SPORTING

Southland Times, Issue 25343, 23 July 1935, Page 10

SPORTING

• NOTES BY SIR MODRED.

The South Canterbury Hunt Club meeting acceptances will close this evening.

K. Voitre was due to ride Gay Friar and Metro at Caulfield on/ Saturday.

While Voitre failed to score on Saturday, H. Skidmore won a good race.

K. Voitre has now slender hope of beating Skidmore for Melb. riding honours.

Il is very satisfactory to learn that Winton Jockey Club is now free of debt.

Hastings novice hurdler, Padishah, may visit Riccarton for the G.N. meeting next month.

The Southland-bred pacer Prairie King is working with F. G. Holmes s string on Addington tracks.

Princess Doreen, winner of the last Winter Cup, will go to Sydney with T. R. George’s team.

Acceptances for the leading Grand National races and entries for minor events close on Friday.

Entries for the N.Z. M.T.C’s. August fixture at Addington are due on Thursday next at noon.

When T. R. George leaves Trentham next month for Sydney his team will number at eight.

Christchurch owner Mr C. P. Cameron will in future conduct his own trotting horse training.

The racing at the South Canterbury Hunt fixture on Saturday will be of unusual interest.

Hawera rising two-year-old, Gay Patrick, has developed a splint and may not visit Sydney.

The Poverty Bay Turf Club will conduct a meeting on Thursday next and following Saturday.

Two hunting sons of Danilof in Just Off and Panloff are schooling over Hawera hurdles.

When Boudoir dropped dead at Awapuni last week, her indentured rider, R. Ireland, broke a collarbone.

It is stated that Auckland huntersteeplechaser Haakon, now amiss, will not be trained again.

Umtali is working again at Wingatui and may be ridden by R. Beale in the National Steeplechase.

Stanchion will not go to Melbourne for the Australian Hurdle Race, _ but contest the New Zealand National Hurdles.

There were supporters in Invercargill on Saturday for Sydney hurdler Sixteen Annas, who won at Caulfield.

Prior to visiting Melbourne. Sixteen Annas ran well against crack jumper Greenseas at home.

The local indentured jockey C. T. Wilson has won 21 races in New Zealand this season, also a number in Australia.

At its annual fixture in September Otago Hunt Club will disburse £750 in stakes—up £l5O.

It is reported that D. O’Connor will have the ride on Lycidas in the N.Z. National Hurdles.

It will interest southern racegoers to learn from “St. Clair” that Travenna is moving well again.

The Wellington Trotting Club bal-ance-sheet shows a loss for the closing season of £1353 4/3.

Inclement weather experienced for September and October meetings was costly to Addington T.C.

Birchwood Hunt Club will hold important fixtures at Otautau on July 31 and again on August 1.

During the season Wellington T.C. paid £5537 in Government taxation, a sum in excess of the net stakes.

The Riverton-owned rising three-year-old, Viking, may race at National meeting from Wingatui.

Defunct in Canterbury, pacer Rorke’s Drift, a winner of the New Zealand Gold Trotting Cup at Wellington.

Epsom Derby winner. Trigo, by Blandford, is at the stud in England and in demand at 300 guineas.

Harinero, brother to Derby and St. Leger winner, Trigo, will stand at Scone, N.S.W., at 75 guineas.

Taranaki hack, Diagano, with £445 in first money, will have to join up in open company.

Arouse is to race at Rangitikei Hunt meeting at Marton, and Carfex will start at Manawatu races.

It is anticipated that fields in Taranaki district will show an increase next season.

It was expected that for the first time in several seasons Mr A. B. Williams’ colours would be unfurled on Saturday,

Trainer J. H. Jefferd was to produce one or two of the Williams’ youngsters at H.B.H.C. parade of yearlings.

It has yet to be decided as to whether Dozie will start in the National Steeplechase, but she is well.

Promising hurdler Brigadore is to compete at Rangitikei H.C. meeting and with batten-topper Invictus race at Manawatu R.C. fixture this week prior to taking ship for the South Island with the G.N. meeting in prospect.

It is reported (remarks Dunedin Evening Star) that Mr F. J. Conn has been appointed honorary starter for the Otago Hunt Meeting, to be held in September. Mr Conn will be an applicant for the vacancies in this department caused by Mr A. D. Mclvor’s retirement as starter.

“One of the main reasons why there are so many great horses in England,” writes Sir Thomas Wilford in an article in “Sporting Life,” “is that the fillies are not raced for years and years before going to the stud. I fancy that if we went back, say, for 20 years, we would find that the greatest racehorses have been bred from mares which raced very little, if at all. None of the great racing mares in New Zealand has produced great racehorses,” Sir Thomas continues, “and some of the greatest I can think of came from dams which never raced. It would be interesting to study the same question with relation to humans, now that many women are becoming as highly trained, physically, as men, and compete in exhausting trials, for which their bodies are trained to the highest degree. But such a thought is without doubt irrelevant to the matter at issue.”

A turn of luck is worth a ton of judgment on the turf as often as not. N.Z. Referee presents a bright example of this contention:—“An Auckland lady visitor to the Wellington winter meeting will have pleasant recollections of the second day of the fixture. She will also bear testimony to the honesty of a ticket seller at the totalisator. Arriving rather late at Trentham, she decided to back Master Musk for a place, and proffered, as she thought, a pound note. The lady ticket seller handed out the ticket and four pounds change. The fair Auckland punter said that she had only put over one pound, but the seller showed the note, a fiver, which had been offered mistakenly. Thanking the seller, the visitor from the north went away to barrack for Master Musk, who duly won. Her luck had not yet ended, for on going to collect she found that in her haste she had purchased a win ticket instead of a place, the difference being a doublefigure dividend instead of a considerably smaller place one.”

“St. Clair” writes in Dunedin Star: — “C. has just finished breaking in two good looking three-year-olds by Balboa for the Central Otago owner, Mr E. Sanders. They are from Green Cloth and March Off. and this morning were cantered round the tracks.’’ The breeding of the juveniles referred to is interesting and suggests galloping merit each way. The first juvenile is from Green Cloth (half-sister to Rivalry, Full Feather, Semper Paratus, Ball Dress and Cricket Bat), by The Ace (imp.) from Equipment, by Martian from To-Morrow, by Bill of Portland (imp. and by St Simon) from Elusive, by Trenton (son of Musket from Eleusis, imp.). Gieseler’s second Balboa pupil is out of March Off (dam of Last March, Grand Finale, and Dismiss), by Markhope (imp.) from Officious, by Finland (son of Bill of Portland, imp.) from Busybody, by Apremont from Tell Tale, by Traducer from Brunette (imp.). If breeding counts for anything, the juveniles from Central Otago should develop into valuable performers.

Writing in Taranaki Daily News “Hurry On” analyses the totalisator returns at Trentham recently as follows: —“An analysis of the totalisator’ figures at the recent Wellington race meeting discloses results that must be distinctly heartening to those clubs that pin their faith to the win and place machine. For the 24 races decided in the three days the average dividend paid on the win machine was £9 19/-. The highest paid was over £27, and the lowest was £2 17/6, this being the only one under £3. On the place machine the first horse paid dividends averaging £2 17/-, the highest being £7 3/6, and the lowest (vide £2 17/6 above) £1 11/6. The second placed horse returned an average of £3 1/-, the highest being £5 14/- and the lowest £1 5/-. The third placed horse paid an average of £3 10/-, the highest being £7 11/6 and the lowest £1 16/-. The average of all the 72 place dividends paid was £3 3/-. It is safe to say that no meeting paying out on 75-25 percentage basis would return an average win dividend of ever £9, and a second dividend average of £3 3/-. It has to be remembered, too, that whereas in the latter case only 48 dividends (first and second) would nave been paid out altogether, in the case of Wellington 96 separate dividends were paid out. Thus it can easily be realized that at least double the number of investors participated in the good prices paid under the win and place system. Double the number of investors get some thrill out of their investment, and consequently double the number of patrons have the opportunity of having further investments from the distribution of the common pool.”

