Opunake Racing Club.

Opunake Times, Volume III, Issue 156, 31 December 1895, Page 2

Opunake Racing Club.

To-morrow the Opunake Racing Club will hold its first meeting on the new course, at Pihama, and at time of writing there is every indication of the weather holding up. Given a fine day we anticipate a very large gathering, and an enjoyable day’s sport. The entries were good and very few dropped ‘out, so that there should be good fields for most events. The following are the number of acceptors compared with last year:—

Total ... 74 61 There is eve.xy probability that some of these accepted will not come to the post after trying conclusions at the two days’ meet at New Plymouth, but there is a marked difference in the handicapping, which may still cause them to have another flutter under different conditions. The course is in very fair order considering how late it was before it was laid down, but whatever defects there may be in it this year it will undoubtedly be one of the best courses on the coast next year. The grand stand is erected and reflects credit on the builders—Messrs Dobbie and Hansen—who have faithfully carried out their contract. It will comfortably seat about 200 people, being 40 feet by 20 feet. The design is very neat and substantial, Mr J. R. Stewart being responsible for it, although most of the work has been carried out under the supervision of Mr W. F. Robinson. There is a very commodious saddling paddock enclosed, nicely situated and running down to the Puketapu Creek. The course is fenced on both sides of the straight and round the bend with a substantial top rail, so that there is no chance whatever of horses Tuning off. Under the stand is the refreshment room, which is not quite as convenient as might be, but this will probably be remedied by-next year. There is also a ladies’ waiting-room provided. On the whole the arrangements are very complete, and reflect every credit on the club for its spirited efforts to provide every t -comfort and convenience for visitor#,-" Great credit is due to the indefatigable hon secretary, Mr G. W. Rogers, and Messrs H. Wagstaff and J. Lambie, members of the course committee, for their untiring exertions to have everything in readiness on such short notice. We wish the club every success in its new venture.

1896 1895 Flying 15 10 R,0. Handicap 12 6 Hurdles 10 6 Farmers’ Plate 8 — Harakeke Stakes — 11 New Year Stakes 18 — Opua Stakes ... — 13 Welter 16 — Electric Stakes — 5