RACING AND TROTTING

Press, Volume LXXII, Issue 21809, 15 June 1936, Page 14

RACING AND TROTTING

LATEST NEWS FROM FAR AND NEAR

racing fixtures r - June 20, 23—Napier Park R.C. June 20 23. 24—Dunedin J.C. June 23—Opotiki J.C. (at Tauranga). June 27—Oamaru J-C. July I—Dannevirke Hunt Club. July 7, 9, 11—Wellington R.C. July 18—Hawke’s Bay Hunt Club. July 18—Waimate District H.C. July 22—Rangitikei Hunt Club. Julv 23, 25—Poverty Bay Turf Club. July 25—South Canterbury Hunt Club. July 25—Manawatu R.C. TEOTTING FIXTURES June 20. 23—Auckland T.C. August 8. 12, 14— N.Z. Metropolitan T.C. August 15—Cambridge T.C. August 29—Auckland T.C. September s—New Brighton T.C. September 12—Wellington T.C. October 3—Methven T.C. October 10—New Brighton T.C. October 17—Waikato T.C. October 17, 19 —Westport T.C. October 22. 24—Forbury Park T.C. October 24, 26—Auckland T.C. October 24, 26—Greymouth T.C. October 26—Manawatu T.C. October 26—Oamaru T.C. October 31 —Wellington T.C. November 10. 12, 13— N.Z. Metropolitan T.C.

valuable prize in Europe, though still a long way behind some of America’s races. It will be run on Sunday, June 28, at Longchamp, and the total value will be 1,000,000 francs, as against the 600,000 francs advertised when entries for the race closed in November, 1934, This year’s race closed with 479 entries, of which 283 were made in Paris, 78 in London, and 18 in Rome. Colts carry 9-2 and fillies 8-13. The distance is about one mile seven furlongs. The race is always preceded by a parade. It is many years since a horse from England won the Grand Prix, but there is a possibility this year, as the entrants include Taj Akbar, Baber Shah. Bala Hissar, Couvert, Noble King, St. Magnus, Esquemeling, Boswell, Blandonian, Valerian, and Wyndham. The Derby winner Mahmoud was not entered. A Sydney Opinion It is pleasant to read that racing is again definitely on the up-grade in New Zealand, writes “Pilot” in the Sydney “Referee.” Some time back taxation was slightly modified and the Randwick trainer, G. Price, who returned from the Dominion recently, tells me that further developments in that direction are anticipated. A little while ago I heard that the present Ministry included one or two who incline to the idea that racing is carrying too much in the way of taxation, and that, as far as possible, they would assist in its reduction. If that is so, New Zealand owners and trainers can be hopeful of an improved position. Furthermore, it is said that those who favour bookmakers have a chance of seeing them operating. Whether there will be much in bookmaking on racecourses in the Dominion is doubtful, as racing is not centralised there as in Australia, and expenses will be heavy for those travelling from meeting to meeting. Furthermore, to give those who bet on racehourses a fair chance, there will have to be a strong check on those who bet away from them. In respect of betting shops the position can scarcely be made the same as in South Australia, where Adelaide monopolises most of the business. One thing about racing in New Zealand is that owners do not have to compete for £2O prizes a few miles away from the principal cities. That is the position in Sydney, and naturally betting market possibilities invariably take precedence of the stakes, which is not for the good of the sport.

ASHBURTON T.C.