To Australians and many New Zealanders friendly to our enthusiastic cousins across the Tasman Sea it will be welcome news to learn that W. (“Togo”) Johnstone, ex-Sydney horseman, has headed the list of winning jockeys in France for the second time, his latest achievement representing 49 wins from 251 mounts; also that W. Sibbritt, another Australian rider, was in third place, with 22 successes out of 134 mounts. One reason for rejoicing at the success of Johnstone is the fact that he appeared to be unjustly blamed in many quarters in England when his mount Colombo (favourite) was beaten out of a place in the Epsom Derby won by Windsor Lad —in subsequent events in other hands the defeated juvenile afforded strong evidence that the trying twelve furlongs of the famous Epsom course was beyond his compass. As a result of the downfall of Colombo and sharp criticism levelled at his head subsequently Johnstone handed in his retaining contract to the owner of the discounted Derby candidate and retired to France, where he was known and duly appreciated. During the current season he visited England again to pilot the French filly Mesa to victory in the One Thousand Guineas (Im.), but she was subsequently beaten into third berth in his hands in the Oaks (llm.) and the particular body of critics in opposition to the Australian once more decried his horsemanship, quite oblivious of the signs and portents pointing to the inability of the French juvenile to see out one mile and a half, as admitted by a number of English writers of a more discerning frame of mind and also by the party behind Mesa. Under the circumstances, it can be conceived that Johnstone would naturally be pleased at his success in France and racegoers there and in Australia who are acquainted with his measure of ability will hail his latest triumph with a sense of satisfaction. W. Sibbritt, who has been riding in France for a number of years, has made a favourable impression on Continental turfites and. has prospered in the land of his adoption.

Fifty years ago, and then some, three Invercargill schoolboys, one a resident of Avenal, and the other two living in Yarrow street, found their services in consistent demand on the Queen’s Park racecourse as lightweight riders of horses extended in fast work—the Park at that period was the home of the Invercargill R.C., while the Southland Amateur Turf Club held annual fixtures at One Tree Point, now known as Kennington. The Avenal lad was Mr Archibald Campbell McGavock, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 62 years, and one of the Yarrow street boys was Mr R. Stead, who is well-known at Rugby Park to-day as an enthusiastic supporter of the Star F.C. A lover of horses from his earliest years “Archie” McGavock followed his 'ideal with increasing weight by developing into one of the best and pluckiest amateur steeplechase horsemen in New Zealand. Prior to leaving the lightweight ranks, however, he won his first race in public as a boy of 12 years on a horse called Kiwi at a meeting of the Southland Amateur Turf Club at One Tree Point—he thus passed an in the jubilee year of his first win on the turf, always an amateur at heart, and, up to the last, a keen follower from an invalid’s quarters for a number of years of the successes and failures of Southland-bred jumpers and flat racers at home and abroad. In those days of over half a century ago quite a number of horses were prepared on the park track and “Archie” and his amateur comrades, riding for the fun of the game, piloted gallopers trained by the partnership of R, Galt and M. Evans,’ or P. O’Connor, J. Jones, “S.” Daniels, J. Young, J. Bridge (mine host of the Princess Hotel, Deb street), E. Raines, Mr Stark (owner of the Governor Gray Hotel, Avenal, W. Carnahan, W. Aldred, G. McKenzie, James Harrington (the racing farrier), H. Telford and other mentors whose names do not readily occur. As showing that there were a fair number of horses trained in this vicinity about this period, it may be mentioned that R. Galt and M, Evans controlled

a string of a dozen at one stage of the game, the majority owned by the late Mr T. Surman or his friend the late Mr R. Blackham, gallopers such as Puck, Success, Solitude, Vanity, Alluvium, Streamlet and the hurdler Little Fraud (owned by the Messrs Raines Bros.), while one of the light horsemen attached to their stable was Thomas Buddicombe, who subsequently became a noted race rider. When the late Mr McGavock took to riding jumpers as an amateur horseman, however, he was almost invariably to be found piloting performers trained by the late “Harry” Telford, of Victoria, whose sons carry on the family name to-day with credit, as mentors, H. R. Telford (of Phar Lap fame) in Victoria, and H.- Telford at Trentham, while several brothers of/the trainers named are not unknown on the Maoriland turf. For Harry Telford’s stable and its patrons, Mr McGavock steered a number of winners, but his name will always be associated with a gallant little jumper called Aparima,. by Wee Lad (imp.) who raced in his mentor’s name. On this somewhat diminutive but exceedingly stout gelding the deceased horseman scored a number. of wins chief among which were two victories in the Riverton R.C’s. Great Western Steeplechase of 1892 and 1894 respectively, the last-named being, a divided win with a gelding called Nimrod, this decision being arrived at as the solution to a dispute as to the instructons given the riders in the race by the starter—Nimrod completed the selected course, but Aparima and Seaward carried on for another lap, covering in all a distance estimated . at over five and a half miles, including two doubles on the main road to Riverton or six in all out and back by Aparima and Seaward (Mr F. McKay, father of the well-known horseman of to-day F. J. McKay, who is attached to Mr W. T. Hazlett’s Melbourne establishment). The race was not called the Great Western Steeplechase in those days, but to all intents and purposes it was the same event, while it was decided over country and in going that would cause qualms in the hearts of many of the jumping jockeys of the present generation. Of all the plucky men who rode at Riverton away back in 1892, the late Mr McGavock was one of the most fearless and he proved this contention by his feats away from the saddle by forest, road and river in his profession as a surveyor of. new country in the west and his activities as an engineer in bridge and highway construction. While “Archie’s” hobbies were cross-country riding and hunting, he could also play a strenuous game of Rugby football and during his early career he ran several good races over half a mile as an amateur pedestrian on the original Queen’s Park cinder track in the days when the Invercargill Amateur Athletic Club was the finest body of its class in Maoriland. Unable of late years to leave his home to attend turf fixtures, the late Mr McGavock found a connecting link with the great turf pastime by having jaded or war worn thoroughbreds recuperated under his eye and direction in the vicinity of his private residence at Gladstone, a fact resulting in several gallopers staging comebacks to the mystification of the uninitiated. CANTERBURY ITEMS TRACKS DRIED UP. VINTAGE UNDER A CLOUD. END OF MINERVAL. VISITORS ARRIVING. NOTES BY THE ROOK. Christchurch, July 20. Spring arrived early this week and the weather has been beautiful. The tracks have dried up and, if rain does not arrive here next week, the going will soon be on the hard side, and troublesome to the jumping brigade. A lot of schooling has been accomplished during the week, but with one or two exceptions it has been of a very rough nature, and as such is not worth telling about. Vintage looks a doubtful proposition for a trip to Australia. He showed signs of tenderness at the beginning of the week. This gradually developed until now he is slightly lame. H. Nurse is continuing to school Polydora with clockwork regularity. If there is nothing to go with the mare then she goes over six or eight flights of hurdles by herself, and she jumps them properly, although still somewhat inclined to rush each fence. She is to race at Waimate and Timaru on Thursday and Saturday next. She should keep her opponents veiy busy. Turner will ride her. Knockfin will accompany Polydora to Waimate and Timaru. Although this little daughter of Hunting Song has not raced for many months, she has been in work for most of them, and being a keen worker she is more forward than many people expect. She will be hard to head off in her first few races and then she will be at a short price for the Winter Cup, for which she is already a top-liner. Royal Limond was sore before he went to Trentham to contest the Wellington Steeplechase, but he has thrown it off since returning home. On Thursday morning he and Polydora galloped a mile together in 1.48, and again today the ’chaser was given a solid gallop over ten furlongs. On Monday he is to school with Monastic and Free Air. Although allotted top weight in the open steeplechase at Timaru next Saturday the brown ’chaser is going down to race, although his connections are cognizant of the fact that he is very badly treated alongside Dunmure. H. Rama is doing his best to get Free Air to the post for the Grand National Steeplechase. The task is not an easy one and is not likely to be successful. The sturdy little mare s front joints are looking very battered, and are likely to go at any time. . A. McAulay has Southdown looking and" working well, but not at all sensationally. McAulay intends giving Southdown his first run for the season at the Christchurch Hunt meeting just to tighten him up for the National week. In some quarters McAulay s gelding is looked upon as a good thing for the Winter Cup. He may win the race, but a horse that cannot begin faster than Southdowm can is never a good thing for any sprint race when the field is likely to be large. On looks this gelding should do better than pay his way next season. M B. Edwards has sent Ponty down to lie sprinted at Riccarton regularly during the last month. Not yet dressed in his best, Ponty gallops fast enough to suggest that he will be hard to beat over short courses. He must be pleasing his trainer, as a trip to Australia with him was considered, but has been postponed. . Minerval was destroyed during the week. P. T. Hogan rang up Free Holmes to state that the unlucky gelding was not recovering as quickly as was hoped, so Holmes directed that the gelding be shot. Fiom has been schooled over the country several times during the week. She is not improving. When there is nothing else for it she jumps well, but not until she has endeavoured to run ° ff Valpeen and Prince Vai arrived here early in the week. An attempt was made to school Prince Vai on Tuesday. He declined to have anything to do with schooling, even when his stablemate went with him. On occasions he has raced well over hurdles, but he has a rooted objection to schooling. Valpeen is in good health. Sisterina arrived from Wellington on Tuesday morning. She is in good fettle. i The twelve-year-old Aberfoldy has

