TALK OF THE DAY.

Otago Witness, Issue 3610, 22 May 1923, Page 45

TALK OF THE DAY.

By

SENTINEL.

THE OAMARU MEETING. The Oamaru Jockey Club has not in recent years experienced the best of luck in its efforts to cater for sport in its district. In common with other clubs, it has been very seriously handicapped by the exhorbitant taxation which is imposed by the Government, and this falling on a lean season or two has greatly retarded the progress- of sport- Tor this week’s meeting, however, owners have made a much more liberal response to the programme, and it only requires fine weather to be on hand for the gathering to prove a success. The running will be followed with double interest, as the majority of the horses claiming engagements are also booked to race at the Dunedin Winter meeting. THE AINTREE FENCES. Distance from the start to first fence, 546 yards. The run in, 494 yards. 1 and 17. —Thorn fence (gorse), 4ft 6in high, 2ft Sin wide. 2 and 18. —Thorn fence (gorse), 4ft 6in high, 3ft wide. 3 and 19. —Thorn fence (fir), sft high, 3ft wide, with ditch on take off side 6ft wide, 2ft, deep, banked up to guard rail lit 6in high in front of ditch. 4 and 20. —Thorn fence (gorse), sft high, 3:t wide. 5 and 21. —Thorn fence (gorse), sft high, 3ft wide. 6 and 22.—•'Bccher’s Brook,” a thorn fence (fir), sft high, 3ft 3in wide, with a natural brook on far side sft 6in wide, drop 6ft. 7 and 23.—Thorn fence (gorse), 4ft lOin high. 3ft wide. 8 and 24. The “Canal Turn,” a thorn fence (gorse), sft high, 3ft wide, ditch on take ofF side 6ft- wide, 2ft deep, banked up to guard rail Ift 6in high in front of ditch. 9 and 25 —‘"Valentine’s Brook,” a thorn fence (fir). 4ft llin high, 3ft wid"e, a natural brook on far side sft 6in wide, drop 6ft. 10 and £6. —Thorn fence (gorse), sft high, 3ft wide. 11 and 27. —Thorn fence (gorse), sft high, 3ft wide, ditch on take off side 6ft wide, 2ft deep, banked to guard rail Ift 6in high in front of ditch, drop 6ft. 12 -and 28. —Thorn fence (gorse). 4ft, llin high, 3ft wide; ditch on far side sft 6in wide, 4ft, deep. 13 and 29. —Thorn fence (spruce), 4ft 7in high, 3ft wide. 14 and 30. —Thorn fence (spruce), 4ft 7in high, 3ft wide. 15. -The "Open Ditch,” a, thorn fence (spruce). sft 2in high, 3ft, 9in wide, ditch on take off side 6ft wide, 2ft deep, and hanked to guard rail lft 6in high in front of ditch. 16. —The “Water Jump”—lsft wide over all, with thorn fence (gorse), 2ft 6in high, 2ft 6in wide, 12ft 6in of water, 3ft deep. Distance, 4 miles and 856 yards.

THE ACRON CASE. , In all probability for the first time in the. history of racing and trotting a controlling body has endorsed and agreed to an obvious breach of rules by a club under its jurisdiction. This has occurred in connection with the Acron case. It will be remembered that at the Addington ruaster meeiing J. J. Kennerley automatically disqualified Acron for the Belfast Handicap by driving that horse instead of Lincoln lluon, whom he should have handled according to the specific instructions laid down by the Rules of Trotting. That Acron should have been disqualified is clearly established by the club subsequently awarding the stakes to Lady Joan, who .finished second. The club justified its original decision by the fact that Acron and Lincoln Hu on were coupled on Ihe totalisator. The mere coupling of horses on the totalisator does not, however, justify the eondonment of a breach of rules. Even i if Acron and Lincoln Huon finished first and second they were automatically disqualified by the fact that Kennerley drove former instead of the latter. The club, iri fact, exercised the power of might instead of right in paying out on Acron instead of upholding and obeying the dictates Rules of Trotting. And now comes a weak-kneed endorseemnt of the club s wrongful action by the Board of the New Zealand Trotting Association, which has. apparently without censuring ‘the club, officially endorsed the decision which awarded the stakes to Lady Joan. It is recognised all over the world that all bets go with the stakes, but here is a case where bers go one way and the stakes the other. Acron was a red-hot favourite, and those who backed him were lucky that the club game’ ePPe< ** <h ® law whioh governs the THE STUD BOOK. It has been announced that the next volume of (he Stud Book will be published next, year and attention has been drawn o the negligence of stallion owners in not having (he tabulated pedigree of their .horses inserted m the book. It is understood that tabulating pedigrees ca’ be inserted in the Stud Book at a small eost. ut even if they were inserted for nothing some owners will still fail to nolifv the compiler that they had this of that‘horse in their possession. It, should not, bowex ei, be left, to the earlessness, whim or paltry meanness of an owner as'to whether the pedigree of an imported stallion should be inserted in the Stud Book. It should be the outv of the compiler to no’ie the arrival of every imported horse and in due course include its tabulated ‘pedigree in n e ot-ud Bock. I here are imported stalhons in the Dominion and complete and -satisfactory information cannot be obtained about their breeding without referring to uie English Stud Book. This is not as it i should, be.. The New' Zealand Stud Book m some respects is the most up-to-date in me world, but it is sadly lacking in the information at the disposal of the fortunate VU, V 'r> ° , ille T ul Possession of (lie English Book. In addition to publishing the tabulated pedigree of each imported horse in at least one volume of the Stud Book il. should also note the names of stallions to which brood mares have paid fruitless visits. Jins would help to prevent many mares from having barren years through v, siting impotent stallions instead of annuaHv contributing to the strength of tile bt.ud Book. It would also prevent im-' potent stallions being foisted on Australia Ircm this country, and vice verse, and generally do an incalculable amount of e>oocl to tne breeding’ industry. A NEW ASSOCIATION. 1 It has been decided to form an Owners, Breeders, and Trainers’ Association in Victoria, and an initial meeting towards taking steps in that direction was recently held in Melbourne. It was stated at the meeting that the new association would not be a militant one but one whose objects would be to protect the interests of its members, and serve as the mouthpiece of the racing fraternity. A similar association has been doing good work in Sydney and nearer home we have the Canterbury Owners, Trainers, and Breeders’ Association and also doing very good work, but unfortunately it, is principally concerned with the light harness sport and so docs not carry its utmost possibilities by embracing the parent snort connected with Ihe thoroughbred. There is also a similar association in Dunedin, but it preserves a rather too modest silence concerning its existence. It is the word mouthpiece that struck the writer’s eye when reading the report of the meeting held in Melbourne. Such associations can do a world of good. Some racing and trotting clubs are somewhat remiss and careless in the conduct of their meetings and the part a club should play in protecting the interests of sport. Mistakes are made and continue to be made seemingly because there are people who will not recognise anything which they do not discover for themselves. An association can be a great mouthpiece to reach the public ear, arid reasonable requests privately made to a club and ignored can be converted into a command that will be obeyed if the weight of- public opinion is behind it. The publicity that is at the disposal of a reasonable request carries great power in its wake. The proof ®Hiat such is the case is shown bv the good work done by fhe Canterbury Association which has given full publicity to its work, and now stands as a power which commands attention when it officially lias anything to say. It is a. mouthpiece which has reached the public ear, and carries the power of publicity behind it. Hence it has only to make a reasonable request and that request will be granted, or a good and sufficient reason supplied for not doing so. IN A NUTSHELL. The Canterbury .Jockey Club holds assets totalling £117,965 15s 6d. It is reported that the speedy mare Clumira is to be schooled over hurdles. The Martian filly Caress has been sold, and will join the pony ranks in Sydney. Sir George Clifford has sold Counterstroke to J. Pankhurst, of Invercargill. Kilfane was finishing on well in the Longbeach Handicap, and just missed second money. Lord Nager looked a shade on ihe big side in condition when stripped on the first day at Ashburton. Bon Spec looked rather big and soft when he. took up 10.8 in the Fairfield Welter, and soon faded away. Trevella is showing improvement in his racing over hurdles, and may win when the company is not too strong.

