interfered with coming round the turn, put in a claim on (he outside. Rackwood was a clear furlong from home, and then a thrilling finish was witnessed. Spearfelt and Lilypond both tackled Baekwnod resolutely, IniL were unable to get on terms. Brown Rajah also made a hold eliori, hut had to give way. The honours of the race were undoubtedly with the winner, who came from last to (irsl and put up a brilliant performance. Standby stamped himself as a horse of exceptional merit as notwithstanding his injury, and being twice hampered, onrp in coining into the straight and again near the post, he showed rare determination. Brown Rajah ran a great race and so did Lilypond who had his progress impeded a couple of times. Featheniest found flic pace over (he concluding stages too much lor him, while San Antonio had nothing lelt at the finish and Drongo also petered out.

The Judge placed Brown Rajah third hut later altered it in favour of Spearfell, hut not before some bookmakers had paid out. Lilypond was an exceedingly close fourth and Brown Rajah was next. The “Telegraph” says strangely enough AA yuette and I* outhernest, neither of whom were regarded as fast beginners, showed the way past the stand. A little later I’olycletaii sustained a hump which sent him hack several lengths and must have taken a lot out ol him. II was apparent from the harrier to the mile post that. Hi-own was not urging Ilackwood. As soon as the horse was called on it moved up and two furlongs from home was going great guns. For the moment i*t looked as if he was gonig to have an easy win. It was the most thrilling finish ever witnessed Tor the Melbourne Cup. Ilackwood ridden hard, commenced to taller and the faster did Spearfelt gain on him.. Standby was momentarily checked by Spearfelt boring in on him. hut he came again in great style. '1 he three horses passed the Judge’s hax almost abreast.