FAST PACING

Southland Times, Issue 25360, 12 August 1935, Page 10

FAST PACING

WAR BUOY AGAIN TROTTING CARNIVAL SATURDAY’S EVENTS SURE A WINNER (Per United Press Association.) Christchurch, August 10. The N.Z. Metropolitan Trotting Club’s August meeting opened to-day. The weather was fine and the track in fast order. The attendance was good. The investments were £21,178 against £20,750 last year. The results were: INTRODUCTORY HANDICAP, £2OO. Class 3.36. One and a-half miles. 1 J. R. McKenzie’s blk.m. Air Flow (imp.), by Guy Day— Willina Chenault, 7 years, scr. (P. Gallagher) 1 2 W. Bussell’s ch.g. Mataunga, scr (J. J. Kennerley) 2 10 L. F. Berkett’s br.g. Welcome Guy, scr (L. F. Berkett) o Also started: 6 Billy Sunday scr, 8 Flotsam scr, 9 Ganton scr, 5 Norman Fox scr 3 Sandy N scr, 12 Kotinga 12 yds. 7 Enigma 24yds. 4 Gyrate 24yds, 13 Real Boy 24vds, 11 Wahnooka 24 yds. 15 Guy O'Mine 36yds, 14 Rum 48yds. Won by two lengths, third halt a length away. Norman Fox fourth. Times. 3min 24 2-ssec, 3min 24 3-ssec, 3min 24 4-ssec. ADVANCE HANDICAP. £2OO. Class 2.54. One and a-quarter miles. 2 B. Grices b.g. Village Guy, by Guj' Parrish—Colene Pointer, syrs. scr (O. E. Hooper) 1 10 Mrs D. R. Revell’s b.m. Grace McElwyn, 24yds bhd. (R. B.

Berry) 4 E. Buchanan’s b.g. Golden Cross, 24vds bhd (G. McKendry) 3

Also started: 5 Battlefield scr, 8 Black Jester scr, 11 Nelson’s Chum scr, 6 Royal De Oro scr, 7 Supertax scr, 1 Dillon Queen 12yds. 13 Paul Drusis 12 yds, 12 Directum. 24yds, 3 Racketeer 24yds, 9 Young Travis 36yds, 13 Worthy King 60yds. Won by a length, third one and a-half lengths away, Royal De Oro fourth. Times, 2min 43 2-ssec, 2min 41 4-ssec, 2min 42scc.

AUGUST HANDICAP, £5OO. Class 4.29. Two miles.

1 Mrs E. K. Manger’s br.g. War Buoy, by Man O’ War —Little Kewpie, syrs, 12yds 'bhd (M. B. Edwards) 1 3 G. J. Barton’s b.g. Tempest, 12yds bhd (J. Fraser, jun.) 2 7 V. Alborn’s b.g. Vesuvius, scr. (V. Alborn) 3