Monsieur Bontade a, gain dwelt at the post, and so spoilt whatever chance he had in the Longbeach Handicap. Wharfedale bears an improved appearance, and may be found eh aping well at the final meetings of the season. It is reported that the crack mare Desert Gold paid what is feared will be a fruitless visit to Absurd last season: The Calibre gelding Apex travels fast for about a mile and a-half over hurdles, but at present does not stay too well. Tonbridge, an imported three-year-old colt by Pommern from Nevsky, has been purchased in Sydney by Mr E. J. Watt. The pacer Onyx has been recommissioned after being treated to a good spell. She has built up nicely during her vacation. Phil May is one of the latest recruits to cross-country work. He is very quick at the obstacles when racing over hurdles. General Advance, Cartoon, and Joffre are booked to carry Mr R. A cion-Adams’s colours at the Auckland Winter meeting. Mandrake was staying on at the finish of the First Hurdles, but Apex lasted long enough to keep him out of second money. Unless it is re-imposed, the 10 per cent, tax on stakes will automatically expire in J lily next. It was put on for two years. Cerebrus had too much brilliancy for the opposition on the first day at Ashburton, but he had nothing much to spare at the finish. The English-bred horse Telemon, who carried Air J. Grigg’s colours in the First Hurdles at Ashburton, broke down during the race. Trainers and jockeys must lodge their applications for next season’s licenses with the district committees before the end of this month. Nominations are due on Wednesday, May 23, for the Ashburton Trotting Club's Winter meeting, which it dated to take place on Saturday, June 9. Fiona. , the two-year-old sister to Will i Oakland, was backed down to a short price : n the Lagbmor Plate, and was too speedy for the opposition. Etta had got through very little track work prior to racing at Ashburton, and created a surprise by wearing down Fabrina.de in the Fairfield Welter. The Absurd fillv Veil, who was discarded from R. J. Mason’s stable and booked to go to the stud, landed herself amongst the ! winners at the/ Wanganui meeting. First Line is reported tc have run a good race in the Wanganui Steeplechase, and on his display is expected to show improved form at the Auckland Winter meeting. According to figures published by “Whalebone,” F. Davis Vv’on something like l(X),Co9sovs in stakes whilst acting as private trainer for Mr T. H. Lowry. Fabrinade again found seven furlongs a shade too far when sent out favourite for the | Fairfield Welter. He is better suited by a j six furlong course or even less ground. j Cable advice has been received by Air W. j G. Stead that Hades, a two-year-old brother j to his imported horse Leighton, won ihe j •Spring Plate at a Kempt on Park meeting. Sw alio w f flight, who ran second in the Laghmor Plate, is a three-year-old chestnut gelding by Autumnus from Flitaway, and may be found developing into a useful sort. Red Wink got a lucky opening on the rails in the First Hack Welter through Brown Willie’s rider failing to hold his position; otherwise the latter would have won. Militaire, who won over hurdles at Wanganui,- is a well-bred sort, got by Martian from Vicereine, by Birkenhead —Role, by St. Leger or Captivator—Hippona, by Robinson Crusoe. * , Warhaven generally requires vigorous handling, and is not a boy’s horse. Still he shaped fairly well for Powell, who rode him at 6.10 in the Autumn Handicap, in which he finished a fair third. Tatau Tat an drew the rails in the Grove Farm Handicap, but was cut out in the first few strides and dropped right back. She made up a lot of ground, but the task j was beyond her in a fast-run race. The All Red gelding Red Cent is now a member of Cillett’s stable at Riccarton. Red Cent, was a winner over big fences bust season, and finished third to Omahu and Oakleigh in tire Lincoln Steeples. The North Otago Jockey Club’s meeting takes place on Friday and Saturday of this week, and the unusually good list of nominations promise/ to make one of the most successful meetings ever held on the course. Lovesign had the .services of C. Em morse n in the Grove Farm Handicap, for which she started second favourite. She got well away with. The Reaver, but both failed to carry on, &nd they finished outside a place. Alantua is usually a bit slow on her legs in the early part of a race, but in the Autumn Handicap at Ashburton ©be was up in front to the turn but then faded out. Owing to the bad weather she was short of work. Both Urgency and Boadicea w T ere well backed for the Aishburt-on Cup, but neither ran up to the expectation of their supporters. Urgency led into the straight, but then faded out, and Boadicea retired earlier in the fray. Boadicea looked strong and muscular when she went out for the Autumn Handicap, but after being well placed she failed at the business end. She carried twice as much money as Palestrina, but the latter was too good at the weights. Jazz is shaping promisingly in his schooling over the small sticks. He can go fast on the flat, but not very far. Still keen gallopers sometimes develop into good hurdlers, even though they may not stay too well on th € . flat. A likely-locking three-year-old gelding named Oricot, and got by Husbandman— Cowrie Lass, carried Air H. A. Knight’s colours at Ashburton. He has pienly of ze and quality, and may develop into something rather useful. The Wanganui weight-adjuster was evidently much impressed by Tinoliaka’s win in th e Century Hurdles, as he gave him a rise of 251 b for the May Hurdles. Tinohaka was handicapped to meet En Route on 16lb worse terms and Gladful (who finished third in the Century Hurdles) on 271 b worse tel*ms. The Harold Dillon filly Hold On was spread about as the best of good tilings for the mile at Ashburton, and paddock rumours credited her with being better than j a stable mate in Prince Pointer, who won j on the first day of the meeting. Hold On j failed to get going at the start, and never j showed up in the race. The erstwhile Wingatui horse Whipcord ran a fair second in the Wanganui Steeplechase. His best form so far lias been his third to Gladful and Kauri King in the Grand National Hurdles, when he was rapidly j making up ground over the last mile after laying about 100 yards away from the j leaders in the early stages of the race. The Wingatui-trained horses Gensral Ad- j vance. Cartoon, and Joffre have been j liberally engaged at the Auckland Winter | meeting. It seems as if it lias been finally decided to keep General Advance solely to jumping, as lie claims engagements over hurdles and big country. Wink, the half sister to Palestrina, is built on lighter lines than the latter, and ir. not in the same class, but may do a lot

better if she furnishes out a bit more. It is worthy of note that slie put up better time in the Longbeach Handicap than the winner of the Grove Farm Handicap. The betting on the Lagmlior Plate was practically confined to FinoTa and Goldspinner. The sister to Will Oakland ran to a big lead] before reaching the straight and finally wen by three lengths, although she was stopping over the last half furlong. Goldspinner began fairly well, but failed to get dangerous. Taking advantage of the apprentice allowance probably cost Will Oakland the Glove Farm Handicap, in which many thought he was unbeatable. He looked a winner at the distance, but Mythology got updo him, and wore him down, and Kilbarry eam-e with a fast run and pipped th e favourite on the post for second money. An entry of over 60 has been received for the Fitzroy Handicap, of SCOaovs, one mile, which is to be run at the Auckland Winter meeting. If all the field started it would be a more dangerous race than all the cross-country events on the programme put together. This is where a club should impose a substantial sweepstake, so as to thin out the field. One who knew the late Lord Marcus Beresford very intimately tells a good story of him, showing the ready wit he at all times commanded. A certain nobleman, whose horses have not been among the most consistent in the world of racing, informed Lord Marcus one day that lie proposed to l name a two-year-old False Tooth. ' False Tooth,” retorted M. 8., “that name is no good to you. You can't stop a false tooth, you know.” Rouen has been out of form for some time, but latterly he has again struck a winning vein. He scored in convincing style when he worn the Connolly Handicap. He was at the tail of the field in the early stages of the race, and came with a brilliant run at the finish, soon had the result beyond doubt. Rouen's success last season was scored at the Wanganui Spring meeting, and did not strike winning form again until winning at the Taranaki Summer meeting. If Clean Sweep standij up to his work he premises to develop into a good hurdler. H e misbehaved by running off when making his debut over the small sticks at Riccarton but at Ashburton he went straight enough, although T. T. Reid had him wisely placed inside of Paddington Green until it was time to come on and win. Clean Sweep has some fairly good form to his credit on the flat, including a win m the Winter Cup of 1921. Lets of people read the papers and make up their mind what they are going to back but like to see some casual object that shall “confirm their judgment.” Gem was a big paper tip for a race at. Lingfield. Said a man in the carriage at Victoria: “Look at those two pawnbrokers’ advertisements! They aia a straight tip for Gem. “I donh’t see that,” remarked another; “I think Gem will win. but a pawnbroker’s sign is more a tip for Memento. Gem did not win; Memento won. Distant Shot appeared to be a racecourse certainty for the Hack Welter, run over five furlongs on the second day at Ashburton. She ran Dancing Days to a head at 8.5 each over the same distance a couple of weeks ago at the Timaru meeting, and at Ashburton Dancing Days had to carry 9.9 and give 291 b. Dancing Days begins smarter than Distant Shot, and this materially helped her to head the. latter a short neck, and upset a strong favourite that looked so well in the handicap. Monsieur Bontade has lightened up since he ran at the Timaru meeting, and whs again barrier shv at Ashburton, where he g‘ot left on the .first day. He stood up better on the second day, but did not jump out smartly enough, and so lost his berth on the rails.- ' He afterwards made up ground, but got blocked and sent back again. He came on again, and did well to get a close third under tile circumstances. With a better run he would have won, and wlic-n taught to behave himself at the barrier should soon join the list of winners. Amongst the speakers at the send-off to Mr Sol Green was Mr C. R. Stocks, secretary of Melbourne Hospital Committee, who characterised Mr Green as the ‘‘prince of sportsmen” from the point of view of the •charitable institutions, and remarked that through the latter’s good work the annual revenue to hospitals was increased by £6OO a. year. Mr Green, who contributed £IOOO, was the largest donor to- the recent appeal on behalf of Melbourne Hospital. The sporting fraternity, he observed, were the best marks in the community for the charities. Palestrina was made a short-priced favourite for the Ashburton Cup, whilst Ardour, who ran her to a length at the end of a mile on the previous day, was allowed to go out third favourite, although on English authorities en handicapping the figures at which they met would make the last-named favourite. Ardour, in addition to being well in, also had the services of a much more experienced rider than she had on the first day. She won nicely at the finish after getting sent back and losing several lengths when about half the distance of the race had been traversed. One of the most promising youngsters at Trentham is Dubious, a son of Demosthenes and La Nctte, trained .by T. F. Quinliven. La Not to was presented to T. F. Quinliven by Mr E. J. Watt, for whom he formerly acted as private trainer, and incidentally saddled some important winners. La Notte is best known as the dam of Nightfall, Noetuiform, and Midnight Sun, but her later contributions to the Stud Book have failed to become conspicuous on the turf. In the Stud Book the youngster at Trentham is returned as by Formative or Demosthenes, and hence no doubt his name. Tigerland, the winner of the Wanganui Steeplechase, is a half-brother to Tigritiya, and wa-s got by Finland from Tigris, by Birkenhead —Tigress. by Dreadnought— Tigridia, by Leolinus. At ihe Grand National meeting of 1921 Tigerland finished third to Fire Eater and John Bunny in the Enfield Steeplechase, and would have won but for his rider losing a lot of ground owing to labouring under the mistake that he had to go twice round Riccarton to cover two miles. He was apparently accustomed to riding round saucer circuits. Tigerland afterwards won the Hunt Club Cup and Aylesbury Steeplechase, run at tile same meeting. A popular win wars recorded when Ardour landed the Ashburton Cup. She was bred and is owned by Mr J. Grigg, who is president of the Ashburton County Racing Club, and occupies the same position with the Canterbury Jockey Club. Ardour stayed on well at the finish of the Ashburton Cup. and appears to have improved in that respect since she ran unplaced in the Oaks last November. Ardour's success draws further attention to Gay Lad’s early success at the stud. Everything representative of him that has appeared on the turf has the gift of galloping, and some very Hkely looking sorts will represent him next season. Ardour is an aptly-named daughter of Gay Lad and Mettle; she is by Calibre from Walda, by Perkin Warbeck II from by Cuirassier from Ouida; and so traces back to a taproot of good stayers.

