THE BLUE RIBAND RACE

NZ Truth, Issue 1193, 11 October 1928, Page 15

THE BLUE RIBAND RACE

NicolTs Youngsters Appear To Hold Event Safe

(From "N.Z. Truth's" Special Auckland Representative.)

It is probable that a field of ten will face the tapes when the balloon goes up for the first big trotting classic, the Great Northern Derby, at Alexandra Park.

NOTHING much out of the ordinary has occurred since the final payments were declared, although the Auto Machine — Tipsy Maid colt will not make the trip across the Tasman. Grand Light is reported to have displeased his connections m his recent work, and there is a suggestion that he will be missing on the day. Belle Axworthy is amiss and Bloss Audubon and Rolfe Audubon appear backward, while advice from Taranaki is not hopeful concerning the Real Guy — Sadie Dillon colt. ' The Aucklander, Trustworthy, is the local hope, but the general consensus of opinion la that though she is expeoted to loom m the picture at some stage, doubts are expressed regarding her seeing it right out. There seems no reason to divert

from the favoritism accorded Wrackler and Wrackeen, and on their previous attempts the Wrack youngsters are fully entitled to all the kudos. Sonoma Child, Hinkler and Security, if tuned up m the absence of Grand Light, will have friends, Though a race is never lost until ; . it ; s wonf it does not a pp e ar as if any of tnese will oust Nicoll's gelding and filly.

In the past these mile and a-half classics have not been over-patronised, but Saturday will probably see one of the best fields competing.

When the whips are cracking, those with best chances should be : Wrackler,

Wraokeon, Trustworthy.