TURF TOPICS

New Zealand Times, Volume LXXII, Issue 4734, 16 August 1902, Page 6 (Supplement)

TURF TOPICS

(By “Advance.”)

C.J.C. GRAND NATIONAL MEETING.

Willi excellent acceptances for the principal events and a representative following of owners and backers, it was confident I v expected Unit tin: t .J.C. Winter Meeting, which practically opened tin; season, won Id he a record one, Although the 'club was favoured ivitli fine weather and a large attendance on Tuesday, the totalisfttor turnover showed a falling-off of £2728 compared with tin- corresponding day last year.

Pro(wedlngs opened with the Hunter-,’ Hurdles, which engagement first. Shot, declined. The other North Island representative, Hutana, ran disappointingly. The winner, Slow Toni, is a six-year-old gelding by St. Ives, a member of the Gorton—Legerdemain family, to which St. Malo belongs. Hurricane, who acted as rnnner-np. .von a hunters’ flat race at Amherlev this month. Ho is by Gorton—Zephyr, and half-brother to Nor-’wos-ter, by Apremonl.

The. winner of tin.- Maiden Hurdle [iiieo incurred 71b penalty in the Grand Niitioiml Hurdles. Scottish Minstrel, who ivhii, is a six-year-old gelding by Clanrnnnld—Prima Donna, mid a wellknown performer at Canterbury meotiiiß.s. He is the first, of the Clanranald tribe to be put to the jumping game. This was his second appearance over liurdlcK. He beat a weak field at tho Christchurch Hunt Club's Meeting a couple of weeks hack. Surrey, who acted as runner-up, is a North Island bred gelding by Ascot—Fides. His disappearance last season was at the same meeting, when he ran last in a- field of four in the Maiden Hurdle Raco and won three hunter events. • The success of a local owner in such au important race as the Winter Cup, worth- 400 sovs to the winner, is very pleasing, and I have to congratulate Mr R. W. Patterson, owner of Waiwhera, and his trainer, J. W. Lowe, on their success. Waiwhera was bred by Mr G. P. Donnelly, of Hawke's Bay, u-ho disposed of her at a clearing sale held at Palmerston North in May last to her present owner for 170 guineas. In tho "cardinal jacket, white spots and cup" tho daughter of Qiult ran unplaced in the Farewell Hack Handicap on the second day of the- Wanganni J.C. meeting in May. Afc the Wellington Steeplechase Meeting sho ran unplaced in the Hack Raco on the first day, and won tho second. The Ponrua horse, Ostiak, nearly repealed his performance of last year. Ho was conceding Waivvhera nearly two stone and a half, and was only beaten a nose. The third plaeo was also filled by a Hutt-trained horse, Field Battery, who did not rim prominently at tho Wellington Meeting, but was evidently sharpened up by the galloping he did there. The forward running of the local horses is tho more creditable to their mentors on account of the limited training grounds at their disposal. Tho Wellington Racing Club should see that tho grass Ir.ick. which has been in hand for a couple of years, is finished before the im-iug meeting, to give New Zealand Cup and other horses a chance of getting a decent preparation for spring events. Following are tho winners of the Winter Cuo:—

* Tlie Grand National Stoeplechaso I winner, Haydn, was making his first appearances in public over big fences. Ho is also fclie .second horse to win the big jumping double. Dummy won the Grand National Hurdles in 1896 and the Steeplechase two seasons later. Last season Haydn won the Grand National Hurdles, carrying list, and tho Sydenham Hurdles, carrying 12st 51b. He then changed hands, and went into F. McMiuamin's stable at Ellerslic. In the interval he won ono hurdle raco at Takapuna, and ran third to Royal Conqueror and Mars at Ellerslic. Tho Sou'-wester gelding was credited with doing good work over the big fences at Ellcrslio ivithout ever putting a foot wrong. His connections expressed themselves as very confident, and backed him heavily in doubles coupled with Cavaliero for tho Hurdles. Sam Fergus, who rodo Haydn, was a well-known horseman ten years back, and is one of tho old school of jockeys. This was his first victory in tho Grand National Steeplechase. Among other races ho won wore tho Great Northern Hurdles on St. Simon, tho Auckland Summer Steeplechase on Mozel, and the Napier Steeplechaso on Oeo. Pipi, who ran second, was formerly owned by Mr P. E. Baldwin in this district. After competing at tho meeting two years ago, tho Natator gelding passed into the hands of Mr T. Godfrey, owner of Goldspnr. His only appearance last season was at the meeting under notice 'and Amberley. At Riccarton he won tho Enfield Steeplechase, and ran second to Roller in the Lincoln Steeplechase.- Ho also ran two seconds at Amberley. The Swimmer's position at the finish shows that he was out of his class among tho hunters. He is notonly a clever juniper, but a good stayer. The time put. up was slower than when Gobo won last year in 7min 16 l-ssec. Following are tho winners of the Grand National Steeplechase.