Ti l Maltster mare Aurarius seems to h«v o exh;-tsted her merit us a producer when »lie , hrew Croesus, Desert Gold, and Egypt in Diree consecutive years. This trio came alopy in 1911, 1912. and 1913, and then she had dead foals in 1914 and 1915. Next came. D’Oro, Acacia, and Aureate. three three sisters to Desert Gold, each of whom failed' to achieve any distinction on the turf. D’Oro threw Orofino to Finland, but she t Iso must be regarded as a failure on the turf, and will go to the stud next season. Orofino is to be bred to the imported horse King John, who will give the young mare a return of the strain which produced good performers in Croesus, Desert Gold, and Egypt and comparative failures in the three sisters to the crack mure. King John was got by H:>i Hcrode from Mirande, by Gallinule, the sire of All Black. Mr Sol Green, who is now on his way to America, was entertained by a number of leading citizens and sportsmen of Melbourne prior to his departure. Mr A. Yuille, sen., paid a tribute to M!r Green for the fillip he had given to the breeding of thoroughbreds in Victoria at a time when it was most needed. Mr Green had raised Biplane

| and Artilleryman, two of the best threej year-olds ever raced in Australia. He was ! a keen judge of horses, and such highly I bred mares as Air Motor, Cross Battery, , and Lady Fisher were purchased by him j in his early career as a studmaster for j Shipley. After them he had secured j Tragedy Queen in England, and she gave him Comedy King, who proved his worth by winning the Melbourne Cup and other valuable races. “All the horses he bought himself turned out well,” remarked Mr Yuille, I‘but those obtained through agents such as myself turned out badly.” A great deal of credit was due to Mr Green for the manner in which he conducted his stud and for the way in which he had resuscitated the breeding of thoroughbreds in tha It is not generally known that some trotting clubs claim the right to substitute oti« rider or driver for another if they felt | justified in doing so. A case of the sort I happened at Tahuna Park, but one never hears of such a thing nowadays. This is called to mind by a correspondent of an English paper, who sent in a cutting from a Rangoon newspaper. It reads; "In the first race (referring to the Mandalay races) one of the horses was first favourite till just before the competitors went out, when, it is alleged, it was whispered that his jock was not going to- try. The stewards, on hearing this, decided to put on a stipendiary jockey. In the result the horse suffered defeat from a rival, was also much fancied, by four lengths. There was only on e objection during the afternoon.” The correspondent adds: “What do yon think of suggesting to the Jockey Club in England that when a favourite suddenly goes back in fhe betting, or rumours are afloat that horses are only out for an airing, the stewards may put up a ‘stipendiary jockey ’ ? I have never heard of this before.” In commenting on the Aint-ree country, “Rapier,” of the Illustrated Sporting and Dramatic News, quotes Richard March, who said: “What nonsense it is, that some writers and many foolish people have the notion that there is anything unfair and unsportsmanlike about the Grand National I I have ridden in seven Nationals in my time, and probably the fences were every bit as stiff then (probably stiffer) than they are now. You must not blame the fences for so many horses falling or losing their riders. Blame the ridiculously short seat adopted by present-day steeplechase jockeys with few exceptions It may serve over the park courses, but the National fences simply will not have it. Any horseman knows that where you have a big fence requiring safe jumping you must get your horse to stand back and jump off his hocks. And then when you have to gather him and balance on landing over the drop fences it is no use being halfway up his neck, because if you are and your horse makes the slightest mistake you will assuredly be on the ground and the horse will be going on riderless.” CANTERBURY DOINGS. By ÜBSESVEB. This weather has taken up again and tha overhead conditions during the past' week have been much more pleasant. The ground is grfaduallv drying, hut the Ric-c-arton tracks are still very soft, while mud is in evidence everywhere round the boxes. There has been very little doing of interest, except by horses with engagements at Ashburton, and their work is not worth recording now. A fair number of Riecarton horses will probably make the trip to Oamaru this week, while there will be a strong contingent for the Dunedin Jockey Club’s meeting next week. As a result, there will not be much stir at home, as apart from those with engagements in the south, most of our horses are having an easy time at present. R. J. M ason is doing very little wi th his team just now. Several .of them are for sale, but a number of rising three-year-olds, all maidens, are being given useful tasks, and probably the best of these will go to Sydney for the spring campaign. Gloaming is also expected to make tins trip. ne looks’ well, but he lias done no work yet. Albert Cults has been in bed for about a week, suffering from a severe cold, a.nd in the meantime his brother, Harry, has to look after the big Chokebore Lodge team single-handed. I do not think that Sir George Clifford's stable will provide many more competitors until next season The five-year-old Counlerstroke, by Antagonist—Countermine, lias been sold by Sir George <Tifford to (Mr J. Pankhurst, of Intercargill, and lie was railed south on Friday. The young Riccarton trainer, K. Macdonald, returned last week from a short holiday tiiyi to Sydney. Petunia, who was in his team for some time, is now being trained at Trentham Red Cent, by Ail Red from Mint. Queen, has arrived at Riccarion from Hawke’s Bay. and T. 11. Gillett will train him for ! winter steeplechase engagements. He looks j in great health, and will probably make | his first appearance in the cross-country ! events at Wingatui. Mr .T. Grigsr and his son looked line I having a useful team of jumpers for tho I winter meetings, but Pitpron, Luff, and Fire Eater succumbed ro the hard work of j the training track, while Telemon broke ! down in the hurdle race at Ashburton on Friday. They will he fired and given a long spell. Sunny Loch is suffering from kidney trouble, and he may not be able to race for some time. The hurdler Lord Kagar broke down while racing at Ashburton on Friday. Phil May is jumping big fences brilj liautly, and he looks certain to get some 1 money in hunters’ steeplechases during the 1 winter.

