SPORTING.

New Zealand Herald, Volume L, Issue 15482, 13 December 1913, Page 10

SPORTING.

'V.: % RACING.. FIXTURES. December 26. Thames Jockey Club. December 26. 29. and January 1, 2—Auckland Racing Club. December 26, 27, .29—Manawatu Racing Club December 26—Waipapakauri Racing Club. December 26—Alexandra Hoeing Club. December 26, Taranaki Jockey Club. December 26, 27—Dunedin Jockey Club. December 26—Taratahi - Carterton Racing Club. December 31, January I—Greymoutb Jockey Club. December 5:7. 30. 31—Air.-kand Trotting Club. January 1, 2-Hawke's Ray Jockey Club. January 1, 2—Stratford Racing Club. January 1, 2—Marton Jockey Club. January 1, 2—Wairarapa Racing Club. January I—Houhora Racing Club. January 1-Tirau Racing Club. January I—Paengaroa Hack Racing Club. January I—Kiliikihi Hack Racing Club. January I—Whatawhata Racing Club. January 2, 3—Southland Racing Club. January 3, 4-Wcstland Racing Club. January 8. 9— Whangarei Racine Club. January 14— Northern Wairoa Racing Club January 21, 22, Wellington Raxing Club. January 29 and 31—Takapuna Jockey Club. February 4, 5-Egmont Racing Club. February 5— Kuiti Racing Club. February 7—Bay of Plenty Jockey Club. February 11—Rotorua Jockey Club. February 11, 12—Taranaki Jockey Club. February 14—Xgaruawaliia Racing Club. February 20 and South Auckland Racing Club. February 25. 28-Otahuhi> Trottin? Club. February 27—Opotiki Jockey Club. March 7. 9—Te Aroba Jockey Club, liarch 14. —Ohinemuri Jockey Club DATES OF COMING EVENTS. December 26— Auckland Cud. December Auckland Trotting Cup, December Manawatu Cup. December 27—Manawatu Stakes. January Great Northern Derby. January I—Mavton Cup. January 21—Wellington Cup. January 27—Wellington Slakes. ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS. A.R.P.-Thc value of the New Zealand Trotting Cup this year was £2000. Tommy.—Seven horses started for the Auckland Cup of 1904, won by Mahutonga. W.S., Kawakawa—Potoa was got by Mono- ■ form (son of HotohJrisa) from Black Watch. The latter is a daughter of Tasman and Abydos (daughter of Nelson). Query, Thames.—St. Francis is an Austra-lian-bred three-year-old colt by San Francisco from the Cuirassier mare Miss Gladys (dam of Gladsome, Gladstone, Apologue, and Seal Rock). G.S., Tuparoa.—Ballyneety was got by Sou'wester (son of Goldsbrough) from Little Primrose. No mention is made of the latter in the Stud Book and we cannot, therefore, furnish the information desired. J.F.W.—At some small meetings in the 80s. five shillings totalisators were run; but we have no knowledge of any of the important clubs taking that course. There was a proposal tit one time to do so, but action taken by the Government prevented it being carried out. SAiison.—Soltano holds the time record dm 14s) for the A.R.C. Royal Stakes. Ho carried 7st olb, and defeated the following ' field:—Bon Reve Bst 13lb, Mowbray 7st 81b, Jason 7st 21b. Tinopai 6st 12lb. Nightwatch 6st slb. Soltano has won three races since the opening of the present season. NOTES BY PHAETON. THE AUCKLAND CUP. Matters in connection -with the Auckland Cup can at present be described as { in a very calm state, and there will probably not be a marked alteration in the situation until the Southern division arrives at Ellerslie. ' A telegram from Wellington states that it is by no means ':'■ ■.; certain that Los Angelos will make the ■trip to Auckland. San Francisco's chestnut son is engaged in the Manawatu and Marton Cups, the distance • : of which races. (a mile and a-half) will, it •is popularly held, suit him better than the twj miles attaching to the Auckland V Cup. p' Potoa continues to be a muchdiscussed horse. ";... While some are pre- ! . pared to accept him as a stayer there are ; others who. question the soundness of that conclusion.- Potoa is undoubtedly a horse of good physique, but we have to re- , member that he -has yet to win over a '•' longer . distance than seven • furlongs. It may, of . course, be validly argued that :■: Monoform's good-looking son has been .very lightly tested over a distance so ,; far as his public engagements are con | ■: .cerned^andthe fact of his owner nomi- : nating him for races extending,, to 16 furlongs, it is to be inferred that ■ there is at . least reason to estimate him as something more than a . sprinter. Possibly Potoa will not lie very ;. much older ere he extends his record beyond the distance at which his winning stands at present, but one would like a littlo more enlightenment as to his staying capacity ere standing him strongly for a two-mile journey. Potoa reached Ellerslie on Thursday, so that he. will now , be well under the searchlight. Jack Delaval has been a warm fancy in certain quarters ever since the weights made their appearance, and' if the little bay gelding continues to shape properly in his training it will be no sur- ( -.'_] prise to find him holding his place in public esteem when Boxing Day rolls] round. We hive, however, to hear in} mini.that Jack Delaval has yet to win over a longer course than 10 furlongs, and that he has a touch of delicacy. Jack v Delaval may stay, but he has to be taken quite on trust at the present ' time for v a two-mile race. ■ La Rfiina's indifferent display in the New Zealand Cup has for the nonce caused her to lose caste.* We must not overlook the fact that Soult's daughter ran Bobrikoff to a neck in the last Auckland Cup at a difference of only 151b, and the trip was got over in 3m 295. If La Reina be in a position to reproduce her best form on Boxing Day (and it is pleasing to be able to write in that respect in a fairly optimistic vein), the bay mare should be able to take a prominent hand in the settlement of the question. Prince Merriwee has shown himself to bo a game battler; and Imaybe he has yet to play bis best card; ' but the general impression is that the brown horse has not improved to the degree expected since he raced at Ellerslie last month, and it is rumoured' that a leg trouble affects him. Santa Rosa is galloping really well, and as one of the proved stayers ho is entitled to respect. Colonel Soult's victory in the King Edward Memorial Handicap showed that he could compass a mile and a-half satisfactorily, and some of his enthusiastic followers fancy his chance greatly under 7st 91b. Sea Pink having! beaten all his opponents save Sinapis in the New Zealand Cup, he is not bent" overlooked in the hunt for the winner; I but ft rumour that all is not quite well with the Seatoh Delaval horse places him under a cloud. The next few days is expected to find Sea Pink at Ellerslie, and his arrival on tho scene will probI ably make matters more clear regarding 'his chance of going one better at Elerslio , on Boxing Day than fell to his lot at > Eiccarton last month. A whisper comes from Taranaki to tho effect that Royal 'Arms is expected to make a bid for victory, at Ellerslie. However, we have to bear in mind that tho big bay was well.beatenfin the New Zealand Cup under a flight weight,,■■;" -

THE RAILWAY HANDICAP.