N.Z. SAPLING STAKES DAY PARISIENNE’S FINE EFFORT CLOUDY RANGE WINS HANDICAP

For its eighteenth New Zealand Sapling Stakes meeting, the Ashburton Trotting Club had fine weather. A light wind in the early part of the afternoon detracted little from the enjoyment of a day of excellent sport. The attendance must have approached record proportions, and the big number of visitors from other parts of New Zealand showed the popularity of the two-year-old classic. Although the racing all through was full of interest and spectators showed the greatest enthusiasm, there were grave faults that must be remedied before long. The popularity of the racing at Ashburton has outgrown the equipment of the totalisator, and the appointments generally. The totalisator staff could not handle the money offering, and in each event a big sum of money was left in the hands of would-be speculators. The totalisator is altogether too small, and matters were not improved by the closing of several pay-out windows. The arrangements for paying out dividends was inadequate, and in a number of races successful investors received their winnings just when the totalisator was about to close for the next race, and long queues were lined up at the machine. The sum of £23,340 was invested. an increase of £9003 10s on the £14,336 10s handled last year, when straight-out betting was the order. Fiom a financial point of view the meeting was a big success, the totalisator and gate receipts showed a big increase, and nominations and acceptances provided a good proportion of the stake money. The experiences of Saturday should be helpful to the club’s officers, who must realise that trotting is a very popular sport in Mid-Canterbury, and patrons demand comfort ’ and up-to-date facilities for the complete enjoyment of the sport. Not only were the totalisator arrangements inadequate, but the grandstands do not provide accommodation for the big attendances, and they were uncomfortably crowded on Saturday. All the good luck was not with either the club secretary, Mr J. B. Nicoll, and staff, nor with the totaiisator proprietor, for the special train from Christchurch, which was well filled, did not arrive as soon as expected, there was a false start in the second race which caused more loss of time, and two presentations made during the afternoon further caused delay. In the face of many difficulties, the officers of the club made valiant efforts to provide for its patrons, and nothing but praise is due Mr J. B. Nicoll and his staff, and the honorary officials who did everything in their power to make the meeting a big success. It need only be said that trotting in Ashburton has come back on a big wave of popularity that even the progressive Ashburton Club is not prepared for. The racing was as good and as exciting as at any previous meeting of the club, and the New Zealand Sapling Stakes attracted a good field of juvenile pacers and provided a race worthy of the good stake offered. It was won by a particularly sAiart filly in Parisienne, who, handled with fine judgment by R B. Berry, occupied a good position throughout the race and came away with a fine burst of speed over the last furlong. Parisienne won by two lengths—a comfortable margin—but she had used up all her energy, and possibly better favoured in the running, Frisco Boy might haye won. He finished gallantly in second place, and keen followers of racing on the look-out for a Derby winner have already selected the colt as the most likely to improve. The popular fancy. Southern Chief, did everything right, but he was not assisted by his position on the outside of several horses for practically the whole journey The victory was one of the most popular in the history of the race, and Mrs D. R. Revell. of Auckland, is to be congratulated on the ownership of a classic winner that should go on to further success. After the race. Mi F. B. Robilliard. a vice-president of the club, paid a tribute to the owner and trainer-driver. R. B. Berry, and thanked owners of competing horses for the loyal support they had given to a classic race that was instituted for the encouragement of juvenile racing. Mrs Robilliard decorated Parisienne with the biue ribbon. Another sterling performance was registered in the Ashburton County Handicap, in which Mr G. J. Barton's gelding. Cloudy Range, conceded starts up to 60 yards to good class horses and won in convincing style after a brilliant burst of speed over the last five furlongs. Although the 4min 21sec he registered for two miles is not a record, it has seldom been beaten on the big Ashburton course. If conditions tor the New Zealand Cup provide for a 4min 26sec class, then Cloudy Range will be Mr Barton’s third horse eligible to compete. Discord gave an exhibition of trotting in the Mayfield Handicap that len. the bacx-markers with little chance of overhauling her, and, improving with every race, she will yet reach the best ciass company. Her time, 3min 21sec, irom a 3min 29sec mark, was a sterling effort. Three-year-olds snowed striking displays, and in the Trial Handicap, He-

nown’s Best, after losing a lot of ground, conceded a good start to the leaders over the last mile, and fairly outclassed her field, Fine Art, another three-year-old, being in second place. Later in the day, Casanova, Gaillard, and Lucky Jack beat a field of older horses in the Tinwald Handicap in fast time. The final event of the day, the Winter Handicap, ended in a thrilling battle between five horses, who crossed the line in a blanket finish. It was a most exciting wind-up to a day of high grade racing. Details of the racing are as follows: — LONGBEACH HANDICAP, Of 100 sovs; second horse 10 sovs, and third horse 5 sovs from stake. Unhoppled trotters. 3min 49sec class. One mile and a half. 7. 12—M. Thomson’s b g GUY HUGO by Guy Parrish—Nellie Hugo aged 43 .. .. G. Cameron' 1 8. 4—R. J. Ramsay’s br g Great Linnet 6yrs scr .. W. A. Murphy 2 2. 3—A. J. Wilson’s b g Lord Ernleigh scr .. D. Teahan 3 17, 19 Real Parrish scr; 14, 13 Isis scr; 9, 8 Fantine scr; 5, 6 Gay Crusader scr; 3. 2 Patty Todd scr; 1, 1 Swift Guy scr; 16, 16 Braemar scr; 12. 9 Highrate 36; 13. 11 Parachute 48; 17, 17 Debutante 43; 6, 7 Cracksman 48; 4, 5 Bon Chance 48; 11. 14 Royal Parrish 48; 15. 18 Victor Bingen 60; 10. 10 Mother’s Boy 60; 19, 15 Prince Harvester 108 also started. Won by three lengths; two lengths between second and third. Patty Todd was fourth. Times—3min 28 l-ssec, 3min 33 l-ssec, 3min 33 2-ssec. Winner trained by G. Cameron, New Brighton. TRIAL HANDICAP, Of 100 sovs; second horse 10 sovs, and third horse 5 sovs from stake. 3min 43sec class. One mile and a half. 1. I—F. -W. Fine’s blk f RENOWN’S BEST by Grattan Loyal—Renown 3yrs scr .. M. Holmes 1 3. 4—-J. Grant’s ch g Fine Art 3yrs scr .. .. M. C. McTigue 2 8. 12—D. Greenhorn’s b g Reymere svrs scr .. .. Owner 3