Falstaff is going on well in his schooling, and he should be seen to advantage later on when the good hurdle races are being decided. The two-year-old pacing filly by Harold Dillon from Sally Brass is one of the most forward of her age in training. A. G. Wilson is working her at New Brignton, and she is a good sort. The Adonis gelding Vitalis, a winner at the Forbury Park Trotting Club’s meeting, is new a member of A. Hendricksens team. '1 he Southland-owned pacers Royal Step and \\ allroon are now being trained by 11. Pollock at New Brighton. Mr A. K. Bussell, the owner of the promising young pacer Quiver, has purchased the trotter, The Squire, from Mr 1. T. Ritchie, and he will in future be trained hy J. J. Kennerley. W. J. Tomkinson has recommissioned the Australian tiotter Kean John, but he will not be ready to race for seme time. Snowshoe, in the same stable, is doing light tasks. the trotter Whispering Willie has not won much money this season, but lie is in the best of health at present. The pacer Tommy Direct, well known in (lie south, is training on nicely at Addington, and D. Bennett is hopeful of getting him to stay out two. miles. G. &. Smith has Belifashion doing easv tasKs. The ex-Southiand pacer showed signs of lameness recently, but he appears to have got over the trouble. WELLINGTON NOTES. (Fkom Our Own Correspondent.) r.-, , . , . May 18. • s^ee P ec ' las,n S season is upon us, and in tms part of the country we are getting v.iiut some enthusiasts call, ideal sleepiecnasmg weather. The tracks at Trentham sintered m the recent deluge, and those trainers who are preparing horses for fiat racing have not had a very comfortable time. Ihe jumpers, however, have not had their work interfered with lo any great extent. ~ irentham is not looked on as the home of good jumpers, even though it was the headquarters of Coalition. At present however, it has several promising leppers in traniuig. The pick of them are the pair in l. Qumlivaii s stable, Tigerland and En ItOLue. ligerland is a beautiful jumper, and nas a good deal of pace on the Hat. 11l Ins schooling he has not put a foot He has been given frequent trials over tile lug fences, and it has been clear Rom the start that moderate country does not trouble him. There, was a doubt about Ins condition, and the general opinion at lientham was that he might not be suflibnmf'useasoiicd t 0 see out the three miles join.icy m the Wanganui Steeplechase. He «as just a shade on the big side when lie paraded for the race, but he looked full of lie and vigour. H e won very nicely, but liad not a great deal m reserve at the finish, liie race, ot course, will improve him more tiian it. will most of those who opposed him ill the race. En Route wag defeated in tile Century fiuiales, but. was lar from disgraced He is a perfect jumper, and has quite a handy turn of speed. He was exceedingly unuc.vy m tne big hurdles at Wanganui. He was kept half a furlong behind the leader till seven furlongs from home, and then made up the wnole of his lost ground in Hie space ot about three furlongs. The lesult was that when it came to the straight he was left without a finishing run En Route gives the impression he will turn out a good one. Another Trentham jumper in Militaire won the Hack Hurdles at Wanganui on Thursday, but had the fences been big or substantially set there might have been a different tale to tell. To continue the discussion of local jumpers, one may mention Kyoto, who is a, ukeiy out of a horse for minor steeplechases. He lias won over hurdles, and is t° b « tried over country, but so far has not shown any relish for his task when schooling. Manchester is being educated for hurdling. but has a lot to learn, and another beginner is Sponte. Martinique, a King Mark gelding in C. Pritchard’s stable, was purchased to be converted into a hurdler, but as he has shown a nice turn of speed o n the flat, may not bo sent over the battens this season. ITe is a big gelding, and should do well when he takes his part in hurdle events. One of lhe best cuts of jumpers on (he course is Blue Socks. He will be put to hurdling very shortly, but before then will make another appearance or two on the flaf. Quest is very well just now, and after racing at Wanganui he is to come back this way to run at Otaki early next month, lie ran a good race at Wanganui in the Connolly Handicap, and was disappointed when making a run on the rails in the straight. Quest s stablemates, Tigerland and En Route, will not return to Trentham immediately, but will go on to Auckland lo contest the Great Northern. Blue Socks was to go to the Dunedin V\ inter meeting, but plans may lie changed, and there is just a chance he will race at Otaki instead. A useful sprinter at Trentham is T.adv Nillo. She is being got ready for Otaki, but her trainer may have some difficulty in getting her ready in time. The Trentham jockey, 11. M‘S weenev. rode two winners and a second on the opening day at Wanganui. He won lhe big steeples on Tigerland, the Hack Hurdles on Militaire. and ran second in the open hurdles on En Route. T. Quinlivan, started a horse in each of three big races at Wanganui, and led in a first (Tigerland), a second (En Route), and a third (Quest). Another Trenlliam representative in Militaire won the Hack Hurdles. There was a good lean on the hurdles, and in lhe. second round some of them were pretty flat. Veil was sent out favourite for the Puma Hack Race on account of track gallops, and she won from Sunny Vale, a good sort of hack. Veil was making her first appearance in the colours of her breeder, Mr G. M. Currie. Rouen, who won the principal event at Hawera. carried too weight to the front ill the Connolly Handicap. Ronetter ran one of her best races and Quest shaped well enough lo give him a winning chance later on. Jus towel w 7 a.s greatly fancied for the sprint event, but could only get fourth to l’ouma, who looked a potiv alongside Golden Bubble. The latter was conceding a lot of

weight. He was bad at the post, and is ev-deniiy not so good as lie was. AUCKLAND TOPICS. By Digger. With the weights out for the Great Northern Hurdles and Steeplechase, interest in the two events has livened up considerably. In tile Hurdle Bare Gladful figures at the head of the list with 11.9. It is six years since the son of Birkenhead led the lieid home in the event, but during the interval he has given plenty of evidence that he retains his form, which entitles him to consideration. Explorer 11.7 is not badly treated, as the Kenilworth gelding has registered some good performances at Ellerslie. Paonui 11.2 has 161 b more than he carried to victory in the event last year. On the third day lie scored an easy win in the Campbell Hurdles (two miles) with 11.2 in the saddle. Omahu 10.9 had the same weight last year when he finished among the unplaced division. Vagabond 10.8 appears to bo exceptionally well treated. The recent victory over hurdles registered by the Martian gelding, coupled with his record on the flat, entitles him to every respect. Snake 10.6 has done nothing to complain of, though his stablemate, Royal Abbey, 9.9, may prove the better cf the pair. Mia Bella 10.2 won the Brighton Hurdles (two miles) at the A.R.C. Autumn meeting with 21b more in the saddle, but the extra half-mile will probably trouble her. Sea Deil 9.12 has filled third place on (he last two occasions, and may be more fortunate this year. there is plenty of room for a surprise among the lightweight division. Penury Rose 9.5 and Miss Melva 9.3 are a pair that read well. Miss Melva has a good following locally for the event. In selecting Explorer 11.10 to head the list in the Great ?\ or them Steeplechase, the handieapper has taken care of the Kenilworth gelding. At the A.R.C. Autumn meeting Explorer won the Autumn Steeplcebase very easily with &Fb less in the saddle, but he is set a much harder task on this occasion. Oakleigh 11.8 is nicely placed, though the third time up the hill will probably trouble him. Omahu 11.0 knows tne Ellerslie country well. East year he filled second place with 101 b less' in the saddle. _ Sea Deil 10.11 has 231 b more than he carried to victory last year, though he won so easily that with the additional poundage he may play a prominent part this year. Pittsworth 10.7 is well fancied among the local division. Mr J. Williamson’s gelding is a good sort and may be equal to holding his own among the best over the big fences. Whipcord 10.0 won so easily at Egmont that he is entitled to respect. Lower down the list Silverton reads the best. In the Autumn Steeplechase Silverton ran a good race, finishing second to Explorer, and the son of Sylvite promises to strip a much fitter horse in June. Poanui gave a fine display over four hurdles on Saturday morning. The son of Potoa may be all the better for a race, but he has got through a fair amount of work and will soon be at his best. Penury Rose has arrived at Ellerslie to fulfil nis Great Northern Hurdles engagement. He is well fancied in some quarters for the event. Qrung.a has made a good recovery from his recent trouble, and ori Tuesday morning in company with Young Thurnbam was sent over a few big fences, the pair shaping very well for beginners. Peter Amans is pleasing in his schooling work over hurdles, and promis«s to be in capital form next month. Jlie Australian-bred gelding Opaloid shapes very well in his schooling tasks over hurdles and looks like being useful at the game: Rosullus has shown great promise in her efforts over the small sticks at Ellerslie. RACING IN NEW ZEALAND ASHBURTON RACES. First Day—Friday, May 18. The Ashburton meeting opened in fin© weather, and there was a fairly good attendance for an off day. The track was in good order, but a shade soft, although improving during the afternoon. The card provided some interesting racing and some close finishes. Palestrina had the jirincipal event won at the home turn, but had to be kept moving to stall off Ardour at the finish. Early pacemakers in Boadicea and Mantua both faded out on reaching the straight, but Warhaven and Castellan both ran fairly well, but the former requires a vigorous rider. Vv T i!l Oakland was a strong order for the Grove Farm Handicap, but faded out in the lust 50 yards. He might have shaped better with a more experienced pilot. Kilbarry cam© with a fast run, and Tatau Tatau made up a lot of ground after getting cut out at the start. Solferymple broke his back whilst running in the Hack Welter, and was destroyed. During the day £13,511 10s went through the totalisator, as against £14,121 10s last year. Results: FIRST HURDLE HANDICAP, Of loOsovs. On© mile and three quarters. I—II.1 —11. Ensor’s Cerebus, by Menschikoff —• . Malevolence, 12.1 (W. Scobie) .. .. 1 7—Keeper’s Apex, 9.0 (P. O’Connor) .. 2 4 Quill’s Mandrake, 9.11 [C. Rask) ~ 3 Also started: 8 Paddington Green 10.13, 5 Lord Nagar 10.11, 2 Mnnawapango 10.9, 10 Roniform 9.3, 3 Trcvella 9.0, 9 Telemon 9.0, G Woodrow 9.0. Roniform led over the first hurdle, but gave way to Apex, who opened up a big lead from Woodrow and Cerebus going along the back, where Lord Nagar was several lengths away, in fourth place. Cerebus got to Apex before reaching the last hurdle, and coming on won by two lengths from Apex, who beat Mandrake by a short length. Trevel’a, Telemon, and Woodrow were next. Time, 3min 20 2-ssec. HACK WELTER HANDICAP, Of ISOsovs. Six furlongs. 1— Clarkson and Pearson’s Red Wink, by Winkle--Ada Meriing, 8.4 (Emerson) 1 2 Doyle’s Brown Willie, 8.10 (E. Lowe) 2 3 Smith’s Agnola, 8.9 (Humphries) .. 3 Also started: 5 Blazes car. 8.2, 4 Courcelette car 8.6, 6 Solferymple car 7 8, 8 Swindasa 8.2, 7 Harlequin car. 8.2. Brown Willie and Courcelette took up the running and led Agnola to the straight. Inside the distance Red Wink came through on the rails and beat Brown Willi© by a length. Agnola was two lengths away, third. Blazes and Courcelette were next. Time, lmin ITsec. AUTUMN HANDICAP, Of 280sovs. On© mile. 3 —G. Gould’s Palestrina, by Clarenoeux —Judith, 8.12 (G. Young) 1 5 Grigg’s Ardour, car. 6.10 (A. Rowlands) 2 G—Kilkelly’a Warhaven, car. .6.10 (P. Powell) 3

