18 SEPTEMBER 1971, Page 24

Juliette's Weekly Frolic

I was at a wedding many miles from Doncaster when Piggott and Athens Wood made certain of at least one 1971 classic success, but my Jonah touch appears to be just as effective on or off the course, and Alderney predictably finished lame. Misfortune is an occupational hazard and I'm all but washed up. The last of the Northern "Ascots," the Ayr Western Meeting, is conveniently sited amid grouse moors and trout streams, and with a climate to draw out the first tweeds and shooting sticks, there should be a large gathering to watch Friday's rich and competitive Gold Cup. A field of 34 offers a teasing number of alternatives of which I tentatively put forward Ballynockan to reverse placings with his Steward's Cup conqueror, Apollo Nine. He has by-passed several tempting engagements since then and with the all-conquering Lester aboard can-outrun Royal Captive and probable favourite, Everlasting. An entertaining card at Kempton on Saturday opens on a high note with the Santoi Stakes. Apart from winning Goodwood's Extel Stakes under topweight, Spoiled Lad divided Homeric and Athens Wood in the Linglield Derby 'Trial and was only beaten half a length at York.

Assets: £19. Outlay: £2 ew Ballynockan. £3 to win Spoiled Lad.