With regard to the Railway Handicap the outstanding feature in connection with the six-furlong race is the probability of a meeting between Soltano and Warstep, who are weighted respectively with Bst 111b and Bst 31b. Tho Hawke's Bay colt and the Canterbury lilly are both held in high respect, and each claims a strong row of enthusiastic admirers. Soltano has shown himself to bo possessed of a brilliant dash of pace, and on his best behaviour ho call be depended upon to run a great six furlongs. With Bst 31b Warstep has an impost 181b in excess of that under which she won the Stewards' Handicap at Riccarton last mouth; but the increased poundage will not, it is contended, bo a very serious matter to Martian's daughter, who is summed up as a really good filly. Of tho locally-owned division, Prince Souk seems to me to be the one that stands out most prominently. In the spring the brother to Master Soult won a double on the same afternoon, and such a solidly-built horse should not find Bst 51b a severe burden. Kakama is galloping well, and with only 7st 101b to carry, Souk's daughter will certainly not be overlooked on Boxing Day.

ASSUMED NAMES RETAINED IN ENGLAND.

At a meeting of members of the English Jockey Club early in October, a motion was passed to the effect that certain rules should be altered so as to do away with the use of assumed names by owners. The motion was productive of a deal of discussion, as while some members were strongly against the practice, others failed to see any necessity for a departure from the existing position. The rulo permitting assumed names had worked well, and the Jockey Club's action caused surprise in many quarters, among those to condemn it being .Mr. John Corlett, of the "Pink 'Un." After the announcement as to the motion being approved of Mr. Corbett wrote as follows :— The only conclusion that we can arrive at is that there has been some abuse in connection with assumed names of which the outside public know nothing. Otherwise we cannot understand why a rule which for so many years has worked well and has been made use of by many owners whose names are beyond reproach should suddenly have been withdrawn. This would scarcely have been done without some good reason other than a mere whim, and we hope that tho club itself will see the way towards finding the money for the charities that were provided for by those owners, who contributed the bulk of the amount that is given annually to tho Bentinck Benevolent Fund. From this fund many cases of distress have been relieved, and the homes of several aged poor at one time connected with the turf, who have fallen in life's struggle, have been brightened. This was one of the reasons why wo doubted the policy of forbidding tho use of!an assumed name; but if the benefits on the one hand are counterbalanced by some evil on the other, we have no more to say. As far as we are concerned, we know of no such evil." It is not Icnown whether the side of the question quoted presented itself to members, but when the motion came up for confirmation at a subsequent meeting of the Jockey Club it was negatived by 15 to 14. Consequently assumed names will continue to be used by English owners, who wish to hide their identity to some extent.

LEAVES FROM MY NOTEBOOK.

Nonette was undoubtedly the most solid racehorse that Seaton Dolaval sired,' and the white-legged chestnut bids fair to winl like distinction as a parent. Owen Roe, one of the leading performers in Queensland, was sired by Nonette. Recently that horse registered a high-class-perform-ance by winning the Brisbane Summer Cup under 9st 81b, and running the mile and three-quarters attaching to that race in 3m lis. In the course of a leading article on New Zealand racing, the Australasian says:—"Sir George Clifford hates the bookmaker, and probably he and most of the leading flat-race owners bet very little or not at all. It was not always so, however. The late Mr. George Stead is credited with having broken the New Zealand ring when Lochiel won the Cup in 1887, and when that horse won the Newmarket Handicap, Mr. Stead's takings from the ring were about £40,000. We have often heard and read of the three owners of First Water having backed the little chestnut for £80,000 in the Melbourne Cup of 1883. The story is quite true but Mr. W. E. Dakin, who trained the horse, declared that Le Loup was backed for the same amount, on account of Mr. Stead only, for the Melbourne Cup, which the stable won with the outsider Darriwell. Mr. Stead, however, decided that betting was a losing game, and for some years before his death he ran for stakes only. When Lochiel won the Newmarket so many friends "stood in" at the finish, taking the first odds, that there was notvery much left for Mr. Stead, and he had had to stand all the risks of the horse going wrong before the day of the race. We , like holding up a great racing character such as ,Mr. Stead was as an instance of a man seeing the error of his vays in regard to betting. A heavy .etter is, and always has been, a nuisance to the turf. Mr. Stead's example has, no doubt, been followed by most leading New Zealanders, and as stakes, thanks to the • totaJisator, are good they get their sport at a reasonable price." * Balranald, the three-year-old son of Positano and Wakeful, who cost the Victorian sportsmen, Messrs. K. S. McLeod and A. S. Chimside 1400gs as a yearling, and who has yet to earn every shilling 'of the sum expended in his purchase, has been sent to I. Earnshaw to be trained. Balranaid is said to be a big loose WW, and ft is hoped he will develop into a decent horse with time. |

