TROTTING.

Otago Witness, Issue 3830, 9 August 1927, Page 55

TROTTING.

FIXTURES. August 10, 12—N.Z.. Metropolitan T.C. October I—Wellington T.C. October 15. 19—Auckland T.C. December 27, 29, 31 —Auckland T.C. June 23, 27 —Auckland T.C. ANSWER TO CORRESPONDENT. “ Wager,” Dunedin.—E. M'Kewen won ' both the trotting events on the Wairio ] card in January of 1906. The win- 1 ning horses were Specify and Lady’ Rothschild. TRACK TALK. By Adonis. THE CONSISTENT CARDINAL. : Ten placed performances out of fifteen starts is the record of Cardinal Logan for the season just closed, and he proved equally at home under good and bad track conditions. At Addington in August he was second to Bell Harold over a mile and a-quarter, while at the November meeting he ran third over a mile and aquarter to Taurekareka and Holly Boy, and second over two miles to Kohara. In the latter race his time was 4.28 4-5, which was the best he registered during the year. Three of his winning efforts were at a mile and a-quarter, his best time for this distance being 2.44 1-5. which he stepped to win the Selwyn Handicap at the Canterbury Park Club’s summer meeting. His one success over two miles was in the Dominion Handicap at the Otahubu summer meeting, when he was handicapped to go 4.30, but actually went 4.29 1-5. In this race Sea Pearl, 60yds, was second; Locanda Mac, 36yds, third; and Talent, scr. fourth; the unplaced lot including Conelifi. Peter Bingen. Kohara. and Great Bingen, who were giving away 108yds. A TABOOED NUMBER. Among racegoers generally there is at best a leavening of superstition, and this manifests itself mainly in the form of an aversion to backing any horse that carries the number 13. 'Pile tongues of the superstitious would lie wagging after the running of the Approved Handicap at the New South Wales Trotting Club’s meeting at Epping racecourse recently, for of the 13 starters 10 fell in one of the most remarkable accidents seen on that, course. Entering the last lap, After Hours, who had a. slight lead from the favourite. Adoration, fell, and one after another the horses following came down in a jumbled mass of animals, broken sulkies, and drivers. At one stage it appeared as though there were two layers of horses, so quickly did they pile up. Three drivers, who were slightly cut and bruised, received medical attention. Adoration, who was on the outside of After Hours when the latter fell, was not interfered with, and went on to win the race. When she was passing the scene of the accident for the run home her supporters called for room, and the many spectators who had rushed to help tho fallen drivers and horses made a laneway, through which the favourite went. Regina Cole and Don Startle were in the rear bunch when the accident occurred, ami their drivers managed to steer them clear of the fallen horses, though their sulkies were bumped. They filled second and third places respectively. After Hours was the only horse injured. Tho veterinary surgeon to the club reported that he suffered a cut lip. a cut tongue, and slight wounds on the legs. The stewards held an inquiry into the accident. After hearing the evidence of 1 the drivers, they reported that the mishap was accidentally caused through After Hours crossing his front legs and falling. 1 the other horses being too close to prevent ! participation in the accident.

THE METROPOLITAN MEETING. The winter meeting of the Metropolitan Trotting Club, which was opened on Saturday, will be continued to-morrow, and again there is a prospect of fine racing spectacles being provided by good fields. With the first day’s running as a guide, backers will probably be more confident than they were on Saturday, but the winners appear to be well concealed. At time of writing the acceptances have not been received, and so much has to be taken for granted. In the Improvers’ Handicap Nourmahal looks nicely placed, and Cannonball may find it beyond him to give him an extra 24 yards. Bridget Galindo will be all the better for the race she had on Saturday, and may improve on her third; but many will probably prefer to follow Katute in the hope that she will trot up to best form. The order of favouritism may be Nourmahal, Bridget Galindo, and Katute. Author Jinks has been placed on a 2.11 mark in the Dash Handicap, but he won so nicely on Saturday after covering a lot of extra ground that he will be assured of heavy support. Mountain Chimes can be depended on to run his usual honest race, and he appears to hold most of those in front of him safe. Glandorc, Trimmer, Succession, and Final M'Kinney are on marks from which they are capable of winning, but the public may show a preference for Author Jinks, Firpo, and Mountain Chimes. The King George Handicap carries a 4.30 class, and if the track is in good order’the winner will probably chip something off his best time. Imprint’s fine race in the August Handicap made him many friends, and a win for the Nelson-owned pacer would be popular and looked upon as a reward for consistency. Tom Thumb seems a bit short of work to see out a race run at the clip that this one will be, while the same might be said of Concliff. There are some good ones on 36 yards, but they appear to be held safe by Imprint, who will probably be showing a shorter price than Talaro and Logan Chief. If Native Chief and Great Bingen start in the Speedway Handicap great interest will be centred in the race, but they will find it hard to catch some of those in front. St. Maura is a good beginner and always gets well placed just after the start, which is a great asset in a sprint. She looks better than anything in front or alongside of her. Ahuriri and Kohara constitute a strong hand from J. Bryce’s stable, and the one he elects to start will carry very little less than

Imprint .and St. Maura. Other horses likely to be favoured are Genuine, Great Actress, and Logan Park in the Belgium Handicap; Amaris, Hoon Hay, and Avenger in the Lincoln Handicap; Lee Todd, Frisco Beau, and Great Bell in the Avon Handicap; and Ariki, Peter Swift, and Fight Ever in the Canterbury Handicap.

• CUP CANDIDATES, The fact that n urinations for the New Zealand Cup are due on Thursday of next week gives added interest to this week’s meeting at Addington, since it represents the last opportunity for horses to step to, or be placed on, the 4.28 mark that entitles them to be nominated. Just at present 28 horses carry the stamp of eligibility, but two of them, Sheik and Pedro Pronto, have gone to Australia, while Nelson Derb. has taken up stud duties. There is, however, every prospect of a fine field being sent on its way for the Dominion’s richest stake, and a race worthy of the occasion should be witnessed. Following are the horses that are entitled to be nominated (“P” representing a placed performance, and “ W ” a winning performance):—

STAKES WELL SPREAD. t During the past season the number of races run was 736, and from a hasty tabulation a writer in the Dominion y has made, it would seem that only 56 y horses have won three races or more; ] 38 horses won three races each; 10 won j four races; seven won five races, and v only one (Great Bingen) eight races, s making a total of 197 races. Of the j remainder, 117 horses won two races s each, leaving 305 winners of one race apiece. Of the 10 horses that won four races each, three were four years of age, A two five years, three six years, and two i aged. In the five race group three were c five years, two six years, and two aged, r If the foregoing figures prove anything. 1 it is that one must think hard before 2 supporting a horse that has already placed f two wins to its credit, a little latitude j being allowed in the case of four or h'C-year'-olds. who have displayed marked signs of improving form. ‘ IN SADDLE AND SULKY. j i Talent will find favour in races over less i than two miles. 1 There were 736 trotting races run during ■ the season just ended. Nominations for' the New Zealand Trotting Cup are due on August 18. The Metropolitan meeting will be eontinned on Wednesday and concluded on ] Saturday. Applications for the position of secre- 1 tary to the Auckland J rotting Club will be received up to the 17th hist. Steel Bell, who won the Auckland Cup in 1914 and 1917. is to be sent on a visit to the Gisborne champion Peterwah. St. Maura is pacing well, but the end of a «oundly-run two-mile race finds her out. She looks like an early winner of a sprint. Logan King has not been pleasing his trainer, G. W. Dransfield, in his training, and the brother to Loganwood has been turned out for a spell. The dates approved by the conference for the Wellington Trotting Clubs meetings are October 1, January 14, and March 24. Each day is a Saturday. Glamlore was made favourite for the Electric Handicap on Saturday, but he did not move away to his handicap, lie was doing particularly good work prior to the meeting. Logan Park got away well in the Selwyn Handicap, and the others had a good view of him practically throughout. He paced a nice even race, and did not appear to be required to do his best. Man-o’-War, who was allowed to go out at a long price in the August Handicap on Saturday, raced very consistently at the Metropolitan winter meeting last season, running two seconds and a third in the big heats. Considering the short time he has been at the straight-out trotting game. Cannonball, winner of the Introductory Handicap, has shown considerable progress. He lost a stretch of ground through breaking, but picked it up again, and won well. Author Jinks won the mile saddle heat on Saturday easily, and could, if necessary, have clipped a bit off the 2.13 he recorded. He is the making of a real champion, and is genuine over any dista nee. i Imprint has been pacing fine races in his recent outings, but has been finding ; something just too good for him at the ; handicaps. He put in a groat run down ■ the straight in the August. Handicap, and : just failed to lead Audacious. ' Lee Todd was nicely placed halfway ’ through the final circuit in the Stewards’ ’ Handicap, where he was trotting second to Trampfast, but he struck himself and J went to a break. Ho was doing good work “ at Forbury Park before being taken north. ! A trotting track is to be laid down at Fremantle, and when this is raced on j. there will be 52 meetings held in the , metropolitan area. Trotting has no T brighter future in any other State than ■ it has in Western Australia. i I. Boe, the Mangere sportsman, had the s misfortune the other day to lose a pro--1 raising youngster by Aerial Bingen from