Taking recent form at Amberley as a guide, the Tally-ho Plate looked a fair thing for Doopey, who last year ran second to K Jam. Ho was beaten by Brab, who also showed fair form at Amberley. He won the Maiden Hunters' Steeplechase, and ran second in tho Final Steeplechase, but did not meet Doopey. Brab is by tho doubt-

fnll.v-brcd C haos (by St. George or Total Eclipse—Ravenswing). Ho is a halfbrother to Ich Dien. and was placed in a New Zealand Cup, but is practically an unknown quantity as a sire. On form Royal Conqueror looked a good thing for the Ladies’ Bracelet, but. could only get third to Mr H. Friedlander’s Scylla (Stepniak Whirlpool), who won a Maiden Hack Race at the Ambcrley Meeting, and the Aucklander, Shellback (Nelson Hestia), full sister to Minervc. Tho Swimmer’s withdrawal from the Knfield Steeplechase made matters easy for Sbvloek, who had only Sultana to boat at the finish. Mr Baldwin has persevered with tho Wapiti gelding, and deserved a win. . Titoki was withdrawn from tho Woolston Plate in favour of his stable mate. First Shot, who was recently purchased by Mr C. Loughnan, of Palmerston North, and made his first appearance in that gentleman’s interest. T. Quinlinvan’s (senr.) judgment proved correct, as the well-known roaii gelding won easily. The son of Armament Flirt has greatly benefited by tho spell since lust summer. H" looked really well on it passing through, and at present carries more condition than at any lime (hiring his career. The best he had to heat was Lapidary' and Blarney, winner of the Wanganui Derby and Cup. who celebrated his eleventh birthday fliis month.

A noticeable feature about the second day was that North Island horses won six out of eight events on the programme. The totalisator turnover showed an increase of nearly £IOOO on tho corresponding day last year, so that presumably the large number of . bookmakers present did not affect tho receipts.

Slir'llbaek, who .scored in the Summer Hai'dicap in Mr S. H. Oollan's colours, was bred by Major Osorgc, and purchased by Mr L. De Polichct (manager of tlio Mangatarta estate') at the Majar's clearing salt' in January last for 70 guineas. At the same sale. Hardy, a full brother, brought 30 guineas. Shellback met the Bracelet winner, Scylla, on 181 b better tenns in the race, but. only won by a length, which makes the latter out to be pretty useful. Titoki made his first appearance at the meeting in the August Handicap, in which >he scored. The Puriri gelding has evidently taken a fresh lease of life. T. Quinlivan, senr., scored wfth both horses he took to Christchurch, and that, trainer may now change his mind about shifting quarters from Palmerston North on account of the state of the tracks there. From a reliable authority I learn that tho ; tracks at Palmcrston North are well kept. Zither, who won the Hunt Club Cup, did not sport silk last season, but ran prominently at the Grand National Meeting two years ago. On that occasion ho won the same race, after running second in the Enfield Steeplechase. Zither was bred up Taranaki way by the Feve horse Flagolot, sire of Vanquish, and one or two other jumpers. He was ridden by Frank Lind, who also scored on Shylock in the Enfield Steeplechase. By the victory of Tresham in the Hurdles the big jumping double was taken to Auckland. It is doubtful if the northern contingent was ever more strongly represented than at the meeting under review. Tresham is a promising young horse, by Catesby—Allabaculia. five years of age. trained by J. B. Williamson at Ellerslie and owned by one of his patrons. During the past season he won one hurdle race at Takapuna and another at Ellerslie. He was made favourite for the Great Northern Hurdles, but fell. On the last day at Ellerslie he was beaten by Bellman over a mile and throe-quarter course. Mars, who filled second place, is rather unlucky in getting beaten in important races. Last season he ran second in the Winter Cup, third in the Auckland Cup, and afterwards ran two seconds to Royal Conqueror at Ellerslie. He won the Waitemata Handicap at Ellerslie and a Maiden Race at Avondale. Following are winners ofi the Grand National Hurdle Race:—

Only the placed horses in the Beau-1 fort Steeplechase stood up. Beaufort carried most money, but- Was the last of the three to finish. He was ridden by Alick Hall, who rode him when he won last year. Sultana, ridden by Frank Cochrane, gave Edgar Russell a good win. Sultana is a good jumper, and ran some good races at Takapuna and Ellerslie this winter. His twentyfive backers received the good dividend of £43 17s 6d. '

Slow Tom placed the Second Hunters’ Hurdle Race to the credit of Miss Button, an Ashburton lady, who is also known in trotting circles.

Scotty beat a good field in the Islington Handicap, one mile, run in faster time than tho Winter Cup. The best he could do last season was to win over five and six furlongs. The St. Leger—Janet horse is evidently on the improve. He is an inmate of M. MeMinamin’s team. Scotty ran in the name of Mr Dave Stewart, the wellknown half-caste, who was a member of tho native football team that visited England. St. Crispin carried his colours when he won tho Great Northern Derby. That Treshain’s victory in the Hurdles was easily achieved ho demonstrated by scoring in similar fashion in the Jumpers’ Flat Race, one mile and a half, which ho covered in 2min 47 2-5 see, with lOst 71b in the saddle. He hud to put up 71b penalty for winning the Hurdles, a somewhat unusual proceeding. TARATAHI-CARTERTON RACING CLUB, Tho following report will bo presented to tho annual meeting of members of tho above club, to be held’ on the 16th inst.: — _’ “Your stewards have pleasure.in being able to again issue a most satisfactory report for the past twelve months. Tho annual race meeting of the . club! held on the 9th and 10th November last, in splendid weather, was very successful from every point of view,' there being a largo attendance of the public on both days. The stakes were again increased over those given at the previous meeting, and the effort of . the club to provide stakes worth running for is fully appreciated by horse-owners and the general public, who recognise tliis is necessary to induce good sport, nominations and acceptances being larger than usual. • “The committee have very, much pleasure in stating that they have acquired tho course and grounds on the olub’s freehold, and took formal possession from Mr T. Ray on the Ist of

