SPORTING.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLV, Issue 13925, 5 December 1908, Page 7

SPORTING.

„— _ * RACING FIXTURES. De-etnber Matapouri Amateur Sporting Club. December 23. 26. 28-Manawn'.a Racing Club jjaseffiber 25, 28-Thames Jockey Club, Member 36- 28-Taranaki Jockey Club.. BeetfttW 26, 30. January 1. 2-Auckland "view Club. Twcrober 28. 31. and January 9—Auckland Club. December 29-Hukatere Sporting Club. February 6. 10. 15-Otahuhu Trotting Club. 'January Nsaruawahia Racing Club. jtarci 13—Mauku Racing Club. DATES OF COMING EVENTS. , ■* NEW ZEALAND. - December 23-Manawatu Cup December 26-Auckiand Cup. December 30-A.R.C Summer Cup. December 28-Macawatu Sires' Produce Stake January J-Grcat Northern Derby.

""ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS. ;> ggjSTffOT.—Gladsome started on 12 occasions as a two-year-old. and won five of her I (engagementsJC—Grand Flaneur ran his last race in the antrum* of his three-year-old career. Martini-Henry ran once at four years old. WAGEK.— description of the race, published shows that Solution led the field into tiio straight when sho contested the Melbourne Cup 61, '*£• ACTLLKS.--In the autumn of 1935, at which time he was three years old, Achilles raced 8t Ellerslie and won the Century Stakes. There were only five contests for that event. .EfQUIREK.— 1- St. Leger was raced at IHersiic- 2. Moifaa was ridden by W. Birch in the Liverpool Grand National. 3. The distance of the Canterbury Cup in 1900 and 1901 was a mile and three-quarters. Since then it has been two miles and a-quarter. D.R., Ruakiwi.-l. Two horses figure in the yew Zealand Stud Book under the name of Flintlock. Both were ' got by MasJet. In 1331 Gorgi (by Bishop of Osuabnrgh) produced a colt registered as Flintloci, and in I£B4 Agate (by Rapid Bay) wag •responsible for a colt that was also awarded * similar title. Gorgi was owned by the late Mr. W. Paul, of "Wanganui. when she produced the colt named. Agate was owned by the New Zealand Stud Company. 2. We cannot furnish you with any information regarding Ben Bolt.

NOTES BY PHAETON.

AUCKLAND SUMMER MEETING.

; Thi character of the acceptances and general entries received last night by Mr. Hartland in connection with the Auckland p Earing Club's Summer Meeting are such as to encourage a most enthusiastic feeling with regard to the approaching gathering at Blerslie, for all round they can be voted first class, and constitute a record in point of number. The acceptance for the Auckland Cup is, of course, the particular point ; of the summer programme in which people are most keenly interested at this stage, and J with 18 horses still engaged in the two-mile race the aspect of matters in regard to the big handicap augurs "well for a strong field lining up at the post on Boxing Day. An especially pleasing feature in connection with the Cup acceptance is that seven of the nine horses which Mr. Morse placed at the head of the list have been paid up for, amongst which is Zimmerman, who was awarded pride of place in the weights by tire A.R.C. handicipper. Mr. Lowry has elected to have two strings to his bow in the Cup. and he has paid up for both Bobrikoff and Downfall., Bobrikoff having been allowed to drop out of the Railway Handicap that circumstance may be taken to mean that all being well with the Finland gelding on | Boxing Day he will be given an opportunity of earning a staring certificate. There is a consensus of opinion amongst those who witnessed Bobrikoff's achievements at Ric- ' carton that, he .ig** '.ST.* s3 * fiorse up to a mile ' and a-quafter,-and keen judges aver that he will stay out 16 furlongs properly. A brace ' of three-year-olds in lite shape of Diabolo /'and Shuja figure in the Cup acceptance ; list, and circumstances are such as to expect them at the post on Boxing Day.

PENALISATION OF WINNERS VERSUS 'RE-HANDICAPPING. The. feet of Gold Crest being mulcted in a 71b penalty for the A.R.C. Railway ■ :Handicap, by reason of a victory in tho . FeUding Stakes, once again furnishes a - pointed illustration of the unjustness of the fixed penalty system. It is bad enough to impose penalty clauses in handicap events where such are confined to handicap winners; but to penalise a winner for a handicap on what he accomplishes in a weight- ■■ ier-age race event is quite unsound, viewed from an equity basis. Those who contend • that fixed penalties should give place to rehandicapping, it must be said, are furnished with grounds for a strong argument in viewing the ease of Gold Crest. Originally handicapped at 9st 61b (which represents 61b ercr weight for age) in the Railway Handieap, Gold Crest received his full deserts; but for winning a race run over a furlong :V less than he would have to travel at Ellen-lie ■ ■v. en Boxing Day, his, weight went up to 9st 131b. To pursue the matter further, it has to be noted that Gold Crest only met two horses in the Feilding Stakes . that are engaged in the Railway Handicap, :];: Hz., Armlet and Flitsway, who were within 17lb of Mr. McDonald's liorse in tho firstt: 'timed race. In the Ellerslic event Armlet ]. was originally placed 161b behind Gold Crest, ~>._" while 251b separated the latter from Flitaway. .Another point we have to consider is that • Go|d Crest benefited-to an unfair extent at "the start in the Feilding Stakes, while Armlet and Flitaway were practically beaten at tbe barrier. . Very little consideration must mffico .to show how very inconsistent is the feed penalty business. In the first place the penalty to be carried depends on tho value of tho i>take won. irrespective of the distance of the race. Could anything be more absurd, unless the aim of the penalty was to ;w. stop a horse well tip in the weights that had '. won a valuable stake from winning another? ■■' It nay be pertinently asked, Who more fit to say what penalty a horse should carry in, * race than tho original framcr of tho Weights in that particular event for which * penalty is incurred - ' Surely no one will he found to say that tho original handlcapper is not in a much better position to allot 'a penalty than hard and fixed rules would prescribe? The handicapper would \. take into consideration all the circumstances Connected with the win, such as the weight carried, the distance of the race won, the style in which the win was accomplished, and the time, all of which important points •re, under fixed penalties, now quite ignored. , In fact, the sole point determining fixed Fealties is the value of tho race wona , ridiculous consideration from whatever point Viewed., A horse has often to gallop much faster to win a stake of lOOxovs than another has to win lOOOsovs, and yet the winner of the smaller stake might escape any penalty, wlu.e the winner of the thousand would have ■ -- a heavy penalty. Docs this appear equit- — able? That- the system of re-handicapping winners has not ere this generally taken tho kK place of the illogical old-fashioned mode of . ■ fixed penalties for winning races must be accounted a conundrum, for we nil delight in :flattering ourselves that we live in an age °* progress. A plea for the continuance of • fixed penalties in important racc3 is that we system has answered well in the past, and therefore there is no need for any change. Our forefathers wore satisfied with sadau chairs and tallow dips, but. in our ■™y we enjoy motor-cars and electric lights. ■;« racing to be a sport for which what was B°od ■ enough a hundred years ago is good enough now? I trow not. Re-handicapping . ln place of fixed penalties would bo a, deeded atop in advance, and though it has to he recognised that those from whom most 'Wgbt be expected in effecting a change rewain either lukewarm or indifferent, one can afford to bo. patient in a good cause. «*-handicappiug of winuers must come in : time. -