Steel Bell. The filly was 10 months old, exceptionally well-grown, and a natural pacer. Terence Dillon paced a good race for most of the two-niile journey in the August Handicap, but when asked to unwind a little extra speed near home he left his feet. The Author Dillon gelding is very well, and it will be no surprise if he gathers a stake before the meeting is over. Mountain Chimes paced up to his best form to finish behind Author Jinks on Saturday, and was showing a nice price to win. The Dunedin-owned gelding consistently steps close to his handicap, but lacks the touch of brilliancy that would place him right back among the good ones. Ono of the most remarkable horses 'n Western Australia is Alfred Donald, a son of Riblxmwood. He is 16 years old, but during the season just ended he won four races. Many of his get are being raced, and five sired by him wore successful during the season.' Wallace Mac is one of the regular workers at Forbury Park, and will probably be given a run at the Hunt Club meeting next month. The first time the big black gelding paces up to his track form he will record a win that is long overdue. Audacious has always (yjen credited with having a nice turn of speed, but unsoundness has frequently prevented him from producing it. He looked well when going out for the big race on Saturday, and put in great work over the last half-mile to win narrowly but we]]. The death is reported of the well-known West Australian owner and breeder, Mr George Hiscox, who had been in bad health for some considerable time. The late Mr Hiscox raced a number of horses, including the pacer Earl Derby, who won more than one good stake while in B, Jarden’s stable.

The New Zealand Cup is still a long way off, but even at this early stage there appears to be a fairly general consensus of opinion that Ahuriri will win again. He is doing a lot of steady work, and thriving on it. Down Gore way there is an enthusiast who is prepared to wager that Ahuriri will step 2.2 to the mile before the season is through. The leading trainer and reinsman in Western Australia during the past season was C. Clarke, his record being 22 wins, 16 seconds, and 22 thirds. Clarke is a young Englishman who arrived in Perth when he was only 14 years old. He spent some time in the pearling industry at Broome, but set up as a trainer in 1922, si ce when he has driven 59 winners.Alaggie Pronto, the Australian pacing -mare by Don Pronto—May Al’Gregor, who raced last season in Auckland on eight occcasions for one win, was made a warm favourite at the recent Victoria Park fixture in Sydney for the Flying Alile. She went a good race, but could only finish third behind Nikola and Alabama, the winner doing 2.141. All th. best trotters in the 1 and are engaged at Addington this week, included among them being the Lome Todd —Mantle gelding Aloney Spider. During last season he started on 2 r occasions, and won three times, was four times second, and four times third. One of his best efforts was when he ran second., to Peterwah in' the Dominion Trot at Addington in the spring. On that occasion he trotted, 4.32 3-5.

Although P. Piddle, according to general belief, went back to Australia to train gallopers, he made his reappearance at Epping recently in the sulky, 'de raced both Sheik and Happy Rosa. Happy Rosa, after failing to trot solidly, was beaten into second place. Sheik in his race started from 120yds behind, and just failed by a head to catch an outsider in Breakwood, who led practically all the way. The Ashburton trainer W. Meade, who went across to Perth to have a look at Gathered Gold, is quite convinced that she is a masquerader. " 1 have not the slightest doubt," he stated in evidence in Sydney, “ that the mare is Promenade. 1 looked after her, rode her, drove her for two years n New Zealand, and I know every antic of her and every characteristic. Before I gave an opinion, however, I rode her. Then I was satisfied she was Promenade.'’ Trainpfast. is not dependable at the start of his races, but once on the way he can trot a good clip. He was out m front threat furlongs from home in the Stewards’ Handicap, and nothing had a chance of heading him after that. In the St. Clair Handicap, at the Forbury Park winter meeting the Logan Pointer gelding recorded what was probably one of the easiest wins over seen on the’course, jogging home in front of Engagement and Money Spider. Dates for the coming season m Western Australia have been arranged, and there will be three meetings in August, three in September, and four in October. It is intended to increase the stakes, and directions have been given to the handicappers that the adjustments arc to be made on the basis of 12 yards to the second. Hitherto the distances between the horses in the handicaps have been five yards as a minimum. NF. B. Edwards has worked a groat improvement in the Cathedral Chimes Zara gelding Ariki during the past few months, and he showed rare gameness when being sent along to head Great Earl off in the Trial Handicap on Saturday. He can be ticked off to get 'inside the 4.35 he touched on this occasion. At the winter meeting of the Forbury Park Trotting Club Ariki finished second to Logan Hanlon in the Renown Handicap, after getting stopped twice during the running. With half a mile to go in the Queen Mary Handicap Fight Ever was travelling like a winner in third place, and when he paced to the front a little further on the race looked all over. He did not I finish well, however, and drifted back into fourth place before the post was reached. . The Australian gelding had been shaping well in his work prior to the meeting, and the race should help to put the winning polish on him. : The finish of the Queen Mary Handicap w»‘s a triumph for representatives of the sqaare-gaited brigade, Peter Swift and Money Spider having it to themselves. , The latter came with a great rattle at . the finish, and was travelling better than i anything else in the race at tha stage.

Both the winner and the runner-up learned how to throw their legs out at Forbury Park, the former at the hands of Mr T. Ritchie, who owned hint then, and the latter under the guidance of trainer W. Grant.

The American-bred winners of races :, i Western Australia during the season just ended were three of the stallions imported early in 192 b. They are Alaxegin, Peter Stretla, and Hervetawah. The last-men-tioned, who is a three-year-old, made his first appearance at a meeting last month, and won a race restricted to straight-out trotters. Peter Strctta is owned by the doctor who purchased the much-discussed Gathered Gold for 50gns. He had Gathered Gold served by Peter Stetta, but it is doubtful whether the mare is in foal. Trotting meetings in Tasmania are apparently not always conducted as they should be. and Attorney-general A. S. Ogilvie has called upon the secretary of the Tasmanian Trotting Club to furnish him with a report concerning allegations made with regard to the conduct, of the meeting held on July 16. and upon receipt of the report the Attorney-general will consider what action will be taken in view of what arc termed “ Ned Kelly ” tricks which wer e alleged to have taken place at the race meeting in question. There is a clamour for an inquiry into the conduct of meetings generally in Southern Tasmania. CANTERBURY DOINGS. By Observer. There has been plenty of stir on the Riccarton tracks during the past week, but as it has all had to do with the Grand National meeting, which will be in progress early this week, it is not a subject for much discussion now. Following on a rainy spell, the weather appears to be quite settled, and all the indicative point to the Grand National carnival proving very interesting this year. Pamplona's effort in the Homeby Steeplechase was a disappointment to his connections, and the Otago steeplechaser returned home without waiting for the Grand National meeting. It is probable that he has seen his best day. Hathor came here from Hawke's Bay with the reputation of being a great galloper. After her first sprint at Riccarton she was lame, but her trainer. T. F. Quinlivan. was in no way perturbed, the statement that this was quite

a usual occurrence. After her race at the Christchurch Hunt meeting, however, she was much worse, and as the trouble showed no sign of abating she was sent home.

Frenchman was unlucky in the Homeby Steeplechase. When Isla Bank fell Frenchman was behind him, and he jumped on to the fallen horse, with the result that he suffered some injuries. lie did little work for a day or two, but a gallop on Thursday showed that something serious was wrong. He was allowed to drop out of the Grand National Steeplechase, and he is a doubtful starter at the meeting.

The injury which Scamp suffered to a shoulder at Trentham was improving steadily after he arrived at Riccarton, and his otviier-trainer had hopes of getting him out for a race this week. He was schooled over the fences early last week, and the trouble reappeared, so no further time was wasted. He was given a dose of physic, and he will be spelled for six months, when he will be got ready for next winter. As he is only a young horse, he may yet take high honours as a steeplechaser.