10,‘10 Elite Rey scr; 6, 5 Lord Axworthy scr and Thornworthy 12 bracketed; 11, 8 RollaJong scr and Wall Street scr bracketed: 7, 9 Poste Haste scr; 16, 16 Dusky Prince scr; 2, 2 Maltravers scr; 18. 18 Little Derby scr; 16, 17 Spey Royal scr; 5, 6 Serene Bingen scr; 20, 19 Renew scr; 15, 13 Temeraire scr; 9, 7 Old Faithful scr; 14, 15 Shuffle scr; 17, 18 Monetary scr; 4. 3 Ann Pointer scr; 19, 20 Grattan Girl scr; 12, II Laureen Wood scr; 13, 14 Buddy scr also started. Won by four lengths; three lengths between second and third. Lord Axworthy was fourth. Times—3min 23sec, 3min 23 2-ssec, 3min 24sec. Winner trained by M. Holmes, Yaldhurst. ASHBURTON COUNTY HANDICAP, Of 320 sovs, including cup valued 20 sovs' second horse 50 sovs, and third horse 20 sovs from stake. 4min 32sec class. Two miles. 2.2 G. J. Barton’s b g CLOUDY RANGE by Wrack—Ayr 6yrs 60 J. Fraser 1 1. I—C.1 —C. Johnston's ch g De Soto syrs «cr .. .. J. Bryce, jun. 2 7. 6 —A. Tilbury's br g Peter Locanda aged scr .. L. A. Maidens 3 10. 11 Warcss scr; 5, 5 Young Frank 12; 6, 9 Francis Lincoln 12; 9, 7 Grace McElwyn 12; 4. 3 Raydus 24; 12. 12 Gunfire 24; 3. 4 Guy Junior 24; 7, 8 Taxpayer 48; 11,’ 10 Sure 60 also started. Won by three lengths; same between second and third. Taxpayer was fourth. Times—4min 21 l-ssec, 4min 27 l-ssec, 4min 28sec. Winner trained by F. C. Dunlevy, Addington. NEW ZEALAND SAPLING STAKES, Of 1000 sovs; second horse 200 sovs, third horse 125 sovs, and fourth horse 7a sovs from stake. For two-year-olds. One mile and a half. 3 3 —Mrs D. R. Revell’s ch f, PARISIENNE by Rey de Oro—Yenot R. B. Berry 1 2.2 J. E. and H. L. August’s b c Frisco Boy by Jack Potts—Daisy Pointer • • S. A. Edwards 2 1. I—Miss J. Cuff's b c Southern Chief by Wrack—Regina Logan R. D. Kennerley 3 4. 4—G. McKendry’s b g Loyal Pat by Grattan Loyal—Pat Dillon Owner 4 5. 5 —J. B. Westerman’s b f Becky Direct by Frank Worthy—Becky Logan .. .. F. G. Holmes 0 6. 6—A. McLeod’s blk g Donald Dhu by Man o’ War—Tracey Maid L. A. Maidens 0 7 8 7—E. F, C. Hinds's b g Effie Parrish by Guy Parrish—Lady Effie J. Bryce, jun. 0 10. 10 —B. C. Lee's b c Lord Worthy by Frank Worthy—Harold Dillon mare D. Withers 0 9. 9—C. V. May’s b c Mirage by Boltaire —Logaleen .. O. E. Hooper 0 8. B—P. J. Andrews’s b c Peter Bee by Frank Worthy—Lady Bee J. Behrns 0 11. 11—Miss T. Kidd's blk g Royal Grattan by Grattan Loyal—Wild Princess .. .. A. Holmes 0 Won by two lengths; one and a half lengths between second and third. Times —3min 25sec, 3min 25 2-sscc, 3min 25 3-ssec. Winner trained by R. B. Berry, Yaldhurst. Winners of the race are:— 1919 Doraldina <F. E. Jones) 3.35!, 1920 Childe Pointer (D. Warren) . . 3.37g 1921 Latona (D. Warren) .. 3.37 1922 Ahuriri (J. Bryce) .. 3.33 1923 Taurekareka (J. Bryce) 3.33| 1924 Kohara (J. Bryce) .. 3.321 1925 Nantwick (D. Warren) .. 3.39 i 1926 Richore (F. G. Holmes) 3,31 1927 Enawah (R. C. Fisken) 3.33 1928 Sonoma Child (F. G. Holmes) .. 3,38 1929 John Jinks (D. Teahan) 3.281 1930 Arcthusa (M. Holmes) . , 3.25J 1931 Silver de Oro (S. A. Edwards) . . 3.251 1932 Taxpayer <G. Mouritz) 3.32 1933 War Buoy iM. B. Edwards) . . 3.21 >? 1934 Moana Tama (R. Motz) . . 3.34? 1935 Frisco iady (M. B. Edwards) 3.24 g 1936 Parisienne <R. B, Berry) 3.25 ACTON HANDICAP, Of 150 sovs; second horse 25 sovs, and third horse 10 sovs from stake. 3min 30sec class. One mile and a half. 9. 7—G. E. King’s ch g ON PARADE by Travis Axworthy—Gitana aged scr .. .. J. Bryce, jun. 1 8. 9—A. Read's b g Wild Dreams aged scr .. .. J. Behrns 2 12. 11— B. Grice's b g Village Guy syrs 36 , . O. E. Hooper 3 5, 4 Mystery Yet scr; 10, 8 Full Hand scr; 14, 15 Bingen Wrack scr; 2, 2 Golden Mist scr; 6, 6 Cadiz scr; 11, 12 Tricliif scr; 3. 5 Stirling Lady 12; 1,1 Greenmantle 12; 4, 3 Rare Rey 12; 14, 13 Symmetry 12; 7. 10 Racketeer 24; 13, 14 Treasure Bond 24; 12, 11 Village Guy 36 also started. Won by four lengths; half a length between second and third. Rare Rey was fourth. Times —3min 21 3-ssec. 3min 23sec, 3min 20 l-ssec. Winner trained by L. Davidson, New Brighton. MAYFIELD HANDICAP. Of 200 sovs, including cup valued 10 sow.; second horse 35 sovs, and third horse 15 sovs from stake. Unhoppled trotters. 3min 29sec class. Two miles. 1. 2—ll. Hewson’s b m DISCORD by Wi-ack—Echo syrs scr R. J. Rapley 1 5. 5—R. D, Kennerley's br m Bessie Parrish aged 48 J. J. Kennerley 2 4. 6—J. A. Mitchell’s b g King’s Guard aged scr .. ~ R. B. Berry 3

