RED HECKLE

NZ Truth, Issue 1205, 3 January 1929, Page 9

RED HECKLE

Just 'A BtmzToo Speedy F<^Foortt&Prodi(^

(From' ''N.Z. Truths Special Auckland Representative.)

As generally predicted, there was nothing outstanding as a triree-year-old unearthed by the decision of the Great Northern Derby. The principal item of interest ip. connection with the race is that, both rider and trainer of the winner were the same pair connected with v the ! previous blue ribbon classic at Ellerslie. > .

LAST Tuesday's, winner;; Red Heckle, i and Martarma, the 1928 J victor, Avere both, trained by Fred Christmas, the Riccarton mentor. This fact says something for Christmas's ability m getting horses fit 'for a mile and ahalf jourriey. 7 rifcTavish was m the' saddle. 7 There was only three- parts of a : length at the post between Red Heckle and the favorite, Prodice, with Toxeuma a- fair third . and Gold Money fourth. 7 Tcheka Avas not good enoughb

Perception's horseman informed "Truth;' after the raceb that had the course been absolutely firm he feltj confident , the Australianowned,gelding would have won. It was pAVing to Perception getting into some soft ground at one point of the journey that probably brought about his defeat. Great Northern TDerbies have occasionally been run m slower time than Red Heckle's, so there may still be hope for some of last /Tuesday's" field developing into reasonable handicap j class.' •' . ••■'■''.■•■'