Crown Coin fractured a leg in a fall while schooling earlj- last week, and it was found necessary to destroy him.. Thus ended the career of a useful hurdler, who had this season given promise of developing into a first-class steeplechaser. Sir George Clifford is suffering from a severe attack of bronchitis, and is an inmate of Lewisham Hospital. the death of Mr J. T. Buchanan, which occurred in England last week, removed a well-known Canterbury sportsman. He was the owner of Martian, 'who was destroyed last month, and he bred at the Kinloch stud many of the good horses r? a 'i e great sire his reputation. Air Buchanan was a-committee man and steward of the Canterbury J.C. as well as president of the Banks Peninsula Racing Club. He raced a few horses, winning the Great Easter Handicap with I* ireiron and Buccleuch, while he was successful with Tannhauser and Thrax, two of Martian’s early progeny. After a lapse of years he won the M'Lean Stakes wzi.h MrfvCorite. Last year Battlement won two race* for him in Sydney, where he has gone again, as a member of F. D. Jones’s team.

Warstep will probably be sent to the Elderslie Stud this season, to be mated with the imported horse Weathervane, son

J of Lemberg. The great Martian mare, who is the dam of Footfall, lias missed for several years, so that Mr Dalgety is particularly anxious about her. Starmist has finished her racing career. The daughter of Autumnus and Stardancer won several races, including the Oaks. -»Mr C. G. Dalgety has not decided on how she will be mated. The ' committee of the ’ Owners and Breeders’ Association, at a meeting last week, had a communication from the Forbury Park Trotting Club, asking for an opinion regarding a proposal to alter the date of the club’s spring meeting from November to October. It was unanimously decided that the proposed alteration of dates would be detrimental to the interests of the sport, owing to clashing with the Greymouth Trotting Club’s October meeting, which had been held at that period for many years, and also being too close to the November meeting of the Metropolitan Trotting Club at Addington. As there was a long spell without a meeting lor first-class horses after the, August meeting at Addington, it was suggested that the Forbury Park Club should race not later than the second week in October. The opening day of the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club provided some excellent racing. The finishes almost with- | out exception were very exciting, and it is a long time since there has been a day of such consistently keen contests on the Addington course. Cannonball was vesponsiblo for an exceptionally good performance in winning the Introductory Handicap. A break soon after the start cost him a lot of ground, but he gradually made it up and won comfortably. He commenced his career as a pacer, and for some time he was owned by E. C. M‘Dermott, who later parted with him, taking Hydaspes in exchange. He went into V. Alborn’s hands on the West Coast, and was converted to the trotting gait, with happy results. He only has to train on to take high honours as a trotter. , Tamerlane developed lameness while doing his preliminary for the Introductory Handicap, and permission was given to withdraw him, the investments being refunded. The North Inland trotter Native Star was the dark horse of the Introductory Handicap. She had been at Addington for nearly a week, but her only training had been slow jogging. Evidently her connections had confidence in her powers, as in a good field of improving trotters she was made second favourite. She was not prominent till the end of the race, when she put in a dash to finish fourth. Guy Parrish turned round when the signal was given to start in the Introductory Handicap. This was unfortunate, as the American stallion had been going well in his training. Real the Great went off at a gallop in the Introductory Handicap. She was some time in getting back to her gait, and the mistake settled her chance. Author Jinks only won the Electric Handicap by a narrow margin, but he had the result in safe keeping a long way from home. He did a lot of racing last season, and at the end he was very light from the effects of a campaign that was much too severe for a young horse. It was fortunate for the owners of other three-year-olds that he was not. in the classics last season. Provided he has suffered no ill effects from so many hard races, he wil take very high rank, as he is an exceptionally brilliant young pacer. The Dunedin-owned Mountain Chimes paced a solid race in the Electric Handicap. He is in the top class among mile saddle horses. The ex-Auekland pacer Glandqre was a strong favourite for the Electric Handicap, but he confirmed his reputation as an unreliable starter by breaking up and failing to go off. Two others who failed to begin were Double Event and Fashion Queen, who are notorious for misbehaving in this way. Rockaway went very fast for six furlongs in the mile saddle race, and then faded out of the picture. Audacious registered an attractive performance when he won the August Handicap, uid probably- qualified for the NewZealand Trotting Cup. He is owned and trained by O. E. Hooper, who has always held a high opinion of the horse. lie has paced some good races on the righthanded Auckland track, but this was easily his best effort at Addington. The Nelson-owned Imprint made his first appearance at Addington in the August Handicap, and he paced a great race. He had to cover a lot of ground, and he registered 4.25 3-s—a performance which convinced local racegoers that he is all he was said to be by those who had seen him racing elsewhere. The Auckland trainer J. Shaw stated on his arrival here that Jewel Pointer was short of work and needed some racing This was confirmed in the August Handicap, as he was beaten at the end of a mile and a-half. Later in the day he paced a sound race in the International Handicap, finishing fourth. He may do better later in the meeting. , Billy Sea was one of the early leaders m the August Handicap, but he broke and lost his position. When he hit his gait again he went very fast, but he could not sustain his effort. Machine Gun was well placed in the August Handicap, and looked a possibility half a mile from home, but the final pinch found him out. Tom Thumb will win another race before long. He only failed in the August Handicap in the last furlong. The brilliant sprinter Nelson Fame was prominent in the early stages of the August Handicap, but’ the solid pace found him out, and he was in trouble a long way from home. If Peterwah had kept to his gait he might have been near the leaders at the finish of the August Handicap. The champion trotter was doing his. work in rare style, and was in a good position when he made a bad mistake. He again worked his way forward, but met trouble leaving the straight, causing him to break. Terence Qil’on had every chance in the August Handicap. He was always one of the leaders, but after being in front ‘ till less than 50yds from the winning post he stopped quickly. His winnin- | turn should come soon. — Great Hope should be benefited by his race in the August Handicap. He pulled up sound, and he will be a greatly improved horse by Cup time. Talaro enhanced his reputation as a reliable pacer by his performance in the

August Handicap, and he will win before the season is far advanced.

Ariki, who won the Trial Handicap, is a four-year-old by Cathedral Chimes from Zara, by Wildwood Junior from Daphne Dillon, the dam of Pinevale and Young Blake. Like his sire he is a good stayer, and he will soon be in much higher company.

, Great Karl paced a good race in the Trial Handicap. The long striding pacer mixed his gait when leading in the straight, but M. Holmes handled him with great judgment, and he came on again in the last few strides, just getting second.

Wenlo’s performance in the Trial Handicap was a good one, its merit being enhanced by the fact that he was suffering from He was in front for a long way, and he can be marked off to win a race u little later.

Amaris paced solidly all through the Trial Handicap, and it was a good performance that landed him in third place. In a hard finish later in the day he contested the mile-and-a-quarter event, but after being prominent all the way he failed to show the necessary dash at the finish, the result being that again he had to be content with third place. Tranipfast made an exhibition of a field of useful trotters in the Stewards' Handicap. He is not reliable at the barrier, and this fault has spoilt good chances for him ou several occasions. In this race he went off well, and he was responsible for a fine performance. It is hard to say how good he is. Le Todd showed a lot of speed in the Stewards’ Handicap, but he was very tired at the finish, and was beaten into fourth place. The Queen Mary Handicap was a fine race all the way, the special feature being that two trotters, Peter Swift and Money Spider, headed off the pacers over the last bit. Both these horses had previously earned distinction in mixed company, Peter Swift winning the chief event at Ashburton in June. He was out of form for a long time, but he is again racing at his best. Money Sjider, who just failed to catch the winner in the run home, trotted a great race after meeting with a bit of trouble when threading his way through the big field. Marshal Neil had everything in his favour in the Queen Mary Handicap, as he was well placed all the way on the rails, but he just failed, the last 50yds being too much for him. Homer fell a furlong from the winning post in the Queen Mary Handicap, and her driver, E. C. M’Derniott, was lucky to escape with nothing worse than a sprained thumb and some bruises. The performance of Logan Park in winning the Selwyn Handicap was full of merit, and it did not com" out of turn. He was purchased by the Wellington owner, Mr R. A. Armstrong, at a good figure after racing at Forbury Park last January, and this was his second success since going into Tomkinson’s stable. He is unreliable at the barrier, but he went off well in this race, and never looked in serious danger of defeat. He is a brilliant customer, and if he can be cured of his habits at the start he will take high honours.

Loganwood ran his fastest race when he won the International Handicap. He is a very sound horse, and particularly brilliant. sprinting, being more in his line than staying, though he has won at two miles. Bonny Logan was responsible for an exceptionally brilliant effort in the International Handicap. She had none of the best of the running, and she had to go round the field. After a wonderful dash down the straight on the outside she just failed in the last few strides. This was not a surprise at such a hot pace, but it was an unlucky performance to go 2.7 4-5 and then have to be content with second place. The Australian pacer Condiff was backed very confidently for the International Handicap, carrying more than three times as much money as any other horse in the field. He paced a good race, doing 2.10 to get third. He did not show the brilliancy that was expected of him from the barrier, and this cost him the race. He was slightly lame after his preliminary, and this, coining on top of an interrupted preparation, prejudiced his chance. He pulled up all right, and if he trains on, the race should do him good. The Oainani mare Final M’Kiimey showed plenty of speed in the International Handicap, but she faded out a long way from home through lack of stamina.