7, 7 Guy o’ Mine scr; 10, 9 Raclaim scr; 8, 8 Sandy N. scr; 6, 5 Fifa 12; 9, 10 Admiral Bingen 36; 2, 1 Norma Bingen 36; 11, 11 Lough Guy 36; 12, 12 Nicoya 84; 3, 4 Sea Gift 84 also started. Won by eight lengths: five lengths between second and third. Raclaim was fourth. Times—3min 20 l-ssec. 3min 19sec, 3min 24sec. Winner trained by owner, Ashburton. TINWALD HANDICAP, Of 140 sovs; second horse 20- sovs, and third horse 10 sovs from stake. 3min 36sec class. One mile and a half. 3. 2—Durbar Lodge, Ltd.’s b c CASANOVA by Wrack —Pearlchild 3yrs scr .. .. L. Frost 1 1. I—F. Holmes’s b c Gaillard 3yrs 12 F. G. Holmes 2 5. 3—W. T. .Lowe’s ch c Lucky Jack 3yrs 12 .. .. R. B. Berry 3 12, 13 Guy Mauritius scr; 9, 9 Harlequin scr; 7, 6 Moana Tama scr; S, 5 Repeal scr; 11. 11 Sky Wink scr; 15, 17 Royal Palm scr; 3, 2 Vanity Fair 12 bracketed with Casanova; 17, 16 Civic 12; 8, 6 Carrageen 12; 14, 15 Precious Metal 12; 10, 8 Ace Pot 12 and Trireme 12 bracketed; 2.2 Sports Review 12; 4, 4 Red Flush 12; 19, 18 Garry Thorpe 12; 16, 12 Wee Wrack 24; 18, 14 Llewellyn’s Pet 24; 13, 10 Our War 24 also started. Won by two lengths; same between second and third. Llewellyn’s Pet was fourth. Times —3min 20 2-ssec, 3min 20sec, 3min 20 3-sscc. Winner trained by L. A. Maidens, Winchmorc. WINTER HANDICAP, Of 200 sovs; second horse 35 sovs, and third horse 15 sovs from stake. 3min 25scc class. One mile and a half. 3 3 —Archer and McFarlane’s b g NOBLE PRINCE by Wrack—Princess Zoe 6vrs scr .. E. J. Smith 1 22 — G. J. Barton’s b f Rongomai 4yrs 12 •• .. J. Fraser 2 4 6_w. J. Doyle’s ch g Subsidy 4yrs scr .. .. Owner 3 7 8 Isabel Derby scr; 6, 5 Morcllo scr; 11,’12 Wise Guy scr; 1, 1 Big Author scr; 10 9 Golden Cross scr; 12, 11 Marie Celeste scr; 7.7 Tangatu 12; 5,4 Rocks Ahead 24- 8, 10 Reporter 36 also started. Won by a neck; head between second and third. Rocks Ahead was fourth. Times—3min 1? 2-ssec, 3min 16 3-ssec, 3min 17 4-ssec. Winner trained by E. J. Smith, Prebblcton.