THE TAURIKI CASE. Matters in connection with tho long drawn out lauriki ease remain in the same state as when the committee of the Takapuna Jockey Club adjourned the inquiry on the Wth ult., consequent'on the non-attendance of certain witnesses (Messrs. Cott Marsh ™J' V a , rragh) * who had- been summoned, I learn that Mr. A. Hanna. who -mis been acting on behalf of Mr. H. last S solicitor '« -Mr- J- Grant, SSLT • EPS * lottw t(> the <»»• mutec, m which ho reviewed the whole S»" the course of which he made a strong Clf> f wt that Messrs. Grant and mrragh had made statutory declarations reK? ? the . breeding and sale of the maro ['?», °" d *•*»<*. were placed in the hands d the committee. Mr. Hanna then proceeds:—

cIL I." tt^ d , hvo or three "ittings of vour ai v «.w Ul> to . the Present 1 have not beard th 1 ? DC S. 4 wl «tever of a definite nature Meisr, rt^^i'Ji B*o™8* 0 ™ ««»temonte made by l»nJSii» A « * nd P» rra *"' Having had an opIn J \,«i ° f co " ,er ""g with Mr. Sharp, and hav,A "everal conferences with Messrs. Grant tw ,h/ as . hl l f "' cOßftdent in mv own mind ™J statutory declarations made by these fvnni'jj . n ? re »e—indeed, to believe otherwise ° ~:.;° ° UlV '>' accuse these gentlemen of SSH l } m K. P*Sl>'- As I said yesterday. I rote to .Mr. Sharp , pointing out the desire, of the committee to obtain Mr. Cott Marsh's at«h™?? C £ and s "Rtrrsting that, if possible, this 1 1," rt c, don *s as * fplt *>'"> it would materia. fit? facilitate the settlement of the whole mat- «;/>, . u f ecelve< > » letter from Mr. Sharp dealing «.rn true question, a copy of which I forwarded nnt?. JL, JV ommpnti "S on this tetter I think it onij right to point out that your demand places Mr. Sharp as well as Mr. Grant, in a 'awkward predicament. Neither Mr. Sharp nor Mr. i.iant has any power to compel Mr. Marsh's attendance, nor, indeed, has vour club either any such power. I understand, too, that Mr. Marsh's V ","!?* kpr ' 1s ,li " 1 continually on the move, and that he is a very difficult' mau to get hold or It is also, I am informed, very difficult lor him to get away without putting his employers to considerable inconvenience. Under these circumstances I venture to suggest that Mr. Sharp* view of the position, as set out in ins letter, is not by anv means an unreasonable one. Is it to be understood that by your insistence on Mr. Cott Marsh's attendance vou have evidence which justifies vou in not believing the statutory declarations' made by Messrs. Grant and Darragh. If so. then 1 respectfully submit that this evidence ought to be made known, so that Mr. Sharp may know exactly how matters stand and have an "opportunity of producing further corroborative evidence should he think it necessary to do so. If not. then 1 further respectfully submit that the obligation "of getting Mr. Marsh to appear before your club does not rest with Mr. Grant, but rather with the club itself. I trust vour club will not think me presumptuous in expressing mv views in this way.

In a letter to Mr. Hanna. dated November 24, Mr. Sharp writes as follows: —

I have seen Mr. Colt Marsh and he objects to going to Auckland, and we have no means of compelling him. As far us Mr. Grant is concerned the case stands a* follows: —No specific charge has been made, but onJv a general kind of statement that the mare is a " ring-in." Mr. Grant has been put to great expense (over £50) and has attended, I think, twice before the committee and given ail information he possesses. He has put in sworn declarations of sis independent witnesses, who have known the mare a considerable time and seen him with the mare. Mr. Darragh has been before the committee twice. So far as Mr. Grant is concerned he knows of no evidence contradicting his evidence. a there is any. in common fairness he should be notified of it, so that he can rebut it. -Why should he be kept in the dark.' The committee of the Takapuna Jockey Club do not appear to realise thai Mr. Grant" is not a man of mean* and already has been put to great expense. From the little we can glean a great deal of inquiry appears to have been made regarding Mr. Darragh's past racing career. With this Mr. Grant has nothing to dp, nor am I instructed in the matter by Mr. Darragh, who is well able to look after himself.. I am, however, oolite satisfied that a good deal of the information supplied to the Hub is absolutely incorrect. As far as Mr. Grant is concerned we can do no more than we have done, and he is not prepared to incur further expense.

A copy of Mr. Sharp's letter has now been sent to the club, and the next move on the part, of the committee will be awaited with interest.

LEAVES FROM MY NOTEBOOK.

Though the Takapuna Jockey Club had to open their spring meeting in the face of a strong counter-attraction in the shape of the Agricultural Show, and further that weak fields were-the feature of the second day's racing, the authorities of the North Shore body had very good reason to be satisfied with the financial outcome. The beautiful weather which prevailed on both days, it can safely be said, was the main factor in securing the satisfactory financial result. On each clay a large crowd of racegoers crossed: the Waitemara to .assist, at.- the gathering, and it was made quite apparent that Takapuna is in no danger of losing any of its popularity so far as the racing public is concerned. There is just one little matter that it might be well for the committee of the T.J.C. to take into account, and that is the spreading out of the day's racing to such a late hour as six o'clock. It has, of course, to be recognised that the conveyance of visitors back to town has to be arranged so as not to cause a serious dislocation of the Ferry Company's ordinary timetable, and one must always remember that safety has ever been a first consideration with Mr. Alexander Alison and those good officers who are associated with him jn arranging and, controlling the traffic to and from North Shore. , : .

