A COMING CHAMPION.

Shannon News, 19 February 1929, Page 3

A COMING CHAMPION.

THE GOLD CUP WINNER. While it was expected in certain quarters that Aussie might account fo: Limerick in the Ifazlett Memorial on Saturday last, it was generally conceded that the Limond gelding would again win this w.f.a. event and naturally some surprise was expressed when it became known that the northern sprinter prevailed by three-quarters of a length. The field at starting time 1 was reduced to three runners, Rapier being the other one, with Limerick carrying most support, and Rapier next in order of favouritism, the result being a good price for Aussie’s admirers. Rapier was first to the front, but was soon passed by Aussie who stayed in front all the way to win by threequarters of a length with Rapier over three lengths further back. Last season Aussie won the Auckland R.G. Shorts, 6fur., with 8.7; the Auckland R.'C. Epsom Handicap, 6fur., with 9.2; the Auckland R.C. King’s Plate, w.f.a., 1 mile; the Auckland Newmarket Handicap, 6fur., with 9.5. the Auckland R.'C. Hula Handicap, 0 fur., with 9.9; and the Avondale J.C. All-Aged Stakes, w.f.a., 6 fur., from Prince Humphrey and Joy King.

Aussie has started on nine occasions this season and his performances are: Unplaced. Auckland R.'C. Shorts Handicap, 6fur.; second, Dargaville R.C. Avoca Handicap, 6fur., carried 9.13; won, Dargaville R.C. Ruawai Handicap, 6fur., parried • 10.3; unplaced, Takapuna Cheltenham Handicap, 6 fur.; won, Waipa Flying Handicap, 6 fur., carried 10.6; won, Auckland R.C. King’s Plate, w.f.a., 1 mile; won, Auckland R.C. Newmarket Handicap, 6fur., carried 9.11. Second, Dunedin J.C. Publican’s Handicap, 6 fur., carried 10.4; , won Hazlett Gold Cup, 1 mile, carried 9.8 Aussie’s successful activities during the present season have considerably strengthened his claims to consideration in any w.f.a. mile event in the Dominion or across the Tasman and if the latter trip is decided upon it is quite probable he will again have an opportunity of meeting the Limond gelding. While Limerick, was defeated or. Saturday he was certainly not disgraced as he'was at a big disadvantage so far as racing condition is concerned. Limerick will race next in Australia and will leave for Sydney on March Ist. He will probably strip a better horse in his next outing in which case he will be able to keep New Zealand’s end up.