Takapuna Races.

Gisborne Times, Volume V, Issue 40, 16 February 1901, Page 2

Takapuna Races.

HINTS FOR TO-DAY’S MEETING.

[GISBORNE TIMES SPECIAIi.]

Auckland, last night. The second day’s programme for the Takapuna summer meeting is on for discussion to-morrow afternoon, when, despite the heavy counter attractions, there should bo a very largo crowd present to witness the sport. Very good acceptances have been received, and there is abundant material left to provide some excellent racing. The pretty course at Devonport never looked better than at present, and with the prospect of a summer day, a very enjoyable outing should be put in by those who elect to cross the water to attend the gathering. The proceedings open with the Suburban Handicap of five furlongs, and in this, although burdened with the big weight of 9st 41b, Val Rosa should prove the hardest to beat, while his most dangerous antagonists are Takapuna and St. Olga. In the Maiden Hurdles I incline to the chances of St Rowan (the Gisborne horse), who may be seen home by Perseverance and Rangatira. Judged by her smart performance last Saturday, I cannot see what there is to beat Orange and Blue in the second pony race, for although she has been raised in the weight considerably, yet her win on the opening day was a very easy one. Of the others Blue Paul, Ivan (the Gisborneite), and Cuisine should run well. A good field is engaged in the Takapuna Jockey Club’s Handicap. Blue Jacket has come through a. splendid trial. It would seem that in public he [is not reliable, but if caught in a galloping humor he should very nearly win. I prefer however the chances of Dayntree, St. Ursula, and Cavalerio, and I should not be surprised to find them finishing in that order. The Hobson Handicap has a small field of two-year-okls engaged, and I think Crecy should finish in front of the others.

The Steeplechase follows, ancl promises to give rise to a rare contest. Nor’-West has heaps of followers, but it would appear that he is scarcely as good as of yore. It is quite probable however that he will be found equal to fighting out the finish, when I shall expect to see Dingo and Voltaire 11, trying conclusions with him. Quite a big field is down to take part in the Hack Handicap, in which positions may fall to’ Highlander,[the Waster, and Balbirnie.

The Anniversary Handicap will bring proceedings to a conclusion, and if started St. Ursula should prove exceedingly dangerous, but in her absence the finish may be fought out by Regalia 11. or_Messrs Duder’s selected.

The Takapuna racecourse office will not be opened on Saturday, owing to the Auckland telegraph office being closed from 10.30 to 3 p.m.