SPORTING

Southland Times, Issue 20148, 7 April 1927, Page 3

SPORTING

SOUTHLAND RACING CLUB. OPENING OF AUTUMN MEETING. FULL SWING’S SOUTHLAND CUP. SOME LONG-PRICED WINNERS. DECREASED FINANCIAL RETURNS. VERY ENJOYABLE RACING. With the favourable climatic conditions of the previous three or four days in view and having in memory the glorious sunshine of Tuesday it was anticipated that the weather would be settled and enjoyable for the opening day of f he Southland R.C. s Autumn fixture yesterday, but it was not to be. Frost and a clear sky obtained almost throughout Tuesday night, but the heavens clouded over and presented a very threatening aspect when the time arrived to set out for the local convincing ground. A fair crowd had gathered and the horses were at the post for the first event round about noon when down came the rain and a heavy downpour continued for some time and light showers followed for a couple of hours when a break in the clouds was observed and presently fine weather ruled and continued for the balance of the afternoon. But the harm had been done and many townspeople who contemplated assisting in the sport stayed at home. However, there was a fair attendance, with visitors in evidence from as far away as Christchurch. Timaru. Dunedin and Central Otago, and it can truthfully be said that they were treated to very keen and interesting racing. A drop in the figures was apparent to the eye and when the financial returns were balanced it was estimated that the gate receipts would display a shrinkage, which proved to be the case, the total working out at £427 4/6, as compared with £4Bl 16/- on the corresponding day of last year. a decrease of £54 11/6. The lawns and enclosures presented a well-kept appearance and the racing track was in excellent southern winter order when the field paraded for the Roslyn Handicap at 12 o’clock, but heavy rain quickly soaked the turf and the galloping sward was heayv and holding to the close of the proceedings. The racing was always very interesting in spite of climatic intervention and several very exciting finishes were witnessed in the galloping and light harness contests while the cross-country event of the day was responsible for the success of a promising and popular Western district gelding and the jumping by the way was particularly good and free from serious accident or mishap. The Invercargill Civic Band was present, under the conductorship of Mr A. R. Wills and the musical programme contributed was ably selected and rendered to the pleasure of an appreciative audience during the intervals between the races. The management was good throughout and the president (Mr W. T. Hazlett* and his honorary official supporters had every reason to be satisfied with the result of their efforts, as the racing was carried out with strict regard to schedule time and there did not appear to be any cause for 'adverse cnticism in other respects. The South Island stipendiary steward (Mr G. E. Curry i was in control, and, apart from very minor happenings, his duties were of the lightest with the Judicial Committee of the day seldom or ever in consulation. The starting was carried out by Mr A. D. Mclvor and his work was of a high standard for the eight races, as there were no undue delays at the various points of interest and his flat and jumping fields left in good line, while the light harness brigade moved off in two events more promptly and universally than on many previous occasions. The spirited racing presented has also to be mentioned as redounding to the credit of the handicapper, Mr 11. A. Pierce, and he could certainly be claimed to have generally puzzled the public and professional followers of racing alike. In the department where Mr J. E. Cuthill reigned as head of the secretarial staff the experience Was that efficiency prevailed and this fact assisted materially in the smooth running of the machinery