ALLEGED BRIBERY ON A RACECOURSE.

Lyttelton Times, Volume LVII, Issue 6534, 4 February 1882, Page 5

ALLEGED BRIBERY ON A RACECOURSE.

[Ebb Fbebb Association.] NAPIEE, Fbb. 3 A general meeting of the Hawke’s Bay Baoing Club was held last night. After a very long discussion, it unanimously endorsed the decision of the Stewards disqualifying Murtagh. It was also resolved—“ That the names of Biobard Barrows and Joseph Leonard be erased from the roll of Stewards, Committeemen and members of the Olpb.” Murtagh accused Barrows of bribing him. to sell the hurdles event at the last Basing Club’s Meeting. He says money was thrust into his pocket by Barrows, and he retained it in order that he might tell the Stewards of the affair. He won the race with Angler, after a dead heat. He stated that when Barrows made the offer he said it was on behalf of himself and Leonard. There was no evidence directly implicating Leonard, but as he was known to have laid odds against Angler (who was the favourite), the club apparently concluded that he had some knowledge of the affair. Barrows absolutely denies Mnrtagh’s statement, and alleges that it is made out of revenge for private differences between them relating to money matters. Leonard also denies everything. Jones, the rider of A. GK, owned by Hislop, one of the stewards, states that Murtagh offered to lose if he would give him £5. Leonard wished the proceedings to be made public, but as legal proceedings may ensue the meeting declined to admit the reporters. Several actions are talked about. Murtagh’s disqualification by the Jockey Club is how sure to ensue. He advertises all his horses for sale, and intends to leave the district.