August. They have expended a considerable sum of money on tho grounds, as shown by the balance-sheet, in laying off a new course and planting trees, which will greatly add to the efficiency of the racing track arid the beauty of tho surroundings. “After making these and other improvements, tho club lias a balance in tho Bank of New Zealand of £375 6s lOd, a result upon which the stewards heartily congratulate the members, as showing tho growing popularity of the club and its strong financial position. “There are some outstanding subscriptions, which every effort must bo made to wipe out, in view of the increased expenditure of tiio club in improvements, necessarily involved by tho progressive policy it has inaugurated.

“Tho race for tho Wairarapa Guineas has become a most popular event, and on this occasion the Blue Ribbon was carried off by Mr S. Tapp’s Westerly, tho winning horse being decorated according to custom by a lady. Airs W. Strang undertaking tho office in the abscnco of Mrs Grace, wife of tho President, who was prevented by accident from attending. Tho winning horse, the lady, and the owner were heartily cheered bF tho public. “Tho following stewards retire at tho annual meeting:—Messrs R. Kemble, .T. Hodder, F. Wood, J. Bayliss, W. Faglo and J. Strang. These are all eligible for re-election.”

WOODLANDS HUNT CLUB. Tli hunt club meeting held at Wooclville on Wednesday last was an enjoyable outing. The music of the totalisator hells was missing, but proceedings were enlivened by the Woodville Brass Band and the roar of the ring, several members of which paid a license fee of £3 3s. Tho stewards had to consider the question of gentleman riders’ licenses. It. is customary with the Hawke’s Bay Jockey Club to extend the licenses over the Grand National meeting. Mr Luckie. in reply to a. telegram from Air Nicholson, having replied that last season’s Ucruses held good, those who had not renewed their certificates were permit ted to take part. Clovis (ridden by Air G. Hirst) was too good for the opposition in the Hunters’ Hurdles. Lucerne, a good cut of gelding by Tirour—Trefoil marc, wjio carried 151 b overweight, made a good race of it. Banshee, a three-year-old filly by Flintlock —Nixie, was considered the best of the lot that took part in tho Maiden Flat race. Backers got in early in the good thing, but she moved badly in the market, and Final, a throe-year-old filly by Lord of the Isles, hailing from Napier,, went out favourite. Banshee made, a poor show and the stewards, being dissatisfied, ordered T. Sims, her rider, to stand down for the mooting. Final made the best showing, but tho native-owned Do Visco (Chain Link—Venus) beat the favourite by half a length, amidst great excitement. Mr Karaitiana was not present to witness the success of his horse. Ho had to forfeit tho stake as the jockey (A. Broadbout) had no license. Clovis and Vagrant wore withdrawn from the Woodlands Hunt Club Steeplechase, only three starting. The second fence Recounted for Lady Grey, Alaunga MfUinga, a good cut of gelding by Armourer, refused at a double at tho back of tho course. This gave Ronald a long lead, and • he went oyer the course, which included a double in front of tho stand and some good obstacles, without a mistake. G. Hirst persevered with .Maunga Alaunga, and_ he got second. Ronald non the Kumeroa Steeplechase just as easily, and is a good sort. The Vagrant (Wanderer — Polly Perkins) got second, and after baulking at the back and jumping on to tho course proper in the straight. Mr H. D. Buchanan, owner of The Vagrant. complained to the'stewards that G. Hirst, after engaging to ride his horse, had taken the mount on MaungaMaunga. The race was for horses ridden by members of the Woodlands Hunt Club, to which Mr Hirst did not belong. Tho stewards decided to consider the complaint at a meeting to the held in the evening. ' The success of the local owner, Mr A. G. Riches, who rode Halcyon, was well received. Tho Souwester gelding won

-ho Flying Handicap, with something in hand, from Tureen. In the Ladies’ Bracelet he was hard ridden for two furlongs, but managed to stall off a run put in by Clovis, whom Air Hirst kept a long way out during the early part of the race.’ The trophy for this race, a handsome bracelet given by Mr S. Bolton, was presented to tho winner on the lawn. The - donor and winner were heartily cheered. -