been schooled over the country’ on two occasions, and on each he shaped well. There is no reason why he shouldn’t, as he was always a brilliant jumper over hurdles. He was qualified with the South Canterbury Hounds, and did most of his hunting in the Levels and Kerrytown districts, where the gorse fences are big and hairy. Most of the Riccarton two-year-olds are very backward. The most forward are those in F. D. Jones’s stables. Several of them are showing great promise. More will be heard about them later. The trip to Trentham did Hounslow good. Another race and he will strip well for the big hurdle events of National week. „ Here Tudor is a pronounced favourite for the N.Z. Grand National Steeplechase. Should he keep sound, until the big race is over (about which there is some doubt) he will start at a short price. Dunmure is another National candidate about which there are rumours of unsoundness. It is alleged that one of his hind legs is giving his trainer cause for uneasiness. When summing up the prospects of the various National Steeplechase candidates, Aladdin can be passed by. He is a long way from being right and is a doubtful starter. Burglar is not a good class hunter, neither is he a dependable jumper. Given a chance he will shirk any fence. No doubt being slightly lame in front causes him to lose confidence. C. McCarthy intends racing Argentic during National week. A good class gelding, Argentic appears to be perfectly sound, but he is not nearly ready. , Good judges who saw Rasouli race at Ellerslie and afterwards at Trentham, declare that at Trentham he was only a shadow compared to his condition at Ellerslie. Evidently he is a bad travelle p. McGrath has given up the idea of racing Lord Argosy either on the flat or over hurdles. His good leg is going. This is a pity for the imported horse was a brilliant jumper’ and galloper. Punchestown is going along the right way He is in need of some racing, but with a run at Timaru and strong work afterwards he won’t be the worst to look at when the National candidates are paraded in three weeks. He has done some schooling and has shaped really well, although he on occasions dips on landing over a fence. But for his enforced spell he would have to be placed among the elect of the National field. Gay Crest has got over his lameness and is striding along as freely as ever he did. His lameness was caused through a small abscess that had formed in a bruise. Once it was opened all signs of lameness disappeared. The Timaru trained hack Rebel Lad was one of the horses that laced at Trentham who could not act in the going. Somebody has supported this gelding for the Winter Cup and he is at a rather short price. Mr J. R. McKenzie is a fairly regular visitor to Riccarton of a morning. He has a galloper called Disguise, who comes down to the tracks on a galloping morning, and who shapes rather well. . . , . Heather Glow is improving in his jumping. Schooled over a fence at his stables he never attempts to run off, but he cannot understand why he’ is asked to jump a fence at the course which stands out in the open It is so much easier to go round it. He will be jumping properly in time for the spring meetings. With the exception of Monastic the Riccarton trained hacks, and hunters are never likely to do much good over jumps. Next season High Speea may win a race or two, but fortune will have to be very much on his side if he is to win one this season. As yet he is much too green a jumper to support. He is, however, a safe conveyance. C Emerson has Tuirau looking sleek and well. She will carry a fair amount of money in her engagements during National week, but she is rather backward to win such a severe contest as the Winter Cup. BIRCHWOOD HUNT STEEPLECHASES AT WAIRIO. SOME FINE JUMPING. (From Our Correspondent.) On Friday and Saturday there were large attendances at the Wairio Jockey Club’s property when the Birchwood hounds had some runs and a point to point steeplechase meeting was held. The weather was perfect on both days and visitors were present from all parts of Southland. On Saturday the gathering was a large one. Some fine jumping was witnessed and there was a total absence of any accidents or falls of any consequence. The officials who had everything in order for the events were: Judge, Mr B. Rushton, sen.; starter, Mr J. Welsh; clerk of scales, Mr M. Forde; stewards, Messrs J. Egan, C. Keen, W. Nisbet, G. Nisbet, F. Boyle and J. C. Purdue; clerk of the course, Mr J. O’Brien. Mr G. W. Gardiner proved an energetic secretary and there were no delays throughout the programme. At the conclusion of Saturday’s events the presentation of a splendid array of cups and trophies was made by Mr T. Todd, president of the Wairio Jockey Club. He congratulated the winners on the fine performances their hunters had put up. Mr D. Irvine, president of the Birchwood Hunt Club, also spoke. He thanked the public for the support the Hunt Club had received and the pro-perty-owners for placing their property at the disposal of the club. To the donors of the trophies he extended special thanks. The recipients of the trophies returned thanks. The followers in the various runs were: J. Langford (master) on Shillelagh Wood, M. O’Brien (huntsman) on Gigha, T. Boyle (whip) on Rotowai and Quinopal, J. Morton on Jack a Dandy, A. Keen on Possum, A. J. Langford on Lady Chicken, J. O’Brien on Renoa, B. Philps on Miss Winston, J. Boyle on Shikina and Toorak, J. Baird on Monanui, S. McKegg on Ginger, C. Ross on Ginger, A. Steans on Sunlight, M. J- Egan on Stampede, R. Marshall on Whippet, G. W Gardiner on Safety First, C. Keen on Whipped Cream. , ~ , Jumping competitions were held during the two days and resulted as fol--10 Maiden Jump—S. McKegg’s Ginger (owner) 1, H. Morton’s Jack a Dandy (J. Morton) 2. Open Jump—J. McLaren s Gigha (M. O’Brien) 1, J. Langford’s Lady Chicken (T. Boyle) 2. The judges of the jumping were Messrs J. Welsh and C. Keen. The results of the flag steeplechases were: — NOVICE STEEPLECHASE, about two miles. For horses that have not won a flag steeplechase or stake to the value of £5. First, trophy valued at £5 5/-; second, trophy valued at £1 1/-. Weight, 11 stone. M. Hanley’s Shillelagh Wood (J. Langford) . . 1 W. E. Hazlett’s Rotowai (T. Boyle) 2 W T Hazlett’s Hokonui (J. S. Hazlett) 3 The only starters. , , This event provided a good exhibition of jumping. The winner won rather easily and appears to be a useful hunter. WAIAU STEEPLECHASE, about 2J miles. First, trophy valued £6 6/-; second, trophy valued at £1 1/-. Weight, 12 stone. Keen and Dockerty's Possum (A. Keen) \