It is not surprising to read that P. [ Wootton has decided to give up riding. It is with difficulty he now goes to scale at less than 9st. At Alexandra Park on I October 19, he had to ride Fickle Hope at 8.11, but failed to gel below 8.13; and at Gatwick a few days later, overweight brought him up to 9.1 in two races. Wootton will only Be 20 years of age this month, and as a. jockey has made a fortune since he first rode in England in 1906. Hie Rolorua Jockey Club will hold their annual race meeting on Araiva Park Racecourse on February 11. The procramme consists of eight events, with the Rotorua Cup of £125 (£75 in cash and a silver cup of the value of £50, presented by Mr. W. G. Stead) as the leading race. From the programme- appearing in another column it will be seen that nominations for all events close on Friday, January 23, 1914, at 9 p.m. According to a Napier writer Moddite, the Royal Artillery—Quietest colt, purchased by Mr. T. H. Lowrv in Sydney last year for 120 guineas, is attracting favourable comment from track watchers by the .solid style in which he has been acquitting himself. Moddite is engaged at the A.R.C. Summer Meeting. After the Fcilding Spring Meeting the Wellington owner, Mr. J. " Highden" purchased the Advance—Endeavour colt Expect from A. Attwood. Expect has been nominated with the rest of the "Highden" horses at the Manawatu meeting, and ho is ticked off to pay his way well. Piastre, who won the Melbourne Cup last year, and who was star weight-for-age performer in Australia at the autumn meetings, will be put into work again this month, after a spoil of several months. It is considered doubtful, however, if ho will survivo a preparation. A Napier writer says:—lt is the general opinion that though Brocade is the speediest two-year-old in F. Davis's stable, both Balboa and Chime are superior to her when a distance of ground lias to; he covered, for, like her dam, Finery, Brocade stops very quickly after she has gone half a mile. Matawerewere, who won a race at the A.R.C. Spring .Meeting, has made steady progress in the interval under the care of E. Pope.

The defeat of Mr. R. H. Levien in the J New South Wales Assembly election has a bearing on sport in that he was the- chief agitating spirit for the legalisation of the totnlisator in the mother state of tho Commonwealth. Mr. E. J. Watts's colt Moonbria, who has left D. J. Price's stable, consequent on tho disqualification of that trainer, lias been handed over to 11. Rayner, of New South Wales, and ho will be trained at Randwick. Bon Revo's exertions in the spring had a lowering effect upon his condition, but he is expected to be carrying silk again before long. He is being spelled at prosent. The handicap for the Auckland Trotting Cup of 500sovs has come in for favourable comment, the general verdict being that Mr. F. W. Edwards has done his work well. At present Hal Zolock, Bingana, Mattie, Denver Huon, and Albertorious have good fallowings, and much interest is centred in the big race. Hauera (B. Rae) and Eglington (T. Jones) were schooled in company at Ellerslio on Thursday. After clearing the sod wall, stand double, and stone wall on terms, they raced over three schooling hurdles, and then again took on tho steeplechase obstacles. Racing to the stand double the second time, Eglington appeared to tire, and he struck the stonewall, but got over. Hauera went very well, and finished up several lengths to the good. Both horses are nominated for Thames steeplechases. Royal Arms is reported to be getting through a sound preparation under Jervis George's direction wit ha view to contesing the Auckland Cup, and ho now has a big following for this event. The Royal Artillery gelding finished sixth in tho New Zealand Cup after being in tho fightingline throughout. It is probablo that tho Taranaki representative will have tho assistance of R. Berry, who piloted Sinapis to victory in the last New Zealand Cup.

W. Young was the most successful horseman at Woodville this week, where ho rode four winners, and all on tho second day, too. Hector Gray came next with three wins, and then followed B. Deeley, W. Adams, C. Stowe, A. Oliver, T. Pritchard, R„ Berry, 0. McCarten, A. Ward, and C. Rollo, with ono victory each. Manuwera, the big Cuirassier gelding, is being kept at the hurdling business by Trainer C. Coleman, and on Thursday, with H. Hastedt up, negotiated a round of the hurdles at headquarters. He fenced well until the last obstacle was reached, when he slipped and nearly came to grief. Glittering Sands lias been registering useful work at Ellerslio under the direction of J. Williamson with a view to taking part at the Thames meeting at Christmas time. The Gluten filly has been on the improve, but is now smitten with skin disease, which gives her a somewhat unsightly appearance. Master Theory (Soult-Romola), who broke down some time back and was sold by Mr. D. P. Moraghan, has got through a good stud season at Whangarei. His now owner states that the brother to Tragedy King is again sound, and 1 ill be placed in training by-and-bye. Reco tly he took first prize in the show ring. Merrimax was badly treated in the Grafton Hurdles with lOst 101b, and Mr. Morse must hold a fairly exalted view of the little fellow when he places him on the same mark as Sandy Paul, and within a stone of an undoubted good one like Witched. As soon as Mr. Ryan scanned the weights he withdrew the McrriweeMaxima gelding.

Dawn (J. Tilsey) and Czarina (H. Hastedt) were companions in a round over the schooling hurdles at Ellerslie on Thursday. The pair started off slowly, but increased the pace after crossing the second obstacle, and finished up fast over the fifth hurdle. Both fenced well, Dawn particularly so, and he should do well as a jumper with a little more experience. Jack Delaval was allotted useful work on Thursday morning, and got through his task satisfactorily. Although Jack is still most in favour for the Cup, others—in Bon Ton, Potoa, Sea Pink, Royal Arms, and Sir Solo—are now much fancied. Although a large number of horses are in training at Ellerslie, the work of late has not been over-interesting, but with the arrival of a number of visitors and the appearance of the handicaps matters will be very brisk next week at headquarters. La Reina is again coming into favour for the Auckland Cup. After her experience at the last A.R.C. Summer Meeting, should success in the big race on Boxing Day come her way the win would be well received. Stewart Waddell arrived at headquarters last evening with tho KTaramu contingent, which is made up of Hymettius, Banian, Hyettus, Haskayne, Intelligent, and the jumper Witched. Potoa is now one of tho most fancied candidates for the Auckland Cup, and as he is now at headquarters, his work will be noted with interest. The Monoform— Black Watch horso i 6 reported to be,in good fettle. Chance Shot, tho chestnut Bombardo gelding, owned by Mr. J, Farnworth, hae been placed under J. Chisholm's care, and all going well will bo seen out at the Thames fixture.

Spinster, the Soult filly, trained by S. Hodge for Mr. Jae. Muir, has quietened down considerably of late. This equine Ttas a fair dash of pace, But is inclined to ho very flighty.

