SPEED MERCHANTS

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 903, 21 February 1930, Page 14

SPEED MERCHANTS

CLASSY FIELD ENGAGED IN TEN FURLONG HEAT AN OPEN ISSUE There is a fine lot of speedy pacers engaged in the Moss Davis Handicap tomorrow, which constitutes the second leg of the elusive “double.” With their usual g ameness, backers have made many selections, but it is generally admitted that the problem is a difficult one. Quite a number of the acceptors in this item will be seen out earlier in the day, and their form “first up” will give the public a good guide as to their prospects in the ten-furlong heat. Sunshower, Free Advice, Talent, Nelson Tasker, and Jewel Pointer are engaged in the Otahuhu Cup, and should any of these fill the position of runner-up in the two-mile event, it will give backers a lead to elect a favourite for the shorter race. Oakhampton is a possibility off the front mark, and the McMillan representative would only require to be in something approaching his best form to make those behind him step gaily to head him off. Gold Dial and Tony Victor can tramp a good ten furlongs, while Florent may prove the best of this line. He put up an attractive performance when A. W. Broughton drove him home over this distance at the Auckland summer meeting. First Carbine does not appear quite ready yet, but Joy Bird should be in good shape. This mare can unravel a fine turn of speed, and if the jaunt was a mile one she would be a “hot-pot.” She should get the extra distance without any trouble. Stanmoor may tackle the race just before this one, but if S. August elects to start Rockburn he will make it interesting. Talent is in Form Talent is more than useful at the journey, and his Dunedin and Addington form points to H. Frost’s candidate being hard to beat. If reserved, Free Advice would probably start favourite, but the big race might take a lot of pep out of her. Sunshower is a

brilliant mare at any distance, but her special mission will no doubt be the big race. Carmel will go solidly if the footing is firms while All Bell will require the going to be the other way. If bo finds it soft, then the old gelding will go close to effecting a surprise. Nelson Tasker and Jewel Pointer are a speedy pair, and will make those in front hurry along to keep out of their way. Talent may be the elect at the finish of operations, but Free Advice (if kept for the sprint) would give him a. big bid, while Joy Bird, Florent, and Carmel are all capable of making ti e finish willing and interesting.