Also started: 10 Avernus scr, 6 Great Logan scr. 12 Master Roy scr, 4 Gold Tinge 12yds, 11 Kewpie’s Triumph 12 yds, 2 Taxpayer 12yds, 3 Wrecker 12 yds, bracketed with Tempest, 5 Wild Guy 24yds, 8 Glenrossie 60yds, 9 Red Shadow 72yds. Aventis and Vesuvius were smartest to begin and passing the stands they were followed by Master Roy; Tempest, Great Logan, War Buoy, Wrecker, Wild Guy. Kewpie’s Triumph and Taxpayer. Vesuvius took charge going along the back and with six furlongs to cover - led from Master Roy, Tempest, War Buoy, Taxpayer and Wild Guy. The leaders maintained their positions going down the back the last time for Vesuvius to lead into the straight from War Buov, Tempest, Taxpayer, Great Logan and Wild Guy. War Buoy drew out in the run home to win by two lengths from Tempest with Vesuvius three lengths away. Wrecker was fourth. Times, 4min 18 4-ssec, 4min 19 l-ssec, 4min 21sec. TRIAL HANDICAP, £250. Class 4.40. Two miles. 2 J. Westerman’s b.g. Graham Direct, by' Rey De Oro—Becky Logan, 4 yrs, 36yds bhd (F. Holmes) 1 1 T. C. Butcher’s ch.h. Gamble, 24yds bhd (M. B. Edwards) 2 8 Mrs J. M. Rooney's blk.m. Marie Celeste, scr (L. A. Maidens) 3 Also started: 4 Chechahco 12yds, 9 Young Travis 12yds, 10 Jolly Wave 24yds, 5 Guy Junior 36yds. 3 Morello 36yds, 6 Prince Author 36yds, — Real Burton 36yds. Won by a neck, third three lengths away. Morello was fourth. Times, 4min 22 l-ssec, 4min 23 2-ssec, 4min 25 4-ssec. STEWARDS’ HANDICAP, £250. Class 4.38. Two miles. 2 Archer and McFarlane’s b m Sea Gift, by Wrack—Paul Huon mare, 6yrs, 60yds bhd (E. J. Smith) 1 7 E. C. McDermott's b m Garner, scr (E. C. McDermott) 2 8 Mrs F. Kingsland’s New Metford, scr (J. Bryce, jun.) 3 Also started: 10 Fifa scr, 13 King’s Voyage scr, 3 Teviot Downs scr, 4 Great Way 12yds, Norma Bingen 24yds, 5 Explosion 36yds and Raima 60yds bracketed, 11 Mountain Mist 36yds, 9 Stanley T. 60yds, 12 Writer 72yds, 6 Todd Lonzia 96yds. Teviot Downs led past the stand from King’s Voyage, Garner, New Metford and Fifa. The leaders were the same going along the back and with six furlongs to cover the order was Teviot Dovzns, Garner, New Metford, King’s Voyage, Norma Bingen, Writer, Fifa and Sea Gift. Teviot Downs and Garner were still the leaders at the halfmile and into the straight, but Sea Gift travelled very fast over the last two furlongs to win by half a length from Gamer wtih New Metford two lengths away. Norma Bingen was fourth. Times, 4min. 25 2-ssec, 4min. 30 3-ssec, 4min. 31sec. QUEEN MARY HANDICAP, £250. Class 4.36. Two miles. 4 F. J. Smith’s ch g Agile, by Rey de Oro —Bundura, syrs, 24yds bhd (G. S. Smith) 1 3 W. Roche’s b m Fernbrook Lass, scr, (J. J. Kennerley) 2 7 J. Wall's c g Mountain Ore, 12yds bhd (L. A. Maidens) 3 Also started: 2 Llewellyn’s Pride scr, 6 Sylvia Sydney scr, 5 Plain Pearl 12yds, 1 Iraq 24yds. Won by a length, third two lengths away. Llewellyn’s Pride was fourth. Times, 4min. 27 2-sscc, 4min. 29 4-ssec, 4min. 29sec. SELWYN HANDICAP, £250. Class 2.47. One and a quarter - miles. 4 J. R. Simpson’s b h Bingen Palm, by Nelson Bingen— Olive Palm, aged, scr, (J. R. Simpson) 1 6 G. J. Barton’s br m Homeward, scr (J. Fraser, jun.) 2 1 E. C. McDermott's b g Cloudy Range, 12yds bhd (E. C. McDermott) 3 Also started: 10 Eureka Boy scr, 11 Golden Direct scr, 8 Gunfire scr, 13 Lord Leslie scr, 7 Mocast scr, 5 Waress scr, 3 Willow Wave scr, 8 Queen Author 12yds, 2 Wild Guy 24yds, 12 Kingscraft 36yds, 14 Native Chief 36yds. Won by a length, third three lengths away. Wild Guy was fourth. Times, 2min. 42 3-ssec, 2min. 42 4-ssec, 2min. 42 l-ssec. INTERNATIONAL HANDICAP, £250. Class 2.12. One mile. 3 Mrs W. McKenzie’s b m Sure, by Peter Chenault—Our Nurse, aged, scr (A. Edwards) 1 13 G. Aitcheson’s b g Prairie King, scr (F. Holmes) 2 4 G. J. Barton’s b g Chancellor, scr (J. Fraser, jun.) 3