Kim (Quilt- —Hinckawhato) made nearly all the running in the Farewell Scurry. Baddy Raynor put in some good work on Coronation (Black Douglas—Painter mare) -in- the straight, and won ,by half a length. Mr i'. H. Gordon-Lloyd gave satisfaction as judge, and Mr W. Nicholson made a .most obliging secretary. The officials , of the club are :—Patron, Geo. Hunter, Esq.; president, W. F. Knight, Esq*,; vice-presidents. Alessrs T. H. Gordon-Lloyd. S. Bolton, J. Mitchell, P, M. Pool, C.' Baddeley, S. ■ Andrews, and John Harris; stewards, Messrs H. D. Buchanan, ,G. A. Gamman, G. T. Hall,' W. Loader,* A. G. Riches, T. Cotter, B. A. Beattie, A. E. Anderson, H. Hunter, C. Melville, E. F. Eager, J. H. Harris, J. Leithead, J. I. N. Mackie, J. H. Alonteith, A. McCormick, J. Troup, A. H. Ross; judge, Air T. H. GordonLloyd; starter, Air J. Aliardice; clerk of tho scales, Mr G. H. Redwood; clerk of the course, Mr J. Devonshire; handicapper, Mr Ulic Shannon. WINNING STALLIONS. The appended list of successful stallions in Australia during the season 1901-2 is taken from the “Sydney Mail”:— Amount Won. £ Gozo (20), by Wild Oats (14), 43 winners, 84 wins ...■ ... 12,330} Trenton' (18),. by Musket (3), 4 - winners, 19 wins ... 11,715 Loohicl (36), by Prince Charlie (12), 58 winners, 117} wins Grafton (3) by Galopin (3), 22

winners, 44 wins ... ... 8,042} Metal (5), by Sterling (12), 34 wins, 79J winners 7,893 Bill of' Portland (23)* by St. Simon (11). 25 winners, 401 wins ... ••• ••• ••• 5,894 The Admiral (2), by Richmond (3), 8 winners, 28 wins ... 5,6491 Wallace (3), by Carbine (2), 11 wins, 17 winners 5,069 Padlock (2), by Wenlock (11), 32 winners, 77 wins 4,603 Far Niente (11), by Galliard (13), .14 winners, 291 wins ... 4,389 Light Artillery (10), by Trenton (18), 16 winners, 40 wins ... 4,087 Sir Hugo (imp.) (19), by Wis-

dom (7), 1 winner, 3 wins ... 4,004 Hant Brion (1), by St. Simon (11), 12 winners. 21 wins ... 3,9621 Beauchamp (7), by Beauolerc (10), 30 winners, 78 wins ... 3,762} Pilgrim’s Progress (1), by Isonomy (19), 22 winners, 39 wins 3,6(9

Sunrise (27), by Robinson Crusoe (13), 33 winners. 93) veins 3.330 Medallion (8), by Xordenfeldt (13) 23 winners, 30 wins ... 3,314 Eiridspord (1), by Isonomy (19), 7 winners, 14 wins ... ... 3,305 The Australian Peer (21), by Darobin (14), 7 winners, 23) wins ... ... ••• 3,295 Splendor (23), by Speculum (1), 20 winners, 34 wins 3,202 Invader (x), by Grandmaster (14) 27 winners, 59 wins ... 3,057 Gibraltar (1), by Grandmaster (14), 11 winners, 31 wins ... 3,003 Malua (3), by St. Albans (2), 15 winners, 40 wins ... ... 2,9591 Carlyon (11), by Chester (8), 13 winners, 33 wins ... ... 2,826 Trident (9), by Hobinson Crusoe (13), 18 winners, 44) wins ... 2,789 Grand Flaneur (14), by Vattendon (17). 11 winners, 20 wins 2,695 Malrolio (31). by Malua (3), 12 winners, 17 wins ... ... 2,078 Mistake (21). by Dante (3), 15 winners, 39 wins ... ... 2,043 Gossoon (3), by Galopin (3), 12 winners. 18 wins ... ... 2,493 Zal inski (18), by Xordenfeldt (13), 12 winners, 34 wins ... 2,332 Stationer (13), by Fireworks (10) 2 winners, 6 wins ... 2,243 Russlcy (3), by Doncaster (5), 14 winners, 33 wins ... ... 2,218) Niagara (18), by Anteros (10), 19 winners, 40 wins ... ... 2,183) Little Bernio (x). by Cheviot (171, 14 winners, 29 wins ... 2,075 Escutcheon (1). by Musket (3), 19 winners. 38) wins ... ... 2,001 Antaeus (x), by Sir Modred (17), 4 winners, 9 wins ... ... 041 Apremont (3), by Mortemor (1), 1 winner, 1 win ... ... 313 Australian, by Trcgeagle. 1 winner, 3 wins 781 Braemar (2), by Musket (3), 3 winners, 6 wins ... ... 250 Cambria (2), by Xordenfeldt (13), 15 winners, 27) "in S ... 500 Carbine (2), by Musket (3), 9 winners, 20 wins ... ... 1,738 Carnage (2), by Xordenfeldt (13), 4 winners, 12 wins ... 1,282 Castor, by Zealot, 2 winners, 3 wins ... ... ... ... 435 Dunkcld (5), by Apremont (3), 3 winners, 15 wins ... ... 302 Ebnor (11). by Musket (3), 4 winners, 8 wins ... ... 259 Enfilade (13), by Musket (3), 1 winner, 2 wins ... ... 523 Firelock (x), by Musket (3), 14 winners, 16 wins ... ... 1,360 Fusilier, (x), by Musket (3), 11 winners, 20 wins .... ... 715 Goodfellow (9), by Trenton (18), 10 winners, 27 wins ... ... 1,109 Hova (3), by Ingomar (13), 2 winners, 6 Wins ... ... 631 Inquisitor, The (1), by Trenton (18), 0 winners. 12 wins ... 720 Launceston (20). by Tasman (3), G winners, 9V wins ... ... 299 Lord Loch (x), by Lochiel (36), 3 winners, 9 wins ... ... 222 Loyalty (17), by St. George (8), 2 winners, 6 wins ... ... 857 Mana (2), by Musket (3), 11 winners, 18 wins ... ... 1,483 Manton (x), by Musket’ (3), 8 winners, 13 wins ... ... 288 Martini-Henry (13), >y Musket (3), 16 winners, 32 wins ... 1,521 Musket oon (7); by Trenton (18), 4 winners, 12 wins ... ... 318 Xordenfeldt (13), by Musket (3). 4 winners, 10 wins ... ... 875 Oudeis (18), by Albany (1), 5 winners, 13 wins ... ... G6B Scots Grey (x), by Musket (3), 7 winners, 11 wins ... ... 255 Sir William (x), by Sir Modred, 4 winners, 13 wins ... ... 635 Strathmore (4), by Xordenfeldt (13), G winners, 8 wins . ... 720 St. S with in (14), by Cadogau (11) 2 winners, 5 wins ... 455 Tartar (5), ,by Musket (3), 4 win- , ners, 8 wins ... ... , ... 711 Thunderbolt (7), by Musket (3), 9 winners, 15 wins ... ... 1,536 Torpedo, by Musket, 2 winners, 2 wins ... ... ... ... 280 Town Moor (12), by St. Leger (3), 3 winners, 9 wins... ... 273 Trenchant (8), by Trenton (18), .4. winners, 20 wins ... ... 560 True Blue (2), by Hotchkiss (2), 1 winner, 1 win ... ... 228 CHATTER.