) Monorail and Wa stable companion Towtiers were associated in a spin on ThursI day morning, when the last-named came home in front. Poictiers is engaged at the Thames on Boxing Day. Blue Garment had Rouge Dragoon for a companion in a gallop over the grass on Thursday, when, contrary to expectations, the last-named finished in front of the Bluelight gelding. Mullingar and Mon Emma sprinted over half a mile on the two-year-old track on Thursday, when Mullingar, with a lightweight in the saddle, finished some lengths to the good. Cloy and his full-brother Brookfield, both of whom are now under the care of H. French, traversed a couple of rounds of the grass on Thursday, finishing up fast over tho last six furlongs. The latest addition to Denis Moraghan's string at headquarters is a chestnut filly bv Powerful, from Cooee. At one time this equine was trained by P. Jones. Mr. W. C. Ring put in his appearance at Ellerslie on Thursday afternoon with Potoa, Hinerewa, and Unity, and is now quartered at the Harp of Erin. Immolatio, the three-year-old filly by Immolation, has been disposed of locally to a Svdnev buyer, and will be shipped away shortly. Bleriot, Bon Rove, and Autumnus, who were at the top of the tree last season as three-year-olds, have so far this season failed to earn distinction. Worcester disposed of a couple of rounds of the grass on Thursday with Parapara, the last six furlongs fast, when both hit out with freedom. Tho Rambler gelding Bogey is rounding into form nicely under the careful attention of his owner, Mr. 11. C. Tonka, at Ellerslie. Miss Livonia, the Leolantis mare recently taken in hand by W. H. Moi)borlev, is in steady exercise at headquarters, and promises to bo soon at her best ero long. Colonel Soult was one of the prime fancies for the Auckland Cup a little over a week ago, but he has now gone out of favour for tho big two-mile race.

Sir Solo accounted so easily for the Borough Handicap,,7 furlongs, at Woodvillo on Wednesday under 9st 131b, that his chance in the Auckland Cup is beginning to claim attention. With only 7st 101b to cany Sir Solo is nicely treated in the big event at Ellerslie. He will accompany T. Quinlivan's team next Tuesday.

A very largo number of visitors will bo in evidence at the A.11.C. Summer -Meeting, and all tho available accommodation at headquarters has been eagerly seized upon. Every box has been engaged at the Harp of Erin, where enough horses will be quartered next week to alone run a big racing carnival.

Kakama has contested several A.R.C. Railway Handicaps, and promises to see the post for the big sprint event on Boxing Day. J. Thorpe has the Soult mare going well, and she may be ticked off as likely to play her part well in tho race in question. Prince Soult is registering good work under Denis Moraghan's directions, and has quite a host of admirers for the A.R.C. Railway Handicap. With T. Pritchard not now available, it is probable that W. Young will pilot tho Prince on Boxing Day. Soultikoff, the Auckland Cup colt, who injured a foot on Tuesday, through pullin'' a shoe off while registering a useful gallop, was given exercise on Thursday morning, and it is to bo hoped that the effects of tho injury will shortly wear off. Lady Elgiva, who was turned out in Rood fettle for the Takapuna Spring Meeting by Henry Barr, and ran second on tho first day, and won on the concluding occasion, has been transferred to W. Sharp's establishment at Ellerslie, Fred Davis is expected to set out for Ellerslie on Tuesday with tho following eight horses belonging to Mr. T. H. Lowry :—Sollano, Chime, Tho Hague, Balboa, Beldame, Marshal McDonald, Moddite, and St. Francis. Pearlchild, a much-fancied candidate for the Auckland Trotting Cup, has reached Auckland under A. Hendriksen, and is now quartered with T. Richards, who has Reuben engaged in the same race. M. Edwards is bringing the Australian crack trotter Denver Htion to Auckland for the Trotting Cup of 500sovs. Mahomet and Lady Edna will accompany the champion. Toreador was responsible for a well run half-mile on the grass on Thursday morning, but was making a noise over tho concluding stages. Ho is looking nice to the eyo. The stable companions, La Reina, Merry Roe, and Bleriot, a pretty warm trio, skipped along briskly in company at headquarters on Thursday. Bleriot and La Reina are Cup candidates. C. Coleman has Tikitapu in solid work at headquarters, and it is to be hoped that tho filly will repay her owner, Mr W. Montgomery, for the many disappointments of the past 12 months. Sir George Clifford will be represented at the big carnival at Ellerslie by Quarantine, First Flight, Stevedore, Glenfinnan, and Winning Way. Ben Deeley will ride the quartette. Lady Thorn, the little Obligado-Lady Thornton mare, trained by E. Pope, will be sent on for tho Thames meeting, where she has engagements to fulfil.

Barb Wire skipped along freely in his work at Ellerslie on Thursday morning under his new mentor, T. Tooman. This big Gluten gelding should render a good account of himself when thoroughly attuned. An Auckland Cup three-year-old in St. Francis was sent' out favourite for the Welter HnndiVin nt Woodville on Wednpsdiiv. when he finished third to Immensity and braeburn. His display is said to have been anything but impressive. Sir Malt, Silver Shield, and Fabrikoff, who will carry Mr. Harvey Patterson's colours at the A.R.C. Summer carnival, reached EJlerslie on Thursday in the charge of G. Scobie, and are now at the Harp of Erin. Belasco, who figures in the Robinson Handicap at EUerslie on Boxing Day, is a well-bred three-year-old by Vasco—Belle Clair, owned by Mr. J. Monk, the Wellington sportsman. Goldsizo, the A.R.C. Railway Handicap candidate, trained by J. Chaafe, jun., continues to get through satisfactory work, and promises to be at his best on Boxing Day. Waiorewa has been striding along smartly in her training jaunts of late, and it may not be long ero she again figures on the winning list. The Glenapp maro runs well when the going is a bit heavy. Sir Moselcy's A.R.C. Railway Handicap defection was brought about owing to the colt having gone off, and ho has returned homo to Hastings, together with his halfbrother Diavolo. The Gluten—Lady Rose filly Rosea, who was disposed of recently, is now under H. Ellern's care. The same trainer also has Michacloff in work at EUerslie.. Banian, who was brought up from Hawke's Bay yesterday, is a three-year-old gelding by Birkenhead—Banzai, and is owned by the Hon. J. D. Ormond. ' R. J. Mason is expected to put in an 1 early appearance at Ellerslie with Oieru--1 bini. Banksia, Rencontre, and Co., and will quarter his team at Green Lane with E. J. Rae. Golborne (W. McKinnon) and Tiini Uira (A. J. McFJynn) were schooled a couple of times over the sod wall, stand double, and stone wall at EHerslio on Thursday, when each fenced bodly and) well.