J. L. Hazlett’s Taramoa (J. S. Haz-

lett) 2 W. Swale’s Money Mine (R. Walker) 3 Also started: Monanui (J. Baird), Matchem (M. O’Brien). Possum jumped cleanly out in front nearly all the way. Monanui fell the second time round. The rest of the field all jumped well and Possum kept clear to win rather easily.

MEMBERS’ STEEPLECHASE, about 2J miles. First, trophy valued at £6 6/-; second, trophy valued at £1 1/-. Weight, 11 stone. Keen and Dockerty’s Possum (A.

Keen) 1 J. Boyle’s Shikina (Owner) 2 W. Swale’s Colon (J. Morton) 3 The only starters. Possum out-jumped the other contestants and took his second event with another fine display of jumping. FREAK WAGERS HORSE VERSUS MAN. A MARTON EPISODE. (By ‘"The Watcher,” in The Dominion.) The recent wheelbarrow race in Australia has raised a number of stories over there of freak wagers of the past. Freak wagers are not uncommon, and the story of the bookmaker who bet £lOOO to a cigar and had to pay is well known. New Zealand can show a few incidents that come within the “freak” category, but the following story, which is true, is probably as good as anything that ever occurred in this connection. In the early days of the present century the Jeffersons, of Marton, owned a horse named Merry Boy, who was by Merrie England from a Phantom mare. His name is on record as a winner of the Wanganui Century Hurdle race, for those who like to look it up, but it is not his race record that concerns this story. Before being put to racing he had been used as a stock horse, and he developed a most unusual faculty of being able to stop dead in his tracks, and wheel sharply in the reverse direction. A party of sportsmen of the day, and they included the names of several men still prominent on the turf, fell to discussing the ability of Merry Boy to reverse himself so suddenly, and conversation led to argument, and argument to a wager. The wager was that Merry Boy could not beat a man over 50 yards, turn and come back the 50 yards to the starting line. The man chosen for the job of beating the horse was Charlie Morris, a well-known professional runner of the day, and Merry Boy was ridden by a man of 14'stone. The 50 yards was measured out; a mark put up for the turning point, and all retired for the night. In the early hours, just before dawn, one of those who had wagered on the success of the man stole out of bed and went down to the turning mark. There he dug a hole, and embedded the post firmly in the ground, also smoothing its rough edges well, and went back to bed again. The hour of the contest drew a big crowd, and the contestants lined up for a proper pistol start. At the crack of the gun both sped away to the turning mark, and the astonishment of those who had laid on the horse was great when they saw Morris fling his arms round the pole, swing himself round in a flash, and start off again for the winning line with the loss of a minimum of time. He won. but only just, Merry Boy losing only by a fraction, despite the advantage that the runner had gained at the turning post. History does not relate the remarks of the backers of Merry Boy. [Charlie Morris, the dusky sprinter referred to in “The Watcher’s” story was at one time well known in Invercargill. He came down from the North Island to contest the Irish Athletic Society’s Sheffield Handicap and 75Yards Handicap on one occasion, and, although he won the short race, he failed in the major event from a back mark. He was probably one of the fastest 75-yards sprinters ever seen in action in Southland and it was a pleasure to see him dart out of the holes at a crouch, gradually straighten up, and finish with a burst of speed that had to be seen to be realized. Unassuming and modest, he was very popular in Invercargill and during his stay here he gave local pedestrians many valuable tips and demonstrations in the art of alert and correct starting and how to muster up speed—he was recognized in Australia as a very fast runner over 50yds and 75yds, and in those days there was big money available in Sydney and West Australia for smart pedestrians, a period when runners could be backed in a strong ring to win many thousands of pounds in important events from 75yds upwards. —Spt. Edt.] TELFORD’S TEAM INSTRUCTIONS FOR DISPOSAL. (United Press Assn.— Telegraph Copyright.) (Rec. 11.50 p.m.) Melbourne, July 22. Phar Lap’s trainer, H. Telford, owing to ill-health has given instructions for the disposal of all his thoroughbred mares and foals. ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL MEETING OF EXECUTIVE. The weekly meeting of the Southland Football Association was held last evening. Mr R. Smith presided over the following delegates: Messrs M. O’Rorke, Robinson, Wilson, Bell, Sparrow, Walsh, Galbraith, Stables, Dyer, T. McMurdo, Lambeth. It was decided to procure a supply of the booklet, “Football; How to Succeed,” these books to be circulated among the junior players of the different clubs. Members stated that this booklet should be instructive to the boys. The chairman reported on a game which was played at Bluff over the week-end between a team from the Ruahine and a Southland team, the Southland team being the winners by 7 goals to 2. The secretary was instructed to write to the sports officer of the ship thanking his team for the hospitality extended to the Southland team. The 3rd Boys’ Brigade Company were declared the winners of the Boys’ Brigade Cup. Mr T. McMurdo donated a shield for interprovincial competition between Otago and Southland Boys’ Brigades. Mr McMurdo was thanked for his donation. The draw for the knock-out cup competition for Boys’ Brigade teams is as follows: sth Company v. 2nd Company on South ground at 2 p.m.; 3rd Company a bye. It was resolved to write to the Otago Association regarding the prospects of playing a senior team, a junior team including boys up to 17 years of age, and a Boys’ Brigade team on the date of the return match between Otago and Southland. It was decided that the re-play foi the President’s Cup, being a cup final, between Corinthians and Southern, be played on Saturday, July 27, at the Showgrounds at 3 p.m. No other senior matches would be played that day. The junior game, Corinthians v. Rovers, at 130 p.m. would be a curtain-raiser to the senior match- at the Showgrounds. The concert committee reported on the progress made with regard to the benefit concert. Good headway is being made.

GOLF

QUEEN’S PARK LADIES’ CLUB.