By winning the Rakino Handicap Snowfoot demonstrated that he was fully entitled to the victory which 'he achieved in tho Cambria Handicap, run on the opening day of the Takapuna meeting. The son of Soult again misbehaved himself at the post, and with a less experienced and kind horseman than B. , De«ley on his back ho would not probably have had so satisfactory a record. Snowfoot, it might be said, was here, there, and everywhere; but Deeley was always patient with his mount, and ho got him off nicely when the barrier ran up. Snowfoot is a vigorous little fellow, and ho evidently likes to hear his feet rattle. Clearly Snowfoot was a good bargain at 75gns., which was the sum Mr. Henry Nolan knocked him down for at the sale of Mr. Walters' yearlings at Glenora Park in January last.

It can be said without fear of contradiction that one of the* most pleasing successes recorded at the Takapuna meeting was that ! of Okaihau. who carried the colours of Mr. I J, B. Williamson to victory in the Kawau ! : Hurdle Race. The son of Salvadan and Orini was bred and trained by his owner, and altogether it may be said that there was much in the performance of the chestnut gelding calculated to stir up enthusiastic feelings towards his popular owner, who is one of the band that can always coax ■up a smile, even when clouds are about.

In the running of the Spring Handicap at Takapuna on Wednesday last Royal Soult once again demonstrated what a clover little horse he is. Running in third place until tho last couple of furlongs was entered upon, the brown son of Soult then went up to win Ids race, and from tho home turn it might bo said that it was always a case of Royal Soult. If one may apply the term to an ! equine, Royal Soult can be referred to as ! a perfect little gentleman; and if, as is ' stated, he could bo got under the 14.3 standI ard, he would be worth a lot of money in I either Australia or England.

The doping expert is not the only one to be watched on the racecourse. For some time past (remarks the West Australian correspondent of the Australasian) it has-been freely rumoured that an "electric spur" has been used by boys, both on registered and unregistered courses iii this State, but no actual proof has been secured by the officials. What may havo been done in the past is not likely to happen again, as the slightest suspicion that a boy intended using one or had one on his person would lead to a search. That the spur" has been used on unregistered courses thcro is no doubt. lA few days ago I had an opportunity ot inspecting the appliance used. It occupies such a small space that one can easily relievo that a jockey could use it without being detected. A small battery is .oncealcd under the jacket, and from it wires run down to tho wrist, and to one of '.lie hoots, fonnectiujr with the spur. It is switched on or off at. will from the wrist, and tho wire can bo connected unci disconnected at the knee, so as to enable a boy to get rid of the battery quickly. The wires are, of course, concealed under the costume, and when the battery is working it makes a buzzing noise, but the sound is not sufficient to attract attention while a race is in progress. The circuit is obtained by both spurs being brought into use at the same time, and one can believe that a hone would make an unnatural effort when stirred up with it at the end of. a race. At # one of the unregistered meetings recently a jockev was caught with one on him just prior to a race, while a youth who was disqualified for life is said to have used one, and to have got rid of it before the inquiry. >.

In the decision of the Vauxhall Handicap at Takapuna on Wednesday last Master Crispin acquitted himself in good style. He was always in front, and finished up his task well. Master Crispin is an upstanding customer, and his whole appearance suggests tho thought that he may bo found valuable property at some future date for jumping events.

With the holding of the Takapuna Winter Mooting last May steeplechase contests at the North Shore for the time being came to an end. As, previously stated, the ground at the south end, which constituted "the "-"•>' WaS only held under lease by the 1.J.C., and the owners having decided to cut the same up into residential sites the steeplechase course was obliterated from the map. SoMeml houses have already been erected on the ground where the horses previously crossed in negotiating the' steeplechase course at the North Shore, and but a brief space of time will probably elapse ere the whole of the area embracing the hill will be covered with residences. ■I ho old steeplechase course at Takapuna may not have been an ideal one, for, except from one point, it was almost a matter of impossibility to get a complete view of the race, and a lot of running about had to bo undertaken * to follow the cross-country event. Still, it can bo said that steeplechase contests at Takapuna wore highly popular; and those of us who have kept in close touch with the North Shore ground can call to mind many exciting equine contests that have been fought out there. 1 hough " triumphs of architectural art" may arise to gladden the eyes, many of us will still have a regret at the pulling down of i mi sod wall and post and rail fences on the lull, the disappearance, of which loaves Takapuna without a steeplechase course.

The. consistent To Aroha is standing up to her training at Ellerslie in a satisfactory manner, and I learn from her owner. Mr. Halter Davies. that all being well with the daughter of Sostou Delaval on Boxing Day she can bo ticked off as a sure starter for the Auckland Cup. It can be said for To Aroha. that she. is staying better this season than at any previous period of her career; and the lino race she ran in the Birthday Handicap at Ellerslie last month, when she got to within a head of the winner in a race extending to 12 furlongs, causes her owner to entertain hopes of a Cup victory coming to the bay mare on Boxing Day. To Aroha has the handy impost of 7st 51b in the Auckland Cup.

Honours wore widely distributed amongst the trainers at the Takapuna Jockey Club's Spring Meeting. No trainer was responsible for more than two winners, and an interesting point, in that connection is that four men were level for top place with a double winner. Mr. W. Howard scored twice with Escamillo; J. McLaughlin achieved like distinction with Tarina; W. Irwin landed a double with Luscombe, while N. Cunningham had a double winner with Snowfoot. The other trainers to turn out winners at the North Shore were: J. George (Waihuka), H. Barr (Glenora). J. B. Williamson (Okaihau), S. G. Lindsay (Royal Soult), R. Hannon (Master Crispin), R. Hall (Necktie), R. Bannatyne (Bully), A. Robertson (Advocate). J. Chaafe (Pohutu).