Tresham started a good' favourite for tihe Grand National Hurdles. He probably carried a good deal of bookmakers’ money. The penciller.s were saving themselves in the totalisalor, but the best price they could get on the gambling machine was 2 to 1. This was a great price in a field of twelve. A meeting of the Pa.hiatua Racing Club was held in the Commercial Hotel on the. Bth inst., when, the report-and balance-sheet was adopted. The profits of t*o year, are a decided, improvement on those of last year. The totalisator investments increased by £I7BO, and the net profit on the last race meeting was £555, whilst the receipts increased by over £600.. The credit balance in hand is £6BO. The secretary, Mr E. Lewis, was voted a bonus of, £25, and the annual meeting of members was fixed for the 26th inst. The membership list includes over-180 names. Colonel Shillinski’s Caulfield winnings, amounting to £2OOO, has given Zalinski a good start on the list of winning sires this season. The Colonel is the first horse to win the Caulfield Grand • National double. Mr J. F. Clark, secretary of the Wellington Racing Club, was present at the Grand National Meeting, held at Riccartou this week.

Our representative recently visited Feilding, and was shown the extensive improvements being effected to the Jockey Club's property by Mr E. Goodbehcre, the club’s courteous and goahead secretary. The Feilding Club is in the fortunate position of having the course and buildings erected thereon paid for, and is endeavouring by offering substantial stakes and suitable training tracks to owners and first-class conveniences for the public to make the gatherings as important as any in the island. Among the improvements already carried out may be mentioned the erection of an iron fence along the South street boundary, a new approach from this street, a new stand in people’s paddock (with refreshment rooms and bar underneath), carriage and*horso paddocks. A large number of trees liave also been planted, which will add greatly to the appearance of the grounds. The further improvements to be carried out immediately are enlargement of totalisator house, extension of saddling paddock, and draining and improving the training tracks. The profit over the Wellington Steeplechase Meeting amounted to nearly £4OO. At a meeting of stewards of the Lower Valley Jockey Club, held last week, a notice of motion was given in the direction of giving the secretary two months’ notice, with the understanding that he is to be eligible for reappointment. Why the notice of motion was made is not generally known, but it is stated that the majority of the stewards know nothing of the matter until it was brought forward at the meeting. Without commenting on what the stewards arc likely to do in the

matter, it. is worthy of mention that sinbe Air T. F. Kvans took "p the position of secretary for the club it has made good progress. On pern-al of the chib’s balance sheets for the past seven years it is noticed (says the “Wairarapa Standard”) that the revenue lias .steadily increased from year to year. When one-day meetings wore held the receipts rose from £-11l 0s 2d in 1891-u to £6OB in 1896-7. In 1897-8 two days racine- took place, when the revenue was £9ll 10s 1(1. and last year it amounted to £lllß 15s lid. Tho assets of the club in the shape of property and appointments are now £782. as against £3OO in 1895. The membership of the club has not increased as it should have done, but this cannot be attributed to tho secretary, for with institutions of this kind the stewards as a body should assist in the direction of obtaining new members whenever possible. Onr representative, who has attended the meetings of the Loner Valley Jockey Chib, both before and since Air Evans took charge of affairs, heartily endorses the above remarks, and considers that the advancement made hy tho club during recent* years, has heen greatly due to tho successful manner in which they have been conducted by Air Evans. From Alossrs Barnett and Grant, tho well-known bookmakers of (T.iristchurch and Dunedin, I have to acknowledge receipt of a copy of the useful and handy little publication known as “Form at a Glance” for the season 1902-3. It comtains a list of tho fastest times of races in tho Australasian colonics, racing fixtures for the season, weights for the New Zealand and Alolbonrne Cups, past winners of the New Zealand Cup, Stewards’ Handicap, Caulfield Clip and Alolbonrnc Cup, New Zealand Cup handicap compared with the weight-for-age scale, placed performances of the New Zealand Cup horses for trio past two seasons, time comparing tables for gallops from one furlong to two and a half miles showing the distance covered per second, weight fer ago scale and calendar for the season (August to July). A copy of tho book will be posted to any address on application to Alcssrs Barnett and Grant