of the fixture. The totalisator returns amounted to £12,086 10/-, as against £15,619 10/- on the opening day of last season, a decrease of £3533. and while a shrinkage was not unexpected owing to the weather breaking at the critical hours of the weekly half-holiday, a succession of double-figure prices probably had a marked bearing on the result. There were five machine returns of this character during the afternoon and only one first favourite was successful, hence the outcome of a drop in investment returns can be just as easily imagined as described. Rain, a chilly wind, and continued wagering disaster, however, did not damp the enthusiasm of the Club's patrons and there was cheering when the novice cross-country performer, Scamp, carried off the Southland Steeplechase from a number of seasoned ’chasers, and again when the locally-trained mare. Full Swing, won the Southland Cup in gallant fashion. lhe following are the results: — ROSLYN HANDICAP. £l5O, second £25, third £lO. Six furlongs. 8 Mrs W. McKenzies b g Frivol, by Absurd —Week End, 6 years, 8.9 (J. T. Humphris' 1 7 J. Rogers’ ch g Takaka. by Royal Stag—Lady Phvllis, 4 years, 7.10 (T. Metcalf) .. .. . .* 2 3 J. O. Hymers’ br g Soldier’s Hope, by Soldier’s Chorus—Chrysalis, 6 years, 9.0 (E. Mackiel 3 (Winner trained by J. R. Waite, Tapanui). Also started:—ls Irish, 8.12 (F. J. McKay); 2 Lucy Locket, 8.8 (F. Voight); 12 Scottische car. 8.0 (J. L. Cotton) ; 1 Sparkling Eyes, 8.5 (A. E. Ellis) ; 6 Rippling Lake, 8.5 (A. Didham); 4 Royal Saxon, 8.4 (B. Brodie) ; 14 Divinial, 8.3 (W. Anderton i ; 10 Lady Tractor, car. 8.2 (J. McChesney) ; 5 Gipsy Maid, 8.1 (C. Eastwood) ; 16 Controversy, car. 7.7 (R. Beale* ; 9 Luthy, car. 7.5] (D. Kerr*; 17 Grand Eclat, 7.9 (J. S. Potter' ; 13 Ace of Hearts, 7.9 (L. J. Ellis* ; 11 Countermove, 7.9 (J. Wilkins). The field stood well in a drenching shower that abated prior to the barrier finally lifting after two false releases. From a really good start Soldier’s Hope led out from Royal Saxon and Lucy Locket. At rhe far turn Sparkling Eyes had taken command from Controversy. Racing across the top to the home bend Sparkling Eyes was still showing the way but Frivol moved up to her, then came Soldier’s Hope, Controversy and Takaka with a bunch next. Sparkling Eyes led Frivol into the straight and below the distance Soldier’s Hope and Takaka put in claims, the four leaders racing almost in line at the distance. A little further on Sparkling Eyes tired and dropped back. Drawing out Frivol looked to have the race in hand, but he was challenged by Soldier's Hope and Takaka. An interesting finish resulted in Frivol winning by a long neck from Takaka with Soldier’s Hope a head off third, while Rippling Lake was two lengths off fourth, just in front of Sparkling Eyes, then came Royal Saxon just showing out from a bunch. Time, Imin. 18 4-ssecs. WAVERLEY SADDLE TROT, £2lO, second £35, third £l5. Class 3.42. One mile and a half. 9 A. McLellan’s ch g Spring Chimes, by Four Chimes—King Cole mare, aged, 96 yds bhd (Owner) .... 1 14 H. Booth’s ch m Lingfield, by Author Dillon —Gianella, 4 years, 108 yds bhd (Owner) 2 4 D. Wilson’s ch m Miss Adonis, by Adonis—Misfortune, aged, 36 yds bhd, (L. Boivin) 3 (Winner trained by owner, Invercargill.) Also started:—B Logathete, limit (H. Guest); 7 Harrotha limit (F. Johnson); 1 Turi Chimes, limit (T. Stewart); 12 The Monkey, limit (J. Cosgrove); 11 Dixie Dillon 12 yds bhd (F. Langford); 5 Vasiliki, 24 yds bhd (H. J. Eady) ; 15 Catriona, 24 yds bhd (E. Mitchell) ; 13 Gold Chimes, 36 yds bhd (T. Clare) ; 3 Revolt, 36 yds bhd (J. Purdue, Jnr.) ; 2 Wallace Mac, 36 yds bhd (O. Reed) 6 Snowcap, 48 bhd (J. Walsh) ; 21 Silbon, 48 yds bhd (G. McDonald) ; 10 St. Thomas, 48 yds bhd, (E. Todd); 20 Pert Pointer. 48 yds bhd (S. Todd) ; 17 First Toll, 60 yds bhd (N.S. Lawlor): 18 Berma Pointer, 60 yds bhd (L. McDonald» ; 15 Queen Betty, 60 yds bhd

