ELLERSLIE RACECOURSE.

Otago Witness, Issue 2985, 31 May 1911, Page 58

ELLERSLIE RACECOURSE.

'From Oue Own Correspondent.) AUCKLAND, May 24. One of the most awkward steeplechase obstacles in the past at Ellerslie has been the old water jump, which horses not only have to race at on a bend, but have to take off on falling ground.. Last Saturday the caretaker (C. N. Hill) efet about improving the brush alongside the ditch, and trimmed it to slant outwards at a reasonable angle, thus making the " take off" much batter and the obstacle more easy to negotiate. However, the "take off still requires further attention, and could be raised and made perfect at a small outlay. Another jump much discussed by those in a good position to offer an opinion —the trainers and steeplechase riders—is the hurdle in the straight. This obstacle is the usual fence used in hurdle events, and, being an open hurdle, is condemned on all sides, it being contended that a 3ft brush fence should be substituted, as after racing at dark obstacles through the journey, horses are placed at a disadvantage, especially when tired, at having to end up a severe, trial by racing at a high jand, open fence. The proposition that a brush fence should be substituted, for the open hurdle at the coming meeting is being actively canvassed, and with so much evidence to back it up there is no doubt that the Auckland Racing Club authorities will give the matter every consideration.