TO-DAY’S RACING NEWS

Greymouth Evening Star, 10 August 1936, Page 11

TO-DAY’S RACING NEWS

Galloping meetings’™ come. August 11, 13, 15—Canterbury. August 22—Pakuranga Hunt. August 27—Egmont-Wanganui Hunt August 29—Taranaki Hunt. GRAND NATIONAL MEETING. PROGRAMME FOR TO-MORROW. [special tu “stab.”] CHRISTCHURCH, August 10. The Canterbury Jockey Club’s Grand National Steeplechase meeting will be opened at Riccarton to-mor-row, when'some of the best performers in New Zealand will be seen in action. The fields for the Grand National and Enfield Steeplechases have dwindled to smaller numbers than in previous years, but there is material in both to ensure some spectacular racing. The rain which fell on Friday morning, and Saturday’s frost, had no serious effect on the track, which soon dried up, and the going to-morrow promises to be faster than for some years past. The win and place system will again be in operation. The programme is as follows:

11.31 a.m. TRIAL HURDLE RACE HANDICAP. One mile and three-quarters:—

The Smuggler 10 13 Havering . . 9 1 Saltspray .. 10 10 Lord Hereford 9 0 John Charles 10 1 Redolent .. 9 0 Santoft ..9 1 Battleground 9 0 Haeretonu .. 9 1 The Trial Hurdles has drawn a useful field, which will include three Grand National Hurdle candidates. The Smuggler seems well placed with 10.13, but his most recent form has been disappointing. Saltspray and Santoft will be bracketed, but the former may be kept for the Jumpers’ Flat. Either horse can be depended to shape well. John Charles has given every encouragement of late, to make the trip from the North Island with him, and he is still in the big hurdle event. Haeretonu is always liable to spring a surprise. He would be a hard proposition if he did his work right. Havering does not appeal over this journey. Lord Hereford, Redolent, and Battleground are all entitled to consideration. The favourites may be— SALTSPRAY-SANTOFT (bracket).

THE SMUGGLER. 12.6 p.m. PAPARUA HANDICAP. Six furlongs: Emissary .. 9 9 Ilororata .. 8 2 Greek Gold 9 5 Copyist ..8 0 Knockfin .. 9 2 Arena .. 8 0 Dollar Bill .. 9 2 Arrow Rose 8 0 Bay Duko ..91 Gaysome 8 0 Travenna .. 9 1 Acla .. 8 0 Pukeko ..8 0 Epic ..8 0 Some proved sprinters are engaged in the Paparua Handicap, and on a firm track, a fast run six furlongs should be recorded, especially with horses like Emissary, Greek Gold, Knockfin, Dollar Bill, Bay Duke, and Travenna in the list. Greek Gold, Knockfin and Bay Duke may' be the best of these, while of the remainder Epic and Arrowrose attract attention. The placed division may be confined to—

BAY DUKE, GREEK GOLD, KNOCKFIN.

12.46 p.m. JUMPERS’ FLAT HANDICAP. One mile and a-half: —

Polydora ..11 3 Travelling Agent 9 9 Jolly Beggar 10 13 Saltspray ..9 8 Clarion Call 10 8 Streamline ..91 Silk Sox .. 10 2 Journet .. 9 0 Signaller .. 913 Haeretonu .. 9 0 , Courtyard .. 911 Much interest will be evinced in the Jumpers’ Flat Handicap, as the best fancied of the Grand National Hurdles candidates will be paraded. Polydora is exceptionally well just now, but may be at a disadvantage in not having had a race for some weeks. Jolly Beggar’s form will be closely watched, and so will that of Clarion Call, who will have a track more to his liking than that at Trentham. Silk Sox raced well at Trentham, and Signaller accounted for a similar race at that meeting. Travelling Agent will carry strong support, and Saltspray and Streamline are both sound possibilities. Speculation will be well distributed, and the Ijst wilt probably be headed by—

SILK SOX,

POLYDORA, STREAMLINE.