(W. Jones); 19 Northope, 84 yds bhd, (J. Langford) ; 16 Hylas, 96 yds bhd (J. Peart) ; 15 Lucky Harold, 108 yds bhd (I. Grant).

The Monkey drew out from Harrotha and the pair led past the stand from Vasiliki Gold Chimes, Wallace Mac and Turi Chimes in close order. The leaders were the same into the back stretch, with Miss Adonis moving up, and Spring Chimes and Lingfield coming fast from the rear. At the far turn Wallace Mac just showed out with Miss Adonis closing up. When the home turn was reached Miss Adonis paced to the front, with Spring Chimes and Lingfield coming fast. Miss Adonis drew out below the distance but a little further on was challenged by Spring Chimes and Lingfield. In a desperate finish Spring Chimes got up to win by a head from Lingfield, with Miss Adonis a head further back third, then came Catriona fourth, followed by Wallace Mac, The Monkey and Turi Chimes. Times: 3min. 36 2-ssecs; 3min. 35 4-ssecs; 3min. 42secs. FLYING HANDICAP. £250, second £4O, third £2O. Six furlongs. D. Ruthven’s b in Eaton Bells, by Eaton Lad—Formicary 6 years, car A 7.0 (R. Beale) 1 2 G. A. Kain’s br m Receipt, by Paper Money—Satisfaction 4 years, 8.9 (F. Voight) 2 3 A. G. Hilts' b g Rob, by Solferino —Quiz, 5 years, car. 7.3 (T. Metcalf) , 3 (Winner trained by J. Ruttledge, Wingatui.) Also started:—l Rapier, 9.5 (J. Beale); I Set Sail, 9.0 (A. E. Ellis); 11 Father O’Flynn, 8.0 (F. J. McKay) ; 9 Ecuador, 7.8 (C. Eastwood) ; 9 Sweet Melody, car. 7.2 (J. Dooley) ; 7 Bright Mark, car. 7.0 (J. Cotton) ; 6 Spearmaid, 7.0 (D. Kerr) ; II Salerno, car. 7.44 (J. Potter) ; 10 Soltoe, 7.0 (E. Busbridge); 8 Valdamo, 7.0 (L. J. Ellis). Receipt caused delay at the start, but ultimately joined the line. From a perfect start Sweek Melody stumbled and nearly lost her rider, while Ecuador was slow to begin and may have been blocked by Sweet Melody. Eaton Bells was first to show out from Bright Mark and Receipt. After passing the five furlong post Bright Mark took command, but was joined by Receipt two furlongs from home, then close up came Eaton Bells and Rob, with Spearmaid next. Receipt led into the straight, but was challenged below the distance by Eaton Bells, who was followed by Bright Mask, Rob and Spearmaid. Inside the distance Eaton Befls ran to the front and going on won by two lengths from Receipt, with Rob a length and a half away third, closely attended by Bright Mark, then came Soltoe and Valdamo, while Rapier was next. Time, Imin. 16 3-ssecs. SOUTHLAND STEEPLECHASE, £275, second £45, third £2O. About three miles. 2 W. F. North’s ch g Scamp, by Kilrain—Belle of New York, 6 years. 9.9 (E. Mackie) 1 1 J. M. Samson’s b g Tuki, by Quin Abbey—Sylvia Park, aged, 11.13 (J. T. Humphris) 2 5 W. McCarthy’s b g Vice Grand, by Vice Admiral—Fibrona, aged, car. 9.6 J (F. Langford) 3 (Winner trained by Owner, Otautau.) Also started:—l Kipling, 10.10 (L. Hunt) coupled with Tuki; 9 Frenchman, 11.6 (A. Youngman) ; 6 Uncle Bob, 10.13 (J. Langford) ; 8 Ranui, 10.1 (A. Ruthven) ; 4 Londonderry, 9.13 (A. S. Ellis) ; 3 Nightraid, 9.13 (E. Shaw) ; 10 De Cruse, car. 9.74 (W. Anderton) ; 7 Fabriano 9.4 (J. Walker). The ten runners left on even terms and were bunched until Ranui held a slight lead at the first fence. Before the straight was reached Ranui was showing the way to Scamp. At the stand fence Ranui was showing the way to Scamp, Londonderry, Uncle Bob, Vice Grand and Tuki. At the red post and rails Fabriano ran round and Kipling followed suit. Racing up the hill to the sod wall Scamp took command and was followed over the earthen jump and across the logs by Ranui, Londonderry, Vice Grand, Uncle Bob and Tuki. Scamp led into the straight and jumped the stand obstacle in front of Londonderry, Vice Grand Ranui, and Tuki. At the red post and rails Scamp was several lengths clear of Tuki, Ranui, Night Raid and Vice Grand. When the sod wall was reached Scamp, who was eight lengths to the good nearly lost his rider who made a clever recovery, then came Tuki, Ranui, Night Raid and Londonderry, the last-named falling. Holding his own across the logs Scamp cleared out and held a strong advantage when he cleared the final obstacle to canter in a winner by fifteen lengths from Tuki, with Vice Grand twenty lengths off, beating Night Raid by a neck for third money, then came Ranui, Uncle Bob, Fabriano, Frenchman and De Cruse at intervals. Time, 6mins. 19 1-5 secs. SOUTHLAND CUP, £4OO, second £7O, third £3O. One mile and a quarter. 2 G. A. Kain’s br m Full Swing, by Nassau —Mars> 6 years, 7.4 (T. Metcalf) 1 1 L. C. Hazlett’s b m Circulation, by Paper Money—Sister Radius, 4 years. 8.3 (A. E. Ellis) 2 3J. L. Hannon's b g Bilbo, ' GreySpear—St. Helen, 4 years, 7.3 (L. J. Ellis i 3 (Winner trained by J. W. Pankhurst, Invercargill). Also started: —4 Vaward, 8.7 (J. T. Humphris' ; 5 Francaise, 7.0 (J. Pope); 6 Roman Archer. 7.0, (E. Busbridge*. There was no delay at the post and the field left on even terms, with Francaise just showing out from Bilbo passing the judge the first time, then came Circulation and Roman Archer, while Vaward had already dropped in behind the field. Racing up the hill Francaise was four lengths clear of the field, then came Circulation and Bilbo together, while Roman Archer and Full Swing were in company next attended by Vaward. At the far turn Francaise was still in front with Full Swing making a forward move. Two furlongs from home Full Swing joined Francaise and Circulation improved her position, while Roman Archer was tiring and Vaward moving up. Full Swing led into the straight and was running on alone at the distance when Circulation made a forward move. Full Swing answered a call and crowding on the pace beat Circulation home by a length with Bilbo a length and a half away third, Vaward three lengths off fourth, then came Francaise and Roman Archer at intervals. Time, 2mins. 13secs. INVERCARGILL HARNESS TROT, £2OO. second £35, third £l5. One mile and a half. 14 J. G. Cruickshank’s b f Sunshower, by Sungod—Wallace L. mare, 3 years, 48 yds bhd (Owner) .... 1 15 S. J. Moore’s gr g Boy Blue, by Four Chimes—Game Child, 6 years, limit (Owner) 2 2 J. G. Kirton’s b g Young Bingen, by Nelson Bingen—Vera K, 4 years, limit (J. R. Waite) .... 3 (Winner trained by Owner, Gore.)

