ADAMS GOLD CUP

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 78, 23 June 1927, Page 7

ADAMS GOLD CUP

FAILURE OF FAVOURITES UNCLE BERT TURNED UP The much discussed and coveted Adams Gold Cup was, as anticipated, one of the thrilling events on the second day’s card, and provided not only interesting competition, but keen and spirited speculation. It also furnished surprises and disappointments, and these will no doubt live in the memories of those who witnessed the 1927 contest for the useful stake and handsome trophy. A BIG SURPRISE While the easy win of Uncle Bert was a big surprise to the large assemblage, it was also surprising that the Epsom-trained gelding was allowed to start at such a long price. The son of Gold Bell —Merry Kate was one of the very few that was doing much work on the training track at Alexandra Park, and he showed by his displays recently that the heavy going held no terrors for him. On Saturday Uncle Bert went a good race in the Hobson Handicap, when he beat all but the hot favourite, Great Earl. FAVOURITES FAIL Great Earl was backed very confidently in this event, and he carried about one-fourth of the amount invested on the 18 starters. The Shrew was entrusted with the second largest parcel, and the failure of the Canterbury and Manawatu representatives cost backers over three thousand pounds. The favourite did not go away correctly and lost his position on the rails, but when the stands were reach id he was in third berth and further on was right in behind the leader, Buz Buz. When the pressure was applied the favourite faded out and did not finish in the first half dozen. The Shrew was never at any stage going like a winner, and finished in the ruck. UNCLE ROMPS HOME In the words of an erstwhile popular ditty, “Uncle Bert turned up” all right, and no doubt the few who participated in the good thing “turned it on.” Uncle Bert’s victory was full of merit. He was the leader over the inntial half mile, but went to a tangle and lost ground. Passing the stand the second time Uncle was among the boys, in fifth form, but going down the back he went for the doctor and giving nothing a possible chance, won with the greatest of ease. Although a big outsider, the win was popular and owner J. Lynch, who xs a good sportsman, was the recipient of hearty congratulations, as well as the Gold Cup. A FINE EFFORT Luvan, who Dame Rumour stated had been undergoing a special preparation for this event, was third in order of favouritism, and the mare gave her supporters a good run for their money. Julian handled her carefully and although the daughter of Lulu Boy made a bad skip down the back she was third making for the home turn. Under pressure Luvan soon headed off Great Earl, but could make no impression on Uncle Bert. She was called upon, however, to do her best over the final bit to stall off a hot challenge from Wallroon, and she did it well, although it was a close call. A CHANGE OF DRIVERS The owner of the winner is evidently of the opinion that a change of driver is essential for Uncle Bert, as on each of his four starts a different reinsman was in evidence. On the opening day D. Bennett drove the Gold Bell geld-

ing in the Mangere Hadicap, while A. Broughton steered him into second place in the Hobson Handicap. In the first event yesterday M. Holmes held the ribbons, but it fell to the good fortune of M. B. Edwards to be behind Uncle Bert when he bolted with the valuable Adams Memorial Cup.