1.31 p.m. CASHMERE PLATE. Six furlongs: Arrow Glen 8 11 Tarboe .. 8 11 Autumn Wind 8 11 Coxcomb .. 8 0 Cape Gabo 8 11 Impact .. 8 0 Culotte .. 8 11 Maka Ahl ..8 0 Derive .. 811 Nuipal .. 8 0 Jedforest .. 8 11 Orange Bud 8 0 John Bull .. 8 11 Recollection 8 0 Lochain .. 8 11 Rousseau ..80 Miss Snambles 811 Sir Hugh .. 8 0 Pink Comet 8 11 Sunbeam .. 8 0 Roy Bun .. 811 Twilight Song 8 0 Silver Fox 8 11 Thermidor 8 0

The Cashmere Plate, for non-win-liers, has attracted several smart sprinters, and there will be a close dispute for favouritism. There is actually no outstanding candidate, but on track and race form, investors will no doubt show most confidence in— SIR HUGH, CAPE GABO, AUTUMN WIND. 2.16 p.m. GRAND NATIONAL STEEPLECHASE, of 1000 sovs., three miles and a-half. Billy Boy ..11 5 Punchestown 10 0 Diamond .. 10 13 Palm .. .. 9 6 Royal Limond 10 8 Manawatu .. 9 3 Forest Glow .. 10 3 nigh Speed .. 9 0 The eight acceptors for the Grand National Steeplechase can be depended upon to fulfil their engagements, and although the numbers may be disappointing, each of the candidates can be said to hold bright prospects. There is no doubt that Diamond will be one of the staunchest favourites for many years past, but there will also be confident support for the veteran Billy Boy, who, in the opinion of his owner-trainer, is in better order now than when he ran third last year. Royal Limond and Forest Glow have come into favour following their good schooling last week, and Manawatu will also have a solid following. Punchestown can hardly be expected to be ready for the ordeal, but will make a bold showing nevertheless. Pahu does not appeal, but High Speed may create a surprise. The final summing up will probably be in favour of— DIAMOND, BILLY BOY, ROYAL LIMOND.

2.56 p.m. ENFIELD STEEPLECHASE. About two miles: —

Thurina ..12 1 Otaura King 9 1 Kaokaoroa 9 8 Burglar .. 9 1 Nocturnus .. 9 5 Money Mine 9 1 Royston ..93 Thurina would have an easy task even with his big impost in the Enfield Steeplechase if he were in anything like his old form, but he has to be treated as a doubtful proposition when it comes to a hard race. Kaokaoroa is no doubt past his best, but a victory for him would be popular. Nocturnus can jump, but Riccarton country seems to be beyond him just yet. Royston impressed at Washdyke last month, and should master these fences. Burglar has a good chance in the face of his creditable showing behind Forest Glow and High Speed on Wednesday. Money Mine'Ts not fancied in a task of this nature. Favourites may be —

ROYSTON, BURGLAR, THURINA. 3.41 p.m. WINTER CUP, of 600 sovs., one mile. Queen of Song 10 3 Rona Bay .. 8 2 Epris .. .. 9 9 Golden Dart .. 8 2 Concertpitch 813 Boomerang ..8 1 Fairweather 8 10 Wino .. 8 0 Adalene ..8 9 Royal Gallant 8 0 Ponty .. .. 8 9 Metal Bird .. 8 0 Davolo .. 8 9 The Surgeon ..80 Wall Street 8 3 Silk Arrow .. 8 0 Cranford .. 8 2 Mount Vai .. 8 0 Investors will have the annual intricate problem to solve in connection with the Winter Cup, in fact, the issue appears more open this year than for many seasons past. The ruling favourites of late have been Queen of Song, Concertpitch, Ponty and Boomerang, while the earlier favourite Epris receded in public favour owing to his reported ailment. He will, however, have a large following on the day. Fair Weather, Adalene, Wall Street, Wino, Metal Bird, The Surgeon and Mount Vai are all entitled to respect, while should the track be at all holding, Royal Gallant will be in demand. This should be a great betting medium, and placed division may be comprised of — PONTY, CONCERTPITCH, BOOMERANG.

