Donkey Rides at Picnic

Manawatu Times, Volume 64, Issue 41, 18 February 1939, Page 6

Donkey Rides at Picnic

Something new to the children of the Manawatu will be provided at the Ashhurst racecourse, next Sunday, when 20 real donkeys will take part in a race for a silver cup at.the trades union picnic. These donkeys have recently been brought from Ponui Island, and this is their first public appearance in New Zealand; as the owner vouches that they are worthy upholders of their reputation for stubborness, it should tax the powers of any Australian bookmaker to pick the favourite. After the race the donkeys will be available for rides for the children. Something much faster than donkeys is provided in the pig engagement for Sunday's event; it has for some time undergone a system of training, attention being paid to diet, massage and exercise. The pig, a far more intelligent animal than most people imagine, is entering enthusiastically into the spirit of the event and is already proving a slippery customer without the aid of soft soap. Perhaps the honour of “carry home the bacon" will be his after all.