FACILITIES AT RICCARTON

Press, Volume XCV, Issue 28314, 27 June 1957, Page 4

FACILITIES AT RICCARTON

Better Use Of Stand Space A case for better use of grandstand facilities for Riccarton patrons was put forward by Mr R. A. Young at the annual general meeting of members of the Canterbury Jockey Club yesterday. Mr Young suggested that more room could be provided for the public in the centre of the main grandstand at Riccarton on days when members did not fill that area. He asked for consideration of a scheme to elect members who would be given stand facilities on “off” racing days—days apart from Grand National and New Zealand Cup days, when present members filled the space available. Mr Young said the empty spaces on “off” days in the members’ part of the stand must be causing some bitterness among some of the Riccarton patrons. The centre of the main grandstand was almost empty when there was racing on week days, said Mr Young, who thought something could be done to make better use of the space available. Source of Revenue The chairman (Mr G. H. Grigg) said that on Grand National and New Zealand Cup days half the St. Leger stand was opened for members. There was a moveable barrier near the Governor-General’s box that could be adjusted to cope with the expected numbers, but members seemed to congregate at one end of the stand, leaving empty spaces. Mr C. L. Austin said the club would find a source of revenue from prospective members who might wish to avail themselves of stand passes on all but the two peak days in the racing season at Riccarton. Mr C. S. Peake said the cost of privilege badges for off days could be lowered from 10s to ss.

Mr Grigg told the meeting that the committee of the club would discuss the matter.