J. F. Brower was annoyed at the treatment Farewell (by Bill of Portland —Aielodiotis) received from the Victorian handicappcrs, and a yhort time back placed her-in Alessrs VuULo’s bands for sale. Tho firm disposed of her privately to Air G. G. Stead-

Probably no finer horse than Canard ever won the New Zealand Graaid National Steeplechase, and he'carried 12st 101 b to victory without much effort. Canard not only possessed power, but he was bred tho right way. Though his dam. Gossip,'does not possess a number,. she was got by Xraducer, out of Gitana, by Sir Hercules, from Gipsy, whose breeding cannot be traced, and there is no doubt that the higher the breeding the greater the courage. Alma is another whose pedigree is not traceable, but his dam, like that of Canard, was by Traducer, from Policy- ■ The Agent’s name is not to be found in the Stud Book, but that ho was aigood one is shown by the fact that <hc won the race three times, a record which will be hard to beat. Clarence,* who do feated The Agent, through .the latter losing his rider at the last fence, was another useful horse whoso name cannot be discovered within the covers of tho Stud Book. The breeding of the 1882 winner, Katerfelto, is shrouded in mystery, as also is that of the victor in the following year, Kosciusko, and Faugh-a-Ballagh, who led almost the whole way in 1887, and won comfortably. Moody, who got home in 1855; Mangaohanc. the winner in the next season; Chemist. who triumphed in 1899; Daddy Longlegs(one of the slowest but most consistent horses ever saddled) ;and Freeman (“The Probable” writes) wore not blue-blooded enough to have their names placed in the book. Sunshine, the dam of Waterbury, did not have a number, whilst Romp, the dam of Norton, occupied a similar position. This was one of the finest horses we have ever had, and weight was no trouble to him. Lady Maxwell, the dam of Mutiny, another grand horse, is not recognised by figures, neither was Steel All, the dam of ■ that good horse Levanter. Maid of the Mountain, Dummy’s dam, is also without a numeral, but Blackberry’s dam, Good Fruit, has tho' figures 27 placed after her name. Blackberry won in 1899, and it is somewhat strange that this horse and The Guard, who won in 1900 and was second to Gobo last year, are the only two of the many winners since 187 G whose breeding can be traced without a flaw to the General Stud Book. Gobo’s dam, Germaine, has not even been granted a qualified admission to the sacred breeding volume. At the annual meeting of the Masterton Racing Club it was proposed to elect members at the commencement of the meeting to allow them to take part. Mr M. C. O’Connell objected to tins course being pursued,’ stating that it was most unusual. The secretary pointed out that the same course had been adopted at the preceding annual meetings, but Mr O’Connell failed, to see why that should be taken as a precedent. Tho rules of the club were consulted and it was found that the course proposed to be followed was irregular. It is pleasant to notice that another racing’ club has recognised tho ability of Mr W. H. Hartgitl as occupier of the judge’s box. I refer to the Rangitikei Club, who at their last meeting appointed the Dannevirke sport to the position of judge for the ensuing season. Keen perception, coolness and accuracy are the .three leading features requisite in a judge, and Mr IJartgill has got these . bumps well defined. There is (writes “The Squire”, in the Napier “Daily Telegraph”) no figure of speech or romantic allusion in these remarks, for Mr Hartgill has proved by bis work in the past that he is well qualified to fill the office, and what he has so meritoriously done in tho past he may confidently bo expected to do in the future, for he belongs to a clan (the levelheaded brigade), whose heads are not turned by success, Scylla . (Stepniak—Whirlpool), who scored the first time she sported silk in a maiden hack race at the Amberley meeting, is a half sister to Grand Rapids, who was engaged in the New Zealand Cup. Scylla was returned as a four-year-old at Amberley. The Stud Book gives Whirlpool’s 1898 progeny as bay filly, Gipsy Countess, by Gipsy Grand. Which is correct?

Mr C. L. Macdonald’s team, in charge of H. Monro at Caulfield, consists of Wakeful, Revenue, Bullion, Kinglike, Mistral, Invell (a two-year-old gelding, by Bill of Portland from Mersey’s daughter), and the yearlings Scottish King (by Wallace—Bonnie Rosette) and Bill of Melton (by Bill of Portland— Litigant). Porirua has been left in the Great Northern Guineas and C.J.C. Derby. Both events are run in the second week of November.

Sir Rupert Clarke, who recently returned tc Victoria from a trip to Samoa, has been nominated for the vacancy on the V.A.T.C. Committee, caused hy the resignation of Mr Albert Miller, who is a candidate for the V.R.C.

Mr W. H. Hart gill, of Danncvirkc, lias been appointed judge tor the Raugitikci Racing Club. Mr Henry Redwood, father of the New Zealand turf, passed through Wellington last week oil his way from Xelson to Christchurch. He will be present at the Grand National Meeting this weed:.