4.26 p.m. AVONHEAD HANDICAP. Seven furlongs:—

Queen Dorothy 9 8 Polygraph .. 8 3 Cyclonic .. 9 5 Poniard ..8 3 Hunting Maid 9 4 Owlsgleam 8 3 Grey Honour 811 Emmeline Girl 8 2 Braw Lad .. 8 11 Gasmask .. 8 1 Cintilla .. 8 10 Jack Ahoy ..81 Madam Fiord .. 8 1

Pompadour 810 Monlpero .. 8 0 Tall Light .. 810 Call Money .. 8 0 Sovereign Lady 8 10 The SandMatoru .. 8 8 wichman 8 0 Rose of Tralee 8 8 Ara boa .. 8 0 Latitude .. 8 6 Redtop .. 8 0 Palmyra .. 8 6 Lady Kate .. 8 0 The Avonhead Handicap will be run in one heat. Much will depend on luck over the early stages and turning for home, as there is certain to be a lot of crowding for the greater part of the journey. Form horses are Queen Dorothy, Hunting Maid, Braw Lad, Cintilla and Rose of Tralee, while others in Grey Honour, Matoru, Palmyra, Emmeline Girl and Jack Ahoy have good prospects over seven furlongs. Those who make most appeal are— HUNTING MAID, CINTILLA, BRAW LAD.

NOTES FROM RICCARTON.

SATURDAY’S WORK.

[SPECIAL to “star.”]

CHRISTCHURCH, August 8.

A severe frost delayed training work to-day, until a fairly late hour. The outside of the course proper was very sticky for some time, after proceedings commenced, and, in consequence, very few trainers were keen on sending their horses on serious missions, and half-mile and five furlong tasks along the back stretch were mostly allotted. The times varied considerably, and actually the morning’s operations had little value from a comparative point of view. The main steeplechase course was open, but only two horses made use of it. Burglar went once round at a hunting pace, and Otauru King, after jumping the first two fences well, fell at the first of the kennels double. His rider, J.McDowell, caught him after a long delay, and jumping the double at his second attempt, the North Island visitor completed the round, without much pace on, just scrambling over Cutts brush.

Diamond gave a finished display over a round of the inside schooling fences, his only mistake being getting too close to both of the fences of the brush double, hitting the second fairly hard. Main interest centred in Jolly Beggar (R. Beale), Clarion Call (A. Jenkins) and Silk Sox (Baker), who set out to jump six hurdles. Clarion Call out-jumped his mates at every fence, and was then steadied on the flat. He is no doubt a brilliant jumper, but appears to take risks, and these may find him out over the bigger battens.

Jolly Beggar gave his usual sound display, and was not affected by Clarion Call’s dashing efforts. Silk Sox shaped well, until he made a bad jump at the third fence, and then he dislodged his rider ,at the next, without falling. He was later remounted, and jumped the last fence safely. Vai Watch made her first appearance in a schooling task, jumping four hurdles well.

Travelling Agent went over two hurdles at a sound pace.

Streamline Impressive:

Streamline and Haeretonu were paired off to negotiate four hurdles, but the former ran right away from his mate, who got too close into the first. Haeretonu jumped the remainder very well, but could not get up to Streamline, who was responsible for one of his best displays, marred only by his usual inclination to reach for his fences. Great Exhibition:

Saltspray and Santoft were again companions over six hurdles. They kept together throughout, but Saltspray always held his stable companion safe, with a great exhibition of fast jumping.

The Smuggler and Signaller jumped four hurdles together, the former making a better showing. Redolent again reeled off an attractive task over four hurdles.

Fair Weather’s Good Effort: The best work-out on the flat was credited to Fair Weather and Epic, who left a half-mile behind in 50 3-5 secs. Other half miles were run by Knockfin 51 3-5, Rona Bay and Bay Duke 51, Emissary 51 1-5, Ponty and Wino 52, Emmeline Girl 51 2-5.

Of the few who tackled six furlongs, Sir Hugh impressed by recording 1.18 2-ssecs.

Seven furlongs tasks were executed by Cranford and Concertpitch 1.33, Adalene and Boomerang 1.33, Tail Light and Redtop 1.32. Still Doubtful:

Epris arrived at Riccarton yesterday, but was not galloped to-day. He does not look as bright as previously, and there is still a doubt about his Winter Cup engagement.

Queen of Song is due to contest the Winter Cup, but it is not yet decided whether she will be ridden by J. W. Jennings or W. Hogan.

Steeples Riders: Riders for the Grand National Steeplechase are:—Billy Boy, W. Ren nie; Diamond. R. K. Smith; Royal Limonfl, R. Beale; Forest Glow, W. McDowell; Punchestown, H. Turner; Pahu, G. Ridgway; Manawatu, A. McDonald; High Speed, W. Langford. Winter Cup Riders:

Some of the riding engagements for the Winter-Cup are: Epris, E. Leckie; Concert Pitch, A. E. Ellis; Fair Weather, H. Goldfinch; Adalene, N. McKenzie; Ponty, G. Humphries; Cranford, C. Wilson; Rona Bay, W. Jones; Golden Dart, H. Wiggins; Boomerang, S. Wilson; Wino, L. J. Ellis; Royal Gallant, A. Messervy.

