HORSE RACING IN TONGA

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 78, 30 June 1943, Page 1

HORSE RACING IN TONGA

MOUNTS HIRED FROM FARMERS Horse racing, introduced into Tonga by the New Zealand troops on garrison duty there, has proved popular with the men. An account of this phase of the various kinds of recreation arranged for the troops is contained in a letter from a senior officer. “Nearly every New Zealander loves racing, and it was not lung before the newcomers had a meeting under way,” he writes. “An old race track nearly overgrown with tropical vegetation, was transformed into a miniature Riccarton or Ellerslie in a few days of hard work, and Tongan horses were hired from their owners to form the fields. Doubt was expresesd as to whether sufficient entries would be received; but as nomination day arrived interest was at fever heat, and entries poured in. Six races were put on the programme, with a safety limit of eight starters per race and many horses could not be accepted even allowing only one start per horse. Jockeys were numerous, including some well known performers on the New Zealand turf. One had ridden Kindergarten, while others had piloted winners home at Riccarton and Wingatui. Tongan riders were also prominent, bringing home some of the winners. A totalisator was in commission and did a thriving trade under the able management of one of the chief assistants of the totalisator staff at Wingatui and Forbury in prewar days. An amusing sidelight was the excellent service provided by an officer broadcaster on the loudspeaker. He could not see the start but the crowd was unaware of this fact. This in no way deterred him, and with the aid of an assistant in view of the barrier, signalling to him, he gave a most amusing and realistic description of the troubles of the starter, naming all the horses in the approved manner and always getting them away to a good start! Five per cent, was deducted from the totalisator turn-over, and after expenses were paid the balance was handed over ta a Forces Recreation Fund at the disposal of the Commander. The meeting was a complete success, and once again the men’s letters showed how much this effort was appreciated.