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Field of Nine Probable For Temple Gwathmey Jam, The Mast, Nayy Gun and Titien II. Pointing for Race BELMONT PARK, Elmont, L. I. N. Y. — June 9. — A field of nine probable starters is indicated for next Wednesdays renewal of the 5,000 Temple Gwathmey Steeplechase Handicap at Belmont Park, most important feature of two two-day United Hunts meeting which will be held at the beautiful Westchester course on June 10 and 11. Of the 23 original nominees, the starting field has narrowed down to 9 of the surest-footed performers in the sport, led by Mrs. Ogden Phipps Oedipus under top weight of 163 pounds. Although it is an imposing burden, the son of Blue Larkspur carried two pounds more to win the Grand National Steeplechase in 1951, a contributing factor to his choice as "best horse of the year" among the jumping brigade. According to a check of potential starters by steeplechase racing secretary John E. Cooper, his right to victory will be questioned by J. F. McHughs Jam 153, Mrs. E. duPont Weirs The Mast 153, L. W. Jennings Navy Gun 149, A. Edward Mc-Masters Titien EC. 146, Montpeliers Hampton Roads 143, F. A. Clarks Lone Fisherman 143 and J. M. Mulfords Proceed 140. It is one of the best band of jumpers of the season, and a major test for the topweight. Jam has already scored in two major steeplechase handicaps this season, the International and the Charles L. Appleton, while The Mast also won impressively a few days ago in the Meadow Brook, defeating Jam, Tietien n. and Lone Fisherman, among others. The weight shift is naturally against him but he is a potent factor in any discussion of Temple Gwathmey prospects.
