THE GOVERNOR ON THE NEW ZEALAND TURF.

Grey River Argus, Volume XXIII, Issue 3613, 24 March 1880, Page 2

THE GOVERNOR ON THE NEW ZEALAND TURF.

Napier, March 19. The Stewards of the Jockey Club, on Tuesday, entertained his Excellency the Governor and Lady Robinson at luncheon in the luncheon room of the new Graud Stand at Hastings. Mr Tanner proposed the health of His Excellency and Lady Robinson, aad, in doing so, referred to the Governor's past connection with the turf, and expressed a hope that he would soon run horses in New Zealand. His Excellency thanked the company for drinking his health and that of Lady Robinson so heartily. He could assure them that nothing in New Zealand pleased him more than see good old English sports of past times reproduced here and flourishing as on their native soil. These national out door games constituted an important future in the formation of sound and vigorous national character. As they all knew, he was himself fond of horseracing, which, if properly carried out, was one of the most legitimate amusements in which I men of means could indulge. It was a j means of good, not only in improving the breed of racehorses by affording amusement, which not only men but their sisters, their cousins, and aunts could appreciate. It was, as had been said, this participation in fine old English sport which prevented the turf degenerating into an institution for betting and gambling. He was • very much pleased with the racing in Hawke's Bay, but might venture a word of advice. He would say that it would probably be an advantage to sport in Napier, if the twoclubs were to unite and become one. . If they were content to bury their animosities and unite in forming one club, that would certainly be inferior to noue in New Zealand. He should like to see the two clubs join.