Also started:—lB Princess Thorpe, limit (J. Cosgrove) ; 7 Mac’s Lady, limit (O. Reed) ; 20 Toby Tyllun, limit (G. Bates) ; 12 Mountain Queen, limit (J. R. McMurray) ; 13 Cloverley, limit (K. McKenzie) ; 1 Lee Bingen limit, (J. McKewen Jnr.) ; 10 Coy Bells, limit (S. Todd) and Princess Pointer, limit (A. Smith) ; 4 Homelight limit (W. Jones) and Red Abbey, limit (A. McLellan), coupled; 5 Eiffel Tower, limit

(J. McConnell) ; 16 Ten Bells, limit (L. Boivin) ; 9 Red Shiner, limit (T. Clare) ; 11 Kerrwood Bell, 12 yds bhd (J. Flynn) ; 18 Sunbell. 12 yds bhd (H. Peart) ; 7 Quo Vadis, 12 yds* bhd (J. Dermody) ; 17 Wee Spark, 24 yds bhd (W. Burrows) ; 8 Baker Boy, 36 yds bhd (O. Jamieson) ; 3 Sea Hawk, 36 yds bhd (J. Walsh) and Nelson McElwyn, 60 yds bhd (F. Wallis, Jnr.) coupled; 19 Chiming King, 36 yds bhd (D. Kerr* and Coldstream Guard, 48 yds bhd (W. Muir) coupled; 6 Mirella 96 yds bhd (F. Farquharson) At the start Toby Tyllun, Eiffel Tower and Mountain Queen lost their chances. Lee Bingen led out from Boy Blue. Passing the stand Blue Boy was showing the way to Lee Bingen, then came Coy Bells, Homelight and Quo Vadis. The three leaders were the same at the six furlong mark with Quo Vadis closing up. Rounding the far turn Boy Blue was closely attended by Lee Bingen with Quo Vadis next, then came

Coy Bells, Sea Hawk and Sunshower. Turning for home Boy Blue was clear, then came Lee Bingen, Sunshower, Sea Hawk and Young Bingen. Below the distance Sunshower came fast and headed Boy Blue at a little further on. Boy Blue came on again under pressure. In a good race home Sunshower won by half a length from Boy Blue, with Young Bingen, who came fast, four lengths off third, then came Sea Hawk, Coy Bells, Princess Thorpe and Baker Boy. Times: 3mins. 40 3-ssfcs; 3mins. 45secs; 3mins. 47 l-ssecs.

STEWART ISLAND HANDICAP, £l5O, second £25, third £lO. Seven furlongs. 10 A. C. Mills’ b g Piton, by Solferino —Dally, aged, car. 7.0 (D. Kerr) 1 2 J. Graham’s ch g King Balboa, by Balboa—Golden Queen, 4 years, car. 7.131 (A. E. Ellis) 2 9 D. Tweedie’s b g Parader, by Triumphator—My Beauty, 6 years, 7.0 (J. Dooley) 3 (Winner trained bv A. McKay, Riverton.)

Also started:—3 Tholomon, 8.13 (B. Brodie) ; 1 Battle Colours, 8.10 (F. Voight) ; 6 Equerry, car. 7.51 (R- Beale) ; 7 Strathnaver 7.10 (H. Anderton) ; 11 Glenham 7.7 (J. Potter) ; 5 Solzia 7.6 (L. J. Ellis) ; 12 Red Fray 7.6 (J. Wilkins) ; 8 Vogue car. 7.0 (J. Cotton); 4 Eyed Ova car. 7.2] (T. Metcalf); 13 Last Thought 7.0 (C. Low).

From a good start Solzia was first to move, but he was at once joined by King Balboa and Piton. There was little change to the far turn where Solzia had dropped back and Piton and King Balboa led the way. Racing across the top to the home turn Piton and King Balboa were leading Parader and St rat hn aver, while Last Thought and Eyed Ova were prominent. The leaders landed into the home stretch together followed by Parader and Strathnaver also almost on terms. In a good race home Piton lasted long enough to beat King Balboa by a nose, with Parader nearly two lengths off third, a head in front of Strathnaver, then came Last Thought, Eyed Ova and Equerry. Time, Imin. 32secs.

