THAT PLACING

NZ Truth, Issue 1261, 30 January 1930, Page 11

THAT PLACING

Did Harold Lee Head Petronius? (By "The Toff.") THERE was considerable dissatisfac- •*■ tion over the judge's placings m the Novice Dash Handicap at Wellington. Petronius put m a great finish and collared Harold Lee twenty yards from the judge. He continued his strong effort and so pronounced did his victory appear that not the least doubt existed as to Petronius having won by three-quarters of a length. To the amazement of the crowd Judge W. P. 'Russell hoisted Harold Lee's number first, placing Petronius second. The decision came as a thunderbolt and the. majority showed pointed disapproval, of the plac- • ingß. '/ Interviewed concerning the ■ finish, D. Withers, driver of Petronius, stated that he was certain, that he beat Harold Lee very easily. He added that if it had been just a question of a head or neck victory over Harold Lee he would have willingly accepted the judge's verdict, ' but he looked across at Harold Lee just before he reached the winning-post and saw that he was at least a length m front of Harold Lee. Withers further stated that when he pulled up Edwards said to him: "You beat me, Drum, but had my horse begun properly I would have won." Withers replied: "Oh, yes; I» won easily.",