A feature of the racing at Addington was that Logan Park was the only winner trained at headquarters. Of the other winners Cannonball is trained on the West Coast; Author Jinks. Audacious, and Trampfast. in Canterbury country districts; Ariki and Peter Swift on private tracks near Christchurch, and Loganwood at New Brighton. WELLINGTON NOTES. (Prom Our Own Correspondent.) August 5. The Wanganui Jockey Club has reduced the distance of the Eclipse Stakes, the first weight-for-age race of the season from a mile and a distance to seven furlongs. It may be an improvement if the race is run on the first day of the meeting to give the Guineas candidates a race. The Hunt Club’s meeting is the day between the Jockey Chib’s meeting. and the metropolitan club has put on a steeplechase on the seepnd day. Private cable advice was received that the Ulimaroa, that carried the horses, had a good run across and arrived ’2 hours before time. R. W. King arrived from Sydney on Tuesday, and went on south to see Aberfeldy race at the Grand National meeting. He returns to Sydney in about three weeks’ time. C. Emerson left for Sydney on Wednesday on a holiday trip. Trcntham stables will have about a dozen representatives at Riccarton next week. R. Reed is expected back from Sydney at the end of next month, in time to' ride at the Marton meeting. Although Degage did not fulfil her Winter Cup engagement rile is going on all right at headquarters, and may be seen cut at Wanganui. We are living in hopes of seeing Limerick out in the Champion Plate <-at the Welling-

ton spiing meeting. He will arrive here on luesclay, and the race is not run until the following Monday. Cabled advice has been received that 11. Cairns will ride Commendation in all his Sydney engagements. Probably also in the CaulGeld Cup if he is not claimed for some other horse. AUCKLAND TOPICS. By Diogeb. N. Cunningham arrived from Sydney on Tuesday with Nucleus and Whakarite. The latter secured place money on the trip, but lightened up as a result of his racing. He should not be long in freshening up again with a short period of easy work. 11. Wiggins intends to remain in Auckland, and returned from Sydney on Tuesday. It is possible that he may be riding at the National meeting, but at time of writing had no engagements. The Awhiti owner-trainer J. D. Kemp is handling a couple of two-year-olds by Paper Money. One is a colt from Jolie Fillo, and the other is a filly from Te Papapa. Archibald returned to Ellerslie last week after a holiday, during which he appears to have been well cared for. He is a picture of health, and should not take long to prepare for racing in the spring. J. Williamson was due to return to Auckland on Tuesday. All fowr horses that he took to Sydney are remaining in Australia. Claims and Solario have entered It. O'Donnell’s stable, The Thorn has been taken over by G. Price, and Pentagram remains in Stan Reed’s stable to be prepared for future jumping races in Melbourne. King Vai (Valkyrian—lnformative), Armenia (Lucullus —Miss Kolmar), and Dumblane (Catmint —Cultriform), arc three two-year-olds who have lately improved in condition. They are being looked after by H. Cowan during J. Williamson’s absence in Australia. W. Ryan has added the Valkyrian—• Lady Cuirassier gelding Valsier to his team. He is not a very robust looking fellow, but has not yet had much experience. A couple of failures last season were recorded against him. With the approach of the Pakuranga Hunt meeting matters are becoming more interesting at Ellerslie. Mr L. Prangley schooled Syndicate and Begorra over hurdles on Tuesday, and both jumped well. Syndicate is the more forward of the pair, the other being a newcomer by Spalpeen, who is a little burly to bo at his best at Pakuranga. Mrs F. D. M’Lever has claimed the name Patadown for her two-year-old gelding by Kilbroney—Bon Chic. He is progressing well under J. T. Jamieson’s direction at Papakura. Royal Lover, a filly by Romeo from Duchess Eudorus, has been racing unsuccessfully in Sydney, where she has been trained by G. Price. Her owner, Mr C. M. Emanuel, is bringing her back to Auckland next week. Royal Lover has fair speed, but is lacking in size.

A fair number of hunters were schooled at Ellerslie on Thursday. Glen Light and Eaton Town were companions over the big fences in the centre of the course. Eaton Town tried to run off and came to grief at the water, but otherwise jumped fairly well. Glen Light, who next season may make a good class ’chaser, fenced in his usual impressive style. Sea Comet, Rafferty, and Master Noel started off in a similar task. Master Noel scrambled over the sod wall and dislodged his rider at the double, the other pairgiving a clean exhibition. Sea Comet is not first-class, but his condition will carry him a long way in the maiden class at Pakuranga. Later in the morning Master Noel jumped hurdles without mistake. Blago, a novice hurdler in F. M'Cabe's stable, gave a fine display over hurdles with apprentice A. Driscoll in the saddle. He is a likely sort to win a minor event, but may need a little more experience. Simplicitas and Royal Bonus jumped a number of hurdles in a pleasing manner, but so far they have no pretensions to class. A hunter by General Lamont was also schooled, but "he failed to impress, and had several “ lives.” Fair Abbey, looking bright and well, is among the hunters in work at Ellerslie. He has many times failed when well fancied, but appears to be getting a little more solid. Many of the best handicap performers in Auckland have been nominated for the sprint race at Pakuranga, but as in past years they may not be forward enough to secure the honours. It will be a public outing for a number who are likely to contest the Avondale Cup. RACING IN NEW ZEALAND. METROPOLITAN TROTTING MEETING. First Day—Saturday, August 6. The August meeting of the Metropolitan Trotting Club was opened in tine but very cold weather. The track was in excellent order for the time of the year, and became fast- towards the end of the day. There was a large attendance, which had gradually increased after a comparatively small crowd had viewed the first couple of races. There was some very interesting racing and close finishes. E. C. M‘Dermott received a fall with Homer but he escaped with a shaking. The coupled pair, Terence Dillon and Dalnahinc, went out favourite for the August Handicap. The bracket carried about £3OO more than Tom Thumb, and then outside Machine Gun, Petcrwah, and Logan Chief anything was paying a big price. From a spectacular point of view it was a fine race to watch, as the field ran in close order all the way, but tho backmarkers had to cover a lot of ground to get near the front or else remain in the pack. Terence Dillon was always well placed, and looked all over a winner when he drew to the front shortly after turning into the straight. He was in charge 70 or 80 yards from home when he skipped and this cost him a good chance. Audacious stayed on well, and. fighting out a great finish, beat Imprint by a head. Talent was close up third, just in front o£ Terence Dillon. Imprint went a great race and had to cover a lot of ground te get near the front.