The "Special Commissioner" of the London Sportsman says that Mr. Buchanan's reserve on Noetuiform was at first lOOOgns.. but this was unexpectedly reduced ' to 500gns. The writer-quoted adds that, on the day prior to the sale, in reoly to an inquiry from Australia, he cabled that lOOOgns. was the lowest price that would bo accepted, and when the reduction was decided upon it was too late to make it known to the would-be buyer. Furthermore, ho states that a wire from France, authorising him to go to considerably more than the 500gns. for which the chestnut was sold to Mr. Portman, reached him too late.

The Messrs. Dtider, who, by the way. now race horses separately, were fairly out of luck at the Takapuna Jockey Club Spring Meeting, not, a single win going down to the account of either. There are no men engaged in racing horses in Auckland from whom less is heard on the heading of illluck than the two gonial North Shore sportsmen, and probably it is largely due to that fact being widely known that, one finds it a little searching to chronicle the rout of their colours.

It would seem that there is little hope ol the Auckland-bred Apologue adding the Viceroy's Cup to his list of • victories, advices from India beiutr to the effect that he has broken down. Touching on this, the Asian says:—"The breakdown of Apologue was more or less anticipated, as the horse was lame after he ran in his last engagement in Australia, and India is most emphatically not the place to which to bring the infirm, as witness Boabdi! last year and many others before him. ■

—____ B. Deeley was the most successful jockey | at the Takapuna meeting. Ho won a double I each on Snow foot and Tarina. and Advocate, who dead-hentcd with Pohutu in. the St. I Andrew's Handicap, was also in his hands, j A. McMillan won respectively on Waihuka and Bully, P. Brady achieved like distincj tion on Master Crispin and Necktie. R. E. | Brown scored on Royal Soult, and a head--1 heat on Pohutu was also credited to him. J. ! Buchanan scored a double win on Escamiilo, I while Cowan scored twice on Luscombe. The I other riders to secure a place on the winning | list at. tho North Shore were: A. Whittaker t (Glenora), W. McKinnon (Okaihau).

By winning the Stanley Handicap and Cauticy Handicap at Takapuna on Wednesday last Tarina may bo said to have fairly come out of her shell. In each of her races the bay daughter of St. Clements won at the right end, and her effort in the Cautley Handicap was especially pleasing.

Master Delaval and Master Soult have been regular attendants on the race tracks at EilcrsTie since their return from Canterbury. The two , bays are carrying themselves nicely, and are both moving well in their work.

Hector Gray, who lost his license to ride last season, is not wasting his time in idling about. The Taranaki horseman, .1 learn, is engaged in pastoral pursuits on . his brother's farm at Taranaki.

Gold Crest and Bobrikoff having dropped out of tho Railway Handicap, the three-year-old Master Soult now. heads tho list in the six-furlong race. STUD NOTES. Soult's winning record continues to.mount up. At the Takapuna meeting descendants of the Gienora Park sire placed their parent in the leading position, Snowfoot (who won a double). Royal Soult, and Glenora were Soult's winning representatives at the North Shore meeting. A double win on tho part of Escamillo and a dead heat registered by Pohulu placed Explosion in second position, while Linstock and St. Clements, who respectively had a double winner in Lusoombe and 'farina, were the other successes recorded. San Fran, Salvadan, St. Crispin, Menschikoff, Freedom, and Hotchkiss were the other ■ sires to secure a place in the winning list at the North Shore gathering.

The brilliant exploits of Bobrikoff on the New Zaaland turf this spring were evidently a strong incentive to his owner, Air. T. H. Dowry, to go in quest of his dam Gossip, who formed one of the collection in Mr. J. F. Buchanan's stud at Littlo River, for the Wallace maro and her filly foal by Martian wore recently secured by the Hawko's Bay sportsman.

The English-bred stallion Kendal died recently in South America. Kendal was a son of the celebrated Bend Or, and he had the distinction of changing hands on two occasions at a sum running to five figures. About 1895 he was bought by Mr. T. Piatt for 18,000gs, and some years after his sou Galtoe More captured tho triple crown he was sold to a breeder in the Argentine for 10,0C0gs.

Mr. H. Friedlander's mare Czarcona (by Stcpiiiak— Britomart) has this season foaled a colt to Soult.

The Barcaldinc marc Bonnie Rosette (dam of tho dual Derby winner Mountain King) has this season produced a colt to Sail Francisco.

I learn from Mr. Wallers "nit the product of the present season at Gienora Park is 15 foals. Soult is strongly represented on the list, nine of the youngsters claiming, the St. Simon horse as their parent. f

Golden Mavis, by Impetus— Belle, colt to Soult. .... Merry Nif, by Merry Hampton— colt °Errcy Roc, by St. Hippo—Ellerslie, colt to Soult. ,„ . _, ~ , ~ ~ Caller Ou, by Swordflsh Helen McGregor, col! to Soult.• .','•:_ „ „. , Lady Kmmeline, by Somnus— *if her, col' tO Soult • tit, Lady 8., by Pilgrim's Progress— Bevys, fillv to Soub. Princess Alice, by Brigadier—Queen Alice, filly to Soult. St. Edith, by St. Leger—PrUcilla, , (illy to Hotcberlna, by Hotchkiss—Hipporina,, Ally to "" Gold Web, by St. Hippo Cobweb, colt to ' Soult Hose, by Soult— and White, filly to Gluten. Lady Bobs, by Soult—First Love, inly to Seaton Lady Rose, by Soultßose and White, colt to Gluten. ... ~ , Helen McGregor, by Captivator—Hannah, colt °So'ult Girl, by Soult-Fish Girl, filly to OWigado.