TRADESMAN’S HANDICAP, £2OO, second £35, third £l5. One mile. 1 F. Shaw’s ch g Overhaul, by Tractor —Take Down, 4 years, 8.3 (B. Brodie) 1 5 P. F. Campbell’s b g Doleful Ditty, by Kilbov —Mandola, aged, 7.10 (L. J. Ellis) •• •• 2 2 A. Chisholm’s br m Spean Bridge by Rich Mor—Annie Laurie, 5 years, 7.1 (C. East wood) 3 (Winner trained by Owner, Wingatui.) Also started: —4 King Sol, 8.13 (A. Didham) ; 5 Bugle Note, 8.4 (A. E. Ellis) ; 6 Bloom, 7.11 (J. Potter) ; 3 Courtley Rose, car 7.1 (R. Beale); 7 Kilbarry, car. 7.1 (J. Dooley). Courtly Rose gave trouble at the barrier and finally left bounding into the air to lose three or four lengths and nearly unseat her jockey. From a good start Overhaul began well, but Bloom took up the running in the dip and led Spean Bridge past the six furlong post, with Bugle Note at the head of the others, and Courtly Rose gathering up the field. The field was in fairly close order rounding the far turn with Bloom and Spean Bridge attended by Courtly Rose on the outside of Bugle Note. Spean Bridge ran to the front with Courtly Rose passing the two furlong mark. Spean Bridge led into the straight but was challenged by Overhaul, Kilbarry, and Doleful Ditty in turn. In a keen race to the judge Overhaul .stayed on well to beat the fast-finishing Doleful Ditty by threequarters of a length, with Spean Bridge two lengths off third, Kilbarry was close up fourth, Courtly Rose fifth, and King Sol who had been in the rear over a great portion of the distance, sixth. Time, Imin. 45 4-ssecs. COMMENT ON THE RACING. THE UNCERTAINTY OF THE TURF. AN ATTRACTIVE STEEPLECHASE. GOING FAVOURS LIGHTWEIGHTS. The racing was always very interesting throughout the eight events contested, and on quite a number of occasions the man-in-the-box must have been anxious and keenly alert as the leaders in action thundered down upon him to fight out strenuous finishes. The uncertainty of the turf, without which racing would lose more than half its fascinations, was exemplified in a fashion hardly appreciated by the bulk of the onlookers during the proceedings, and it is hard to say how far the holding going contributed to this state of affairs, but evidence was not wanting that the sport was thoroughly enjoyed and this after all is what racing clubs strive after. While the condition of the track probably favoured many of the lightweights and assisted in the upsetting of favourites in specific instances signs were not wanting to suggest that unexpected results would have been experienced in any case. With a busy cross-

country season in the south and elsewhere opening yesterday great interest was taken in the race for the Southland Steeplechase in which a display of excellent fencing by the way was responsible for an attractive contest. The proceedings were illuminating throughout and when Scamp, despite a slip at the sod wall, stood up gallantly and romped home there was joy in the land, particularly where patrons from the Otautau and Western District generally weje concerned. For the past two seasons this well-bred gelding has been looked upon as a promising cross-country candidate to go forth to represent the home province in the north, and fellowers of steeplechasing adopted him as their own with this end in view, but it was not until he won well at the Clifden R.C.’s meeting recently that a good line could be obtained on his merit. A small army of supporters followed his fortunes yesterday, and when he responded to the acid test the cheering must have surprised spectators from northern centres who were not fully aware of the situation. It was a very popular victory and the connections of the Otautau-owned and trained novice were obviously delighted with the

sLowing made by their hoped-for champion. There was another popular outburst when Full Swing accounted for the Southland Cup and local supporters of the game were prominent in the demonstration to mark their appreciation of the fact that she is prepared on the S.R.C. tracks by a painstaking young mentor, while also understanding that the well-bred daughter of Nassau carries the colours of a good supporter of southern racing in Mr G. A. Kain, of Milton. The defeat of the topweights Rapier, Set Sail and Receipt in the Flying Handicap caused some disappointment, despite the fact that the last-named struggled into second berth, but the race went to a

consistent and somewhat unlucky galloper in Eaton Bells, and it was quite in keeping with her recent form and the holding state of the track that she should prevail. Rapier and Set Sail were never prominent, but the lightweight leaders set a very sound pace and this probably accounted for their undoing, as the time (1.16 3-5) was very good on the day, a contention that will appeal to people who understand what is to be expected on the S.R.C. course when the sprinters run down six furlongs under the conditions presented—a three-quarter mile event at Invercargill under wintry conditions at this period of the year is a very different proposition to a race of a similar distance in April say at Oamaru or Christchurch. The caretaker (Mr T. Marshall) had his track in good order for the fixture, but the odds were against him on the day.

The full field of seventeen started in the Roslyn Handicap, with Sparkling Eyes ranking as first selection, carrying ninety-six chances more than Lucy Locket, while Soldier’s Hope was over two hundred supporters away as third fancy. Royal Saxon, Gipsy Maid and Rippling Lake were the only others supported with any spirit. Sparkling Eyes led into the straight by a narrow margin from Frivol, but looked to be holding her own when she stopped suddenly inside the distance, as if something had gone wrong with her works, and the Absurd gelding went on to win by a neck, after a sharp tussle over the last seventy yards, from Takaka and Soldier’s Hope, who were divided by heads. The winner, who is trained by J. R. Waite at Tapanui, is also owned in that district. He was smart as a two-year-old, but subsequently lost form, retiring into Southland to emerge

occasionally during the past two seasons and pick up races by clever sprinting. The runner-up, Takaka, came from the West Coast some time ago, and is now owned and trained in the coalmining district of Nightcaps and Wairio. He is evidently use-’ ful and should presently win for his sporting owner. Soldier’s Hope ran a great race in the rain and under real weight.

For the Waverley Saddle Trot Turi Chimes was first selection, leading Wallace Mac by over thirty chances, with Revolt fifty supporters off as third selection, while Miss Adonis, Vasiliki and Snowcap were almost on even terms next in demand.