NOTES ON THE RACING i Guy Hugo in Form A field of 19 horses did not give much trouble at the start of the Longbeach Handicap and althougn Guy Hugo won with something in hand the race was interesting from start to finish. Gev Crusader, Lord Ernleigh, and Great Linnet fought for the lead in the first furlong, but all were trotting unsteadily and Swift Guy took command from Lord Ernleigh, Great Linnet, and Guy Hugo, who had made up ground quickly. With half a mile to go, Guy Hugo raced up to Swift Guy and he had a slight advantage as the straight was reached. He held on solidly and won rather comfortably from Great Linnet, Lord Ernleigh, Patty Todd, and Swift Guy. The winner did not put a foot wrong during the race and he displayed both speed and stamina in a fast run race. It marked Guy Hugo’s second win for the season, and he will win more races once he becomes consistent. Great Linnet gave a mixed display of trotting and galloping, but his exhibition was little worse than that of Lord Ernleigh and Patty Todd. Fantine refused to begin with the others, Prince Harvester showed great speed, and only faded out in the last two furlongs, while at different stages of the race Gay Crusader, Highrate, and Bon Chance were prominent, A Smart Three-year-old Renown’s Best was backed down to a very short price in the Trial Handicap and after losing ground at the start she put in a great run from the halfmile post and won very comfortably. It was a high-grade performance. Lord Axworthy began very quickly and led out of the straight from Buddy, Serene Bingen, Elite Rey, and AnmCPointer. Down the back Buddy, Amr Pointer, and Lord Axworthy joined the leading division and Maltravers, Fine Art and Renown’s Best, who had lost a lot of ground early, began to make an impression on the leaders. Rounding the top turn Post Haste was just in front of Reymere, Renown’s Best, and Fine Art. Then Renown’s Best cleared away from the field, and won from Fine Art, Reymere, Lord Axworthy, Elite Rey, Rollalong, and Maltravers. Renown's Best, who had run second to Royal Doulton a week before, was in a class bv herself and at one stage was conceding the leaders more than 100 yards. It was a good exhibition of speed and stamina. Fine Art "avo his best display to date and although he had no chance with the winner, he fought on like a good racehorse. Reymere was always in the firing line, and put in a strong finish, but Lord Axworthy failed badly at the end of a mile. Maltravers broke at the start, but afterwards ran a good race, and in the big, unwieldy field there was a deal of interference. A High-grade Pacer In winning the Ashburton County Handicap from a 4min 27sec mark. Cloudy Range showed a high grade performance, for he won with a lot in hand after making a brilliant run from the half-mile post. Waress and Young Frank were quickest to began, and De Soto broke up badly and lest 48 to 60 yards. When the field had travelled half a mile, the order was Waress, Young Frank, Peter Locanda. De Soto, Francis Lincoln, Grace McElwyn, Gunfire, Raydus, Guy Junior, Sure, and Cloudy Range, and there was little change until half a mile from home, when Cloudy Range put in a great burst, which took him up to Young Frank as the pair entered the straight. Halfway down the running Cloudy Range had the race in hand, and was not fully extended to ward off a challenge from De Soto. Peter Locanda just beat Taxpayer for third place, and following were Waress, Francis Lincoln, Raydus, and Guy Junior. Cloudy Range proved himself a real racehorse by the manner in which he outclassed the field, and the time, 4min 21 l-ssec, shows the race to have been run at a good pace from the start. He is a good stayer and may win more races before he contests the New Zealand Cup in November. De Soto was unlucky enough to lose ground at the start, but he could not ■» have won in any case. Under pressure in the home run he bored badly and is apparently a horse who races best in front. Peter Locanda was always handy and outstayed Taxpayer, and Waress and Francis Lincoln paced solidly. The' disappointments of the race were Guy Junior and Grace McElwyn. Two-year-old Classic Driven a patient race and well placed at every stage of the journey Parisienne, with a great burst of

speed over the last two furlongs, won the 1936 New Zealand Sapling Stakes in most impressive The unlucky horse of the race was Frisco Boy, who dropped back half a mile from home and had to make up a lot of ground. Becky Direct was quickest to begin and at the end of a furlong led from Loyal Pat, Frisco Boy, Donald Dhu, Parisienne, Southern Chief, and Effie Parrish; Zincali and Peter Bee both lost a lot of ground. Excepting that Zincali made up leeway, there was little change over the first mile at the end of which Loyal Pat led from Southern Chief, Zincali, who had come very fast, with Parisienne and Donald Dhu handy. Zincali and Loyal Pat were first into the straight and then Southern Chief tackled the pair. He had no sooner mastered the two when Parisienne came very fast and won in impressive style. Frisco Boy came with a good burst to take second money from Southern Chief, Loyal Pat, and Zincali.