AUCKLAND RACING CLUB'S SPRING MEETING. ACCEPTANCES AND GENERAL :■-■:.''.* ENTRIES. The following acceptances and general entries wore received last night by Mr. Hartland in connection with tho Auckland Racing Club's Summer Meeting, which takes place at Ellorslio on December 26 and 30, and January 1 and 2: — ACCEPTANCES. AUCKLAND CUP of lTsosovs. Two miles. ' at. 11... at. lb. Zimmerman ... 9 5 Carl Rosa ... 7 8 HobrikolT ... 8 12 Diabolo 7 6 Master Delaval ... 8 12 Stratagem ... 'I 6 Downfall 8 10 Te Aroha ... '! 5 California ... 8 7 shuja 7 1 Moral ... ... a 7 Paritutu ... ... 7 1 All Red ... ... 8 & Rauparaha ... 611 Chlando ... " ... 7 12 Pohutu ... ' ... 6 'J Ikon (including First Gun ... 6 7 51b penalty) ... 7 10 GRAFTON HURDLE RACE of 200sovs. Two miles. St. lb. «t. lt>. Hautapu 10 11 (Haitian (includDoJores 911 Ing 71b. penalty) 9 7 Reservoir 9 7 Koliti 9 0 RAILWAY HANDICAP of SOOsevs. Six furlong?. «t. lb. »t. lb. Master Soult ... 8 9 ,{ " I v , al S? u » (inc. „ , *»•««« „ a „& penalty) ... ? 1 Orenadier 8 8 F!ita , v ' llv ..; ... 7 9 aw " 8 6 Miss Winnie .. 7 9 Cambrian 8 6 Simla Hosa .... 7 6 Lochl-.uhie 8 6 Cold Lace ... 7 4 Armlet g 4 Devonport ... 7 2 Aborigine .. .8 4 Loongatia ... 7 1 Jkon (Including Wftuchope 7 0 51b penalty) ... 8 4 Tamainupo ... 612 1 ' Coromandel . ... 0 / SECOND FORFEITS. TDK THIRTY-FIFTH GREAT NORTHERN DERBY of 750sovs. For three-year-olds. One mile and a-half. Mr. J. K. Paul's br c, by Pukakl— Kate Mr. J. T. raul'a b c, by Pukaki—Pauline Mr. .T. Monk's blk c Diabolo, bv Stepniak—Tortulla

Mr. R. J. Patterson's br c, by Stepniak—-Royal Plumes Messrs. W. 0. and O. L. Stead's b c Nobel, by Seaton Delaval—Problem Mr. Lance Wood's b f Ukraine, by Stepniak— Madder Mr E. J. Watt's blk g Aborigine, by Merriwee— Indian Queen Trustees Mrs. Coombe's br c Master Soiilt, by Soult— Hester Mr. C, Matthews' br c Sluija, by Soult—Sprite lion. .1. D. Ormond's b c St. Aidan, by BirkenheadMontdresd Mrs. J. Lennaid's blk c Santa Rosa, by Soult— Vieux Rose

Mrs. J. Leonard's blk c Walmangu, by Sonlt— Kuxuna Mr. J. Ellis' br c Beneform, by Multiform—Si. Ouiila Mr. J. Ellis' blk c My Lawyer, by Blackstone— Emmeline Mr. T. H. Lowry's b f Chanteuse, by Merriwee — Cnntulriee .Sir G. Clifford's br c Husbandman, by Treadmill —Golden Vale.

THE FOURTEENTH ROYAL STAKES of 500sov«. For two. three, and four-year-olds. Six furlongs.

Mr v IV. ,1, Patterson'* br c, 3yrs, by v Stepniak— Royal Plumes Mr. (■'. D, Greenwood's b f Annie!, 3yrs, by Mensehikon"—Armilla Mr. 0, D, Greenwood's b f Sunglow, 3yrs, by Multiform—Otterden Meskis. W. G. and 15. L. Stead's b c Nautiform, 2yr«, by Multiform- Rattler Mr. Lance Wood's b f Ukraine, 3yrs, by Stepniak —Madder Mr. J. l.vncli's b c Coromandel, 3yrg, by Men—Golden Rose Mr. G. P. Donnelly's br f Gold Lace, 3vrg, by Gold Reef—Ki'.buwai Mr. (J. I*. Donnelly's eh g: Golden Water, 2vr», by Gold Reef—in Trustees Mrs. Coombe's br u Master Soult, 3yrs, by Sonlt—Ladr Hester Trustees Mrs. Coombe's br c Elysiau, Cyrs, by Soult— Dreamland Mr. C. Matthews' br c Shuja, 3yrs, by Soult— Sprite Hon. .1. D. Ormoud's br c Contendant, 3yrs, by Birkenhead—Content Hon. .1. D. Onnond's b c Xylophone. 2yrs, by Birkenhead—Banjo Mrs. J. Leonard's blk c Santa Rosa. 3yrs, by —Vieux Rose Mr .1, Ellis' b c Beneform, 3yrs, by Multiform— St. Otlid.i Mr. J. Ellis' blk <■ My Lawyer, 3vrs, by BlackKmmellne Sir G. Clifford's eh ( Flitaway, 3yrs, by Clan. raualii— Elusive Sir G. Clifford's b c Broadsword, 2yra, by Clan- ' —Safeguard Sir G. Clifford's elf c Sharpshooter, 2yrs, by Clanntnuld—Weathereyc Mr. D. McLeod'i br ( Eakama, 2yrs. by Soult— Winsome Mr. .1. R. McDonald's eh <• Klna. 2vr«, by St. Ambrose—Sea shel I Mr. T. 11. Lowrv's br c Merriwa, 2yr», by Meriiwee—Lady Helen.