TO-DAY’S DOINGS.

[SPECIAL TO “STAR.”]

CHRISTCHURCH, August 10.

Springlike weather was enjoyed at Riccarton, to-day, and there is every promise of its continuing for to-mor-row’s opening day. The course proper is in fast order, and once more the going should be the best for the Grand National meeting for many years past. The town is full of visitors, and accommodation is at a premium, many people having to go out to suburban towns.

Diamond, a Staunch Favourite: All the acceptors are expected to parade for the Grand National Steeplechase, and, although Diamond is certain to be a staunch favourite, there will be a good deal of money for most of the others, especially Forest Glow, Billy Boy, Punchestown, Royal Limond and Manawatu, while neither Pahu nor High Speed will be neglected.

Spirited Betting Probable: There are not likely to be any notable defections from the Winter Cup. There should be some spirited betting in this race, the probable favourites being Concert Pitch, Ponty, Epris, Adalene, Boomerang, Fair Weather, and Queen of Song. Epris went well in a gallop with Autumn Wind, this morning. There does not seem to be much wrong with him. The race should provide a most interesting contest, and speculation will take, a wide range. Thurina Well:

Amongst those given a strong round, this morning, was Thurina, who has stood up to his work remarkably well,. He has only to survive the ordeal in to-morrow’s Enfield Steeplechase to have a comfortable victory, but a horse in his doubtful condition has always to be taken on trust.

Queen of Song has done plenty of work since coming to Riccarton, and looks in very solid condition. She is to be ridden in the Winter Cup by W. Hogan, and J. Jennings will have the mount on Wall Street.

Conditions were ideal for the wind-ing-up work, this morning, the effects of a frost quickly wearing off. One of the inside tracks was available. There was a large amount of galloping on it, but half-mile sprints were most popular. There were actually no serious tasks against the watch. The best half-miles were credited to Sir Hugh and Knockfin, who each did 50secs., Araboa and Bay Duke 50 l-ssecs., Greek Gold and Dollar Bill 50 3-ssecs., Metal Bird and Carfex 50 l-ssecs. Metal Bird had an easy win, and can be expected to race prominently during the week. A rider had not been secured for him, this morning. Fair Weather and Jolly Beggar ran six furlongs in 1.17 2-5, finishing together.

Culotte led Concert Pitch throughout half a mile in 51secs, a time that was equalled by Epic and Emmeline Girl. Battle Ground and Lord Hereford jumped four hurdles fairly well. The latter may not start to-morrow. Forest Glow and Manawatu were companions over three brush fences, both jumping cleanly. The former has come into strong favour for the big race. Otaura King also negotiated three fences at a slow pace.

AUSTRALIAN STEEPLES.

REMARKABLE PERFORMANCE

MELBOURNE, August 8.

The Victoria Amateur Turf Club’s steeplechase meeting was concluded at Caulfield to-day. Jumping badly throughout, the warm favourite Santa Casa could finish no better than sixth in the Australian Steeplechase, more than 30 lengths from the winner, Wakerife. whose performance was remarkable. Wakerife made light of the jumps and the distance and cleared away from the field six furlongs from home, easing up at the finish, and beating Fulham’s course record by 6J seconds. Result:—Australian Steeplechase, of 1500 sovs; about three miles and a-half: Wakerife 9.5 (W. Foley) 1; Actaeon (N.Z.) 9.9 (J. Dillon) 2; Character 10.2 (F. Douglas) 3. All started Won by 20 lengths; two lengths between second and third. El Damaroyal was fourth, and Cold Spring fifth. Time: 7min 31sec, a course record, Actaeon led until six furlongs from home, followed by El Damaroyal, Xmas Gift, Strobus, and Wakerife. When Wakerife shot to the front the race was all over.

Gay Lot was unplaced in the Chatsworth Plate, Gay Circle in the Balaclava Stakes, and Membo in the Knowsley Steeplechase. Palatinate was third in the St. Aubin Welter. FAVOURITE “GOT AT”? Following Santa Casa’s dismal showing in the Australian Steeplechase, a veterinary surgeon, under instructions from the stewards, took a swab from the favourite. This was done at the request of Santa Casa’s owner, who is reported to have told the stewards that the horse’s form was so bad that I he thought he must have been “got at.”