The Otaki Maori Racing Club iias decided to erect offices and also to make a few further improvements at the racecourse. A now jockeys’ room, fitted with lookers, will be erected. Quinton, by Dreadnought—Patience, whom D. Wright has been using as a harness horse for some time past, has found a new owner, Mr Ciulby, of the Hutt, having bought the well-bred gelding. who as a racer proved one of the biggest frosts that ever carried a saddle. ■Acrasia, winner of the Maiden Handi cap, six furlongs, at Roselull last month, is by that successful sire Gozo from that good mare Cerise and Blue, by Wilberforco from Myrtle, by Gemma de Vorgy, was bred by her owner, Mi H. Oxoiiiiaiii, for whom her dam won the Sydney Cup, 1886, and who at the stud produced the Doncaster Handicap winner, Syerla, Violet and Gold, anti Lygon—all by Gozo. Acrasia is engag od in the Doncaster Handicap with 6s’ 121 b, the Metropolitan with Gst 81b. the Caulfield Cup with Cst 101 b, and the Melbourne Cup with Gst 81b. The Auckland Racing Club’s diningroom plant is valued-at £1875.

At the Clarence River J.C. meeting last mouth the Club Handicap, of 10P sot's, was won by Levard, by Launceston (son of Tasman —Rubina) who did some service under Mr D. O.’Bricn’s “rose and black’’ banner. The totalisator investments at race meetings held under the respective auspices of the Takapuna, Jockey Club and Avondale Jockey Club last season were a long way in advance of the sum put through the machine at other “country”

meetings. The sum of £58.995 was handled during seven days’ racing at Ta ■ kapuna, while at Avondale, in five days’ racing, £39.493 was put through. The Feiiding Jockey Club, with £33,149. and the Manawatu Racing Club, with £32.720, arc the closest rivals to the Auckland clubs in the matter of totatlisator investments.

Mr S. J. Flcwollcn, a steward of tho Nelson Jockey Club and Trotting Club, is at present on a visit to Wellington. Skobclcff promises to be as great a failure over hurdles as lie was on the flat. His two attempts at tho Christchurch Hunt Club and Ambcrly meetings were miserable failures. Consequently he has been withdrawn from the G.N., Maiden and Hunters’ Hurdle races at Riecarton. With one or two exceptions, tho Yaldhurst cast-off seldom turn out much good. T. Payten’s team is trained at Kensington, the best-known of the Sydney training tracks. Tho following is a list of . the horses at present in charge of the successful trainer.—Skein Dim (Lochicl—Beta) oyrs, Fighting Mac (Gozo —Florriej 4yrs, Still Water (Far Nicnto—Bivula) 4yrs, Boondi (Zulu — Phyllis) 4yrs, Capertee (Lochicl —Miss Steeltrap) 4yrs, Diamonds (Musketoon — Tiara) 4yrs, the three-year-olds Great Scott (Lochiel —Scot*ch Mary), Brakpan (Grafton —Piecrust), Milner (Graftom — Lodi Lava), Barchestor (Chcsternian — Claudia), Carnegie (Gaulus —Chaplet), and the two-year-olds Dulse of Grafton (Grafton —Disgrace), Jacobite (Lochiel —; Dona). Wakefield (Grafton —Albinos), Karralee (Lochiel—Duenna), Panama (Clievcden —Palmist), Sudegong (Yai-d----l and chestnut colt by Niagara—Rosary. At tho monthly meeting of the com, mittco of the Canterbury Jockey Club, tho application of. the Westland Racing Club for tho removal of W. Mitchell s disqualification was granted. Mr G. G. Stead was reappointed to represent the club on the Conference Committee to consider tho Trainers’ and Jockeys’ Provident Fund. Tho transfer of Boisterous from J, Smith to G. Gould was approved.

The Wairarapa bred two-year-old filly, by Lethe out of Lillian, and consequently a half-sister to Ruamahanga, Volley’and Cavalier, now occupies a box at D. Wright’s Hastings establishment, a patron of that irainer having purchas. ed her.

At Brisbane Tattersall’s meeting last month, the Weller Handicap was won by Lady Alaude, by Clan Stuart —Coral (by Musket—Erycma) full sister to Mitrailleuse, Braema.r, who aro also at the stud in Australia, Ricochet and Lady Alice, ’who went to America, and Revolver. Who did stud duty in Southland, if memory serves me; right. Mr G. T. F. Hutton, of Greytown, has- purchased from Mr J. V. Rcc' 7 . the thoroughbred stallion, Macintosh, by Cianrauald —Alsace. He 1 will probably tako up stud duty this season. At the annual meeting or members of the Masterton Racing wlub, the question of the appointment of a handicapper was discussed, and applications for the position read from Messrs G. Morse and J. H. Pollock. It was pointed out that the only reason for Changing the handicapper was on the score of charge, members considering £6l> a year too high. A motion by Mr C. A. Pownall recommending the stew-ards to ask Mr Henrys to accept the position at a remuneration of, fifteen guineas per meeting, with travelling expenses, was negatived, as was also an amendment moved by Mr-Hill, recommending the re-ap-pomument of Mr Henrys. Cn the motion of Mr Pilmcr, the stewards were recommended to invito applications for the position.