T. Qtiinlivan will leave for Ellerslie with a team of seven horses on Tuesday. Included in his lot will be Sea Pink, Ventura, Culprit, and Tatterley. \ The Tapu races are to bo held on December 29. Prom tho programme of events appearing in another column it will bo scon that nominations close on the 19th inst. Soultbino is tho name claimed for the untried four-year-old brother to tho re-cord-breaking Soultlino, by SoultrCastorline. Tho Celt is in steady work at Ellerslio, under his owner-trainer, Mr. Walker. This son of Spalpoen has pace, but has been somewhat unfortunate up till tho proIt is tho intention of Jervis George to lift the big Auckland Cup and Railway Handicap double if possible with Royal Arms and Crown Pearl. Warstop, Stardanocr, and the two-year-old Marsa will reach Ellerslie this moming in charge of Murray Aynsley. AUCKLAND BLOODSTOCK SALES. The entries received for the sale of bloodstock to be held at Alexandra Park by tho New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company on January 3 next continue to mount up, and it is now quite certain that tho number of thoroughbreds to be submitted will make the sale one of the most important held in the Dominion for some time past. Tho 52 yearlings so far catalogued are on account of Messrs. W. H. Paterson (Motiti Island), H. R. McKonzie (Ascot Stud, Mangero), W. Walters (Glonora Park, Papakura), W. Dunn, T. H. Lowry (Hawkcs Bay), lan Duncan (Waikanae),_ A. Batch, James Knott, F. Ross. There is also a shipment of two, three, four, and fivo year-olds, mares and foals from Messrs. W. H. Paterson, W Walters, T. Wallace, W. L. Weston, and tho horses in training and other bloodstock tho property of Mr. Frank Ross, who ia retiring from racing.

STUD NOTES. BY THAETON. It may be stated with perfect security that at no previous period in the history of Australasia have so many highly-bred imported horses figured at the stud as at tlio present time; but with all this to assist it can hardly be contended that the class of horses produced in the present day comes up to the standard of those raised when the number of imported stallions doing duty at the Antipodes was very much below that ruling at the present time. That speedy horsos are produced year by year cannot be disputed; but those hardy horses of commanding appearance, such as Goldsbrough, First King, Chester, Wellington, Commotion, Malua, Sir Modred, Nelson, Trenton, Abercorn, Carbine, and Marvel, that were oqual to the task of racing on season after season, and winning tho highest honours, seem to bo becoming as rare as the dodo. We are often asked to believe that tho standard of the horse stock of the colonies is as good now as it was, say, a quarter of a century back; but though it would puzzle one to formulate a solid reason why it should not be so, it would, I take it, be a harder task to prove tho caso in favour of the presentday horse. Nowadays Derby and Cup winners come and go, and for the most part that is the last that is heard of thorn. We hear a lot of record-breaking performances against the watch, which in their way are, no doubt, all very interesting; but it is not a littlo remarkable that when less value was placed upon the time test it was a more sturdy class of horse that figured on tho colonial turf. Of all the horses that are at tho stud in Australasia at the present day, I cannot call to mind one of whose descendants it can bo said that they are noted for their staying capacity, as, for instance, were the Panic, Musket, and St. Albans families. In the old days one would frequently see it stated that the descendants of certain sires were of little value at two years old, but there was a very strong list that were credited with the quality of staying when age came to them. Possibly a number of the young English sires that are doing duty in Australia and New Zealand will bo found giving the turf a strong virile line such as that which was so marked a characteristic in the Fisherman, Sir Hercules, Panic, St. Albans, Musket, Traducer, and Lochiel families. It cannot he disputed that such is very badly wanted.

Some months back a proposal was made in Victoria that breeders in that State should combine with the object of purchasing a high-class stallion in England devoid of St. Simon blood (of which strain there is held to be a plethora in theso dimes). The proposal was warmly received, but it seemed to have ended with letters to the press. Mr. Sol Green, who has much money invested in tho Shipley Stud, and who was the ono to sound the first note in the agitation for a fresh strain of blood in order to strengthen Victoria as a horse-raising State, apparently found the other breeders slow to act, and with characteristic enterprise he has struck out on his own account and purchased in England tho stallion White Star for 8000gns. White Star is a four-year-old full brother to the Two Thousand Guineas and Derbv winner Sunstar. He is by Sundridgc from Dons, and after a brilliant two-ycar-old career was well fancied for * last year's Derby. He was favourite for tho Two Thousand Guineas, but he failed to run up to the form expected, and his performances at three years old were poor. During tho past season he has, however, shown some of that brilliancy which characterised his two-year-old efforts. White Star can boast of a stout pedigree, and quite a lar-ro number of blue riband winders catch the eye when the lines of his breeding are drawn out. His sire, Sundndge, is returned as by Speculum or Rosebery; but tho first-named horse (a son of Vedette, by Voltigeur) is apparently accepted as his parent. White Star claims threo strains of Stockwell (two on his (lam's sido and one en the sire's side), while three out of the four strains of Newminsler ho can boast of come to him through his sire. Doris, the dam of White Star, was got by Loved One (a son of See Saw) from Lauretta (daughter of Petrarch). There is a very fine collection of mares in ' tho Sllinle .v Stud, so that White Star will have a great chance to make a name for himself straight away in his career as a sire.