The Monkey made the pace for nearly a mile, then Wallace Mac took command. Approaching home turn Miss Adonis closed on the leader. Landing into the straight clear Miss Adonis was challenged after passing the distance by Spring Chimes and Lingfield. A great finish resulted, Spring Chimes winning by a head from Lingfield, with Miss Adonis a similar distance away third. It was a rousing finish? and created great excitement. The winner, who is a very nice saddle performer, was ridden by his owner-trainer A. McLellan, who has had a fine innings with the Four Chimes gelding during the past twelve months. Lingfield paced a great race from the back mark in holding going, and it is safe to say that she would have been tendered a prolonged round of applause had she succeeded in the hands of her owner-trainer. Miss Adonis was reported to be sore prior to the race and this fact may have led to her narrow defeat after a very solid attempt to win.

The wagering for the Flying Handicap was very keen, quite a number of the start* ers being followed in close order. Rapier went out as first fancy, carrying only eight chances more than Receipt, with Rob less than twenty followers off in third place, about thirty supporters ahead of Set Sail, who led Eaton Bells by about ten subscribers.

Nearing the home turn Receipt closed on the leader Bright Mark and led into the straight, with Eaton Bells making up ground fast, attended by Rob and Spearmaid. In the run home Eaton Bells drew out and won by two lengths from Receipt with Rob next. It was a fast run race in heavy going and the topweights may be forgiven for finishing down the course. Eaton Bells deserved her success for J. Ruttledge’s stable, as she has been displaying improved form of late after a long series of outs. Receipt ran particularly well.

In the Southland Steeplechase the coupled Tuki and Kipling were elected first fancy carrying thirty chances more than Scamp, with Night Raid over one hundred and ten supporters off in third place, then came a big gap to Londonderry. It is detailed elsewhere how Scamp won, after a mistake at the sod wall that might have cost him the race. This slip appeared to rouse horse and rider, as Scamp was then kicked up and he stood off his remain* ing fences in dashing fashion and stayed home every inch of the way, despite fears to the contrary in the hearts of some of his timid supporters. The winner is the son of a good racehorse in Kilrain, while his dam, Belle of New York, is by All Red from Helianthes. by Finland—Clytie, by Phaethon

—Neroli, by Artillery—Nenuphar, by Apremont —Watersprite, by Traducer —Waterwitch, a pedigree suggesting future possibiL ities across the flat or over fences. Tuki ran a very fine race as far as the remainder of his rivals were concerned, and a drop in weight would soon land him well in the money. Frenchman, Uncle Bob, Ronnie, and Night Raid will be benefited by their race. Londonderry was going well when he fell. Vice Grand jumped well and will be difficult to beat in minor company later on t Ranui gave a good display as long as he lasted and jumped splendidly throughout.

Circulation carried nearly four, hundred and fifty chances more than Full Swing in the Southland Cup, with Bilbo only two supporters off in third place, while Vaward was thirty followers off next.

Francaise made the running all the way to the far turn from Circulation and Bilbo together. Racing across the top Full Swing ran into second place joining Francaise two furlongs from home, while moving up Full Swing led into the straight stalling off a challenge by Circulation was also moving up. Full Swing led into the straight and stalling off a challenge by Circulation beat her by a length with Bilbo putting iij good work not far away. Although she only won by a length her form suggested that the race may do the winner some good. The suggestion was made that Circulation was too confidently ridden, but Full Swing is a good mare and the time (2.13) constituted an excellent performance on the local track under the circumstances.

The Dunedin-owned Lee Bingen was first fancy for the Invercargill Harness Trot, with Young Bingen nearly two hundred and fifty chances off as second fancy, while the coupled Sea Hawk and Nelson McElwyn were a long way off next in demand. Boy Blue led into the straight, but was passed by Sunshower at the distance. Boy Blue came again and was only beaten by half a length as the line was crossed. The winner, Sunshower, is a very smart three-year-old filly by Sungod, and she paced a very nice race for her owner to win in 3.40 3-5 in deep going. There may have been an element of luck in the win, as there is just a suspicion that Boy Blue was caught napping at the distance. The grey-coloured runner-up is a very neatly-turned clever pacer by Four Chimes from a grey mare called Gamechild who used to run very fast races to saddle a few years ago.

Battle Colours was an easy first fancy for the Stewart Island Handicap, carrying about two hundred and forty chances more than King Balboa, with Tholomon three hundred and thirty supporters off as third selection. From the far turn Piton and King Balboa fought out the issue for nearly half a mile and a very exciting run home resulted in the former winning by a nose from King Balboa. The winner, who was turned out well by A. McKay, of Riverton, was brought to Southland from Wellington last season, calling in at Dunedin on his way to put up a great race at the Otago Hunt Club meeting, when he was beaten by High Gear in the Vauxhall Handicap (6f.) in the colours of Mr W. Stone. He was subsequently passed on by Mr Stone to Mr A. C. Mills, and it was interesting to note that the former owner liked Piton’s chances yesterday. A price round about a third of a century must have surprised the winner’s connections. The unlucky King Balboa added another good second to his already overlengthy list of similar placings.