THE GREAT NORTHERN FOAL STAKES of 650-rovs. For two-year-olds. Six furious:*. Trustees Mrs. Coomb*'* br c Elysian, by Soult— Dreamland ' Mr. F. Ro>«' br f Salute, by Soult —Lady Musket Sir 0. Cll!To»-«l'« b c Broadsword, by Claiiranald — Safeguard Sir U. C;i'.jToi-d'» eh c Sharpshooter, by Clanranald —Weuthereye Messrs. W. G. and 0. L. Stead'i b o N'autlform, by Multiform—Rattler Man'/.■>'•.! Stud Company's eh f, by Formosa.ii— Wegener * > Mr. (J. Baldwin's br f, bv Kiltlmran—Purity Mr. I). McLcod'a br t Kakama, by Soult—Winsome , Hon. J. D. Ormond's be Xylophone, by Birkenhead—Banjo Mr. .1. R. McDonald's ch c Kins', by St. Ambrose —Seashell. Mr. V. Smith's b c Snowfoot, by Poult— Helen McGregor Mr. W. Davles' br c Chauvelin, by Soult—lnamorata ;■'■"''' GENERAL, ENTRIES. TRIAL HANDICAP.—Tui Cakobnu, Cumbrian, Mabeuo, Haldaue, Delegate. Waihuka, Dunborve, InglU, Uuidwife, Te Kanurangi, To Aroba, Aristocrat. Chanteusp, St. Aldan, Esramillo. NURSERY HANDICAP.—Saneton, Royal Scotland, Fighting Fish, St. Amaris, Etna, Tetrazzlni, Hyperion, Kakama, Etonian, Excalibur, Tuku Tuku,' Lady Doom, Sharpshooter, Merriwa, Idealism, Golden Water. ROBINSON HANDlCAP.—Carmania. Dardanui, Walmangu. Rlmlock. Mark Time, Rurata, Dogger Bank, Epsom Lass, Cyrona, Hard Rock, Explosive, Sedition, Lady Frances, Blue Rocket, Ngapuka, Totika, Maiora, liftcamlllo, Scatondale, Knpuarangi. CHRISTMAS.HANDICAP.— Douche, Woimangu, Till,. Cakobau, Leonator, Celtic, Cambrian, Mahepo, Haldane, Dunborve, Advocate, Sbuja, Taitoko, Te Aioba, Aristocrat, Sunglow, Chantcuae, St. Aidan. BOWEN HANDlCAP.—Carmania. Ben Battle, Miss Advarfce, Rlmlock, Mark Time, Rarata, Dogger Bank, Analogy, Blue Mountain. Explosive. Sedition. Heathen, Crown Rose, Ngapuka, Totika. Maiora. Master Crispin, Hohungatabi, Perform, Scatondale, Kapuiimngi.

I'ONSONBY HURDLE RACE.—Okaihnu, Waihekau. Reservoir, Master Douglas, Lusrombe, Darklies*. Dolores, Kaipetipeti. Hautapu, San Paulo.

VISITORS' HANDICAP.—Mailings, Tarina. Cambrian. Devonport, Lueio, Waihuka, (iuiduife, • irizelle. Coroinandel. Foremost. Te Kahurangi, Loongiua, Armlet, Flitaway. Contendent, Gold Lace, Miss Winnie, Wauchope.

ALEXANDRA HANDICAP.— Santa Rosa, Tui Cakobau, Cumbrian, Muhcno, Haldane, Grenadier, Royal Soult, Tamainupo, Inglis, Lochbtthie, Taitolco, Te Arohfl, Loongann, Aristocrat, Nobel, Chanteuse, Dawn, Sir Tristram, Seatondale.

CRITERION HANDICAP.—St. Amans, Snowfoot, Elysian, Hyperion, Kakama, Excalibur, Tuku Tuku, Sharpshooter, Merriwa, Idealism, Xylophone, Golden Water, Salute. WAITKMATA HANDICAP.—Okaihau. Armagh, Walmangu, Rimlock, Mark Time, Rarata. Epsom Lass, Cyrona, Hard Rock, Sedition, Shtlja, Escaljiillo, Master Crispin, Kapuarangi.

' SALISBURY WELTER HANDlCAP.—Waimaugu, Leonator, Celtic, Haldane, First Gun, Delegate, Varitutu, Advocate, Rauparaha, Quidwife, Aristocrat, Husbandman, St. Aldan. FERGUSON HANDICAP.— Watershod, Miss Advance, Rlmloek, Mark Time, Rarai.'i, Dogger Bank, Analogy, Blue Mountain, Explosive, Te Kahurangi, Ngapuka, Totika, Keep Step, Field-Marshal. Maiora, Master Crispin, Hohungatahi, Jena, Kapuarangi. NEW YEAR HURDLE Okaihau, Wai. hekau, Reservoir, Ben .Tonson, Master Douglas, Luacpmbe, Lingerer, Dolores, Kaipetipeti, Hautapu, Rosavere. COUNTY HANDICAP.— Rosa, Tarina, Devonport, Cambrian, Malieno, Haldane, Waihuka, Grenadier, Tamalnupo, Guldwlfe, Coro-mandel,/-Foremost, Taitoko, Loongana. Armlet. Flitaway, Contendent, Dawn, Gold Lace, Miss Winnie, Wauohope.

MIDSUMMER. HANDICAP.—St.. Amans. Etna, Tetrazstini, Hyperion, Kokama, Excalibur, Maewa, Tuku Tuku, First Walriki. Sharpshooter, Broadsword, Merriwa, Idealism, Xylophone, Golden Water, Salute.

MAIDEN HANDICAP.—CarIyIe, Daidainis, Watmangu, Rimlock. Mark Time, Rarata. First Gun, Cyrona, Hard Rock, Explosive, Sedition, Lady Frances, Kilmarnock, Kotiti, Ngapuka, Nobel. Escarnillo, Master Crispin, Perform, Seatoudale, Kapuarangi. GLASGOW HANDlCAP.—Dardnnus, Santa Rosa, Tut Cakobau, Celtic, Cambrian, Maheno, Delegate, Royal Soult, Dunborve, Advocate, Rauparaha, Bully, lnglls, Lochbuhie, Taitoko, Te Aroha, Loongana, Aristocrat, Sunglow, Nobel, Chanteuse, Dawn, Sir Tristram, Seatondale.

GOODWOOD HANDlCAP,—Dardanus, Wainiangu, Tul Cakobau, Leonator, Celtic, Cambrian, Maheno, Haldane, Delegate, I'aritutu, Sedition, Grenadier, Royal Soulf, Dunborve, Advocate, Rauparaha, Bully, lnglis, Guldwlfe, Taitoko, Ngapuka. Te Aroha, Aristocrat, Husbandman, Nobel, Stratagem. Chauteuso, Sir Tristram, Eseamillo, Kapuarangi, Seatondale. SYLVIA HANDICAP.—RoyaI Scotland, Fighting Fish, St. Amans, Snowfoot, Tetrnzzini, Hyperion, Kakama, Exeallbur, Roselike, Tuku Tuku, Lady Doon, Sharpshooter. Merriwa, Idealism, Salute. - AUCKLAND .HURDLE RACK.-Okaihau, Carlyle, Waihekau, Reservoir, Ben Jonson, Master Douglas, Creusot, Luscombe, Lingerer, Darkness, Dolores. Kaipetipeti, Hautapu, Rosavere.