Author Jinks won comfortably and apparently with a good deal in hand. He also had to cover a good deal of ground on the outside of the field. Ingle Bingen broke, up when in the lead of the Stewards Handicap field, . which Trampfast beat comfortably. Le Todd went well for a mile and a-half, but struck himself and broke. Young Blake finished on well. Audo'be]] broke up several times. The two trotters. Peter Swift and Money Spider, beat all the pacers in the Queen Mary Handicap by staying on well. Money Spider went a great race, as he had to race nearly al] the way on the outside of the field. Logan Park secured an easy win, but there was very little between the placed Jot in the International Handicap, as they flashed past the post. Concliff looked a hit on the big side in condition, and should be improved by the race. Poring the day £37,058 went through the totalisator compared with £30,703 on the opening day of last year’s meeting. INTRODUCTORY - HANDICAP. Of JOOsovs. One mile and a-half. 3 — Mr V. Alborn’s ch g Cannonball, by Wildwood Junior—Madam Shaw, 4yrs, 12 yards behind (V. Alborn) 1 4 — Mr D. F. Dennchy’s Nourmahal, scr (E. C. M'Dcrmott) 2 5 — Mr F. J. Docherty’s Bridget Galindo, 24 fW. J. Tomkinson) 3 Also started: 16 Pieter Timmerman scr, 2 Native Star scr, 10 Lady Fan scr, 7 Nelson M’Kinney scr, 15 Wild Hebe 12 yards behind, 1 Katute 12, 6 Guy Parrish 24. 12 Some Jazz 24, 17 Tiny Moon 36. 4 The Toff 36. 8 Herbilwyn 48, 11 Little Ixigan 48, 9 Real The Great 48, 13 Duke Bingen 60. Cannonball set out to make the pace for Native Star, Pieter Timmerman, Nelson M'Kinney, and Herbilwyn. Turning into the back stretch Cannonball broke and Nourmahal took charge with The Toff, Herbilwyn, Wild Hebe, Bridget Galindo, and Cannonball following- in that order. There was no change till the mile had been completed, when The Toff commenced to drop back and Cannonball, Herbilwyn, and Bridget Galindo proceeded to close on the leader. Entering the straight Cannonball challenged Nourmahal. and eventually won by half-a-length from Nourmahal, who finished six. lengths in front of Bridget Galindo with Native Star and Nelson M'Kinney at the head of the others. Times: 3min 30 3-ssec, 3min 31 4-ssec, 3min 31sec. ELECTRIC HANDICAP, Of SOOsovs. One mile. 3— Messrs D. O'Keefe and T. Wallis’s b g Author Jinks, by Author Dillon —Lady Jinks, 4yrs. 36 yards behind (T. Wallis) 1 9— Mr A. Ferguson’s Mountain Chimes, 24 (O. Reed) ... 2 2—Mr E. R Husband’s Firpo (M. B. Edwards) 3 Also started: 10 Lulu Lad scr, 14 Oboe M. Wilkes scr, 15 Menembcr scr, 13 Pointalena scr, 6 Native Queen scr, 8 Double Event scr, 12 Rockaway scr, 7 Fashion Queen 12 yards behind. 16 Tobermory 12, 1 Glandoro 12, 5 Dr Dillon 12, 4 Daisy Pointer 12. 4 Albert Logan 24, 11 Event 24, 17 Bcllfashion 36, 6 Darknite 48. Darknite and Native Queen were coupled, and also Daisy Pointer and Albert Logan. Rockaway took charge and led past the stand from Pointalena, Menembcr, Mountain Chimes, Firpo, Tobermory, and Double Event. Rounding the far turn Menembcr and Tobermory dropped back. Mountain Chimes moved up to Pointalena and Rockaway, and Author Jinks was lying handy. When in line for home Mountain Chimes and Firpo headed Rockaway and Pointalena, but over the last furlong Author Jinks overhauled his opponents and won nicely by a length from Mountain Chimes, who beat Firpo by a neck. Pointalena was fourth and Double Event next. Times: 2min 13sec, 2min 14 l-ssec, and 2min 15 2-ssec. AUGUST HANDICAP, Of lOOOsovs. Two miles. 12—Mr O. E. Hooper’s b g Audacious, by Great Audubon—Advocate mare, aged, 12yds behind (O. E. Hooper) 1 C—Mr T. B. Louisson’s Imprint, 60yds behind (L. F. Birkett) 2 11—Mr W. F. Magson’s Talent, 24yds behind (H. Frost) 3 Also started: 7 St. Maura scr, 9 Jewell Pointer scr, 17 Billy Sea scr, 8 Nelson Fame scr, 15 Downcast scr, 1 Dalnahine scr, 1 Terence Dillon 12yds behind, 3 Machine Gun 12, 4 Petcrwah 12, 2 Tom Thumb 12, Trenand 12, 4 Cardinal Logan 48, 5 Logan Chief 48. 13 Talaro 48, 16 Man o’ War 72, 14 Great Hope 72, 10 Waitaki Girl 96. Audacious and Trenand were coupled, and Dalnahine and Terence Dillon coupled. After Jewel Pointer had led for a furlong, Billy Sea went to the front and led into the straight. On reaching the stand, St. Maura, Dalnahine. and Jewel Pointer ■were on terms with Tom Thumb, Billy Sea, Terence Dillon, Trenand, and Audacious all racing in close formation. With the mile completed, St: Maura was out in front with Nelson Fame, Tom Thumb, Dalnahine, Billy Sea. Jewel Pointer, Trenand, Audacious, and Terence Dillon just in behind. Going along the back for the last time Tom Thumb passed St. Maura and proceeded to show the way to St. Maura, Terence Dillon, Audacious, Machine Gun, Billy Sea, Talent, Imprint, Jewel Pointer, and Logan Chief. Once in line for home. Terence Dillon, Imprint Audacious, and Talent tackled Tom Thumb, and after a short struggle Audacious got home by a head from Imprint, who finished a length in front of Talent, who was a head in front of Terence Dillon. Talaro was fifth. Times: 4min 29 2-ssec, 4min 25 3-ssec, 4min 28 4-ssec. TRIAL HANDICAP, Of 400sovs. Harness. Class 4.42. Two miles. 3—Mr E. L. Ponnsford’s br g Ariki, by Cathedral Chimes—Zara, 4yrs, 24yds behind (M. B. Edwards) 1 2 —Mr C. M. Ollivier’s ch g Great Earl, syrs. 36vds behind (M. Holmes) 2 I—Mr M. Moodabe’s br h Amaris, syrs, scr (J. S. Shaw) 3

Also started: Alvira scr, 11 Wenlo scr, 15 Carbine Direct scr, 6 Pat Dillon scr. 9 Omaha scr, 5 Mavis Wood scr, 7 Henry Logan 24yds behind, 13 Lord Bingen 24, 14 Pinevale 36. 4 Huon Denver 36, 10 Conara 48, 8 Hoon Hay 48.

Wenlo made the early running from Omaha, Amaris, Alvira, Pat Dillon, Great Earl, Hoon Hay, Henry Logan, and Ariki. Passing the mile post, Wenlo and Omaha were together, the pair racing just clear of Amaris and Alvira, with Great Earl at the head of Ariki and Hoon Hay. Going round the back the last time, Great

Earl went to the front, followed by Omaha, Amaris, Ariki, and Hoon Hay. J urning for home, Ariki and Amaris calne through, and in a ding-dong finish Ariki won by a neck from Great Earl, who beat Amaris by a head. Hoon Hay was fourth. Times: 4min 35sec, 4inin 34 l-ssee. 4min 37 2-ssee. _ STEWARDS’ HANDICAP, Of 350sovs; (harness). Class 4.44.’ Two miles. 2 —Mr W. T. Lowe’s blk g Trampfast, by Logan Pointer—Galindo mare, aged, 72yds behind (W. T. Lowe) 1 4— Messrs M. O’Brien and J. G. Barton’s br g Young Blake, aged 96 (W. J. Tomkinson) 2 B—Mr8 —Mr J. M. Thompson’s ch g Nighborn aged, 48 (G. S. Smith) ’ 3 Also started: 3 Ingle Bingen 36yds behind, 9 Audobell 36, 1 ’Frisco Beau 36, 6 Our Lady 72, 5 Le Todd 84 7 Audominion 108. After Ingle Bingen had led for'seven furlongs he broke and Trampfast went to the front, followed by Le Todd and Nighborn, with Young Blake at the head of the next division. There was no change until a mile and . three-quarters had been covered, when Young Blake moved up into third place. Trampfast retained the lead to win comfortably by six lengths from Young Blake, who beat Nighborn by four lengths. Le Todd was fourth. The times were: 4min 40 l-ssee, 4min 39 l-sscc, 4min 44 l-ssec. QUEEN MARY HANDICAP. (Harness), Of 450sovs. Class 4.37. Two miles. 6—Mr J. R. M’Kenzie’s b g Peter Swift, by Petereta —Swift, aged, 24yds behind (D. Withers) 1 5 — Mr J. Bryce’s b g Money Spider, aged, 36 (J. Bryce) ’ 2 I—Mr L. F. Birkett’s b g Marshal Neil. syrs, 12 (L. F. Birkett) 3

Also started: 12 Diamond Child scr, 2 Homer scr, 11 Lady Embrace scr, 7 Zolock Palm scr, 3 William the Great 12yds behind, 17 John Mauritius 24, 18 Mencmber 24, 4 Wallroon 24, 8 Lady Dunmore 36, 10 Brentloc 36, 13 Succession 36, 15 Stunt Artist 36. 9 Macaranda 48, 19 Bing Boy 48, 16 Bell Harold 60, 14 Fight Ever 72.