For the Tradesmen’s Handicap Overhaul was elected first fancy but it was to carry only two chances more than Spean Bridge, while Courtly Rose was two hundred and twenty followers away next. Courtly Rose, who lost several lengths at the start owing to misbehaviour, caught the leaders three furlongs from home and came away with Spean Bridge. The latter was first into the straight, but tired inside the distance and Overhaul headed her, then Doleful Ditty took a hand. In a good finish Overhaul won all out by three-quarters of a length from Doleful Ditty, with Spean Bridge next and tired. The winner, who has put in great work for his owner-trainer, F. Shaw, this season is a very game son of imported Tractor. He is only a four-year-old and it is on the cards that he has a useful career in front of him. Ancient Doleful Ditty ran a fine race and R. McKay was thus unlucky in turning he and King Balboa out during the afternoon to fill second place in their respective hardly-fought contests. ACCEPTANCES FOR TO-DAY. The following are the acceptances for the second day of the Southland Racing Club’s autumn meeting:— MYROSS HANDICAP, £l5O. Seven furlongs. st lb st lb Frivol ... 9 0 Lady Tractor 7 12 King Balboa . 8 8 Solzia .... 7 12 Lucy Locket . 8 4 Takaka ... 7 10 Strathn aver . 8 2 Vogue .... 7 8 Rippling Lake 8 2 Countermove 7 7 Divinial ..81 Ace of Hearts 7 7

MASTERTON RACING CLUB. ACCEPTANCES FOR TO-DAY. (Per United Press Association.) Masterton, April 1. The following are the acceptances for the Masterton Racing Club Annual fixture on April 7:— HIGH-WEIGHT HANDICAP, £l2O. One mile.

SYDNEY SUBURBAN RACING. WARWICK FARM MEETING. SCRATCHINGS FOR SATURDAY. (By Telegraph—Press Assn.—Copyright.) (Rec. 9 p.m.) Sydney, April 6. The following scratchings for the Warwick Farm meeting on Saturday are announced— Steeplechase—Aberfeldy. Cabramatta Mile—Reonui. Liverpool Handicap—Giggle. SOCCER. SOUTHLAND ASSOCIATION. EXECUTIVE MEETING. The usual executive meeting of the Southland Football Association was held on Tuesday evening. Application from the Rangers Club for affiliation was accepted. It was decided that a friendly game between Invercargill and a combined Rangers and Corinthians side take place on Saturday next, 9th instant, at the Show Grounds at 3 p.m. It was decided that affiliated country clubs, viz., Gore and Mataura, be written as to the possibility of arranging a combined country team to play a combined Town team on Easter Saturday at Show Grounds. RUGBY FOOTBALL. RIVERTON CLUB’S ANNUAL MEETING. The annual meeting of the Riverton Football Club was held in the Town Hall on Tuesday evening, April 5, when Mr D. Ross, president, presided over a good attendance. The election of office-bearers for the ensuing year was as follows:—President, Mr D. Ross (re-elected) ; vice-presidents, Messrs W. Hawke, H. Helm, R. Taylor, J. M. Martin, C. Butler and A. E. Trail; captain, T. Lockett; deputy-captain J. Fleck; secretary, H. Johnstone; treasurer, H. Helm; general (

committee, Messrs R. Taylor, W. Hawke, G. McNaughton and J. Campbell; ground committee, Messrs F. Beer, R. Whyte and J. Campbell; selection committee, Captain, deputy-captain and H. Johnstone; delegates to Western District Sub-Union, Messrs D. Ross, W. Hawke, and H. Johnstone. Subscriptions were fixed at: Senior members 5/-; juniors 3/-. Opening day was fixed for Wednesday, April 13. Votes of thanks to past officers terminated the meeting. LAWN TENNIS. A CHRISTCHURCH CHAMPIONSHIP. SEAY BEATS SHEPPARD. Christchurch, April 6. In the teams final of the United Club’s men’s singles championship I. A. Seay beat J. W. Sheppard 6—l, 4—6, 6—l, 4—6, 6—3. ALONZO DEFEATS TILDEN. Washington, April 4. At an exhibition tennis match on Monday night, Alonzo defeated Tilden 4—6, 6—4, 7—9, 6—o, 6—3.—A. and N.Z.