Parisienne is not a big one, but she is game, and possesses exceptional speed. Owned by the / Auckland sportsman, Mr D. R. Revell, Parisienne has been trained by R. B. Berry, who drove her a masterly race. She is solid and will win again. Frisco Boy had all the bad luck of the race, but he has speed and stays well. He looked the most likely winner of Derby honours. Southern Chief covered extra ground on the outside of the field, but under any conditions he could not have won. Loyal Pat ran another solid race and if Zincali could be depended upon to leave the mark smartly he would be as good as any. He put up a sterling performance. Becky Direct failed to stay. Donald Dhu and Effie Parrish did not run on at the business end, and Pete Bee and Lord Worthy lost enough ground at the start to make their chances hopeless. Accident Spoils Race

After the field had travelled two furlongs in the Acton Handicap, Tricliff and Golden Mist fell, and interfered with more than half the field. The race was completely spoiled for only six horses were left with chances. On Parade was the quickest to begin and he led past the stands from Greenmantle. Tricliff, Golden Mist, Wild Dreams, and Bingen Wrack, but rounding the bottom turn Tricliff and Golden Mist came down and from then on the only serious contestants were Wild Dreams, On Parade. Greenmantle, Racketeer, Village Guy, and Rare Rey. Wild Dreams made all the running till half-way down the straight, when On Parade came with a welltimed run and won very easily from Wild Dreams. Village Guy, Rare Rey and Racketeer. The race was hardly a true test of merit and while the winner won well he was lucky to miss the opposition of the majority. Wild Dreams put up his best effort to date and Village Guy was driven a peculiar race, but made one fast dash at the finish to be narrowly beaten for second place. Racketeer. Rare Rey an Greenmantle did not impress, and the remainder had not a chance. A Coming Champion After a splendid exhibition of trotting, Discord won very easily the Mayfield Handicap. She was in front from the start and registered 3min 20 l-ssec from a 3min 29sec mark. Nothing had a chance with her over the later stages. Discord at once set out to make the pace from King’s Guard, Raclaim. Fifa, and Lough Guy, the others well back. In the back stretch Discord drew out, with King’s Guard and Raclaim next. King’s Guard broke before turning into the straight, and this left Discord with a substantial lead which she increased to eight lengths as the post was reached. Bessie Parrish, trotting solidly, ran into second place, and King’s Guard settled down in time to be third.

On this occasion R. J. Rapley made full use of Discord’s stamina, and she fairly outstayed the remainder. It was a brilliant exhibition by a young trotter. It was a poor race and Bessie Parrish was the only one to make a showing. King’s Guard was tired when he broke, Sea Gift was set an impos-

siblc task, and Fifa did not display the speed expected. An Overdue Win Casanova showed a sterling effort to win the Tinwald Handicap, easily his best performance to date. He had to withstand a determined challenge in the straight, and he finished like a true racehorse. Harlequin and Repeal were the smartest to begin and they carried on the running from Royal Palm. Civic, Casanova, and Vanity Fair. In the back stretch Harlequin was still in command and he led a bunched field to the straight, at which stage Casanova, Civic, Repeal, Caillavd, and Red Flush were showing uo. Casanova then look the lead and though he had to be driven out he scored a decisive -victory from Gaillard, Lucky Jack. Llewellyn’s Pet, Red Flush, and Our War. As a two-year-old Casanova was regarded as a coming champion, but his displays have been mixed, and he has not always appeared genuine. This race showed him to have improved a great deal. Gaillard was handily placed from the start, but he was forced to cover extra ground over the last half mile, and he had had enough at the finish. Lucky Jack ran his usual solid race to finish third, and Llewellyn’s Pet and Red Flush were closer at the finish than at any other stage of the race. A Stirring Finish The Winter Handicap provided one of the most exciting finishes seen on the course for many a day. Five horses passed the post almost in line, Noble Prince gaining a narrow victory. When the field settled down Marie Celeste took up the running from Wise Guy, Noble Prince, Golden Cross, and Subsidy. The order -was practically the same going down the back, and Rocks Ahead, who had lost ground, was making up his leeway. Marie Celeste had had enough as the home run was commenced, and Noble Prince took charge from Subsidy, with Rongomai also handy. In a great race Noble Prince hung on just long enough to beat Rongomai, Subsicty, Rocks Ahead, and Morello. The winner had all the best of the running and finished with determination. Rongomai did not seem able to find an opening until too late, but she finished very fast. Subsidy was always

handy, and Rocks Ahead proved her* self a fine pacer in finishing fourty Morello made up ground in th* straight, and a win should soon com* his way. The others found the pao* too fast for them. A FAST TRACK IMPROVEMENT IN TIMES I The Ashburton track was in excel* lent order for Saturday’s racing, ana all the winners imnroved upon th* times they were assessed to do. Th* following table, showing the winners handicap, times registered and the inM provement made, is of interest:— One Mile and A-half Improve* Hdcp. Times, ment. m. s. m, s. sec, Guy Hugo .. 3.45 3.28$ 18$ Renown’s Best 3.43 3.23 20 On Parade .. 3.30 3.21| 8| Discord .. 3.29 3.20$ 8$ Casanova .. 3.36 3.20| 15ft Noble Prince 3.25 3.17$ 7| Two Miles ) Cloudy Range 4.27 4.21$ sft {

