1956 Melbourne Cup winner Rocketeer. Uncovered in a very old safe at Sandown Park is the 1956 Melbourne Cup Racebook. The first running of the Cup in 1956 the Melbourne Olympic year was won by Rocketeer for well-known coursing man the popular Max Johnson. Trained by E Patterson from Monageeta a tiny town 54 k’s North of Melbourne between Sunbury and Romsey in fertile agricultural land east of the Macedon Ranges. To this day we have not been able to find out what Mr Patterson’s first name is Eddie, Ernie we don’t know. Perhaps Doug Scott or Johnny Reid can help? You will notice the box draw was done on course on arrival at the meeting. The Black Dog by Rocket Jet drew 5 and wore the yellow rug. He had been runner-up to make the Cup behind The Jink a 2/1 on shot in 31.22 the margin was a 1/2 length and he started 7/1. It was the fastest of the four semis held on November 17th. Rocketeer beat Fawn Loot and Barnie’s Joy in 30.60 in the final. The race was run under Handicap conditions the field all started from 8 yards except for Barney’s Joy he started from 6 yards. The race was run on Grass over the 555 yards. I have included the race description from Paul Munt’s book the The Australian Greyhound. Also found was the Sign displayed in front of the Trophy a Canteen of Cutlery. A couple of things I loved from the book is the Club’s telephone number UJ9230 and the mail address P.O. Box 13 Springvale. It is same address to this very day.