ROSEHILL RACES.

SYDNEY, Augv.-t 8.

At the Rosehill races to-day, Hands Up was second in the Maiden Handicap. The following were unplaced:— Mala, Stalin, and The Palmist in the Three-year-old Handicap; Egmont in the Flying Handicap; Collstar and Miramond in the August Handicap; Limoux and King of Diamonds in the Parramatta Mile. Maia’s chance was prejudiced by starting badly. He was second to last in a field of 18 entering the straight and finished fifth a little over a length from the winner, Water Waggon. Egmont, having his first run since the Sydney Cup, showed promising form in the Flying Handicap, finishing brilliantly in sixth place after being well back early. J The Magpie colt, Talking, having his first run since April, led all the way to win the Wentworthville Stakes comfortably from the favourite, Canegrass, with Loud Applause coming home well in third place. Results: —. Wentworthville Stakes, weight-for/ age; seven furlongs:—Talking (N.Z.) 7.11 (W. Cook) 1; Canegrass 9.0 (F. Shean) 2; Loud Applause 9.0 (M. McCarten) 3. Won by two .and a-half lengths; a length. Time I.2GJ. There were five starters.

SILVER RING’S PROGRAMME

SYDNEY, August 9.

Mr. A. H. Walton states that no set programme has been fixed for Silver Ring, who will just take races as they come. He is in all big Spring races, and providing he trained on well and was fit he would go through with all engagements. Critics were favourably impressed with the appearance of both Silver Ring and Silver Streak. Custos and his stablemates have made their appearance on the training tracks. All have settled down in their new quarters.

Trotting MEETINGS TO COME.

August 12, 14.—N.Z. Metropolitan. August 15.— Cambridge. August 29—Auckland. September 5. —New Brighton. September 12.—Wellington. October 3.—Methven.

METROPOLITAN TROTS.

DE SOTO—SURE.

CHRISTCHURCH, August 8.

The Metropolitan Trotting Club’s meeting opened in fine weather and before a large attendance. The track was heavy. The totalisator handled £27,920 for the day, as compared with £21,178 for the corresponding day last year. De Sot 6 won the August Handicap in a decisive manner from an outsider in Rollo, and the muchfancied' Grand Mogul. Sea Gift gave a brilliant exhibition of trotting to win the Stewards’ Handicap in a blanket finish with Teviot Downs. Results:—

Introductory Handicap, unhoppled trotters, 3.36 class, 1£ miles. 2-3 Rustle (J. S. Shaw) 1; 13-12 Mabel Chimes (S. A. Eagan) 2; 14-15 Nor‘man Fox (owner) 3. Also started: &r 9 Gala Day, 12/13 Little Reta, 11-14 Resound, 3-1 Sister Mary, 16-16 Tyrone Lass, 7-10 Worthy Star, 6-6 Amonos, 4-4 Great Wood, 5-5 Helen’s Bay, 8-8 Silk Coat, 17-17 Header, 2-3 Kuini coupled with Rustle, 1-2 Reward, 1511 Ganton, 10/7 Wahnooka. Won by two lengths; two lengths. Times: 3.45 3-5, 3.44 2-5, 3.46 3-5.

Advance Handicap, 2.54 class, 11 miles.—2-2 Golden Mist (D. C. Watts) 1; 1-1 Blair Athol (S. A. Edwards) 2; 4-4 Gallant Knight (A. Cranston) 3. Also started: 10-10 Broughshane, 6-5 Cadiz, 8-7 Full Hand, 5-8 Wild Dreams, 3-3 Stirling Ladk 7-6 Grand Finale, 12-12 Lone Derby, 9-9 Kibo, and 11-11 Rayon D’Or. Won by a length; four lengths. Times: 2.59 3-5; 2.59 2-5; 3.0 1-5.

August Handicap, 4.29 class, 2 miles.—l-1 De Soto (J. Bryce, jun.) 1; 11-11 Rollo (L. A. Midens) 2; 3-3 Grand Mogul. (J. Fraser, jun.) 3. Also started: 4/4 Gold Tinge, 2-3 Tempest (coupled with Grand Mogul); 9-10 Kingcraft, 10-9 Queen Author, 6-5 Taxpayer, 7/8 Llewelyln’s Pride, 5-6 Rey Spec, 3-2 Willow Wave (coupled with Sunny Morn), 8-7 Harold Logan. Won by a length; half a length. Times: 4.45: 4.44 1-5; 4.46.