TURF GOSSIP

Reminders Acceptances for the first day’s events at Wingatui will close at 5 p.m. today. Nominations for the Oamaru Jockey Club’s winter meeting will close at 8 p.m. to-morrow. Work at Riccarton The Riccarton tracks bore their usual busy appearance qd Saturday, bat the work was mostly of the useful order, with only an occasional serious gailop. All the horses booked to race at the Dunedin meeting, opening on Saturday next, were out. The long spell of fine weather and dry tracks have permitted of an uninterrupted period of training. and as the majority of horses are well advanced, their trainers have been content of late to keep them going with moderate work only. On Saturday, the No. 7 track was in good order after an overnight shower, and those that were at all extended made comparatively fast times. Cranford reeled off six furlongs in Imin 17sec. He should make his presence felt at the Dunedin meeting, and will also probably be given another trip to Trentham. Capital was held back to Cape Gabo in a similar task in Imin 16 3-ssec, the last three in 39sec. Both are to race at Wingatui. Polydora covered a mile comfortably in Imin 42sec. She was to have been joined by Sisterina and Red Top at the six furlongs, but the latter pair broke away, and ran the distance in Imin 17sec. the first three in 37 l-ssec. Red Top again gave an encouraging display. Madam Pompadour ran six furlongs in Imin 17 2-ssec, the first three in 27 2-ssec. Monastic and Haeretonu were given a working gallop over six furlongs. Both are to race next at the Wellington meeting. Streamline and Punchestown galloped nine furlongs at a strong pace. The former will not fulfil his engagements at Wingatui. Over Country Lycidas (W. Rainbow) and Arctic Star <F. Smith) gave a very satisfactory exhibition oyer a round of the country, both jumping tleanly and finishing together with good efforts over the stand double. High Speed and Nocturnus were companions over a mile and a quarter at a strong, even pace. Both are to go to Dunedin. The latter has done well lately, and is to be raced on the second and third days of the meeting. Retaining His Form Fair Weather showed his usual turn of speed by reeling off five furlongs in Imin 2sec. the last three in 37 l-ssec. There is no "Certainty that he will be at Wingatui on Saturday owing to his big impost. His stablemate, Glenavon, was nominated for the meeting, but will not make the trip. Success Repeated In winning the June Steeplechase at Hastings last week. Dozie repeated her performance of last winter. The absence of Royal Banquet weakened the oopcsition. but Dozie at her best is a very useful mare over country. Twelve months ago she also won at Napier, but she failed when taken on to stronger company at the Wellington meeting. By Tractor Trailer, the winner of the maiden race on the first day at Hastings, is a four-year-old chestnut gelding by Tractor, trained on the track by J, O'sen. He had two thirds in similar class last April, one at Hastings, and tne other at Waipukurau, but he had run unplaced at the second Hastings autumn meeting and his win last week was a surprise. Trailer is from Hine Hohoro by Absurd from Hine Pango by All Black. He is closely related on his dam’s side to the Otaki winner, Warchi. whose dam, Raukura, is a sister to Hine Hohoro.

An Early Success Blue Boy, the winner of the Hawke’s Bay Hurdles, is now owned'by Mr J. Wilkinson, of Wellington, and is trained by A. M. Wright, at Otaki. Blue Boy had long spell from racing owing to being galloped on, and he reappeared only a fortnight ago at Foxton, where he ran a poor fourth in the hurdle race won by Speed. He had racing on the flat at Otaki, so he has not taken long to win his first jumping race. Blue Boy was a useful hack on the fiat, and provided he keeps sound should pay his way. He is a brother to Gay Court, and Wagner is a halfbrother, the dam being the RosSendale mare Polonaise. Visitor Impressed A Press Association cablegram from Sydney states that the New Zealand studmaster, Mr G. M. Currie, after visiting G. Price’s stabies, said he was impressed by the manner in which Gold Rod had developed since he left New Zealand as a yearling. Mr Currie was alsA interested in the progress of Ilium, Omarere, Egmont, and Loud Applause. A New Trainer During recent months several new trainers have set up at Takanini, and the latest arrival is the former wellknown cross-country rider, I. Tucker. Tucker, who for a short period after taking out a trainer’s license was quartered at Cambridge, has under his charge the promising Gay Shield ihree-year-old Gay Talkie, who looks well after a three months’ let-up. He has also a bay mare by Te Monanui from a Quin Abbey mare, and a yearling by Sargon from Picture. Doing Well O. Cullum, who went to Sydney from New Zealand a few years ago, and rode over hurdles, is now doing well as a trainer. At Rosehill he won a novice event with Gipsy Chief, a useful horse, ■who has now won three races, and race* in the interests of L. Mitchell and Cullum. Gipsy Chief has been well supported on each occasion, and altogether has been very profitable. The Grand Frix At one time the Grand Prix de Paris was the most valuable race in the world, but of recent years it has been put completely in the shade by some of the big stakes given in America. Tbere was also a drop in the value of the Flench race, but this year, thanks to Government support, it will reach its old standard, and becomes the most ■