ALEXANDRA RACING CLUB. The following weights have been declared for the Alexandra Racing Club's meeting, whichjakes place at Pirongia on Boxing w^i? 111 '^ 8, r on and a - hnlf miles.-Master &?i o l 'V OOl U0 St - Wood 11-0 Irish Mad 11.0, Napenape 10.7, Winhaeten 107 Hukurere 10.7, The Reckner 10.7, To Rapa Q MAIDEN HANDICAP, seven furlongs - Sea Wmd 9.9, La o Sylph 98, Merry Widow 9.5 Hammerless 9.0, Hamlet 9.0. Firefly 87 Bo : °' ' Ce B ' s, Black Joe 8 - 6 . Mi ALEXANDRA CUP, one and a-quartcr milea-Weka 10.0, St. Wood 9.7. Glensp" 9.7, Napenape 9.5, Irish Maid 96, led 96 Hamnicrleas 9.0. Magnela 9.0, Hamlet 9.0 Winhasiion 9.0, Nicomar 8.7. SHORTS HANDICAP, four furlongsMaster William 9 12. La Sylph 9.9. St. 9.7, Lady Betty 9.0, Manurero 9.0. Hammerless,B.l2, Salvin 89. Mi Boy 8.7 Nicomar 8 7 Curio. 8.7 Seba 87, Miaa "spa peon 80. St' 8.0, S, Ce n ,eb i ;i,y 8 8 O :O GraDVillO B '°' *b FLYING HANDICAP, five furlongsJ*» JM. Hrii 10.0, Sea Wind 9.12. Mannrero 9.9, Merry Widow 9.7, St. Wood 9 5 Glenspire 9.5. led 9.5. Hamlet 9.0. jffimi'S 0.0, Wmhasten 9.0, Hammerless 8.10 Cur * 8 7 Njcomar 8.7, Lummator 85, To Rapa 80 Bjtb 8.0. Black 300 B.D, SL Crispin fi o.v.

MAIDEN TROT, one and a-half milea.i Nutanse) ror, levuba on. Daisy Mac e s Shamrock 6s, Brady 6s, Apollo 6s, Speedy 8s Merry .Tack Bs, Striker 10s P * bS ' HANDICAP TROT, two miles.-Teddy S™y» c ': M c, l °,- scr. Miotic6,. Lot ';,. \r Dor Salisbury Bs, Nnfansol 15s Levuka 15s Daisy Mac 15s, Shamrock 15s' &AJ&\ c I 5 158 - Spccdy ° 3 - Mo »* I

HAWKE'S BAY JOCKEY CLUB'S SUMMER MEETING. fßr TELEGRAPH.—TOES? ASSOCIATION] Palmersto.y North, Friday. The following weights have been declared by Mr. H. B. Coyle for the Hawke's Bay Summor Meeting:— MAIDEN HACK HANDICAP, six furongs.—Rigo Park 9.0, Day Fly 8.12 Whakahoki 8.11, Multiplicity 8.9, Ngarua 8.7, Formulate 8.6, Mcrriwec—Waipurata colt 86, ,Kimbombi 8.6, New Guinea 8.4, Okahu 8 i Paramahoni 8.4, Flying Marshall 8.3. Perhaps 8.3. Roto Rota 8.3. Falconer 8.3, San I'ran—Glisten colt 8.3. Multitude 8.2, Rauparo 8.2, Amical 8.2, King's Guard 7.11. Trojan/7.11, Leonino 7.11. Ranfurly 7.11, Jessamino 7.11, Rangipoa 7.11, Glotiria 7.11. Multiano 7.11, Ruffina 7.11, San Dega 7.11, Grassmero 7.11, Hiina 7.11. CHRISTMAS HANDICAP, six furlongs - Bliss 9.7, Bluo Lake 8.10, Altear 8.7 Mskara 8.4, Lady Louisa 8.0, Astral 7.6, Cahor Davon 7.5, Adroit 7.3, Lord Possible 7.2, Percelor 6.10, Axis 6.7, Tatimi 6.7. WELTER HACK HANDICAP, once round.— 10.6. Immensity 9.9, Kooya 9.1, Tribunal 8.10, Mistie 8.9, St. Elm 8.7, Hiwitapu 8.4, Formulate 8.4, Hurakia 82. Wairere 8.2. Arahakau 8.0. Triczo 80, Discussion 8.0, Peacemaker 8.0. Gazalio 8.0, Floirotte 8.0, Glouria 8.0. PRESIDENT'S HANDICAP, one mile and Cheddar 9.0, Birklino 8.11, Byron 8.8, Mangaroa 8.2, Lady Laddo 8.0, Arlom 8.0, Mystcriach 7.9, Birkful 7.9, Fair Rosamond 7.7 Vi 7.6, ltcdloh 7.6, Mummer 7.5, Tbo Summit 7.6. Trioze 7.6. OTATARA JUMPERS' FLAT HANDICAP, one mile and a-half — Chief Marshall 10.5, Auldearn 10.1, Merry Lad 10.0, Composed 9.12, Mnku 9.8. Marble Head 9.6. Rongamau 9.2. Elya 9.0. TWO-YEAR-OLD HANDICAP, five furlongs.— Brocado 8.13. Ringform 7.13. Royal Oak 7.13, King's Boy 7.10, Daytime 7.10, Formative gelding 7.10, Taradalo 7.10, Rumour 7.10, Qucenlikc 7.10, Sir Aymer filly 7 10, All Black filly 7.10. Toto-a-leto 7.10, Falstono 7.8. Indigo 7.5. Glister 7.5. FLYING HACK HANDICAP, six furlongs.—Astral 9.3, Tatimi 8.2. French Rose 7 13 The Nile 7.8, Bodcnham 7.8, Multiplicity 7 8 Ngarua 7.6, Anguish 7.5, Morrv Jack 7.5, San Fran— Mystic filly 7.3, Arohakau 7.2, Ikaroa 7.2, Roto Rota 7.2, No Idoa 7.2, Raupano 7.0. NEW YEAR HANDICAP, seven furlongs. —Bluo Lake 9.8, Lady Louisa 7.12, R*dloh 810, Mummer 8.8. Bootle 8.4, Settlor 8.11, Sir Daniel 8.11. San Pluio 8.0. Caher Davon 7 12, Red Book 7.9, Kooya 7.9, Aldgown 7.9, Tribunal 7.7, -Whisporer 7.7.