Trial Handicap, 4.40 class, 2 miles. —G-6 Village Guy (M. Holmes) 1; 8-8 On Parade (J. Bryce, junr.) 2; 2-2 Southern Smile (F. G. Holmes) 3. Also started: 10-10 Eighteen Carat, 4-3 Fairhaven (coupled with Big Author), I- Frisco Lady, 3-4 Happy Knight, 7-7 Radiant Gold, 8-9 Treasure Bond, II- Marie Celeste, 5-5 Subsidy, 12-12 Isobel Derby, 13-13 Plain Pearl. Won by a length; a neck. Times: 4.50 3-5; 4.514-5; 4.52.

Stewards’ Handicap, 3.29 class, 1* miles.—s-7 Sea Gift (E. J. Smith) 1; 6-6 Teviot Downs (J. Fraser, jun.) 2; 1-2 Discord (R. J. Rapley) 3. Also started: 2-1 Flotsam, 8-8 Garner, 3-3 Guy o’ Mine, 10-8 New Metford, 7-10 Sandy N., 4-5 Norma Bingen, 5-4 Bessie Parrish, 11-11 Wrackler. Won by a head; two lengths. Times: 3.37; 3.411-5; 3.42 2-5.

Queen Mary Handicap, 4.34 class, 2 miles. —1-2 Bonny Azure (L. O. Thomas) 1; 6-6 Craganour (S. A. Edwards) 2; 4-4 Avernus (G. McKendry) 3. Also started: 7-7 Gay Gordon, 2-3 Noble Prince, 5-5 Waress, 3-1 Bingen Palm. Won by three lengths; four lengths. Times: 4.52; 4.51; 4.52 1-5. Selwyn Handicap, 2.47 class, 11 miles. —5-5 Guy Junior (owner) 1; 6-8 Reporter (owner) 2; 1-1 Gamble 3. Also started: 10-10 Aristotle, 12-12 John Jinks, 3-3 Rocks Ahead, 4-4 Young Frank, 9-9 Gunfire, 7-6 Homeward, 8-7 Mocast, 11-11 Francis Lincoln, 2-2 Graham Direct. Won by a length; two lengths. Times: 2.57 2-5; 2.58 3-5; 2.58 2-5. International Handicap, 2.44 class. 1J miles.—2-1 Sure (S. A. Edwards) 1; I- Cloudy Range (J. Fraser, jun.) 2; 3-3 Supertax (R. Townley) 3. Also started: 6-6 Blue Mountain, 7-8 Grace McElwyn, 5-5 Rey Spec, 9-9 Sir Guy, II- Vesuvius, 10-11 Kewpie’s Triumph, 8-7 Sunny Morn, 4-4 Worthy Light. Won by half a length; a head. Times: 2.55, 2.55 1-5, 2.55 2-5.

NOTES ON THE RACING.

[special to “star.”]

CHRISTCHURCH, August 8. Rustle To Good: The track was in a wretched state when the first race was started and it was not long before more than half the field proved hopeless in the mud. Rustle raced to the front in the first furlong but he gave way to Reward and Gala Day before a round had been

completed. Passing the stands, Reward and Gala Day were trotting nicely in front and both appeared, to be handling the going very nicely. At the half mile post, Rustle again assumed the lead from Gala Day, Reward, Mabel Chimes and Tyrone Lass. Mabel Chimes threw out her best challenge in the straight, hut Rustle was altogether too good and easily held his own to win from Mabel Chimes and Wahnooka. The winner, Rustle, was first trained at Tinwald, but after a few moderate performances was sent to Auckland to the charge of F. J. Smith. He recently returned to J. S. Shaw’s stable at Addington, and at his first appearance scored decisively. The state of the track may have assisted the winner, but he is evidently a much improved trotter and this win may not be his last. J. S. Shaw drove a welljudged race, and selected the good going when the straight was reached. Mabel Chimes may never reach high class, but in heavy going she is a solid trotter. Norman Fox struggled on into third place just ahead of Amonos, Kuini, and Wahnooka. Amonos showed a lot of speed in the middle stages and Kuini and Wahnooka came over the last half mile at a rate that suggested improvement in the very near future. Little Reta and. Sister Mary trotted solidly, but were plainly not at home in the going, and Helen’s Bay and Great Wood broke up badly during the running. Blair Athol Beaten:

A warm favourite in Blair Athol met his match in Golden Mist in the Advance Handicap, but possibly it was more the state of the track on the inside running that beat him.