NEWMARKET HANDICAP.— Mahinga, Santa Rosa, Tarina, Devonport, ■ Cambrian, Mabeno, Master Soult, Waihuka, Royal Soult Taniainnpo, Lochbuhle, Coromandel, Foremost, Taitoko, Ngapuka, , Loongana, Aborigine, Sunglow, Armlet, Flitaway, Cbanteuse, Contendent, Dawn, Gold Lace. Miss Winnie, Wauchope.

AUCKLAND PLATE.—Douche,' Waimangn, First Gun. Leonator, Ikon, Pohutu, Kilmarnock, Stauja, Master Delaval. Te Aroha. Aborigine, California, Husbandman, Downfall, Bobrikoff, Chanteusc, St. Aidan, Zimmerman, Djabolo. -..'""" GREY HANDlCAP.—Carmania. Harrow, Arlstes', Mahinga, Hen Battle. Miss Advance, Freevata, Ilonnga, Censure, Tattoo, Mark Time, Rarata, Dogger Bank, Analogy, Blue, Mountain, Hard Rock,' Explosive, Silent, Men-lira, Gr'tzelle, Biddy Ctirran. Blue-Rocket, Flying Soult,-Heathen," Te Kahurangi, down Rose, Lady .lane, Stroller, Totika, Keep step, Field-Marshal, Maiora, Zinnia,' Master Crispin, llohuntrutnhi, Jena, Perform,' Laurel Wreath, Peggy Pride. COMPARISON OF GENERAL ENTRIES. The "following is a comparative statement or the general entries received in connection with th© A.R.C. Summer Meeting for this and the proceeding season: — Race. 1906-7. 1907-8. 1908 9. Trial Handicap 10 15 15 Nursery Handicap ... ... 15 17 16 Robinson Handicap ... ... 20 16 20 Gfarietmna Handicap ~..'8 14 17 Bov-en Handicap 23 19 21 Ponsonby Hurdles ... ... 18 13 10 Visitors' Handicap * 18 23 18 Alexandra Handicap ... 14 15 20 Criterion Handicap ... 8 16 13 Waitemata Handicap ... 17 8 14 Salisbury Welter Handicap 18 11 13 Ferguson Handicap ... 30 28 20 New Year's Hurdles ... 20 :15 11 County Handicap 20 21 21 Midsummer Handicap ... 21 18 16 Maiden Handicap .. ' ... 26 16 21 Glasgow Handicap 20 15 24 Goodwood Handicap ... 18 24 a Sylvia Handicap ... ... 11 16 15 Auckland Hurdle Race ... 20 16 14 Newmarket Handicap ... 27 25 25 Auckland Plato 11 14 19 Grey Handicap 39 31 33 432 397 434 AUTUMN MEETING. FIRST FORFEITS. THE NORTHERN CHAMPAGNE STAKES of s'jOsovs. For two-year-olds. Six furlongs. Mr. E, W. Alison's b f Elegance, by Seaton Delaval—Antelope Mr. V. L. Bagnall's b c, bv Seaton Delaval—Eve Mr. W. K. Bidwill'a i> c Provocation, by Birkenhead—Stepfeldt Mr. W. E. Bidwlll's b g Expansion, by Birkenheadlmmersion Mr. S. Bradley's b c First Wairiki, by Wairiki— Leo Delaval Mr. S. Bradley's br f Ripple, by Wairiki—Voice Trustees Mrs. A. M. Coombe's br c Elysian, by Dreamland . . Trustees Mrs. A. M. Coombe's b f Tetrazzini, by Sonlt—Miss Annie Sir (■'. Clifford's b c* Kilwinning, by Kilcheran— Success Mr. R. L. Cleland's br c Etonian, by Eton Seng;; ■ Mr. R. L. Cleland's br c Monsieur Soult, by Soult —Lady Emmellne Mr. W. Laughs b c Waiata. by Eton—Lute Mr. F. W. Arnold's b c Exealibur, by Eton— Tournament Mr. F. Rosa' br g Fleetnote, bv. Eton—Rapid Mr. F. Ross' br f Salute, by Soult— Musket Hon. ,1. Carroll's b f Maewa, by Eton—Kttiroa Hon. J. Carroll's br i, by Soult—Gold Web Mr .1. J. Craig's b f Sea Elf, bv Seaton Delaval— St. Evelyn Mr. 11. Oalslord'a br f Ra'upare, by Kilcheran— Moreze Mr. 11. Gaisford'a b c Tawliaki, by Menschikoff— Armilla Messrs. Ryan and De ({men's br <: Tuku Tuku, bv Kilcheran— Cold Mr W. 1) Watson's b c, by Conqueror—Lady Principal Mr. W. Hundley's b c, by Menschikoff—Gladys Hay

Mr. ,1. G. Johnston's br c Boanerges, by Pilgrim's Progress—Parera Mr. A. Kidd's b i, bv Menschikoff— Margaretta

Mr. A. Kidd's br c. by Powerful— Seaton Mr. 11. R. Mackenzie's b <; Royal Scotland, by Seaton Delaval—Lady Hester Mi liighden's bo Polymorphous, by Multiform —Rumour J?.', liighden's eh f Celaeno, by Pilgrim's Progress— .-Ello Mr. F. s Easton's br f Lady Moutoa, by SoultCeeile