1 MANAWATU RACING CLUB'S MEETING. , r BT telegraph.— association.] Palmebston North:, Friday. The following handicaps have been declared by Mr. J. E. Henrys for the Manawatu Racing Club's Summer Meeting:— TOKOMARU HURDLES, one mile and three-quarters.—Rill 11.13, Golden Water 10.13, Waiputere 10.9, Euroco 10.8, Windage 10.7, Aborbrothock 10.6, To Whclu 10.5, timothy 10.4, Whisper 9.13, Maku 9.0, Huia 9.3, Taurangi 9.0, Higden 9.0. Trooper 9.0, Marblehcad 9.0, Hatana 9.0. Charge 9.0, Coronation 9.0.

, GILLIES HACK HANDICAP, six furlongs.—Secret Link 9.0, Hind's Hero 8.9, Aleclo 8.9, Aratiatia 8.9, Maatiy Lupin 8.8. Heather 8.8. Red Book 8.7, Sir Moutoa 7.9, Oarnnco 7.9, Zeus 7.8, Formulate 7.8, Sartouna 7.7, Charlerose 7.7, Ngarua 7.7, Multiplicity 7.7, Waldemar 7.5. Courtly 6.13, Wailand 6.13, Epworth 6.13. Axis 6.12. Port Arthur 6.11. Sir Saracen 6.10. Innoladdo 6.7, Sir Fisher 6.7, General Madero 6.7, Radiancy 6.7, Mystified 6.7, Waitarino 6.7. MANAWATU CUP, ono milo and a-half.— Midnight Sun 9.0, Los Angelos 8.13. Masterpiece 8.12, Sinapis 88. Bronze 8.8, Sir Solo 8.7, Expect 8.5, Cheddar 8.2, Sir Knox 8.1, Brown Owl 8.0, Lord Renown 7.13.' Birklino 7.12, Peroneal 7.11 Roosevelt 7.9. Ladooga 7.9, Master Laddo 7.8, Lady Latldo 7.8. Otahu 7.7, Kilrain 7.6, Kopu 7.5. Mangaroa 7.5. Ariom 7.0, Multiple 7.0. Odessa 7.0. Motoa Girl 7.0. Seatondale 6.12. Waipaku 6.11. Imarose 6 10, First Consul 6 8, Vi 6.8, Bon Rain 6.8, Invader 6.7, Moirolte 6.7. JUVENILE HANDICAP, five furlongs.Peronilla 9.0. Bcrtradi 8.9, Iliad's Hero 8.8, Promenade 7.5, Melodist 7.3, Royal Scout 6.13. Papanui 6.12. Tete-a-tcte 6.12. Snapdragon 6 12. Cowl Miraculous 6 12, Parlovna 6.12. Improve 6.11. Tavistock 6.10, Martian Princess 6.10, The Spike 6.10, Signoretta 6.10. TAHAUA HACK WELTER HANDICAP, seven furlongs.—Braoburn 9.13, Monologue 9 5, Paparaarama 9.1, St. Elm 8.11. Gerbera 8.13, Pavlova 10, To Houhou 8.7, Ngarua 8.5, Prince Laddo 8.5, No Idea 8.4, Stockade 8.3, Ruapani 8.0, Billington 8.0. Amity 8.0, Glcnorchy 8.0, Clacsis 8.0, Ebonite 8.0, Sir Donald 8.0, Arlington 8.0. FITZHERBERT HANDICAP, six furlongs. —Bandeira 9.4 Ermongardo 8.11. Gladiola 8.8, Blue Lake 3.4 Immer 7.13. Our King 7.12, Cheddar 7.11, Peronilla 7.7, Sanguinary 7.6, Lady Louisa 7.5, Tree Lucerne 7.4, Mount Victoria 7.0. The Great Mogul 6.13, Secret Link 6.13, Eocene 6.10, Booties 6.8. Styx 6.7, Iliad's Hero 6.7, Adroit 6.7, Glenfern 6.7, Bon Rain 6.7, Parawanui 6.7. Sartovna 6.7. GRANDSTAND HANDICAP, one mile and 55 Roosevelt 9.0, Multiply 8.7, Merry Frank 8.6, Mummer 8.0. Vi 7.13, Redloh 7.12. Nsaiimaru 6 10, Black Lupin 6.9. First Consul 7.8, Veritas 7.8, Coromnndel 6.7, Briar Patch 6.7, Semaphore 7.3, Glenfern 7.3, Matlow 6.10, Lady Nolan 6.7. Monologue 6.7, Montreal 6.7, Kilosterie 6.7.