The following is the draw for a match between the president’s team and the captain’s team, to be played at Queen’s Park to-day commencing at 1 p.m. (president’s team mentioned first): — To start at Renown.—Mrs Miller v. Mrs Clark; Mrs Treeby v. Mrs Torrance; Mrs Smith v. Miss Guest; Mrs Clow v. Miss Thom; Miss Whyte v. Mrs Macgregor; Mrs Stalker a bye. Bonnie Jean.—Miss McDowall v. Mrs McEachran; Mrs Inglis v. Mrs Earl; Mrs Morgan v. Mrs Alexander. Lang’s Nek. —Mrs Aitken v. Mrs Halder; Mrs Cowie v. Mrs Wish; Mrs Riddell v. Mrs Glennie; Miss Lory v. Mrs Brown. Blighty.—Mrs Dickens v. Miss Murray; Mrs Carter v. Mrs Mayhew; Mrs Halliday v. Mrs Pittaway. Waihopai.—Mrs Watson v. Miss Cutt; Mrs Vickery v. Mrs Smart; Mrs Harris v. Miss Crawford; Mrs Walker v. Mrs Mackintosh; Mrs Pedlar v. Mrs Wallis. Cosy.—Miss Miller v. Mrs Francis; Mrs Dow v. Mrs McKenzie; Mrs Kingsland v. Mrs Boyce. WOMEN’S HOCKEY SOUTH OTAGO v. SOUTHLAND. VISITING TEAM ANNOUNCED. The following players will represent South Otago in the women’s hockey representative match against Southland at Queen’s Park next Saturday afternoon:— Goalkeeper.—Miss Keach. Full-backs.—Misses V. Scott, captain (left), H. Morris (right). Half-backs.—Misses I. Morris (left), L. Vidal (centre), "J. Gold (right). Forwards.—Misses M. Lillicrap (left wing), M. Scott (left inner), G. Vidal (centre), K. Scott (right inner), R. Krest. Emergency.—Miss M. Cannon (fullback). The team will be in charge of Mr Farrell as manager and Miss Farrell (chaperone). The Southland team will be published to-morrow as will also the players for the curtain-raiser game. MEN’S HOCKEY INDIANS BEAT THAMES. (Per. United Press Association.) Thames, July 22. The Indians beat Thames at Hauraki this afternoon by 10 goals to nil. There was a large attendance despite the very wintry conditions. The ground was heavy as the result of a heavy downpour during the week-end, but the Indians showed remarkable control under adverse conditions. India led at half-time by 7 goals and in the second half Dhyan Chand completed his hundredth goal of the tour. Tlie scores were: Shahabuddin (5), Chand (3), Wells (2) and Davidson.

RUGBY FOOTBALL SOUTHLAND UNION. FIXTURES FOR SATURDAY. The Mahagement Committee of the Southland Rugby Football Union met last evening Mr H. S. Strang (president) presiding over the following members: Messrs J. L. Oughton, N. R. Brown, R. G. Kitto, H, J. Brown, W. Oliver, R. T. Meredith, J. F. Ewart, A. J. Geddes, A. H. Mitchell, T. R. Pryde, L. R. Lopdell and A. H. Courtis. The following nominations for the position of manager of the Southland Sub-Unions’ team to play at Dunedin on Saturday week were received: Eastern, Mr J. W. Aitken; Northern, Mr J. W. Aitken; Western, Mr C. Mills; Central, Mr C. Mills. On a vote being taken Mr Aitken (Eastern) was appointed to the position. Mr Mitchell was appointed the Southland Union’s representative to attend the New Zealand Rugby Union dinner at Wellington on July 30. The explanation of the default of the Old Boys’ second grade team was accepted. The secretary of the club advised that the team’s resources were drawn upon, owing to sickness, by the senior team. It was decided to grant no further regrades or transfers for the present season. ' On behalf of the selectors, Mr Mitchell recommended that a Town team travel to Queenstown on August 3 to play the Wakatipu representative team. The idea, said Mr Mitchell, was to keep the players in training. There were no other fixtures on August 3. The playing of the Fleming Cup match was referred to by the chairman and it was decided to write to the sub-unions concerned and ask them if they held the Sports Trust Cup would they be prepared to play Pirates (Invercargill) on August 3. It was decided to send two managers on tour with the Southland team this year, and on the motion of Mi - Geddes, Messrs A. H. Mitchell and L. R. Lopdell were appointed joint managers. It was decided to take 22 players on tour and also to limit the official party touring with the team to executive members, sub-union representatives, an honorary trainer and Pressmen. Tire fixtures for Saturday are as follows:—

Trial Game—Town v. Country, at Rugby Park at 2.30 p.m. Second Grade—Bluff v. Pirates, at Rugby Park at 3 p.m.; Invercargill v. Marist, at Biggar street No. 3 at 2.45 p.m.; Old Boys v. Star, at Biggar street No. 4 at 2 p.m. Third Grade—Clifton v. Woodlands, at Biggar street No. 2 at 3 p.m.; Borstal v. Pirates, at Borstal at 2.45 p.m.; Star v. School, at School at 2 p.m.; Invercargill a bye. Fourth Grade: Technical v Invercargill, at Queen’s Park No. lat 2 p.m.; Clifton v. Marist, at Biggar street No. 1 at 2.45 p.m.; Collegiate v. School, at Rugby Park at 1.30 p.m.; Old Boys v. Pirates, at Tweed street at 2.45 p.m.; Bluff v. Star, at Bluff at 2.45 p.m. Fifth Grade—School v. Pirates, at School at 2 p.m.; Invercargill v. Technical, at Queen’s Park No. 2 at 2 p.m.; Marist a bye. SPORTS TRUST CUP. WESTERN TEAM SELECTED. (From Our Correspondent.) The following players have been selected to represent Western against Northern for the Sports Trust Cup on Wednesday at Balfour:— Full-back.—Gillan (Orepuki). Three-quarters—J. McKay (Riverton), J. Mouat (Waiau), C. Smith (Orepuki). Five-eights.—Mclntyre (Waiau), A. McKay (Riverton). Half-back.—Knowler (Waiau). Front Row.—F. Collis (Riverton), W. Muir (Otautau), J. Agnew (Nightcaps). Middle Row.—McKenzie (Ohai), M. Brick (Otautau), W. Southern (Riverton), G. Purdue (Orepuki). Back Row.—N. Irwin (Nightcaps). Emergencies: Forwards: Greer (Nightcaps), S. Purdue (Orepuki); backs, Callow (Nightcaps) and Kini (Orepuki). NORTHERN TEAM ANNOUNCED. The Northern team to defend tha Sports Trust Cup against Western at Balfour to-morrow is as follows:— Full-back.—R. Sutherland. Three-quarters—A. Sutherland, U. Crosbie, B. Richards. Five-eighths.—M. Hamilton (second), M. O’Shea (first). Half-back.—H. Soper. Front row—C. Soper, J. McNamee, G. Small. Middle row —G. Graham, W. Sherrills, F. Keown, W. Parker. Back row—J. Muir. Emergencies—Backs, T. McNamee, W. Wellman, L. Soper, A. Stewarts; forwards, J. Feehly, W. Bisset, F. Walker, E. Soper. CENTRAL TEAM. t The following team has been chosen by the selectors (Messrs J. Forde and O. Cairns) to represent Central against the Sports Trust Cup holders on July 31:— Full-back.—R. Robb. Three-quarters.—G. South, V. Driscoll, R. Thornbury. Five-eighths.—N. Pierce, Dempster. Half-back.—C. Calder. Front row.—W. Murphy, D. Chilton, W. McLeod. Middle Row.—W. Burke, I. McDougall. Back row.—J. Murphy, Crengle, Garvey. Emergencies: Backs, M. Forde, Jolly, L. Robertson; forwards, E. Robertson, R. Walker, J. McDonald. WESTERN DISTRICT. NIGHTCAPS DEFEAT OHAI. (From Our Correspondent.) Che weather was perfect for the Rugby football match on Saturday between Ohai and Nightcaps, the latter winning by 16 points to 3. There was a good attendance to witness the game, no small drawing card being the appearance of the All Black full-back, Gilbert. The teams were:— Ohai (black and white). —Gilbert, Sheehan, Edwards, Moffatt, Hope, Wilson, Cousins, Kitto, Sheehan, Mare, McLean (2), McKenzie, Harding, Dalkie. Nightcaps (red). —Greer, O. Grant, Cushnie, Cappie, N. Grant, Callow, Hunt, Thomson, Burke, L. Greer, F. Greer, Forde, McCoy, Irwin, Cochrane. The Reds kicked off facing a strong sun. There was much line kicking and play hovered at half way. From the first scrum Hunt and N. Grant tried the short side, but Hunt was pushed out. A ruck followed the line-out and Irwin secured from a pass by Cappie and bullocked his way over. The scorer converted with a fine kick and after eight minutes’ play the score was: Nightcaps 5, Ohai 0. The Red backs handled well in an attack from the kick-out and Cousins just threw Cushnie out. Ohai set up a vigorous attack, Greer and Callow being called upon to defend for the Reds. Forde was caught offside, but Wilson’s kick at goal missed. Cappie cleared for the Reds, but over-keenness cost them a free kick. Gilbert just missed with a fine kick from a difficult angle and a long way out. The Reds attacked strongly and Hunt was nearly over on two occasions, but Mare and Cousins by good tackling saved the Black and Whites. From a ruck the Reds set up a passing movement. Callow cut in and beat two Ohai men, then passed to Grant, who transferred to Cushnie

