Current Week & What's Ahead

?End of a Tradition
Despite the moans of traditionalists who took pride in the Belmont Stakes as the U.S. equivalent of the English Derby (a testing 1�, miles for outstanding 3-year-old colts and fillies), Belmont's responsible men will allow geldings to run in 1957. Reason: the new rule should make blanket nominations for the Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Belmont easier and more common.

?Return to a Tradition
Frank Lane of the St. Louis Cardinals last year abolished the traditional bat and perching redbirds on Cardinal jerseys—on the ground that the old symbols made a uniform into a "costume." Lane is reversing himself in 1957. Fans buttonholing Frankie on the winter banquet circuit have persuaded him there are some insignia too sacred to tamper with.

? Italy Tries Again
This year's Italian invasion of the Indianapolis "500" will be led by a hot new Maserati, to be driven by Stirling Moss. Maserati is anxious to prove it can succeed over the Brickyard circuit where Ferrari failed last year.

?Ready, Peking?
Red China, making progress in its campaign for physical fitness and sports achievement, has apparently outdistanced Russia in tennis readiness. The Chinese have asked International Davis Cup authorities to accept a Chinese team in this year's competitions; the Russians are still just talking about it.