TARATAHI-CARTERTON RACING CLUB'S MEETING. BY telegraph.— press association.] WiauN'GTO.v, Friday. The following handicaps have been declared for the Taratahi-Carterton Racing Club's Boxing Day Meeting:— BELVEDERE HACK HANDICAP, six furlongs— 9.1, Master Lupin 8.12, Immensity 88, Elevated 8.2, Listen 7.13, Rigo Park 7.12, Rene 7.10, Lord Palmer 7.9, Miss Vera 7.7. Merrie Land 7.6. Bonnie Girl 7.0, Chillies 7.0, Arahua 7.0. WAIRARAPA COUNTY CUP. one mile and a-quarter.— 9.0, Suratura 8.0. Paraparama 7.11, Manitau 7.2, Borsil 6.13, Tho Summit 6.7. GLADSTONE HACK WELTER HANDI CAP, seven furlongs.—lmmensity 9.10, Overrate 9.7, Rigo Park 8.13. Topnote 8.11. Rcxcr 8.9, Lord Palmer 89, Perhaps 8.6, Hansard 8.4, Parnfont 8.4. Sandega 8.0. Otakuri 8.0. Salado 8.0, Sarbonite 8.0, Lady Dalesford 8.0. RAILWAY HANDICAP, six furlongs.Leanuki 9.0. Merry Guy 8.4. Amber and White 8.3. Surntura 8.3. Lord Possible 7.11, Manitau 7.5, Gerder 7.2. Killaloo 6.11. DASH HACK HANDICAP, four furlongs. —Austral 9.7, Pursefiller 8.4, Rene 8.0. Miss Vera 7.11, Artificial 7.9. Martlet 7.8. Merne Land 7.8, Rangipoua 7.5, Altitude 7.3, Sarabelle 7.5. I'iiss Chamberlain 7.5. Juliette 7.5. King's Host 7.5, Miss Trumps 7.5, xiady Dalesford 7.5, Poroporo 7.5. Concord not eligible. TARATAHI TROT, ono mile.-Franz Josef scratch, Our George 43, Waitapipi 6s, Monsoon 7s, Wallet 9s, War Cloud 9s, Lucy Wallace 9s, Todd Bells 10s. Glenidol 10s, Keadillon lis. Manscenita lis, Maud 11. 12s, Toawahau 13s. John H. 13s. Pakotui 13s. Kalmea 15s, Ireland 15s. Waioletta 15a, Resurrection 15s, All Steel 16s, Princess Bruce 16s. Red Morn 17s. Taumata 17s, Thief 17s. Bellblock 17s, Colleen Bawn 17a, Minting 17s, Grace Deary 17s, Glory 17s. Postboy 17s. MAUNGARAKI TROT, one mile and ahalf.—Franz Josef scratch, Our George 6s, Waitapipi Bs. Monsoon 10s, Wallet 12s. Warcloud 12s, Lucy .Wallace 12, Todd Bells 13s, Glenidol 13s. Kiadillon 14s. Manscenita lis. Maramanu 14s. Teawahuri 16s, John H. 16s, Pak'atui 16s, Kalmea 18s, Ii eland 18s, Resurrection 18s, Waioletta 18s, All Steel 21s, Princess Bruce 21s, Bell Block 235. Colleen Dawn 235. Red Morn 235, Thief 235. Grace Deary 235, Glory 235. Minting 235, Taumata 235.

MARTON JOCKEY CLUB'S SUMMER MEETING. FBI TELEGRAM—PRESS ASSOCIATION.] Wellington, Friday. The. following handicaps for the ifarton Summer Meeting have been declared by Mr. Pollock:— STEWARDS' WELTER HANDICAP, one mile— Frank 9.9, Black Lupin 9.1, Ngatimaru 9.1, Royal Sjmon 8.12, Cororaandel 8.9, St. Gate 8.7, Master Lupin 8.7, Mescal 8.7, Paparama 8.5, Waipaku 8 5, Matlow 8.5, Stepney 8.3, Big Blast 8.3, Monologue 8.3. King Try 8.0, Master Tupuhi 8.0. RAILWAY HANDICAP, six furlongs.Gladiole 9.0, Blue Lake 8.8, Makara 8.2, Lady Volga 8.2, Inuera 7.13, Sanguinary 7.10, Lady Louisa 7.9. Peronilla 7.8, Tree Lucerne 7.7, Mou Ami 7.5. Merry Guy 7.4, Rangiatua 7.4, Veritas 7.3. The Great Mogul 7.3. Grattan 7.3, Royal Simon 7.0, Black Lupin 7.0. Iliad's Hero 6.12, Styx 6.12. Glcnfern 6.12, Eertrada 6.12, Parewanui 610. Heather 6.10, Briar Patch 6.10. Adroit 6.7. NEW YEAR HANDICAP, one mile and.a distance.—Papamarama 9.0. Master Lupin 8.12, St. Bees 8.10, Lady Nolan 8.4, Moirctte 7.9, Record 7.9 St. Elm 7.7. Te Hou Hou 7.7, Bellington 7.0, Aha 7.0, Victoria 7.0, Rangiwhetu 7.0, Glenorchy 7.0. MARTON CUP. one mile and a-quarter.-Masterpiece 9.0, Los Angelos 8.13, Bronze 8.10, Undecided 8.9, Sinapis 8.7. Expect 8.4, Brown Owl 8.2, Peroneal 8.0, Lord Renown 7.12, Sir .Knox 7.13, Byron 7.11, Roosevelt 7.8, Master Laddo 7.8, Otahu 7.8, Blue Lake 7.6, Lady Laddo 7.5. Lady Volga 7.5, Kopu 7.4, Ariora 7.4, Con the Shaugraun 7.1, Seatondale 6.13, Vi 6.12. First Consul 6.11. Mummer 6.10, Stepney 6.7, Invader 6.7, Glen fern 6.7, Victoria 6.7. General Madero 6.7, Bon Rain 6.7. DASH HACK HANDICAP, five furlongs.i Iliad's Hero 9.0. Alccto 8.13. Atatutia, 8.11. Play Off 8 5, Sir Donald 7.13. Ebonite 7.10, I Epworlh 7.7, Stockade 7.3, Martlet 7.3, Yladi- , tios 1.3 IwmMo 7.3. Melodist, 6.12. Radiancy I ,6.12. Tioira 6.12, Erica 6.12, Cobweb 6.12. i Improve 6.12, His Eminence 6.12, Sylvia March 6.12, White Plumes 6.12. ELECTRIC HACK HANDICAP, six Curlongs.— 9.0, Aratiatia 8.12. Monologue 8.9, Sartovna 7.3. Garance 7.12. Pavlova 7.12. Sepoy 7.12. Charlerose 7.11. Dekkho 7.7, Courtley 7.3, Portraiture 7.2, Sauare Deal 7.2, Ladify 6 12, General Madero 6.12. Fisher 6.12, Sir Fisher 6.12. Omanawa 6.12. Recontre 6.12. FIRST HACK HURDLES, one mile and allttlf Rill 11.13, Aberbrothock 10.8, Jackrann 10.7," Addnought 9.13, Whimper 9.11, Fagot 9 10 Taurangi 9.9, Hum 9.6, Matlow 9.6, Grit Lawless 9.2 Highdcn 9.3. The Diver 9.3. Marblehoad' 9.3, Charge 9.0. Halana 0, Ebonite 9.0, Sunroße 9.0. Taihapo 9.0, Master Kura 9.0. lbhar 9.0, Coronation 9.0, Trooper 9.0, Tionacre 9.0.