Also started: 1 Boadicea B.G, 7 Some Kid 5.5, 4 Castellan car. 7.1, 2 Mantua 7.3, 3 Prince Ferouz car. 7.2 Boadicea, Mantua, and Some Kid were the first to show out and led a close field along the back, with Palestrina and Ardour last. Palestrina moved up, and leading into the straight, came on to win by a good length from Ardour, wiio beat Warhaven by three lengths. Castellan was two lengths off, fourth, with Boadicea next. Time, lmin 41 2-sscc. LAGMHOR PLATE, Of ISOsovs. Five furlongs. I—Ellis and Stark’s Finora, by Finland —■ Nebeile, 7.3 (E. Youngman) .. .. 1 4—Parson’s Swallow flight, car, 8.0 (E. Shaw) 2 G —Hemps talk and Duxbury’s Kilbirnie, - 7.11 (Coventry) 3 Also started: 8 Saratov 5.2, 7 Goldpiece 8.2, 5 Hillock 8.2, 2 Gold Spinner 7.12, 3 Zargoza 7.3. Zargoza jumped out in front of Finora, but the latter came away, and although seopping won by three lengths from Swallowflight, who beat Kilbirnie by three lengths. Sara’ tov was fourth, just beating Hillock. Tim©, lmin 3sec. FAIRFIELD WELTER HANDICAP, Of 175sovs. Seven furlongs. 4 A. G. Hill’s Etta, Martian —Linda, ear. 8.1 (H. Anderton) i I—Han'on’e Fabrinade, car. 8.4 (S. Hall) 2 5 Aliddieton’s First Aid, ear. 7.12 (A. Hare) 3 Also started: 2 Bon Spec 10.8, 7 Wharfedale 9.6, 9 Falstalf 8.11, 3 Grim Joke 8.11, 8 Counter Attack .8.6, 10 Kikini 8.5, 6 Osterman car. 7.8£. and Bon Spec led out from Kikini, and then the first-named went on from Bon Spec. Etta ran into second place before reaching the straight, and wearing down Fabrinade, won by a length and a-half. 1 list Aid was a length away. Osterman was a close fourth, with Kikini next Time, limn SOsec. SELMA TROT HANDICAP. One mile and a-half. * Jack and Stewart’s Prince Pointer, hy Logan Pointer, scr (D. Wilson) .... 1 I—Dane s Transport, 36 (G. Reed) .. .. 2 “ Russell s Quiver, 72, inc. 48yds penalty (Kennerley) 3 Also started: 15 Hackthorne scr, 14 Verey Doir - s £ r > 6 dancer scr, 13 Winnie Dillon in \r° ri 01 Ura? n scr ’ 7 Jimmy Chimes scr, 10 Mrytle Wilkes scr, 11 Medallion Boy scr. B-v Bilo 8 i l o T?’ ? Queen’s Ferry scr, 16 Keiburn K Kiar.te scr, 9 Irish Whispers 48 Bon Ton failed to go. Prince Pointer took Mvrl 1 w U rT lnS K'° m Jimm y Chimes and Prince P - k , es - - As they left the straight by six YenYllY d r w and finally won Ouivm h f , fl °T, Transport, who beat LoHc we K T nS / t,S :, Minnie D'Hon and were easing !ead of . tlle others, who 34 2-Ssec a oi mes: 3mm 36 2-Ssec, 3min 0± a-o sec, 3mm 32 2-ssec DONG BEACH HANDICAP, , r , Ot loOsovs. Six furlongs i.S“B! b ' ‘ CCvTSr)’ “'c- 1 s . 6 Delargey’s Kilfane, ear. 7.7 (e 7 Shaw) 3 713 S< 9 Gav f' 8 GoSsard 89 > 3 Barmaid 7 3 5fW JjUC Cal '- 7 ' 7 > 7 Pickaninny car. 7.3, a Guncnse ear. 7.7, 2 Monsieur Bontade Mon si ©ur n ! Cd , ° Ut from Distant Shot, and Monsieur Bontade was slow to move Wink joined the leaders at the turn, and coming Shot ° n ! by Y and adialf from Distant a short n fast - fi nislnng Kilfane by were close ' t a,ld Pickaninny weie Close up. Time, lmin 15 2-ssec °d°ve farm handicap P f ISOsovs. Six furlongs. ‘f IT- T. Smith’s Mythology, by Vice Admiral Fairy Benzie, "car. 7.6 6 Hill's Kilbarry, 6 8 (O VoiMii) J 1 Hall's Will Oakland, car a'fl " " 2 Th'T 88 ta 3 te fi 2 l> Lovesi J»' 8 Lovesign and The Reaver were the first out, and Papina n was left. Tatau Tatau on the rails was cue out in the first few sHides Lovesign and The Reaver were joined by WUI Oakland 1 w “. d • M - v , tholo §? the turn'. 7 char §" e m the straight, a lYYf+u 1 U ° y i? l u slllns ’ on best won oy liaif W I M Kilbariy, who got up and beat Will Oakland by. a head. The R© a v»r and Lovesign were close up. Time, luifn lfcec Second Day—Saturday, May 39 fiJ h Y.±h bl!rt ° n , T, eeling "' as concluded in side-id and u the att cndance was conT “tr .Yt thari °, n the previous dav. si ill YYil ‘ a< improved, but the going was ! he sof t sulo. Clean Sweep was nYS'l 1 ' f °, r the opposition in the Hurdles but'fm- K eX niight have been a lot closer but foi_ losing several lengths at the start laJestnna was elected a pronounced favouri e lor the Cup. bur Ardour beat her well Alter losing a good position held early in the race and afterwards making up" her ground on the outside of the field. Ardour would have been unlucky to lose. Prosperity (tot a bad start in the Juvenile Handicap in which Wink confirmed her form of the previous day. A promising two-vear-old m Morning Clow won the light "harness o\en. ami will no doubt become the fancy for the Sapling Stakes. Bon Spec, who shaped badly on the previous day. created a surprise bv beating Will Oakland in the Wakaniu Handicap. The field spread quicklv in the first few strides, and it appeared as if crowding spoilt the chances of some of the horses getting a clear run On both days of the meeting' Mr P. D. M‘Nab had his fields in good line when the bari iei was released, and lhe riders seem io have complete confidence (hat he will not effect surprise starts, but that he will give everyone a fair chance. The meeting, taken <‘ul round, was onp of the I>est ever hc*ld oil (he course. During the dav £15.348 went through the totalisator as against £15.954 hist year. The total for the meeting was £28.889 10s. as against £30.683 10s far last season’s meeting. Results: ■SECOND HURDLE HANDICAP. Of 150sovs. One and a-half miles. I—Messrs1 —Messrs Clarkson and Pearson’s Clean Sweep, by Advance—While Shield 10.8 (T. T, Refill 1 4—Mr Mountenay’s Mandrake 9 12 (C. Rask) 2 7 Mr Ensor’s Master Hand. 9 0 (A. C. Campbell) 3 Also started : 6 Paddington Green 10.11. 3 Red Gown 10 9 5 Munawnponga 10.6. 2 Apex 9 6. 8 Roniform ear. 9.8. Apex lost several lengths. Manawoponga led Glean Sweep and Paddington Green out of the straight, and along the back. Apex moved into third place behind Mnngawaponga and Clean Sweep, turning for home, when Mandrake put in a claim. Mandrake joined Clean Sweep in the lead, but in Hie run home Hie latter won by two lengths. Master Hand was four lengths away with Manawa-

