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VAN NESS WINS HIS RACE AT THE START. Jack Martin Beats tho Barrier and Escutcheon is Worn Out by the Chase. New Orleans, La., January 20. Todays racing at the old track had a genuine zest to it and Tor the first time in a long while there was a conspicuous absence of rough riding. Starter Dades work with the barrier today was a bit off. The start in the fifth race practically gave the victory to Van Ness. J. Martin, who rode him, beat the barrier nearly five lengths and the effort to overhaul Van Ness caused Escutcheon to tire badly when the final drive came. Escutcheon was a well backed favorite, the Watkins crowd making a tremendous plunge on hiui. lie would have won in all probability had he gotten awaj- on even terms with Vau Ness. There was a falling off in the bookmakers ranks today, only tweuty-oue applying for stands and doing business. Willie Shields returned today from New York where he had been for the past two weeks. He reported that during his absence he had won enough money in poolrooms to offset the losses sustained during the early part of this meeting. George C. Bennett was among todays arrivals. Frank ONeill, who was injured by his fall on Black Mate Saturday, will resume riding next Wednesday. Hart Dernham says Optional practically broke down in her race today ami will have to be fired and turned out.