who went over under the posts. An easy kick was missod. Nightcaps 8, Ohai 0. Callow, who was playing well, set Nightcaps going with a good kick. The Reds followed up fast and Hunt picked up and passed to to Grant, who sent Cushnie over for a good try in a handy position. Hunt converted. Nightcaps 13, Ohai 0. Just before half-time Gilbert cleared with a fine kick.

On resumption Ohai put in some useful sortees and had the Reds penned in their twenty-five. Irwin got clear, however, and with a good dribble supported by Callow went well down the field. From a ruck Irwin secured and was nearly over, Sheehan stopping him with a great flying tackle. However, Irwin was not to be denied and from a quick heel sent the ball to Greer who went over. The kick at goal missed. Nightcaps 16, Ohai 0. Grant and Callow set up an attack, but Gilbert and McKenzie cleared quickly for Ohai. Mare put in a run for Ohai, but was unsupported and his pass when the full-back was reached went astray. McKenzie was playing a great game in the Ohai pack and got over only to lose the ball. The Reds infringed and Wilson goaled from a handy position. Nightcaps 16, Ohai 3. The Ohai forwards were now going well, but the defence was too strong. The Reds pressed and Gilbert relieved from a good mark. Cochrane was now sent to full-back for the Reds and cleared Wilson’s kick which was followed up by Mare. Nightcaps attacked and Wilson just missed potting a goal. The final score was Nightcaps 16, Ohai 3. Mr R. Murray was referee. This was the best exhibition of back play Nightcaps have given this season, Cushnie and Callow being outstanding. Irwin was the best forward on the ground and should be a certainty for the sub-unions’ team. F. Greer was another good Red packman. Gilbert made the most of any opportunities coming his way and the crowd was pleased to see him in action. McKenzie and Harding were the best Ohai forwards. The Western District selectors were represented at the match. After the match at Otautau the previous week and the Ohai game last Saturday Nightcaps supporters cannot comprehend why the claims for inclusion of such men as Greer, Forde, Cushnie and Callow are overlooked. CENTRAL DISTRICT. FORDE CUP MATCH. CENTRAL STAR DEFEAT WINTON. (From Our Correspondent.) There was a large attendance at the Winton Domain on Saturday when the final senior club fixture of the season, between Central Star and Winton, the respective winners and runners-up in the Hamilton Shield competition, was played for the Forde Cup. Central Star repeated their performance of the previous week and defeated Winton by 12 points to 6. The weather was excellent and the contest was a much more interesting one than the previous Saturday’s game. Central Star, as a result of Saturday’s success, proved that they are the premier club side of the district. Two junior fixtures were also played on Saturday. With the sun at their backs in the opening spell, Winton led at the interval by 6 to 3, and while this spell was not particularly bright, Winton had the better of the exchanges. The Maroons, however, could not maintain their lead, and although they opened up play in the second half, Central Star proved excellent opportunists in both forward and back departments and repeatedly made the most of the mistakes of their opponents. In the second spell the Winton rearguard received an abundance of ball, and several bright movements were initiated, but the Maroons could not finish them off. The Star backs again indulged in defensive tactics and stood up “shallow” on their opponents, but in the face of this opposition the Winton backs made good headway. The defence of the Blue rearguard was always sound, while their’tackling was reliable. Both packs played well, although the display of the Star vanguard was not quite up to the same standard of the previous week. In line-outs the Blues did not meet with the same success, although in tight work, they frequently dominated matters. The Maroon forwards secured a good deal of ball from scrums and rucks, while in the loose they shared the honours with their opponents. The teams were:

Winton (maroon). —Mason; Myles Forde, Martin Forde, McKenzie; Driscoll, Pierce; Calder; W. Boyle, Watson, Clark; Murphy. McKenzie, McDonald. McDougall; Robertson. Central Star (blue).—Robb; McLean. Thornbury, Leonard; Dempster, South; O’Connor; McLeod, Mcßae, Eggleton; G. McLeod, Thomas; Anderson, Morton, King. Winton attacked from the outset and Mason gained a large slice of territory from a penalty kick. Play hovered in the Blue twenty-five for some time until Dempstei- relieved, and gradually the Star forwards carried play to the Winton line, where Pierce carried the ball over to force. From the ensuing scrum McDonald and Myles Forde were seen in a good piece of work to relieve the pressure. The Maroons gradually took up the attack and a good chance was lost by mishandling among the backs. Winton maintained the pressure and from a scrum in front of the Star posts Calder sent out to Driscoll, who essayed a “pot.” The attempt went over, but in the meantime a Star forward had been penalized and a penalty was awarded Winton. Boyle missed an easy shot. Star took up the attack, and a few minutes later Thornbury failed with a penalty kick. The Maroons had the better of the exchanges for some time, and Star w. . - e compelled to force on three occasions. A second five yards scrum was ordered on the Blue line, and O’Connor was penalized. From wide out Murphy landed a good goal. Winton 3, Central Star 0.

Winton were penalized and from a handy position Robb had no trouble in goaling, thus equalizing the score Winton 3, Star 3. Robertson and Watson were seen in a good dribbling movement for Winton which gained 50 yards, but Star immediately returned to the attack. From a penalty Thornbury made a fine effort to goal, but just failed. Murphy and Watson again put Winton on attack by a smart piece of work, and play centred in front of the Blue posts, where a penalty was awarded Winton. Murphy goaled. Winton 6, Star 3. The half-time whistle sounded immediately. The Maroon backs opened the second spell with several smart passing bouts. Myles Forde was brought into centre and he was prominent in several good movements. The Maroons attacked strongly, but could not finish off a number of promising bouts. At this stage Winton were making most of the play, but the Blues were repeatedly relieving the pressure by making the most of the mistakes of the Maroon backs. Mishandling among the Winton backs permitted Leonard to kick through and gather the ball to go over for a good try. Robb’s kick fell short. Central Star 6, Winton 6. The Star forwards again put their side in a strong position, and the Maroons had to concede a force down. Thornbury and South figured in a likely movement, but the latter was well tackled by Mason. Robertson secured to return play to neutral territory. At this stage O’Connor was compelled to retire, being replaced by R. Hardy. A few minutes later play was held up for some time through an injury to Pierce, but he continued. Play