I ponga and Roniform next. Time, 2min | 51 2-ssen. SECOND HACK WELTER HANDICAP, Of 150.-ovs. Five furlongs. 2Mr T. Russell’s Dancing Days, by Markhope—Princess Mosca. 9.9 (J. M'Chesney) 1 I—Sir G. Clifford’s Distant Shot:, 8.3 (11. Young) 2 4Mr Smith’s Agnola, 8.9 (Humphries) 3 .Also started : 5 Gossard 9.9. 3 Brown Willie 8.13, 7 Goldspinner 8.2, 6 Oricot car. 7.8, 11 Marauder 7.9. 8 Marmont 7.7, 9 Saratov ear. 7.0, 10 Gold Piece 7.7. Brown Willie was first to show out, but Dancing Days soon took charge and led Distant Shot to the straight. In the run homo Dancing Days stalled off Distant Shot and won by a short neck. Agnola was nearly two lengths away, with Gossard and Brown Willie close up. Time, lmin 3 2-ssec. ASHBURTON CUP HANDICAP, Of 315sovs. One mile and a-quarter. 3Mr J. Grigg’3 Ardour, by Gay Lad —- Mettle. 6.12 (O. Voightj 1 I—Mr Gould’s Palestrina, 9.6 (H. Young) 2 5 -Mr Roberts’s Castellan, 7.6 (11. Burns) 3 Also started : 4 Boadicea 8.4, 7 Some Kid 8.2, 2 Urgency 7.11, 6 Warhaven 6.13. 8 Harlequin car. 7.6. Warhaven, Boadicea, and Ardour led Castellan and Some Kid as they ran towards the mile post. Warhaven and Boadicea showed the way to a close field along the back where Ardour was sent back lo third last just in front of Palestrina and Harlequin. Rounding for home Urgency moved up and joined the leaders and Ardour and Palestrina were improving their positions. Urgency, Warhaven, and Ardour led into the straight from Gas tel lan. 11l lhe run home Ardour came on and won by two lengths from Palestrina, who beat Castellan by a short length. Urgency and Warhaven were next. Time. 2min 9 4

JUVENILE HANDICAP, Of 175sovs. Six furlongs. 1— Mr G. Gould's Wink, by Winkie —Judith, 9.7 (G. Young) 1 4 Messrs Clarkson and Pearson’s Red Wink, 8.8 (Emmerson) 2 2 Messrs Elliot and Stark’s Finora, 8.4 (11. Young) 3 Also started: 3 Prosperity 9.9, 5 Kilbirnie car. 6.8, 6 Bebeform car. 5.7. Finora soon took charge, and with Prosperity, Wink, and Red Wink close up, led to the straight. Wink took charge in the straight, and, following on, won by a length from Red Wink, who wore down Finora and beat her by two lengths. Kilbirnie and Prosperity were next. Time, lmin 16 2-sseo. WINCH MORE WELTER HANDICAP, Of 125 soys. Seven furlongs. I—Mr A. G. Hill’s Kilbarry, by Kilbroney —Nithsevo, car. 7.3 (H. Anderton) 1 5Mr M’Connor’s Prince Ferouz, 8.10 (Humphries) 2 6 -Ur Hogan’s Osterman, car. 7.7 (Peart) 3 Also started: 2 Fabrinade 8.12. 3 Hineamaru 8.10. 4 Grim Joke 8.7. 8 Falstaff 8.4, 7 Counter Attack 7.12, 9 Hillock 7.10. Hineamaru caused a lot of trouble and was finally left at (he post. Fabrinade and Counter Attack took up the running,

and led Kilbarry into the. straight. Kilbarry then took charge and won nicely by a length and a-half from Prince Ferouz. who beat Osterman bv a head. Counter Attack, Grim Joke, and Fabrinade were close up. Time, lmin 30sec. MELROSE TROT HANDICAP, Of 150sovs. One mile. 9—Mr T. H. Ivey’s Morning Glow, by Our Thorpe—Dusky Morn, 2yrs scr (J. N. Clarke) 1 3Mr O’Connell’s Lauriston, 12 (D. M'Kendry) 2 5 —Mr Sing’s Myrtle Wilkes, scr (W. Robertson) 3 Also started: 12 Hackthorne scr, 11 \erey Light scr, 10 Dancer scr. 1 Hold On scr, 4 Jimmy Chimes scr. 13 Medallion Boy scr, 7 Glaucus scr. 2 Royal Locanda scr, 8 Herd Laddie 24. 6 Irish Whisper 48. Myrtle Wilkes led for about two furlongs and then Morning Glow went away and won easing up by six lengths from Lauriston, who beat Myrtle Wilkes by three lengths. Jimmy Chimes, Royal Locanda, and Hackthorne were next. Time, 2min 26see. MORETON HACK HANDICAP, Of 150sovs. Seven furlongs. s—Mr5 —Mr R. C. Gillies’s Pickaninny, by Solferino —Canterbury Belle, 7.7 (L. G. Keeper) 1 2 —Mr Murphy’s Cuncase, car. 7.13 (A. J. Peart) 2 4Mr Roberts’s Monsieur Bontade, car. 6.8 (R. Coveney) 3 Also started: 3 First Aid car. 8.7. 1 Kilfane 7.13, 6 Barmaid 7.8, 7 Ivilbrin car. 7.2J,-. Pickaninny ran to the front and led Kilbrin and Guncase. Along the back .Monsieur Bontade moved up," but got sent back Pickaninny led into the straight and won by a length and a-half from Guncase, who beat Monsieur Boutade by a neck. Barmaid was fourth and First Aid next. Time lmin 30 l-ssec. WAKANUI HANDICAP, Of ISOsovs. S;x furlongs. 5Mr J. H. Prosser’s Bon Spec, by Boniform —Signal, 9.3 (E. Lowe) ... 1 I—Mr1 —Mr Hall’s Will Oakland, 9.3 (G. Young) 2 6Mr M‘Connor’s Paphian, car. 6.12 (H. Burns) 3 Also started: 3 Tatau Tatau 8.5, 2 Mantua car. 8.0. 7 Counter Attack car. 6.13, 8 Thestius 6.7. 9 Weary Willie 6.7. 4 The Reaver car. line, but quickly straggled, Tatau Tatau being last to get going. Mantua was slow on her legs. Bon Spec led at the start, but gave way to Paphian. who led Bon Spec and Will Oakland to the straight. Bon Spec drew up and won by a length and a-half from Will Oakland, who beat Panhian by half a lenglh. Counter Attack and Weary Willie were next. Time, lmin losee. WANGANUI RACES. First Day—Thursday, May 17. The Wanganui Jockey Chib's winter meeting was commenced in fine weather. There was a large attendance, and Hip tracks wore I slightly holding. The totalisator handled £28,925, against £27,987 on the first day of last vear. Results: PURUA HACK HANDICAP. Six furlongs.—Veil, 8.2 tMit-chell), 1; Sunny \ ale, 7.13, 2; Tinohari. 7,7. 3. Also started: Alabama 8.13, Lady Glissas 8.8, Silver San 8.3, Ben Nevis 8.3, Country Life 8.2, Bourina 7.9, Tile Emperor 7.7, Half Red 7.4, Ribbonwork 7.3, Pironette 7.2, Merry Ann 7.0, Che-sforte 7.0, Dodo 7.0. Won by two lengths, a neck between second and third. Time, lmin 16 3-Sseo.