Mr. F. S. Huston's br f Moutoa Girl, by Soult — Santa Katerinu Manawatu Stud Company's eh f, by Formosan— Wepener Mr. (J. Baldwin's br f. by Kilcheran— Mr. R. Milieu's be Hyperion, bv Soult—Thea * Mr. D. McLeod's br f Kakama, by Soult—Win«o:~n , Mr. J. McNlcol's b c St. Amang, by Soult—Lottie Mr. .1. McNicol's br <• Maxwell, by Souß— line Hon. J. D. Ormond's b c Fiddler, ,by Birkenhead —Guitar Hon. .T. D. Ormond's-b c Xylophone, by Birkenhead;—Banjo Hon. J, D. Onnond's br g Idealism, bv Birken-head-Ideal Hon. J. D. Ormond's b g Stourtou, by Birkenhead —Bole Hon. J I). Onnond's br g Elfish, by Birkenhead —Klfloek Hon. J. 1) Onnond's br g Day Beam, bv Birkenhead—Eos Mr. J, Monk's br c Masterful, by Stepniak— Dalrymple Mr. 11.' Whitney's br f Anna, by Stepniak— Couronne " Mr. ,T. R. McDonald's eh a Etna, by St. Ambrose —Sea shell Mr. P. Smith's b c Snowfoot, by Soult—Helen McGregor Messrs. Dawson and Waller's br f Fighting Fish, bv Soult—Caller Ou Mr. ft", Da vies" br c Chanvelin, by Soult—lnamorala Mr. J. L. Carl's ch f Roselike, by Multiform— Soult. Rose Mr. E. .1. Watt's br c Maori King, by Merriwee— Indian Queen Mr. E. J. Watt's b c Kildonan, by Kileheran— Armada Mr. E. .1 Watt's b f Kilindini, by Kilcheran— Mosqtieterle Mr. T. if. Lowrv's br a Merrlwa, by Merriwee— Lady Helen " Mr. G. P. Donnelly's ch g Morleykoff, by MenBcliikotf— Kilniorey. THE GREAT NORTHERN OAKS of 2;>osovs. For three-year-old fillies. One mile and ehalf. Mr. G. D. Greenwood's b f Armlet, bv Menschikoff—A Mr. Lance Wood's b f Ukraine, by Stepniak— Madder Mr. K. .1. Watt's b f Parable, by Merriwee— Palaver ' Mr. T. McWilllara's eh f, by Finland—La Gloria Mr. G. P. Donnelly's br f Gold l*acc, by Gold ReefKahuwr.i Mr. >'•■ P. Donnelly's br f Gold Treasure, by Gold Reef—Pearlshot Mr. D. O'Brien's b f Ra'ppel. by Uhlan— Mr. S. Liddell's br i La batons, by Sabretache— Aherlow Mr, T. H. Lowry's b f Chanteuse, by Merriwee— ' C'antatrice Sir <;. Clifford's ch f Flitaway, by Clanranald— Elusive.

TAEANiAKI JOCKEY CLUB'S SUMMER MEETING. [BY TELBGKA.rH.—PRESS ASSOCIATION.] IIAWERA, Friday. • The. following weights have been declared for the Taranaki Jockey Club's Summer Meeting, to be held on the 26th and 28th Inst.:— HURDLE RACK,—Stayboy 11 10, Haereiiiai 10.9, Tomlerghie 10.8, Lingerer 10.6. Bagatelle 5.7, The Leader 9.3. Black Banner 9.3, Drudgery 9.2, Sedtfmoor 9.0. ,-; CHRISTMAS HANDICAP.— 9.0, Tiptoe. 8.8, Glenulliu 7.8, Wee Trinket 7.8, Star Rose 7.8, Mallet 7.0, .Showman 7.0, Mlkotabi 6.12, Kilmarnock 6.12, Peailie 6.12, Fulminator 6.10. FLYING HANDICAP.— Eagle 9.0, Tiptoe 9.0, Glenulliu 8.8, (vrene 8.3. Karcroa 8.2, Climax 7.9, Nicotine 7.7, Sir Artegal 7.2, Kirsty 7.2, St. Maria 7.0. Lady Lancelot 6.13. STEWARDS' HANDICAP.—Nicotine 9.0, Lady Menschikolt 8.12, Hydraulic 8.8. Chase Mab 87, White Star 8.7, Timothy 8.3, Burton 8.0, luaha 7.13, Mulga Bill 7.9. Tanekoha 7.6, Overtime 7.5, Otnroa 7.2. Whnna 7.0, Flying; Wind 7.0, Tauherc 7.0, Pleiades 7.0. FIRST WELTER HANDICAP.—Mikotahi 10.10, Research 10.9, White Star 10.5, Recreation 9.7, Billow 9.6. Red Star 9.4, Mistress 9.4, Aatraea 9.2, Paul 9.2, Goodwin Park 9.0, Rohepotac 9.0, Denis 9.0, Noifa 9.0, Marshall 9.0, Gtmstock 9.0, Jet dc More 9.0, Me.ndip 9.0.

BRACELET.—Kaucwara 11.4, • Starfish 10.13, Bismarck 10.13, Hon Cyr 10.6. Golden Park 10.3, Windrobc 10.3, Mendip 10.2, St. Clements gelding 10.2, Jet de More 10.1, Glen 10.1, Waddv 10.0. Mclaphine 10.0. Denis 10.0, Andover 10.0, Forward 10.0, Maori Rifle 10.0.

AUCKLAND TROTTING CLUB'S SUMMER MEETING.

The Auckland Trotting Club will hold their summer meeting at Alexandra Park on the 28th and 31st December and January 9. With stake money to the value of £1985 on the programme, it can bo said that horseowners have a very interesting bill of fare plncod before them, and that being so, a record list of entries will' probably result. The principal event of the meeting is tho Auckland Trotting Cup of 200sovs (two miles), and with a limit of sm. 12s. fixed, that should ensure class. The pony division are as usual well catered for, an/1 with lOOsovs down against each of the races for the liliputian division that should bring out strong entries. Altogether it can bo said that the nrogramme put forth by the A.T.C is of a 'highly satisfactory character. Nominations close for all events on Friday next, at nine p.m.

FOUL RIDING AT TAKAPUNA. TO THE SPORTING EDITOR.

Sir,— is regrettable that our racing is now marred by so much foal riding. I was a witness to one of the worst cases of this kind that I ever saw. at Takapuna on Wednesday hist. It occurred in the nice won by Master Crispin, about a hundred yards from the winning post, and therefore right under the eyes of the stewards, and no notice was taken of it. Had it not been for the skill of the horseman affected there would probably have been a serious accident. I may say the horse affected was just making his run. and had a good chance ■ of catching the leader. I think it is about time the ruling bodies woke up to this sort of thing, and dealt with tbo culprits in a way that they would have no further opportunity of repeating their tricks.— am, etc. FAIRPLAY. . ■ 4 Mr. J. R. Foster Pratt, for many years lion, starter, for"the Manawatu Racing Club, but who resigned tho position to allow of the appointment of a paid starter, has been appointed starter for the club's Christmas meeting, states a Press Association telegram from Palmerston North. ~„ ~