centred in midfield for a time, but the Blues again had the Maroons hard pressed. A penalty to Star saw Robb make a fine attempt, but the kick went outside the posts. The Winton back line, with Myles Forde prominent, was seen in a good movement which took play to the twenty-five. A few minutes later Murphy failed from a penalty shot. The Blue forwards, headed by Thomas and King, took play to the Winton twenty-five. From a line-out Thornbury kicked through and in a rush to force G. South was awarded a try. Thornbury’s attempt failed. Star 9, Winton 6. The Maroons counter-attacked, but the effort was of no avail, and judicious line kicking on the part of Dempster resulted in the Blues again attacking strongly. From a loose rush Dempster secured possession to jink his way over, and thus put the issue beyond doubt. Robb failed with the kick. The final whistle sounded shortly after with the score: Star 12, Winton 6. Mr C. A. Kerse was referee. The junior games resulted: Ryal Bush 18, Central Star 3; Drummond 12, Dipton 3. FOURTH GRADE MATCH. STAR (14) v. CLIFTON (3). Playing at Clifton on Saturday, Star defeated Clifton by 14 points to 3. Tries were scored for the winners by Stroud, Braithwaite, Glasson and Lee, Glasson converting one. Mr J. Cheyne was the referee. JUNIOR MATCH. OREPUKI v. NIGHTCAPS. The Nightcaps juniors proved too solid for Orepuki on the former’s ground on Saturday last. Tire teams were:—• Orepuki (red and black).—McPherson, Suddaby, Smith, Henderson, Dillon, Linton, Millard, Popham, Neilson, McKenzie, Lyons, Haslam, Barry, Braid, Lennon. Nightcaps (red). —W. Excell, A. Excell, Currie, O. Grant, Klemick, Fordyce, Cappie, Mclnerney, Wardle, George, Boyle, Cochrane, Dickson, Perry, Robertson. Just after the kick-off A. Excell secured and had an unsuccessful pot at goal. The ball came out from a ruck to W. Excell who scored well out. Boyle’s kick missed, but not by much. Nightcaps 3, Orepuki 0. On resumption there was a stoppage and Smith (Orepuki) retired injured. Nightcaps attacked, but Orepuki were given a free kick. Play was practically confined to the forwards and Henderson led the Orepuki vanguard in an attack on the Nightcaps line, where Haslam had an unsuccessful kick at goal. Grant was a trifle unlucky in just failing to get clean away. Orepuki attacked. led by Millard, and were pressing when half-time was called. _ Orepuki pressed from the kick-off, but kicked too hard, Nightcaps forcing. Suddaby cleared twice for Orepuki. Tlie Nightcaps forwards were playing better at this stage. Millard and McPherson tried to work the blind side, but Cochrane pushed McPherson out. Nightcaps rallied and the ball went from Cappie to Fordyce, to Excell, to Grant, who had no room to move. W. Excell just got back to quell a likelylooking Orepuki rush and Orepuki hammered away on the Reds’ line. Nightcaps forced. From a scrum Cappie handed to W. Excell on the short side and the latter fended off two would-be tacklers and cut in to score a neat try. Boyle converted. Nightcaps 8, Orepuki 0. Orepuki came through and from a Red infringement McPherson kicked a goal from 40 yards out. Nightcaps 8, Orepuki 3. Time sounded almost immediately. Mi - T. Duncan refereed. BASKETBALL SUB-UNIONS AT PLAY. CENTRAL DEFEAT WESTERN. (From Our Correspondent.) The first of a series of challenge matches to decide the premier subassociation team for the 1935 season, and the right to represent Southland in the minor section at the New Zealand basketball tournament at Wellington this year, was played at Winton on Saturday afternoon. There was a good attendance at the tennis courts, when the present sub-association premiers, Central, decisively defeated Western in two senior matches. It was evident that the Central side is a high-class combination, and with the service of a first class coach is not likely to be defeated by any of the remaining sub-associat-ion teams. SENIOR A. CENTRAL (35) v. WESTERN (13). Although at the final whistle there was a margin of 22 goals in favour of Central in the A grade match, the game was not as one-sided as the scores would indicate. Central won decisively but it was not altogether a walk-over, and the visitors put up a good fight The thorough understanding of the Central team was a feature of the play, and sweeping bouts time and again bore fruit. The Western forwards found the Central defenders more than a handful, but at the same time the members of the visitors’ line did not appear to play up to their best form, and several good opportunities went astray. On the other hand the Central forwards were very reliable, and when in possession were always dangerous. I. Egerton’s court work was outstanding, and time and again she paved the way for goals. Both N. Norman and D. Munro played up to their best form, and missed very few shots, while the latter combmed much better with her two colleagues than was the case the week before. Frequently this trio caught the Western defenders out of position. However, the efforts on the whole of the visiting defenders was quite good, M. Pemberton and M. Pope handling well, while the interception of E. Thomas repeatedly relieved her side. The centre third was as strong as any for the visitors, and it was no fault of this trio that their forwards were not seen to better advantage. Under the circumstances the Western trio, with D. Burgess always to the fore, secured a good share of ball. The Central trio also played well and exhibited an excellent understanding. B. Andrews and M. Moyland combined effectively, while T. Valli repeatedly saved her side and turned defensive bouts into attacking movements. The Central defence was always a difficult line to pierce. M. Collett was seen at the top of her form in the first spell, and she was ably assisted by M. Robb, whose play in recent games has improved to a marked degree. In the second spell E. Pierce revealed her best form, and was always a thorn in the side of the opposing forward line. While they combined quite Well in the open the Western forwards frequently experienced difficulty in getting within a handy range of the post. However, when they did secure a good opening, their shooting was not as accurate as it could have been. L. Tinker and D. Hunt gave very creditable showings. The teams were: —

Western. —Mrs Cappi, D. Hunt, L. Tinker (forwards); J. Taylor, M. Wilson, D. Burgess (Centres); M. Pemberton, E. Thomas, M. Pope (defenders). Central. —N. Norman, I. Egerton, D. Munro (forwards); B. Andrews, T. Valli, C. Moylan (centres); M. Collett, E. Pierce, M. Robb (defenders). Mr R. Reid was the referee.