HACK STEEPLECHASE. Two miles.— Hanoi, 9.0 (E. Ccpestake), 1; Paul Moore, 10.12, 2; Ringi, 9.13, 3. Also ran: Te Ma.ire 10.10, San Forte 9.6, Toddy 9.0, Naughty 9.0 (fell). Won by four lengths, three-quarters of a length between second and third. Time, 4min 20sec. WANGANUI STEEPLECHASE. About three miles. Tigerland, 10.7 (M'Sweeney) .... 1 Whipcord, 10.2 2 First Line, 10.9 3 Also ran: Oakleigh 11.13, Explorer 11.12 (pulled up), Powder King 9.9, Silent Dick 9.2, Polthogue 9.0 (fell). Powder King led until the last half-mile, when he was displaced by Silent Dick, who in turn gave way at the three-furlong post to Tigerland, who finished well, and won a fine race l)3 r two lengths from Whipcord, with First Line two lengths away. Time, Grnin 11 l-ssec. KAITOKE HACK HUBDLES. One mile and a-half. —Militaire, 10.3 \H. M‘Sweenev), 1; Gold Star, 10.1. 2; Savory, 9.0, 3. Also started: White Ranger 10.7, \\ arrawee 10.2, Tempo 9.11, Mountain Peer 9.9, Lady Hill Q. 7, Sil(a 9.7, The Curragh 9.6, First Born 9.2, Noble 9.0, Hnsker 9.0, Nukum-oi 9.0, Gaiety Girl 9.0, Empyrean 9.0, Complimentary 9.0, Tarquin 9.0. Won by one and a-half lengths, five lengths between second and third. Time, 2min 48sec. CENTURY HURDLES. Two miles and a-quarter.—Tinokaka, 9.7 (Ayres), 1; En Route, 9.4, 2; Gladful. 11.12, 3. Also ran: Vagabond 10.0, Omahu 10.12, Kohu 10.6, Black Art 10.6, Mangawai 9.0, Sling Camp 9.0. Tinokaka led all the way, and won by three lengths, six lengths between second and third. Time, 4min 22sec. CONNOLLY HANDICAP. One mile and a-qnarter.—Rouen, 9.4 (C. Reed), 1; Bonetter, 2; Quest, 8.5, 3. Also ran: Kinsem 9.1, Tamo Fox 8.12, Trespass 8.8, Boomerday 8.8, Correspondent 8.6, Zircon 7.8, Lockson 7.0, Kaotane 6.12, Helen Rufus 6.9, Megan 6.7. Rcuen took charge at the distance, and beat Bonnetter by three-quarters of a length. Quest was a length away third. Time, 2min 13sec. BOROUGH HANDICAP. Six furlongs Pouma, 6.7 (H. K. Alexander), 1; Golden Bubble, 9.0, 2; Martian Miss, 8.6, 3. Also ran: Listowcl 8.12. Sir Burnett 8.6, Amber Tips 8.4, Triboulet 8.1, Demos 7.13, Big Push 7.10, Fleeting 7.9, Petunia 7.5, Lady Ilotiripo 7.5, Leithfield 6.12, Roman 6.11. Won by a length, the same distance between second and third. Time, lmin 15 l-ssec. Second Day—Saturday, May 19. The sky was overcast for the concluding day of the Wanganui Jockey Club’s winter meeting. Light rain fell during the afternoon and the going was a bit holding. The attendance was big, a,nd the totalisator to-day amounted to £33.716, against £33.503 for the second day last year. The total for the meeting was £62.101, against £60,898 last year. Results : Ealgownie Hack Handicap, lm and a distance.—Silver San 8.1 (C. Reed) 1, Kaotane 9.0 2, Megan 8.0 3. Also started: Birkenella 8.8, Sunny Vale 8.3, Country Life 8.1, Left 8.7, Pirouette 7.0, Ribbonwork 7.0, Chesforte 7.0, Flying Planet 7.0. Won by one and a-half lengths, a similar distance between second and third. Rata Hack Hurdles, about l|m. —Militaire (H. M'Sweeney) 11.3 1, The Curragh 9.3 2, Nukumai 9.0 3. Also started: Tempo 9.9, Lady Hill 9.5, Savoury 9.2, First Born 7.0, Husker 9.0, .Naughty 9.0, Complimentary 9.0. Empyrean 9.0. Tempo lost his rider. Won by two lengths, six lengths between second and third. Time, 2min 50 3-ssec. May Hurdles, about lfm. —En Route (H. M'Sweeney) 9.13 1, Vagabond 10.8 2, Mervolio 9.3 3. Also started: Gladf ul 11.10 bracketed with Vagabond, Ready 10.0. Complex 9.7, Gold Star 9.5, "White Ranger 7.13, Banogue 9.0. Won by three lengths, a long neck between second and third. Time, 3min 21 2-ssec. GRANDSTAND STEEPLECHASE. About 2j miles. Ranui (A. Tricklebank), 9.2 1 First Line, 10.10 2 Te Maire, 9.0 3 Also started: Oakleigh 11.11, Whipcord 10.10, Silent Dick 9.2. The winner led all the way, and won by four lengths, five lengths between second and third. Time. smin 8 1-5-ee. Empire Handicap, lm and a distance. — Rouen (C. Reed) 9.0 1, Zircon 7.8 2. Kareao 8.0 3. Also started: Kinsem 9.0, Tame Fox 8.10. Quest 8.9, Bocmeday 8.6, Correspondent 8.5, Demos 7.12, Amber Tips 7.6, Crucelle 7.5, Lochson 6.12, Lady Kotiripo 6.9, Roman 6.9. Won by a long neck, a length between second and third Time, 2min 0 3-ssec. Farewell Hack Flat Handicap, of 6f. — Doleful Ditty (11. Alexander) 7.0 1, Tinohari 7.8 2, Alabama 8.10 3. Also started: Veil 8.13, Lady Glissas 8.6, Ben Nevis 8.0, Bonrina 7.7, Regard 7.6. The Emperor 7.5, Half Red 7.4, Merry Ann 7.0, Bravato 7.0, Dodo 7.0. Won by a long neck, threequarters of a length between second and third. Time, lmin 17 4-ssec. Winter Oats, 6f. —Leithfield (L. A. Pine) 6.7 1, Sir Burnett 8.1 2, Island 7.6 3. Also started: Golden Bubble 9.2, List-owel 8.9, Martian Miss 8.6. Triboulet 7.11, Pouma 7.9, Big Push 7.4. Petunia 6.7. Won by one and a-haif lengths, half a length between second and third. Time, lmin 17 3-ssec. RACING IN AUSTRALIA. MELBOURNE, May 16. There are 68 entries for the Grand National Hurdles, including Chysostom, All Aboard, and Beltane. The 61 entries for the Grand National Steeplechase include Fjolru, The Spook, and British Arch. SYDNEY, May 19. The Jockey Club May Stakes resulted as follows:- —Penny Bout 1, King of the Forest 2, Punch 3. Won by a length. Time, 2min 34)sec. RACING IN ENGLAND. LONDON, May 16. The Newmarket Stakes, of 2380sovs, one ■mile and a-quarter, resulted: —Top Gallant 1, Terecina 2, Twelve Pointer 3. Top Gallant was ridden by Bullock, Teresina by Julme, and Twelve Pointer by Carslake. Won by one and a-half lengths, the same distance between second and third. WEICHTS, ACCEPTANCES, ETC. OAMARU HANDICAPS. Empire Hurdles, of 150sovs. One mile and a-half General Petain 12.8, Mazama 12.7, Lord Nagar 10.9, Silk Rein 10.3, Samum 9.13, Grange 9.3, Mandrake 9.8

Killowen 9.3, Ruddy Gold 9.0, Wild Pilgrim 9.0, Mirza 9.0, Apex 3.0, Bonifoim 9.0, Woodrow 9.0, Telemon 9.0, Silk Ribbon 9.0. Redcastle Welter, of 125sovs. J3ix furlongs. —Dancing Days 10.6, Red V> ink 8.13, Linmark 8.12, Hillock 8.12, Brown Willie 8.12, Agnola 8.11, Guncase 8.11, Markby 8.11, Rigs o’ Barley 8.10, Happy Warrior 8.6, -Staff Officer 8.5, Blazes 8.0, Bloom 8.0, Monsieur Boutade 8.0, Gcranial 8.0, Marauder 8.0, Marconigram 8.0. Oaniavu Cup. c-f 275sovs. One mile.— Sunny Loch 9.3, Clean Sweep 8.11, Angelo 8.9, Mythology 8.5, Ardour 7.13, Mantua 7.12, Lady Blissful 7.11, Rorke’s Drift 7.7. Bosker Boy 7.2, Prince Ferouz 7.1, Grim Joke 6.13, Twinkle 6.8, Marching Orders 6.7, Soldier's Pride 6.7, Kikini 6.7, Counter Attack 6.7, Almoner 0.7, Pickaninny 6.7, Kilbrin 6.7.

