ONE OF THE BEST.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVII, Issue 115, 16 May 1936, Page 11

ONE OF THE BEST.

ELLERSLIE TRACK. ALTERATIONS UNDER WAY. STRAIGHT RUN AI.ONG BACK. The Ellerslie track has from time to time undergone considerable improvement and further alterations which are now in progress should make the track, from a racing point of view, one of the finest in the Dominion. The buildings between Green Lane and the seven-furlong post, which are known as Peach's property, now used as a riding school, are to be demolished and the mile

post is to be moved on to this property, j The start at this point will then give a j perfectly straight run for three furlongs j along the back, no turn being encountered by the field until the five furlongs post is reached. The sections at present on the outside of the course in Peach Parade, beyond the present tin fence, are to be gradually levelled and prepared with the idea that as soon as practical they will also be included in the eourse. The steeplechase course will I be carried on to this property, and two permanent jumps will be erected on this ground. Therefore, when the work is completed horses competing in crosscountry events will not race on the course proper along the back. These alterations have been in the minds of the committee of the Auckland Racing Club for some time, and they are now beginning to put the matter in hand. The ground for the new mile start is at present being prepared at the back of Peach's property, and the new work will be proceeded with as opportunity occurs. j The elub. states the secretary, Mr. W. S. i Spcnce, is not out to rush the alterations, and they will probably take some time to complete. Some time ago the committee decided | to take out gardens between-the stairI ways that lead to the main grandstand, I and in their place erect terraces so that i J patrons will have further vantage points j j from which to see the progress of races, j ' This work is now in hand, and though I it will not be entirely completed for the start of the Great Northern meeting, the ! major portion will be done, and it will be finished before ithe commencement of next season. The only flower beds that are to be left are those in front of the vice-regal box. At present his Excellency and suite have to enter "the box j from the side, and it is proposed to alter j this so that his Excellency will have a i direct entrance from the front to his reserve. i