A very quick beginning by Blair Athol soon landed him in front of the field, the most prominent of the remainder being Wild Dreams, Golden Mist and Stirling Lady, who were well ahead of Cadiz and Full Hand. Commencing the last six furlongs, Wild Dreams challenged Blair Athol, and the pair cut at one another to the straight entrance, where Wild Dreams broke, and Golden Mist joined in. In the run to the post Golden Mist easily held Blair Athol and won with something in hand, while following the first two were Gallant Knight, Wild Dreams, Stirling Lady and Broughshane. Golden Mist was driven by D. C. Watts, who was allowed the drive when his own horse Greenmantle was scratched. Watts drove a heady race and waited in quietly behind the two leaders,, who were having a battle royal. He had more in reserve than the others, at the finish and handled the going to the manner born. Blair Athol ran a good genuine race, but the heavy track beat him in decisive fashion. He will do a lot better on firm going. Gallant Knight was not well placed in the early stages, but he put in a very fast run over the last two furlongs, and at the finish he was travelling faster than anything else in the race. Wild Dreams was pacing solidly until two furlongs from home, when a break put him but of court. Stirling Lady did not finish on. Lone Derby and Rayon d’Or were never prominent, and Cadiz, though he did not finish in a place, gave promise of a better performance, -when track conditions improve.

De Soto «*i True Racehorse: De Soto won the August in thej manner of a true racehorse, for after a very quick beginning he helped Gold Tinge to make the pace for practically the whole of the journey, and when the mare retired he effectively dealt with the very determined challenges issued by Rollo and Grand Mogul. It was the performance of a dead-game pacer, and marked De Soto’s eleventh win in 12 months. Gold Tinge was actually the quickest to begin, but the field had travelled less than a furlong before he was joined by De Soto. The pair carried on the running ahead of Grand Mogul, Taxpayer, Queen Author, and Rollo. This was the order with a round to go, but going down the back, De Soto made the pace a bit warmer, and while the remainder made great efforts to get on terms, the chestnut still held an advantage as the straight was reached, and Gold Tinge retired. At the distance post, J. Bryce , drew the whip on De Soto, while Grand Mogul challenged and Rollo also came fast. Driven out, De Soto held on in the gamest manner possible, to score a clear cut victory from Rollo, Grand Mogul, Gold Tinge, Harold Logan, Rey Spec, and Kingcraft. i It was a grand performance on the part of De Soto, for he was responsible for the pace and still had something in reserve at the finish. He may be capable of winning still another race at the meeting.

Rollo staged a good came-back af- . ter a long absence from the track, and was evidently well suited by the going. Grand Mogul was not at home in the going and he showed great speed only in patches. A good track will see him' racing more prominently. Gold Tinge went a good solid race until the home stretch. Harold Logan put in a brilliant burst four furlongs from home only to fail at the finish. Queen Author broke in the back stretch, and interfered with Willow Wave. Taxpayer failed to run on. Rey Spec began slowly, and Llewellyn’s Pride, Kingcraft and Sunny Morn found the company too good. Hung on Gamely: Village Guy made a quick beginning in the Trial Handicap, and. before a furlong had been covered, he was showing the way to On Parade, Radiant Gold, Happy Knight, Fairhaven, and Southern Smile, with Marie Celeste and Eighteen Carat most prominent of the remainder. These horses were prominent throughout and while Radiant Gold faded over the concluding stages, Village Guy hung on gamely and effectively dealt with the challenge issued by On Parade Southern Smile was thnci just ahead of Marie Celeste, Radiant Gold, Happy Knight, and Big Author. The winner paid a double figure divi(lend and won on his merits after making practically all the' running, but it would, not surprise to find a different result amongst the same class of horses, later at the meeting. Village Guy has not been a sound horse, and ho fairly revelled in the soft going. On Parade was always in the picture, and fought on gamely but he may have been beaten by Southern Smile had the latter received a clear run in the straight. Tucked in behind the leaders she could make no Impression. Marie Celeste failed in the latter stages, after showing plenty of speed, and Frisco Lady, after a Sdow beginning, did not make a forward more until half a mile from hoene and soon afterwards she ran into 'a pocket, and could never get a clear run. It was a rather disappointing display on the part of a great fouri year-old. Happy Knight broke during