TROTTING NOTES

Personal Mr H. F. Nicoll. president of the New Zealand Trotting Conference, who is on a visit to England, expects to be back in New Zealand in December. Visitors to the Ashburton on Saturday included Messrs D. R. Revell ( Auckland), B. McCarthy (Hawera), E. F. C. Hinds (Palmerston North), G. J. Barton (Dunedin), and J. E. August CWellington). Owners’ and Breeders’ Ball The Canterbury Owners’ and Breeders’ Association will hold its annual ball in the Winter Garden on Monday, August 17. Arrangements are in the hands of the secretary, Mr F. Turnbull. An Accident In a long racing experience, which has included the riding of steeplechasers and hurdlers over the stiffest country in New Zealand, and driving pacers in closely packed fields, Free Holmes has had his fair share of accidents, but generally he has managed to escape with little more than a severe shaking He has had many narrow escapes from serious accident and he added to the list at Ashburton on Saturday when Golden Mist and Tricliff fell in the Acton Handicap. At the time of the accident both horses were running near the head of the field. Little warning was given the other drivers, and it says much for their ability that they evaded the fallen horses and drivers, although in doing so they had to sacrifice their own chances of success. L. Frost, who was driving Tricliff, received a bad shaking. On the Road to Success

J. Behrns has not been long in business as a public trainer, but he is proving his ability with horses that would tax the patience of many older hands. This season he has won several races with Credit Funds, and he has worked a big improvement in Wild Dreams, who paced solidly from start to finish in the Acton Handicap. The gelding was decisively beaten by On Parade, but the manner in which he fought on under a hard drive gained Wild Dreams friends for future events. Behrns has only a small team in work, apd apparently needs only chances to make a big success as a trainer. A Prospect Lord Worthy is a neat little colt by Frank Worthy, from a Harold Dillon mare, who is also the dam of Lord Leslie. At present he knows little of the requirements of racing, but he has breeding and good looks to recommend him, and in the capable hands of D. Withers he should win races early in the new season. May Need Time

Zincali is a big, angular gelding who needs only to master the art of beginning quickly to make a name for himself He showed a remarkable effort in the Sapling Stakes, and had he commenced the journey sooner he might have beaten his stable-mate, Frisco Boy. He lost much ground at the start, and at the end of a furlong he was in the last three. Going down the back he made a fast run, which he carried on on the outside of the field to the straight, at which stage he was disputing the lead with Loyal Pat. Had he faded out at this stage no one would have been surprised. but in a hard battle down the straight he held on grimly and just failed to gain a share of the prize money. It may take M. B. Edwards some time to develop Zincali into a good beginner, but when he does he will find the gelding a payable proposition. Zincali is owned by Mr J. Steel, of Governor’s Bay, and in his racing he shows' the same determination as his owner did on the football field. Strenuous Racing Grace McElwyn has been a most consistent performer during the season, but in her latest starts she has not put much dash into her finishing efforts. She has been raced frequently on all kinds of tracks, and is possibly feeling the effects of a strenuous season’s racing Francis Lincoln Francs Lincoln has not won a race since joining J. S. Shaw’s stable, but he has been racing well, and his winning turn may not be far off. He looks as well as any horse in training, and the August meeting at Addington should find him at his best. In their last two meetings over two miles, Cloudy Range has won twice, Peter Locanda has been third each time, and Francis Lincoln fifth. Back to the Sulky L. A. Maidens, who had been on the sick list for several months, was well enough on Saturday to drive several of his horses at Ashburton, but he could not handle a winner. He had the satisfaction, however, of seeing L. Frost drive one of his horses. Casanova, to a clear cut victory in the Tinwald Handicap. Maidens must be given credit for the great improvement made in Casanova, who at one stage looked like making a champion and later raced 9s though he did not

like the business. Casanova has much to recommend him, and if he continues to race as he did on Saturday, he may develop into a high-class pacer.