William the Great and Lady Embrace soon took charge, with Marshal Neil and Zolock Palm heading the others. At the end of half a mile William the Great and Lady Embrace were just clear of Brgjitloc. Marsha] Neil, and Zolock Palm. At the mile post, William the Great, Lady Embrace, Marshal Neil, and Brentloc were still showin gthe way, with Mcnember and Peter Swift heading the next bunch. Half a mile from home William the Great and Lady Embrace had Fight Ever as their nearest attendant, with Brentloc, Peter Swift, and Money Spider next. Fight Ever was in front three furlongs from honie, and he had a slight advantage over William the Great at the home turn, where Peter Swift and Marshal Neil were handy, with Money Spider moving up fast on the outside. Peter Swift took the lead 100 yards from the post, and, stalling off a late challenge from Money Spider worn... by a length. Marshal Neil was over a length awav, while two lengths further back Fight Ever headed a big bunch. Times: 4min 35see, 4min 34 3-ssec, 4min 36 3-sscc. SELWYN HANDICAP. Of 300sovs. One mile and a-quarter. 1— Mr R. A. Armstrong’s b g Logan - Park, by Logan Pointer—Miss Burlington, aged. 12yds behind (W. J. Tomkinson) 1 4- Mr T. O. Thomas’s Genuine, scr (Owner) 2 2— Mr M. Moodabe’s Amaris, scr (J. S. Shaw) 3 Also started: 5 Sunglcam scr, 19 The Pointer scr, 10 Lady Barrister scr, 6 Harvest Child scr, 7 Binsgarth scr, 17 Pinevale scr, 8 Lyonwood scr, 20 Royal Oak scr, 12 Some Jazz scr, 18 Bonanena 12yds behind, 15 Nipper 12, 9 Avenger 24, 14 Harold Burwood, 11 Granite City 36, 3 Bold Bili 36 16 Master Audo 48. 13 Parkwood 48. lhe Pointer and Logan Park were soon in charge, and passing the stand were closely attended by Some Jazz, Genuine, and Sungleam. Logan Park went to the front after leaving the straight and showed the way down the back stretch to Genuine and Amaris, with Harvest Child close up Ixrgan Park continued to show the way into the straight, and keeping clear, won by two lengths from Genuine, who beat Amaris by a length. Harvest Child was fourth, and then came Avenger and Nipper. Times; 2min 49 3-ssec, 2min 50 3-ssec, 2mm 50 4-ssec. INTERNATIONAL HANDICAP. Of 400sovs. One mile. 2 —Mr G. W. Dransfield’s b g Loganwood, by Logan Pointer—Myrtlewood, aged, 24yds behind (M. Holmes) 1 i Mr W. H. Norton’s Bonny Logan, 36 (F. Holmes) ... ..? ... 2 I—Mr1 —Mr G. J. Barton’s Coneliffe, 24 (W. J. Tomkinson) 3 Also started: 10 Bingen Lad scr, 6 Wharepiana scr, 5 Final M'Kinney scr, 4 Jewel Pointer 12yds behind. 3 Escapade 12 and Dillon Wilkes 24, 9 Queen’s Own 36. 11 Logan Holme 24, 12 Away 24 13 Taurekarcka 24, 7 Golden Devon 36. Final M'Kinney and W’harepiana were racing together in front of Bingen Lad. Jewel Pointer and Loganwood. Final M'Kinney dropped back behind Loganwood and Jewel Pointer as they ran along the back, where Coneliffe and Bonny Logan were moving up. Loganwood and Jewel Pointer led Coneliffe and Bonny Logan into the straight, and in a good race home Loganwood treat Bonny Locan by a neck, with Coneliffe" the same distance away, third Jewel Pointer was another length further back, and Final M'Kinney was next. Time: 2min 9 3-ssec. 2min 7 4-sscc. 2min lOsec. POVERTY BAY HUNT RACES. Saturday, August 6. The annual meeting of the Poverty Bay Hunt Club was held in fine weather and before a large attendance. The course was in good condition. The totalisator handled £9099, as compared with £9175 last year, showing a decrease of £76. Results:—

HUNTERS’ HURDLES, of 75sovs. One mile and a-half.—Mr J. Kennedy’s br g Arataura, by All Black—Mrs Wiggs aged, 11.6 (Gordon), 1; 5 Mr E. M. Langleys b g Barryfaram. syrs. 10.7 (Lord), 2; 2 Mr J. C. N. Thomas’s b m Sweet Heather, aged, 10.11 (Nixon), 3. Also started: 3 Birka, 4 Goldstreak, 6 Tunanui. Won by two lengths, with four

lengths separating second and third. Time, 2min 52see. HUNTERS’ BRACELET, of Gfisove. One mile.—l Mr V. S. Bolton’s br p Tino Maunga, aged.'by Mountain Knight --Tinoatua, 11.13 (Mr F. Hollis), 1; Mr E. N. Fitzgerald’s br g Barrier, aged, 12.5 (Mr 11. Dods), 2; 5 Mr 1). MUdowie’s br m Heatherteen, aged, 11.0 (Mr MTI- - 3. Also started: 4 L’Autumn, 3 Whakoatirangi, 6 March. Won by over two lengths, with three lengths between second and third. Time, Imin 49 4-ssee. HEXTON HANDICAP, Of llOsovs. One mile and a-quarter. 1— Mr W. Robson’s b g Pita, by Flying Start—Servia, aged, 10.9 T „ (E- Atkins) 1 3 —Mr L. G. Clare's ch g Royal Diadem, 6yrs, 9.10 (Dixon) 2 s—Mr A. R. G. Henderson's blk c Cool Card, 4yrs, 9.11 (France) 3 Also started: 0 Princess Nata, 7 Carniola, 2 Gold Dot, 4 Garzon. Won by a length, with a length and a-half between second and third. Time, 2min 15 l-ssee HUNT CLUB STEEPLECHASE, Ot l-osovs. Two miles and a-half. Hr 11. Brooker's b g Handv, by 1’ erramony — Dexterous, a"ed 11.1 (Lord) ’ .° *’ ! 2— Mrs J. Jamieson’s b m Bilka aged 11.11 (Stratton) ’.. .2 3— Mr A. Dixon’s ch g Mahia, aged, 11.1 (Mr 11. Dods) 3 Also started: 4 Momentous, 5 Pillarbox. no n by four lengths, with three lengths between second and third. Momentious tell, and F. A. Dunn broke his collarbone lime, smm. 22sec. SWARTHMOOR TRIAL HACK HANDICAP, of 70sovs. Five furlongs.2 Mr D. J. Barry’s b h Si:-gleton, by Autumn—Roberra, 3yrs, 9.0 (P. Milroy) 1; 3 Mr J. M’Neil’s ch g Master Damon, 6yrs, 9.3 (Nixon), 2; 1 Mr E. M. Langley’s ch g Abisogne, 4yrs. 9.12 (MTlugh), 3. Also started: 4 Polydorus, 8 Desert Coin, 5 Rakaroa, 7 Autonus, 6 Sun Yat Sen. Won by four lengths, with three lengths between second and third. Time. Imin 4 3-ssec. AWAPUNI HURDLES, of 80sovs. One mile and three-quarters.—l Mr J. C. Kennedy’s br g Arataura, by All Black—Mrs Wiggs, aged, carried 10.0 (Gordon), 1- 4 Mr R. Gregory’s ch m Mountain Top, aged, 9.3 (Gooch), 2: 3 Mr P. Matu’s b g Waioeka Jack, aged, 11.0 • (Nixon), 3. Also started: 2 Royal Heather, 5 Lady Arch.

Won by five lengths, with two lengths and a-half between second and third. Time: 3min 19 l-ssec. RAPANUI HACK FLAT HANDICAP, of 80sovs. Seven furlongs.—s Mr J. Malone’s br m Cherry Girl, by Swift Flight—Cherrv Roe. syrs, 9.11 (Stratton), 1; 8 Mrs A. W. Hague’s b m Rakaroa, syrs, 9.0 (Atkins', : 2 Mr R. Gregory’s ch v .Ten, syrs. 9.9 (Orange), 3. Also started: 4 Toka. 1 First Prince and Piripono (bracketed). 3 Rapiata 9 Goldstroak, 7 Evensong. 10 Blue Autumn, 6 Dutchie. Won by two lengths, with a neck between second and third. Time, Imin 32sec. AUCKLAND RACING CLUB. reductionTn stakes. AUCKLAND, August 1. The Auckland Racing Club to-day fixed the stakes for the season at £63.000, a reduction of £3650 compared with last season. The principal reductions are as follows: Newmarket Handicap, from £lOOO to £800; Easter Handicap, from £2OOO to £1750; Autumn Handicap, from £l2OO to £1000; Great Northern Steeplechase, from £2250 to £2000; and Winter Steeplechase, from £l5OO to £1250. The sum of £10.650 is allotted to the spring meeting, £26,950 to the summer meeting (eight races a day. compared with seven last season). £lO.BOO to the autumn meeting, and £14,600 to the winter meeting. SEAFIT WINS AUSTRALIAN HURDLES MELBOURNE, August 7. The Australian Steeplechase meeting was commenced at Caulfield in cloudy, threatening weather. Following are the results: — AUSTRALIAN HURDLES. Seafit, 9.10 (Webster) 1 Perchance, 9.0 (Nelson) 2 Pildin, 11.11 (Butler) o Eighteen started. Rounding the homo turn Arcadius led by five lengths from Perchance, and appeared to have the race won, but at the last hurdle he struck heavily and blundered, losing his rider. This left Perchance in the lead, but he was shortly afterwards passed by Seafit, who came home strongly and won bv two and a-half lengths. The third horse was six lengths away. Minewood and Suppresion were pulled up. Time, 6min MALAKOFF STAKES. Affirm, 8.0 1 Llanthonny, 7.12 ... .' 2 Patroclus, 7.0 3 Nineteen started. Won by three-quar-ters of a length. Time, Imin 53isec. POINT-TO POINT STEEPLECHASE. Saturday, August 6. The Hawke’s Bay Hunt Club’s Point-to-point Steeplechase was bold at Mangateretere this afternoon in ideal weather. Re suits:— LIGHT WEIGHTS, 11 stone. Two miles and a-half. —Mr G. D. Beatson’s Lightmore 1, Mr F. B. Potaua 2, Miss Margot Russell’s Wager 3. Also started: Silver Lyle, Wolowee, Sultan, Timapouri. FARMERS’ 12 STONE. Two miles.— Mr W. A. Todd’s Hollycombe 1, Miss B. Taits’ Damon 2, Mr H. S. Rathbone’s Fairfield 3. Also started Black Bess. HEAVY-WEIGHTS, 12 stone. Two miles and a-half.—Mr G. V. Shannon’s Terchu, Mr F. B. Donnelly’s Potaua, Mrs T. Mor fin’s Blaze Wood 3. Also started: Master Blue. LADIES’ HUNTER COMPETITION. Points as a hunter. —Miss G. Nelson’s Blue Moon 1, Miss C. M. Jcffard’s Corditi 2. Miss M. Stead's Gladsome 3. OPEN SLEEPLES, 11 stone 71b. Two miles and a-half.—Mr G. D. Beatson’s Tarakete 1, Mr W. A. Todd’s Hollycombe 2, Miss B. Gatenby’s Gayfoot 3. Also started: Fairfield.