Terror (Dreadnought—Trentatlto) was sold after competing at the Hunt Club meeting on Wednesday, by the Hon. J. D. Ormond, to Mr J. Gray, of Palmerston North/who owns Lissa. Away in the back country the leading sports of the district held a meeting at the local, pub., and resolved to start a racing ciub. It was agreed that a canvass for funds should be instituted, and as the last round of drinks were brought in the chairman said to the landlord, “I suppose we can put you down for a fiver, Pat?” “Sure, thin,’ replied Pat, “it all depinds! If yoz hoirld the meetin’s in the paddock beyaut. have the winnin’ posht in front, of the bar door, and don’t start the last race till sivin o’clock, yez can put me down for a tinner or may bo twinty quid!” The Cariingford Mile at Rosehi'l last month was won by Noble Lady, who is half-sister to Cyanide, is by Nobleman (imp.) from Aspasia, by Sir Modrefrom Brenda, by The Tester, and her only spring engagement is the EpsonHandicap, in which, with the bandy weight of 7st 111 b. At Bosehill Nobh Lady carried 9st 31b, and ran the dis tance in Imin 47Jsec. Laureate has joined T. Quinlivan’s. (senr.) string at Palmerston North. The annual report of the committeeof the Auckland Racing Club for yea ending June 30 stated that during thr past season the club had held four meetings of 13 days, giving in added money, the sum of £21,770—an increase of

£1720 over the previous year. The totalisator investments amounted to °1G4.714, as compared with £153,388 a record. The net profit carried to capital account was £1992 6;; sd, a falling off. as compared with last year, of £330 Os lOd. This, however, must ho looked upon as eminently satisfactory, in view of the fact that the club gave £1720 more added money during the season under review, and wrote illC' off property, etc. The club had to be congratulated upon the steady reduction of its secured indebtedness, and likewise upon the acquirement of a complete and up-to-date dining-room plant. At the monthly meeting of the New Zealand Trotting Association, 1 ' Mr P. Solig (chairman) reported that nothing further had boon heard from the Auckland Club in regard to the WenlockNobby case. While in Wellington he had been informed by the secretary of tho Auckland Club that they wore making inquiries at Hawera, and would forward full particulars later on. The secretary reported the result of inquiries he had made in regard to persons sup posed to be connected with tho Maj ’ 'lob in-Fancy Free case. The chairman saiu that as it was more than probable tho persons wanted would be in Christchurch during the Grand National week, it would, perhaps, be as well to hold a special meeting cl' the association, and call upon them to appear. The case has non - gone so far that he thought they should consider what action shoul ’ be taken in regard to Jl. Post. It was decided to disqualify Post for life for having, on his own confession, been concerned in the “ringing-in” of the horso Major Eobin as Fancy Free, and to hold a special meeting of the association on August 13th, to further deal with the case.

Year. Horse. Age. Wght. Time. 1839—rnpitcr ... 5 9 9 1.48 1800—Spider 4 9 0 1.47 2-5 1901—Ostiak ... ... 5 10 5 1.44 3-5 1902.— AVaiwhera ... 4 9 6 1.494-5

Year. \Y inner. Weight. Starters. 1876.—Royalty ... 1877.—Fakir . 10 0 . 10 5 6 13 1878.—Mousetrap . 11 4 9 1873.—The Agent . 12 8 12 1880.—The Agent . 12 7 12 1881.—Clarence ... . 12 4 6 1882. —Katerfelto . 10 V 8 1S83.—Kosciusko ... . 10 5 . . 5 188-1.—The Agent . 12 6 .;. • 4 1883.—Moody . 11 0 6 1836.—Canard . 12 10 6 1887.—Faugh-a-Ballngh 11 13 13 1883. —Mangaohano . 12 2 9 ljifl.—Chemise ... •; . 12 7 11 i»J(J.—Daddy Longlegs. . 9 7 6 1891.—Freeman ... . 9 2 12 1892.—Ahua . 11 9 13 1S93. —AVaterbliry . 10 2 12 189-1.—Norton . 12 8 7 3895.—Mutiny ... .. 11 5 8 18CB.—Mutiny ... . 12 -I 8 1897.—Levanter ... . 12 6 lb 1898.—Dummy ... . 10 13 10 1899.—Blackberry . 10 6 9 1900.—The Guard .. 10 6 13 1901—Gobo ... : . .. 10 9 8 1B03.—Haydn . 10 9 14

Year. Horse. Wght. Time. 1890.—Ixion . 10 2 4 5 2-5 1891.—Couranto . 10 0 3 52 1892.—Kulnine . 11 5 4 0 1833.—Liberator . 10 10 3 55 1894.—Liberator . 12 6 4 5J 1895.—Donald McKin tnon . 10 3 * 51 1896.—Dummy i 9 12 3 59* 1897.—Unislopogaas .. . 9 5 3 53 2-5 1898.—Social Pest . 10 13 3 58 1899.—Defiance . 11 0 3 .562-5 1900.—Record Reign .. . 12 12 3 46 3-5 1901.—Haydn . 11 0 3 55 4-5 1902.—Tresham ..: . 10 0 3 55 4-5 1,- T» „