NEW RIVER HARNESS TROT, i £215. Class 4.52. Two miles. Kerrwood Bell . Lt Perky Locanda . 12 Catriona . . . Lt Mirella . . . , . 36 Revolt . . . . . . Lt Sandown . . . . 72 Quickmatch . . . Lt Chimer . . . . 72 Miss Adonis . . Lt Desert Star . . 96 Nelson McEIwyn Lt Lucky Harold . 96 yds bhdLingfield . . . 96 Great Bell . 12 Lcnamhor . . 108 PRESIDENT’S HANDICAP, £225. Six furlongs. Receipt . . . S 12-Rob .... 7 5 Eaton Bells . 7 13 Brightmark . 7 2 Overhaul . . 7 10 Andante . . 7 1 Ecuador . . , 7 8 Mime .... 7 1 Bugle Note . 7 5 Spean Bridge 7 0 Sweet Melody 7 5 Valdamo . . 7 0 INVERCARGILL STEEPLECHASE, £250. About two and a-half miles. Cartoon . . . 10 11 Nightraid . . 9 13 Kipling . . . 10 9 Londonderry . 9 12 Galway . . . 10 5 Blazing Light 9 8 Ranui . . . 10 1 Vice Grand . 9 2 AWARUA HANDICAP, £300. One mile and a-quarter. Rapier . . . 9 4 King Sol . . 8 0 Set Sail . . . 8 13 Bilbo .... 7 4 Baldowa . . 8 11 Cupidon . . . 7 0 Vaward . . . 8 6 BLUFF HANDICAP, £150. One mile. Wingatui . . 9 3 Red Fray . . 7 11 Soldier’s Hope 8 10 Vogue . . . 7 8 Equerry . . . 7 13 Eyed Ova . . 7 7 Rippling Lake 7 13 Parader . . . 7 7 Glenham . . 7 12 Lart Thought 7 7 Paris .... 7 12 DASH TROT (saddle), £175. Class 2.28. One mile. Princess Thorpe Lt The Monkey . . 12 Young Bingen . Lt Baker Boy . . . 1’2 Mountain Queen Lt Gold Chimes . 24 Chiming King . Lt Panee Lao . . 24 Cloverly . . . Lt Wallace Mac . 24 Coy Bells . . . Lt Perfect Pointer . 24 White Sun . . , . Lt Vasiliki . . . . 24 Etambe . . . . Lt Snowcap . . . . 36 Boy Blue . . . Lt Queen Betty . . 36 John Dee . . . Lt First Toll . . 36 Red Shiner . . Lt Silbon . . . < . 48 Princess Pointer Lt Liberal . . . . . 48 yds bhdBerma Pointer . 48 Harrotha . . . 12 Erin Chimes . 60 WINTER OATS HANDICAP, £200. One mile. Baldowa . . . 9 3 Kilbarry . . 7 4 Overhaul . . 8 10 Kilfane . . . 7 4 Miss Winkie . 8 3 Battle Colours 7 0 Doleful Ditty 7 12 Tholomon . . 7 0 Bloom . . . 7 8 Soltoe . . . 7 0 Courtly Rose 7 5 Salerno . . . 7 0

st lb st lb Killocra . . 11 6 Sir Moment . 9 6 No Favours . 10 2 Gordon Swift 9 6 Asleep . . . 9 13 Lady Passenger 9 5 Askari . . . 9 11 Vexatious . . 9 4 Lady Ben , . 9 9 Pukaki . . . 9 0 Eonmark . . 9 8 Panorama . . 9 0 Hokioi . . . 9 7 TRIAL STAKES, £110. Five furlongs. Mirelation . . 8 7 Voronia . . 8 7 Mandarine . . 8 7 Thesa . . . 8 7 Piperenzo . . 8 7 Merry Sarto . 8 7 Miss Glow . . 8 7 Our Bob . . 8 7 Royal Black . 8 7 Eloquent . . 8 7 Colorina . . 8 7 Av azone . . 8 7 TELEPHONE ! HANDICAP, £110. Six furlongs. Invitation . . 9 2 Raukaura . . 7 8 Kilmezzo . . 8 8 Mountain Bank Draft . 8 7 Jean 7 1 Rowley . . . 8 1 Land Guard . 7 1 Addlepate . . 8 0 Hymgreat . . 7 1 Molto .... 7 11 Ehorz .... 7 0 Jemidar . . . 7 9 Wailong . . . 7 0 Carrigallon . 7 8 FLYING HANDICAP, £150. Six furlongs. Royal Divorce 9 5 Lady Ideal 7 11 First Acre . 8 13 Lady Fingers 7 7 Mireusonta 8 11 Riverna . . . 7 0 Polyphemus . 8 8 Blonde . . . 7 0 Kilceit . . . 8 1 Serenade . . 7 0 Standard . . 8 1 AUTUMN HANDICAP. £250. One mile and a-quarter. Tanadees . . 9 13 Vesperus . . 7 11 Hynanna . . 9 9 Ardfinnan . . 7 4 First Acre . . 8 9 Vertigern . . 7 0 Beaumont . . 8 1 No Favours . 7 0 Opa .... 7 12 JUVENILE HANDICAP £120. For two-year-olds. Five furlongs. Cosmetic . . 8 11 Thurnbelle . . 7 9 King Midas . 8 9 Vigilence . . 7 7 Arrow Lad . 8 9 Keddar . . . 7 7 Chips . . . 8 8 The Master . 7 - Teri .... 8 5 Constantia . . 7 6 Exhibition . . 7 9 Thurnville . . 7 6 Historic . . . 7 9 Grey Mist . . 7 4 Hygrade . . 7 9 Lilock . . . 7 4 STEWARDS’ HANDICAP, £150. One mile. Tresham . . . 9 0 Lady Ideal 7 8 Killocra . . 8 8 Willow Wai . 7 7 Merry Damon 8 6 Blonde . . . 7 6 Bonhomme . 8 4 Lady Killer . 7 0 Black Mint . 7 13 Serenade . . 7 0 Ardfinnan . . 7 11 DASH HANDICAP £110. Six furlongs. Vertigern . . 9 1 Sir Moment . 7 5 Kilmezzo . . 8 6 Gordon Swift 7 5 Bank Draft . 8 6 Hymestrason . 7 4 Ri verna . . . 8 5 Hymill . . . 7 4 General Wai . 7 13 Colarina . . 7 3 Addlepate . . 7 11 Lhasa . . . 7 0 Molto . . . 7 8 Panorama . . 7 0 Henna . . . 7 8 Avazone . . . 7 0