RACING IN AUSTRALIA. INTRODUCTION OF TOTALIZATOR. MELBOURNE, August 1. At the annual meeting of the Victorian Racing Club, the Chairman indicated that the chib would support the introduction of the totalisator in Victoria if bookmakers were allowed to operate as in Sydney. lie also stated that the committee, while sympathising with trainers who had difficulty in securing boys who could ride at the present minimum, would not favour the proposal to increase the minimum of 7.-t, as it would operate against the best horses. CANTERBURY PARK MEETING. SYDNEY, August 1. There was an unusual incident at the Canterbury Park holiday- meeting. The name of the favourite in the first race was hoisted on the .starting board, and after the horse had been heavily backed it was discovered that he had not readied the course. His name was then removed from the starters’ list. The bookmakers interviewed the stewards and asked to be allowed to declare early betting off and make a fresh start. The request was not granted. The horse arrived before the race was due to start, but the stewards withdrew him, as be had not reached the course at such time before the race as the rules provided for. The trainer explained that he had arranged for the horse to be there in time, but the transport broke down. The stewards adjudged the trainer guilty of carelessness, and fined him £2O. VICTORIA CLUB'S PROFIT. MELBOURNE. August 2. Victoria Racing Club's balance sheet tor the year showed a profit of £31.920. Stakes amounting to £100.361 were paid out, and improvements to the Flemington course cost over £ll,OOO. COMMENDATION IMPRESSES CRITICS. „ , SYDNEY, August 4. Commendation has been scratched for the Epsom and Metropolitan Handicaps and the Cantala Stakes. The only handicap in which he will start is the Caulfield Cup, but he will also contest weight-for-age events at the Warwick Farm, Rosehill, and the Australian Jockey Club’s spring meetmg. The Hera la describes Commendation as one of the finest-looking horses ever seen in Sydney. RACING IN ENGLAND. MOLECOMB STAKES-WINNER. LONDON, August 2. Mr J. B. Reid's two-year-old colt Black Watch, by Black Gauntlet from Punka, winner of rhe Molecomb Stakes at Goodwood, has been engaged in the Derby Grand Prix. This is the first progeny of a colonial-bred marc to run in England. COMMENDATION IN AUSTRALIA. OWNER ASKED TO NAME PRICE. GISBORNE, August 6. Evidently some Australian owner is exceedingly keen to acquire Commendation. The crack three-year-old had scarcely landed on the wharf in Sydney ere his owner. Mr H. Gaisford, of Oringi. received a cable message asking if he would name a price for the horse. Mr Gaisford has engaged H. Cairns, exNew Zealand horseman, to ride Commendation in his Australian engagements.

THE WAIKATO DISPUTE. A NEW DEVELOPMENT. AUCKLAND, August 4. A new development has arisen in regard to the dispute between the Waikato Hunt Club and the Waikato Racing Club, as to which chib should hold its race meeting on Labour Day. The New Zealand Racing Coi.ference allotted the day to the Racing Club, but the Minister of Internal Affairs reversed the decision, and gave the permit to the Hunt Club. Now the Auckland District Committee has decided that "it is unable, in the circumstances, to approve of the Hunt Club’s programme for the meeting. The committee met to-day. Sir Edwin Mitchelson presiding, and at the conclusion the following official report was issued: —Correspondence was received frQDi the Racing Conference in regard to the Waikato Hunt Chib’s application to race on Labour Day, and in connection with that club's programme it was esolved as follows — “That while regretting the conflict that exists between the Minister ,-iud the Racing Conference in connection with the allotment of Labour Day, this District Committee resolves that as the New Zealand Racing Conference has not consented to the Waikato Hunt Club racing on Labour Day, it cannot under the Rules of Racing pass the programme until a day, other than Labour Day, can be chosen and approved, or until the New Zealand Racing Conference gives its consent to the club racing on Labour Day.’ -

SIR GEORGE CLIFFORD’S VIEWS. CHRISTCHURCH. August 4. A copy of the correspondence between the president of the Racing Conference (Sir George Clifford) and Mr R. F. Bollard concerning the allocation of the totalisator permit for Labour Day was made available for publication on July 28. Mr Bollard wrote acknowledging the report of the Conference Dates Committee. He said: “I observe that the conference has decided to approve the transfer of Labour Day from the Waikato Hunt Club to the Waikato Racing Club. May I point out that at its meeting last year the conference declined to agree to a similar application for transfer of this day to the Waikato Racing Club? In view of this decision of the conference, and feeling certain, also, that the question would not be raised again this year, I gave a definite undertaking to the deputation from the Hunt Club some months ago that I would issue a license to the Hunt Club to hold its meeting on Labour Day. To vary this meeting now would be regarded as a breach of faith on my part. and. after giving the matter full consideration, I am sending a communication to the Hunt Club agreeing to the issue of a totalisator license for its meeting on Labour Day next.”

Sir George Clifford replied: “I regret very niucn your failure to support the decision of the Racing Conference in connection with the allotment of the date lor utilising -the totalisator license to be allocated by you, more especially as you anticipated by some months the consideration of the date by the Racing Conference 1 cannot attach any weight to the reasoning by which you support this action prior to submission of rhe point to the Dates Committee of the Racing Conference, in view of vour assurance to that commttcc in July, 1925 as follows: ‘I can assure the pates Committee that £ have not desire to interfere with them. Tho committee can make its own dates and stick to them, and as far as dates are concerned, I have no desire to intesfere, and, if I did so, I would only be bringing trouble •upon my own head.’ ”

In a letter to the Waikato Hunt Chib advising the club of the conference's decision t o grant October 24 to the Waikato Racing Club, the secretary of the conference quoted the Prime Minister’s replv to the deputation from the Hunt Club on May 23 last; “Do you not think it is a matter for the Racing Conference primarily? All the time yliu are getting racing mixed up with Barliament a »d I look on that as very dangerous. The Waikato Racing Club have telegraphed me that I should hear them, and there is the danger that I should say that the Racing Conference is .1 body of men who know what is fair.” The Secretary further suggested to tho Hunt Club that it should not accept th® permit, but should point out to the Minister, “that your club is unable to hold 1 a race meeting on a date which has not been approved as required under the New Zealand rules of racing.” On August 2, the Secretary forwarded to the Auckland District Committee a covering copy of the letter to the Hunt Club. The letter added. “The president directs me t o inform the District Committee that it cannot, under the rules of racing, approve the programme of any club tor a race meeting to bo held on a date which had not been duly approved as required under the New Zealand rules of racing.”