Moeraki Welter, of 160sovs. Seven furlongs.—Vice Royal 9.5, Etta 9.3, Wiharfdale 8.13, Kiibarry 8.12, Prince Ferouz 8.11, Fabrinu.de 8.9, Hineamaru 8.8, Carmine 8.5, Gnm Joke 8.3, Twinkle 7.13, Marching Order 7.11, Soldier’s Pride 7.9, Kikini 7.9, Counter Attack 7.9, Miss Camouflage 7.9. Osterman 7.9, Bonny Mac 7.9, Ruena 7.7, Lord Nagar 7.7, Silk Ribbon 7.7. V 7 aikaura Handicap, of 120sovs. Six furlongs.—Dancing Days 10.1, Linhope 9.1, Royal Admiral 8.11, Kilfane 8.6, Markoy 8.5, Guncase 8.5, Happy Warrior S.O, Gold Spinner 8.0, Solero 7.13, Sunlit 7.8. Martial Dance 7.7, Monsieur Boutade 7.7. Brown Lady 7.7. Marmont 7.7, Kilbrin 7.7._ Stewards’ Handicap, of 163sovs. Six furlongs.—Bon Spec 9.9, Bonnie Wjnkie 9.8, Sunny Loch 9.7, Will Oakland 9.5, Mythology'9.2, Etta 7.13, Fabrinade 7.9, Prosperity 7.8, Bosker Boy 7.7, Kiibarry 7.5, Paphian 7.3, Kikini 6.9. Counter Attack 6.8, Thestius 6.7, Weary W illie 6.7. A UCKLAN D WEIG TITS. Jervois Handicap, of 500sovs. Seven furlongs.—Gluement 9.9, Musketoon 9.7, Black Cruiser 9.5, Tireless, Lady Glissas, I eter Maxwell, Prettyman, Kilwana, Kahikatea, Kilbird,’Sans Gene, Soulterina S ; 3, Sunny Vale, iigerland 9.2, Tintorello, Knightson, Pink Rose. Midget, Ben Nevis, Rata 8.11, Daddy’s Girl 8.10, Merry Prince, Arizona Maid, Doleful Ditty, Nocturne 8.9, Otapawa 8.8, Irene Bruce, Just Quietly, Dempsey, Pebble 11, Peter Rosa 8.4, Mangawhero, John Dix, Lady Patience, Master Mick, Navana, Arch Laddie, Haligan, King Pellicule, Tinopono 8.2, Vaccination, Semper Idem, King Neva 8.1, Steel Bar, Auriferous, King Multifid, Gold Dust, Senlac, daphne Bruce, Farndon, Waiwhakaata, May Comet filly, Electrode, Karamu, Lady Rouge. Larrikin, Dancing Doll, Te Hewi, xrish Jig, Luculia, Mafioso, Ben El Abd, Penitent lary, Finlay, Pirouette, Potonui, Praiseworthy, Proxyform, Rarangi, Star Love, Mount Eden, Silent Knight, Lady Frederick, Bright Gift 8.0. Members’ Handicap, of 600sovs. Six furlongs.—Pavo 11.2, Golden Bubble 10.2, Cool Stimulant, Tamaroa, Sir Burnett S.B, Lady Ridicule 9.7, Prince Abbey, Tactful 9.3, Triboulet 8.12, Amiform 8.10, Sunny Jim 8.7, Some Fashion 8.6, Strategy 8.5, A iyella, Refinement, Whitianga 8.1, Emerald Hill, Queens Up, Jolly Princess, Sheffield, Master O’Rorke, Lady Prince Rufus, Bonny Canny, Lady Frederick, Lady Lois. Ohinewairua, Pagoda, Penona, Tresor, Alabama 8.0. Penrose Hurdle Handicap, of 500sovs. One mile and three-quarters.— Ruddy, Opiate 10.6, Silver Stride, Prince Ilvttus, Torn Moore 10.4, Kereone 10.3, White Ranger, Banogue 10.0. Wish Wynne 9.11, Pentagrat. Tempo, The Curragh, First Line. Sir Wai, Mountain Peer 9.9, Flowing Bowl. Narrow Neck, Mstow, Scrap o’ Paper 9.5, Totara Jack 9.4, Savoy, Gay Bov 9.1, TJtaknra, Rosulaus, Firebine, Gaiety Girl, Husher. Master Mac, Ngatea, Oakland, Opaloid, Verity 9.0. Greenlane Steeplechase, of SOOsovs. About two miles and a-half.—Kohu, Hendra 11.5, Esplanade 10.6, Silverton, Fortlet, Vociferate. Paul Moore 10.5, No Bother. Passin’ Through 10.1, Grand Canyon 9.12, Black Night, Tempo 9.11. John Bunny, Toddy, Empyrean, Daloofil, Sister Olga 9.0. Hunt Club Hurdles, of SOOsovs. Two miles. —Cartoon 10.13. Daddy’s Girl 10.12. Young Thurnham. Capstan 10.10, Lady Bruce, Panchito 10.7, Te Kanara, Hokemai 10.5, Myall King 10.1. Sweet Flower 10.0, Lark Hill. Economic. Freshman, Gay Bobbie. Kuri Park, Kopaka, Koano, Leo. Abbey Arch, Opal. Master Bruce, Waikawa. Spalpeen gelding. Elysian gelding 9.5, Mio, Bolee, Pink Lady, Poppy mare 8.3, Salver, Miss Rosa 9.0. Re-handicaps. Great Northern Steeplechase.—Tigerland 101 b. Great Northern Hurdles. —Tinokaha 81b. CONTROL OF TROTTING. AUSTRALASIAN CONFERENCE SUGGESTION. CHRISTCHURCH, May 16. At a meeting of the Board of the New Zealand Trotting Association replies were received from controlling bodies of trotting in Australia in reply to the association's suggestion that a conference of representatives of Australian bodies and the New Zealand Association should be held in Sydney to consider the question of an interchange of horse.s between the various States of the commonwealth, and also between the commonwealth and the dominion, and other matters pertaining to the welfare of the sport of trotting. The South Australian Association and the Tasmanian Trotting Association wrote to the secretary of Victorian Association, and pointed out some difficulties in the wav of a conference. The president of the New South Wales Trotting Club stated that it had b ecu doing everything in its power, and nothing further could be done by a conference. In view of the illness of its secretary (Mr R. C. Hungerford), the committee could not entertain the question of convening a conference in Sydney. The members of the board were of opinion that it was very desirable that a conference should be held in Sydney, and about the end of September was suggested as a suitable date. It was agreed that the president should write to the president of the New South Wales Trotting Club on the matter. RACECOURSE interference. ATTEMPT TO INJURE HORSES. MELBOURNE, May 14. Dastardly attempts were made at the Mentcno Racecourse on Friday night to injure racehorses which were being exercised. Sleigh, on Mr Connolly’s Polytheist, set out before daylight on Saturday on a six-furlong sprint, but the horse soon ran into a hurdle. Investigation showed that three other hurdles had been placed across the

track, also a pair of turned-up harrows and oilier obstacles. Broken bottles, old tins, and miscellaneous debris were also found on the track. DUNEDIN JOCKEY CLUB. The monthly meeting of the Dunedin Jockey Club committee was held on Thursday afternoon, Mr L. C. Hazlett being in the chair. The Racing Conference wrote intimating that Messrs G. E. Curray ana A. W. Gordon would! attend the winter meeting as stipendiary stewards and Mr J. Torrance as racecourse inspector. Messrs A. C. Hanlon and P. Miller were appointed the club’s delegates to attend the Racing Conference. It was decided that the first race at the June meeting start at 11 a.m. and the last at 4 p.m., and that Messrs A. C. Hanlon, Jas. Smith, S. S. Myers, P. Miller, and Dr A. J. Hall be the Judicial Committee. THE HEW HAHDBGAPPER. A KEEK S'FORTSMAN. A U CKLAN D, May 14. The appointment of Mr N. B. Husk, of Te Kuiti, to the position of handicappcr for the Dunedin Jockey Club is regarded by King Country sportsmen as particularly gratifying. Mr Lusk a son of ilie late Major D. H. Lusk, and a brother of Mr R. B. Lusk, judge for the Auckland Racing Club. He has been identified with the turf for many years, and has bred and raced a number cf horses. He has always been a keen student of breeding and of racing form, and his principal hobby has been handicapping. For several years he has produced his own handicaps of the chief events contested in the dominion, and he has kept thoroughly abreast of the work of handicapping. An instance of the great interest in racing taken by Mr Lusk is afforded by the fact that he is responsible for the establishment of the Te Kuiti Racing Club’s course at Te Kami. In the early feverish rush for Government sections and Native-owned blocks the idea of local racing was thrust into the background. The old Maori racecourse was acquired for farming, and no other suitable area was available. When the racing enthusiasts -who had settled in the district began to look round for a suitable course the case seemed hopeless, but Mr Lusk unfolded the -only feasible scheme. The Te Kami Flat had been regarded with covetous eyes for many years by land seekers, but Whitinui, the owner, was an influential Native who would net part with the land on any consideration. Whitinui, however, was a sport and racing was a joy to him, so the task of acquiring the Te Kami Flat was made easy, and Mr Lusk had very little difficulty in leasing the property for racing purposes. He did so long before any aitempt was made to form a racing club, but when the effort was made he had the lease of the only suitable property in the district ready to offer to the club. The property was freely handed over to the club which subsequently, with the assistance of Mr Lusk and others, acquired the freehold.

Mr Lusk’s sporting activities have not been confined to racing. For a number cf years he represented Auckland in cricket and was a capable back in Rugby football. His football interests were kept verdant at Te Kuiti, where he was long recognised as a most capable referee in the game.