PROMISING JUMPER

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 33, 2 May 1927, Page 6

PROMISING JUMPER

DAUGHTER OF SPALPEEN WINS AT FIRST TIME OF ASKING The pace displayed in her recent flat race engagements at Ellerslie, especially in view of the fact that she was to be put to hurdling, had already been commented upon in these columns, so that the win of Lady Spalpeen in her first effort over the sticks, at Tc Rapa on Saturday, could not have been unexpected. Indeed, it was very much anticipated, for she was sent out favourite, albeit at a liberal price. Throughout the Frankton Hurdles on Saturday Lady Spalpeen jumped without the semblance of a mistake, and gave jockey Hall a comfortable ride. She went to the front at the five furlongs, and from then on there was no doubt as to the result. She went for the gap in the last fence, and, as so often happens, she pecked a bit at the half-flattened hurdle, and then went on to score easily by a matter of four lengths. WILL GO ON IMPROVING Such an introduction to this branch of the racing game must be very encouraging to her owner-trainer, W. A. McMillan, of Te Aroha, and if she goes on with the game more good wins will go to her. She is by Spalpeen, which is almost in itself sufficient guarantee as to her ability over the obstacles. Lady Spalpeen’s most dangerous opponent on Saturday was thought to be Peter Rosa, but that horse declined his engagement. Te Tahi showed signs of a return to form in running third, after being well placed over the concluding stages. Slump was second, and was responsible for a better effort than that registered in filling a similar position in that disastrous race at Whangarei a month ago. A mile and a-half is as far as the Absurd gelding has cared about, and he is on the improve. SHOWS PROMISE Wiltshire gave a very promising display, and should not be long ip improving on his fourth on Saturday. His jumping was a bit ragged, but it was only through lack of experience. Kamehameha went well, but Wedding March was a disappointment, never at any stage threatening danger. Archibald performed similarly, the pace apparently being too solid for him with his weight. Lady Arch held the lead for half a mile or so and then dropped out of the contest, and Gold Rep and West Abbey were only moderate on the day. Of the remainder there is little to be said. Scot Free was going particularly well until he pecked at the obstacle near the five-furlong post, and that unsettled him. Rangiawhio lost his jockey at the same fence.