MINISTER ADHERES TO DECISION. WELLINGTON, August 5. In the House of Representatives to-day the Minister. of Internal Affairs (Mr R. F. Bollard), in reply to a questioner, intimated his intention of adhering to the decision he had come to regarding the issue of a totalisator permit for the Waikato Hunt Club to race as usual on Labour Day. Several cries of (“Hear, hear”) greeted, the announcement. The question was asked by Mr V. H. Potter (Roskill) whether, in view of the statement on the matter which appeared, in the press yesterday, the Minister would adhere to his decision or whether he would be swayed by the Racing Conference.. “I have already given my decision,” replied Mr Bollard, “and I have conveyed it to the president of the New Zealand Racing Conference. So far I have received no official advice from him in reply. The hon. member asks whether I will be swayed by the Racine Conference. My reply is that I am still of opinion that I will adhere to my decision.—(“Hear,hear.”) MINISTER EXCEEDS HIS POWERS. AUCKLAND, August 5. The Waikato Hunt Club cannot race on Labour Day without incurring disqualification by the New Zealand Racing Conference, stated a member of the conference. when informed that the Minister of Internal Affairs had intimated in the House that he intended to adhere to his decision that the club should race on that day. Discussing the position of the Hunt Club in view of the fact that the Auckland District Committee had decided not to approve of the club’s programme for the meeting, the member said that the District Committee had declined to approve of a programme for a day which had not been allocated by the Dates Committee of the Racing Conference. The holding of the meeting would not be legal under the Rules of Racing, and everyone taking part in the meeting, including the jockys and owners, would also be liable to disqualification. The Racing Conference does not recognise the Minister of Internal Auairs as having power to decide* the day on which a meeting should be held. He added that the Minister is given the l ight under Statute of allocating the 1 racing permits to the different clubs, but he must leave the allocation of the dates to the conference. HOLDING UP OF AUCKLAND PERMITS. WELLINGTON, August 6. The Dominion says that following the refusal of the Auckland District Committee to approve of the Waikato Hunt Club's programme for Labour Day, Mr R. F Bollard is expected to inform the committee that no racing permits will be issued for the Auckland district until the controversy over the Labour Day permit terminates. Asked later in the day about the totalisator licenses for the Auckland meetings Mr Bollard said he had nothing to say ‘‘l have given my decision in accordance with the. Act, and my reasons for it and that ends the matter,’’ he said. “So far as I am concerned Parliament has given me certain responsibilities, and I must respect them.” ALLEGED “ RINGING-IN.” THE PROMENADE CASE. *1 AUCKLAND, August 5. For the purpose of giving evidence in the case of Walter McCarthy, who was extradited from Auckland on July S to answer a charge concerning the alleged “ringing-in” of a trotting horse, Chief Detective Cummings and Senior Detective Hammond, of the Auckland Police, have left for Sydney. Mr Hammond sailed from Wellington by the Makura, and Mr Cummings did not leave until this morning on board the Maheno.

It will bo remembered that M’Carthy, the well-known local trotting owner, who raced Promenade here, was arrested in Symonds slreet on June by Chief Detective Cummings on a warrant issued

*t Sydney. Subsequently, M‘Garth y was Charged with conspiring with W. Matterson to. cheat and defraud the Richmond (New South Wales) Trotting Club, and also the Victorian Trotting and Racing Association of large sums of money be tween January 1, 1926, and June 1, 1927. Detective Lawrence, of Sydney, came to Auckland for the accused, who left under escort by the Maheno on July 8. M'Carthy had since been charged at Sydney, but the case had been adjourned. Chief Detective Ward, of Wellington, ■who was previously stationed at Auckland as senior detective, has arrived here to take charge of the detective staff during the absence of Mr Cummings. ,-iRISTOCRATS OF THE TURF. After having achieved such great successes with his English horses. Absurd and Limond, at the famous Koatanui stud, the Wanganui sportsman, Mr Geo. M. Currie, secured more thoroughbreds front the Old Country, and they arrived at Auckland this morning by the steamer Port Hunter. Mr Currie arrived 8 to-day to meet his horses. From the Wanganui sportsman it was learned that the mare Aspic’s colt, by the one-time brilliant two-year-old Sicyon, had contracted pneumonia just before embarking, and had to remain in England. _ The youngster was described as a magnificent one, and it is therefore all the more unfortunate that the Dominion will not see him. It is Mr Currie’s present intention to tfell the colt <j.t Home. The other horses arrived in the best of condition. The principal interest centred upon Limond’s half-b'rother, Pombal, whom Mr Currie secured in India. The horse was shipped to England prior to being put on board the Port Hunter. This horse is of a real good English type, and if he proves as great a success as Limond, or nearly so, then Mr Currie will have no cause to regret his purchase. The horses will not be taken off at Auckland, but will remain on board and be taken to Wellington, probably on Saturday next. They should be valuable additions to the Dominion’s bloodstock. The stock comprises the stallion Pombal. This horse is by Pommern, out of Lindal. Pommern is by the famous sire Polyinelus. He won the Derby in 1915, the Two Thousand Guineas, and the St Leger at Newmarket in the same year.

Another is the chestnut mare Joanfax, by Juggernaut, out of Ethel H. Joanfax won the Elswick Selling Welter Handicap in 1925. She has with her a filly feal by Royal Lancer, a National Slud stallion. This younster was foaled on April 3, and is a well-grown little lady. . he already ranks as a yearling here.

Another mare is Aspic, by Mr S. B. Joel’s famous Polymelus. out of Jelly. Polymelus was foaled in 1902. lie was bred by Lord Crewe, and was sold by him to Mr David Fater for 4500gns. The horse was purchased at auction from MiFate in 1906 by Mr S. Joel for 4200gns. Among the races won by Polymelus as a two-year-old was the Criterion Stakes at Newmarket. As a four-year-old he won the Duke of York Stakes and Champion Stakes and Cambridgeshire. As "a five-year-old he won the Princess of Wales’s Stakes. Altogether, he won in stake money £16,804. At the stud he has sired Pommern, Humorist (who won the Derby), Fifinella (winner of the substitute Derby and Oaks), Black Jester (who won the St. Leger), and Cinna (who won the Thousand Guineas). It will be seen, therefore, that both Pombal and Aspic have the best blood in their veins. There is yet another of the family of Polymelus. This is the horse Polazel, by Great Sire, out of Ardazel. He is consigned to Mr John Macdonald, of Timaru. Advice has been received that the Australian jockey 11. Cairns has been engaged to ride Commendation in all his races in Australia. Cairns is one of the foremost horsemen on the other side. He has ridden for years, and his name is on the list of riders of winners of many of Australia’s biggest events. The admirers of Commendation can now rest assured that the fine Limond four-year-old will suffer from nothing on the score of horsemanship with Hugh Cairns in the saddle. TAXATION OF RACING. VIGOROUS PROTEST VOICED. HASTINGS, August 5. At the annual meeting of the Hawke’s • ay Jockey Club the President (Mr Geo. jibbett) stated that the year had been one of the most difficult and strenuous in the recent history of the club. This was caused by the prevailing financial strin gency and by the drastic and ruinous taxation levied on racing. Of the totalisator revenue —and it was to this that most of them looked for their source of income—the club had received £8231. • At the same time the taxation levied amounted to £7923. Only clubs in a very easy .financial position and those that commanded the support of large populations could contend with it There would be a big drop in the Dominion’s revenue from racing this year. It was to be hoped that the Government would realise that it was steadily and rapidly strangling the source of no inconsiderable portion of its income. Many thousands of people in the Dominion found their entertainment in horse-racing, and when the sport was in such serious jeopardy as it was at present in many places, surely these people were entitled to some consideration. The cost of railway transport was so high that owners were forced to consider whether they would send their horses by rail or not. These charges were stifling racing throughout the Dominion, and he hoped the department would take steps to have thorn reduced.

Great Bingen (P) 4.19 2-5 Waitaki Girl (P) 4.22 Prince Pointer (P) 4.99 Sheik (P) . . .. 4 22 2-1* Logan Lou (P) 4.23 Jack Potts (W) 4.23 4-5 Acron (P) 4.24 Man-o’-War (P) 4.24 Great Hope (W) 4.24 2-5 Talaro (P) .. .. 4.24 3-5 Ahuriri (W) 4.25 Black Admiral (P) 4.25 2-5 Kohara (IV) -A 4.25 4-5 Peter Bingen (P) 4.25 4-5 Logan Chief (P) 4.2G 1-5 Locanda Mac (P) 4.2G 2-5 Sea Pearl (P) 4.2G 2-5 Queen’s Own (P) 4.27 Escapade (W) 4.27 1-5 Jewel (W) .. .. 4.27 3-5 Away (W) 4.28 Logan wood (P) 4.28 2-5 Imprint (W) 4.28 3-5 Cardinal Logan (W) 4.28 4-5 Nelson Derby CSV) 4.29 1-5 Pedro Pronto (W) 4.29 1-5 Native Chief (P) 4.32 1-5 St. Maura (P) 4.33