the running. Radiant Gold, Fairhaven, and Eighteen Carat, failed towards the end, but Big Author finished at a great rate, after being badly placed in the early stages. Isabel Derby failed to make any showing, and evidently could not handle the going. Reinsmanship Prevails: Discord was the best of good things beaten in the Stewards’ Handicap, but again it was a question of reinsmanship, and E. J. Smith behind Sea Gift was the winner. The race provided a splendid performance on the part of the three placed horses, Sea Gift, Teviot Downs, and Discord. Flotsam was first to leave the barrier, closely followed by New Metford, Norma Bingen, Teviot Downs, Bessie Parrish and Discord, but the last-named made a bad break at the end of a furlong and dropped back behind Sea Gift. She then settled down and trailed the champion trotter. With half the journey covered, Flotsam was carrying on from New Metfoid, Norma Bingen, Bessie Parrish, Teviot Downs, Sea Gift, Sandy N., and Discord. Down the back Sea Gift commenced to pick up ground, and she was accompanied by Discord, r lotsam was still in command half-way down the straight, but went to a

CIOWH -- break, and Sea Gift just got ahead of Teviot Downs at the post. Following at intervals were Discord, New Metford, Flotsam, and Guy o’ Mine. It was a sterling performance on the part of one of the greatest trotters New Zealand has known, and Sea Gift thoroughly deserved the plaudits of the crowd. Teviot Downs trotted a solid race from start to finish, but Discord was the unlucky mare of the race. After her, early mistake, she trotted with Sea Gift and she might have beaten the latter had her driver elected to trail her instead of going to the inside on the heavy going. Sea Gift and Discord are really great trotters, and outside Teviot Downs they were in a class above the rest. Flotsam was evidently not suited by the going, and Norma Bingen and Bessie Parrish failed under pressure. A Poor Race: The Queen Mary Handicap was a poor race, although a fighting finish between Bonny Azure and Craganoui 1 worked the crowd up to some excitement in the concluding stages. Gay Gordon and Noble Prince broke up at the start, and at the end of a furlong, Waress was fifty yards in

front of Bingen Palm, who had made a smart beginning. Noble Prince tailed the field and Waress was soon joined by Avernus, Bingen Palm, and Craganour. This bunch raced in close order to the straight, where Bonny Azure and Craganour drew out and for a period it was a .question as to which would win. Over* the concluding stages, however, Bonny Azure drew away and won comfortably.. Tho winner was making her first appearance at Addington, and she created a good impression. She is a fine bold pacer, and will do even beL ter on a firm track. Most of her previous racing had been done in Auckland. Craganour had every chance, but failed to finish like a good racehorse, while Bingen Palm did his work only in patches. Avernus failed to run on, and Waress, with everything in her favour, gave a miserable display. Noble Prince was last all the way. Fine Finishing Burst: The Selwyn Handicap was run in a, very bad light, and few spectators had any idea of the positions of the horses over the early stages. Guy Junior, always nicely placed, and well handled by G. McKendry, came with a great burst at the finish, to win decisively from Reporter and Gamble.

Young Frank began with his accustomed brilliancy, and closely attended by Aristotle, Mocast, Rocks Ahead, Reporter, Homeward, and Guy Junior, he carried on past the stands. Three furlongs from home Young Frank was still in command, with Rocks Ahead and Reporter in close attendance, but then the last-named rushed to the front, and appeared to be winning comfortably. Guy Junior, however, > came with a great burst of speed and . won going away. Gamble, well back • in the early stages, put in a phe- ; -nomenal burst and finished in third i place. This was a run that suggest- - ed an early win over a longer jour- > ney. Graham Direct’s performance . was little inferior to that of Gamble, i for he began slowly, and made up a j lot of ground over the last part. End to End Victory: It was almost impossible to disi tinguish the different horses in the i last race, but first out was Sure, who r carried on from start to finish, close- - ly attended by Sir Guy, Supertax, and Cloudy Range. In a desperate finish, j Sure won narrowly from Cloudy i Range, who finished at a great pace i to beat Supertax and Blue Mountain.