SENIOR B. CENTRAL (23j~v7wESTERN (8). A noticeable feature of the senior B contest was that neither side appeared to come within striking distance of the standard provided by the A section, especially as far as the Central District team were concerned. The first spell did not provide much of interest, and both sides missed numerous chances. The Central forwards combined to much better advantage in the second spell, the efforts of E. Cavanagh being exceedingly good. The opposing defenders accomplished a lot of good spoiling work. In the Central defence line M. Finlay played an outstanding game, and this was all the more creditable in view of the fact that for some years her work has been confined to the forward third. In the respective thirds for the visitors J. Edmonds, J. Excell and D. Sinclair each played well. In the second half Central played with a great deal more enthusiasm, and several good bouts were witnessed. They were in marked contrast to the wild passing in the opening spell. The teams were: — Western. —Mrs Martin, J. Edmonds, E. Brazier; J. Excell, G. Forde, K. Grindley; D. Sinclair, M. Egan, E. McBride. Central.—E. Cavanagh, F. Irwin, K. Crowe; M. Irwin, D. Blackmun, O. Dyer; R. Moran, D. Andrews, M. Finlay. Mr G. McKenzie was referee. CENTRAL TEAMS TO MEET EASTERN. The following Central District basketball teams have been chosen to meet Eastern at Gore to-morrow:— Senior A. Forwards—N. Norman, D. Munro, I. Egerton. Centres —T. Valli, C. Moylan, B. Andrews. Defences—M. Robb, M. Collett, E. Pierce. Senior B. Forwards. —F. Irwin, E. Cavanagh, K. Crowe. Centres—M. Irwin, D. Blackmun, O. Dyer. Defences—R. Moran, D. Andrews, M. Finlay. SECONDARY SCHOOL MATCHES. DRAW FOR TO-MORROW. Secondary school basketball matches will be played to-morrow as follows:— Senior.—St. Catherine’s v. High School A, at Middle School (3.45 p.m.); High School C v. High School D; Technical A v. High School B, at Technical (3.40 p.m.); Technical B a bye. Junior. —Technical A v. St. Catherine's A, at St. Catherine’s (4 p.m.); Technical E. v. High School C, at Technical (3.40 p.m.); High School A v. St. Catherine’s B, at High School (3.30 p.m.); High School D v. High School B; Technical B v. Technical D; Technical C a bye. WHIPPET RACING MEETING AT OHAI. (From Our Correspondent.) There was a good attendance to witness the whippet races at Ohai on Saturday last. The club’s track, though slightly heavy, was in good order. The officials controlling the meeting were: President, Mr P. Johnstone; judges, Messrs J. Sheehan, R. Murray and T. Smith; starter, Mr J. Kitto; handicapper, Mr J. Duncan. Linton Lad raced well in the final of the principal event of the day and the president had the pleasure of seeing his dog beat some good ones. The detailed results are as follows:— Extended Nursery, 150 yards—Mrs Brewer’s Blackman 1, T. Taylor’s Danny Boy 2. Also started: J. Tatham’s Pretty Rose, A. Foster’s Dad’s Ruin. Time, lOJsec. Dad’s Ruin led the field for 100 yards, but faded out badly. Blackman beat his full brother, Danny Boy, in a good finish. Exhibition Race, 200 Yards.—Mrs Tatham’s Potentate 1, G. Spowart’s Rouslie 2. Also started: J. McGill’s Settling Day. Time, 12 3-ssec. Potentate secured the verdict by a length from Rouslie with Settling Day one length further back. Ohai Open Handicap, 200 Yards.— First heat: J. Gellatly’s Johnny Walker 1, W. Marsh’s Linton Lad 2. Also started: R. Manson’s Friendship, Mrs Tatham’s Money Digger. Time, 12 1-5 sec. Second heat: J. C. Purdue’s Some Guy 1, W. Tinker’s Rosamine 2. Also started: E. Boyle’s Miss N.Z., J. Tatham’s Madam Min. Time, 12Jsec. Final: Linton Lad 1, Some Guy 2. Time, 12sec. The final was well contested, the winner going a long way better than in his heat. Lightweight Race, 200 Yards—H. Marsh’s Tom’s Kid 1, J. C. Purdue’s Some Guy 2. Also stalled: Madam Min, Gunrest. Tom’s Kid beat Some Guy by half a length with Madam Min a head away. Time, 12 l-ssec. j Open Hurdles, 200 Yards—E. Dockerty’s Camera 1, E. and W. Boyle’s Gold Doll 2. Also started: Sneddon and Pointon’s Fullerton. Time, 13 2-ssec. SWIMMING WOMEN’S HALF-MILE RECORD. (United Press Assn.—Telegraph Copyright.) (Rec. 5.5 p.m.) Montreal, July 21. Lenore Kight, of Homestead (Pennsylvania), broke the world’s record for the half-mile free-style at the women’s national swimming championships. Her time was llmin 34sec compared with the previous record of Helene Madison of llmin 41 l-ssec. Mary Lou Petty, of Seattle, also broke the record to finish second in llmin 39 l-10sec.

ALL SPORTS MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS. Maori Five-eighth. N. Kotua, of Nelson, who is one of the five-eighths in the Maori Rugby team now touring Australia, played in lower grade Rugby for Petone a few years ago, and he also won a place in a lower grade Wellington representative team. In one season he was awarded a special medal for his outstanding form in one of Petone’s junior teams. Promising Yorkshire Batsman. Yorkshire seems to have discovered a brilliant batsman in Leonard Hutton, who hails from Pudsey. It was Pudsey which gave H. Sutcliffe to Yorkshire cricket. Sutcliffe has formed a high opinion of Hutton, so high, indeed, that he can say of this 18-year-old colt that he “may prove to be the most famous of all the men sent by Pudsey to the aid of Yorkshire.” 4s ♦ ’I I “Not To Walk Again.” Strangely enough, both Bill Bonthron and Glen Cunningham, the American milers, were, as boys, involved in accidents which caused the doctors to predict that they would not walk again. Bonthron sustained a terrific burn on one of his legs when he touched a live wire while climbing a tree, and Cunningham was badly scarred as the result of a school-house fire. However, they both confounded the doctors, and, with Lovelock, stand as the pre-emin-ent mile runners of the age—perhaps of all time. * * * * English Middle Distance Runners. R. M. Craske, the English miler, who was beaten off the same mark by L. C. McLachlan (Otago) in mile races in Melbourne and Dunedin, was recently selected in an English A.A.A. team to meet Oxford, Craske being first string for the mile. J. V. Powell, who established a New Zealand record for 1000yds while in New Zealand with the same team, won the mile at a triangular meeting at Portsmouth between the London and Portsmouth Athletic Clubs and the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Athletic Club. Powell’s time was 4min. 31sec. « * « * A Month Of Quick Batting. Only at long intervals does a batsman get off the mark quick enough to complete his 1000 runs before the end of May, says an English writer. Don Bradman was the last batsman to do it, in 1930, but he started on April 30 that year, with 75 not out. W. G. Grace, who was the first batsman to accomplish the feat, did so in 22 days, as he did not start until May 9. Hayward (1900), Hammond (1927), and Hallows (1928) are the only other batsmen in this distinguished company. * * * * International Half-back As Golfer. Dr. Paul Murray, the Irish international Rugby player, who toured New Zealand with the British team in 1930, is making a name for himself at golf. Recently he reached the final of the South of Ireland close championship, and with Miss R. Hanlon, he won the Miltown Club’s open mixed foursomes competition, which attracts many of the best Irish players. Another old Rugby player who has taken up golf is E. Davy, the Irish captain and standoff halfback, who is making rapid progress. * * * * Atliletic Skill In Cycles. National skill at games is becoming a .matter of cycles, says an English writer. Nothing seemed less likely in the hey-day of Borotra, Lacoste and Cochet than an early foreign victory in the French lawn tennis championships. But just as Great Britain through long years failed to produce successors to j the Doherty brothers, who dominated i the lawn tennis of two continents, so oui- neighbours seek in vain for the young men who can carry on the tradition of the three exponents who first made France great in lawn tennis. They ' have the consolation that their turn will surely come. * * * * Nothing Could Stop Him. “Is a player in order in scoring a try without his trousers?” This question was raised and answered in the 'affirmative at a recent Auckland Rugby League Referees’ Association meeting. The chairman, after suggesting that although sensitive people might be schocked at the spectacle, said he thought the courage of a player deserved recognition in such a disaster. He added that the experience befel a relative of his in a suburban Rugby Union match on Saturday, and he was glad to learn that the junior was allowed the try. Another member said a similar incident recently occurred in Sydney and created a stir among a big crowd in an inter-State match on the Cricket Ground. * * M. Team For New Zealand. Two of England’s most promising cricketers, Joseph Hardstaff, of Notts, and James Langridge, of Sussex, are coming to New Zealand with the M.C.C. team next season. Hardstaff, 24 years of age, is the son ot an old Notts player who toumed Australia in 1907-08. Hast year he was ranked second to that well-known batsman, Keeton, in the batting averages for Notts, and he also made the highest score, 153 against Hants at Southampton. He is a stylish, strong, and confident batsman. Langridge from 1927 up till the beginning of the present season at Home, has scored 1000 runs every year, as well as often taking over 100 wickets. For instance, he captured 158 wickets in 1933, and made 1578 runs. He represented England in 1933 against West Indies, takingoseven for 56 in the test at Manchester. He also toured the West Indies in 1933-34.