A FALSE START.

Horowhenua Chronicle, 15 March 1920, Page 3

A FALSE START.

Local Horsemen Fined.

INCIDENT AT THE SHOW

At the committee meeting of the Horowhenua A. and P. Association last month, Mr G. Tully, who- act-ed as starter in the pony races held at the recent show, stated' that the field in tho second race on the second day, got away prematurely through the wrongful action of W. Bell, who was leading Rewa up to tlie post. He stated that when Rewa got in a good position Bell shouted

"Go," and the field left the post ami covered the distance. The result was that the race had to bo run over again. This action caused eomiderablj anuoj anco to the officials and everyone els' concerned, and the meeting resolved: That W. Bell be requested to attend next meeting of the committee for the purpose of giving an explanation regarding -his action in connection with the start of the second pony race on show day. 1 At Saturday's meeting Mr Tully acked if ny reply had been received, from the offender, and the secretary said no. Mr Tully said that this was treating the Association with contempt. Bell should be fined, and, if no notice was taken, and the fine not paid, the matter should be reported to the Metropolitan Club. The show occupied the same position as a properlyconstituted race meeting, and; thoir action would have the backing of the Metropolitan Club. Mr Tully moved: "That W. Bell be fined £!i for wrongfully starting the second pony race affile show, and if the fine he not paii in 14 days the matter bo reported to the Metropolitan Club."

The chairman stated if the incident was allowed to pass the Association stood a good chance of losing its permit to hold pony races altogether. The motion was seconded by MiDavis and carried unanimousl.y ft will he remembered that from t'i.r false start Rewa was beaten narrowly by Lady Ray, but when the raw was re-run the position was reversed, Rewa winning.