Also started: 14 Arikitoa scr, 11 Avernus scr, 10 Colonial Boy scr, 15 Logan’s Pride scr, 2 Pronto Bingen scr, 8 Raydus scr, 6 Rey Spec scr, 5 Somerby scr, 7 Sunny Morn 12yds, 1 Taxpayer 12yds, 16 Wrackler 12yds, 12 Roddy 36yds, 9 Silver De Oro 36yds. Won by two lengths, third a head away. Raydus was fourth. Times, 2min. 9 l-ssec, 2min. 9 2-ssec, 2min. 9 3-ssec. REVIEW OF THE RACING TRACK IN PERFECT ORDER. WAR BUOY TRAVELS FAST. AIR FLOW IMPRESSES. COMMENT BY SIR MODRED. Christchurch, August 10. The weather was fine and there was an absence of wind, with the track in perfect order, resulting in very fast times being recorded throughout today at Addington. The prompt closing of "the machine at 35-minute intervals caught many patrons napping during the afternoon. Great interest centred in the Introductory Handicap for many onlookers unacquainted with the American filly Air Flow, who classes as a four-year-old mare under Maoriland rules. As she started off the limit, heralded by previous successes in New Zealand and a high reputation as a model speedster and trotter, there was a rush to support Mr J. R. McKenzie’s entrant, who carried nearly 1300 chances in a pool well on to the 4000 mark. The black importation gave the ex-Centrab Otago reinsman P. Gallagher trouble at the barrier, but ultimately settled.down on the extreme outside. She did not start too quickly from the barrier fronting the stands, but was showing out leaving the stretch and, going to the back, she was in front on the fence to remain there throughout, despite consistent challenges from Mataunga in particular, to win well by two lengths. The juvenile from the United States is a very fine trotter, promising to take high rank in her adopted country. The winner returned under evens from the second fancy Mataunga, who provided a limited quote under the single pool system of investment. From a position in the centre of the field Norman Fox trotted up over the last three furlongs and was just cut out of third place by Welcome Guy. Air Flow has now five successes to her credit for her owner and his private trainer R. Dunn.

For - the Advance Handicap Dillon Queen (D. Teahen) was a pronounced fancy, carrying nearly double the support of Village Guy, Racketeer and Golden Cross, who were almost on equal terms. Getting out cleverly. Village Guy was always prominent to score easily for O. E. Hooper. Colene Pointer, the dam of the winner, also produced a smart pacer in Kingcraft. Racing to the home stretch Black Jester, who had been troubling the leader, compounded and dropped back. From last place down the back Racketeer finished very fast, starting as one of the outsiders of the field. The runner-up, Grace McElwyn, returned better than a double figure quote.

When the August Handicap pool closed there was nearly 6000 chances recorded, with War Buoj- about 800 friends ahead of Taxpayer. When the signal was given the field moved off. but followers of the favourite sustained a thrill when War Buoy tangled and lost ground, but was soon going again. Vesuvius took charge and always led. Going into the Last lap Vesuvius was attended by Wild Guy and Tempest, with War Buoy and Taxpayer making up ground at the back. War Buoy had trouble to get out, but was soon after the leaders. Crossing the top Vesuvius was still in charge, with War Buoy moving up fast. Half-way to the last bend Taxpayer, who was following War Buoy, was beaten and dropped back. Approaching the turn War Buoj' challenged, but Vesuvius held on. One hundred yards from home War Buoy wore down the leader, with Tempest coming fast. Drawing away, Wai - Buoy outstayed the field and won going away by two lengths from Tempest, then Vesuvius, Wrecker and Gold Tinge in order. The last-named was unlucky in the early stage and afterwards paced a good race. War Buoy has to win another two-mile race to qualify for the New Zealand Cup. He put up a very fine performance after a bad beginning to pace inside 4min 19sec. Taxpayer looked well, but the race may do him good. War Buoy paced his last mile and a-half in 3min 11 4-ssec, last mile in 2min 6 4-ssec, last half in lmin 3 2-ssec, quarter 29 4-ssec.

The Trial Handicap was expected to provide a great race and it certainly did so with more than a slight spice of sensation added in the narrow defeat of the second favourite. More than 4000 chances were recorded. Graham Direct heading Gamble by 92 friends, with Morello the only other starter fancied. During the opening lap Gamble drifted to the rear. When pacing last near the starting point he went into the air and apparently lost his chance, but settled down to work. Marie Celeste acted as pacemaker to Young Travis and Chechahco. With a lap to go Gamble was joining the bunch again, but was not given much chance of success. Crossing the top Gamble was moving up fast. Marie Celeste led into the stretch, then Graham Direct challenged and assumed charge as Gamble came at a terrific bat on the extreme outside. Graham Direct was driven right out to win by a short neck from Gamble, who might have won in another few strides. The winner put up a very fine performance, but it paled into insignificance cornpayed with the display of Gamble over the last half-mile. Chechahco paced a fair race into sixth place after showing out well early.

There was a pool of close on 6000 chances when the trotters contested the Stewards’ Handicap, which was decided at a very fast clip as a result of the pace set by the' ex-Southlander Teviot Downs, attended by Garner. The first selection was found in Norma Bingen, carrying 30 chances over Sea Gift, with Teviot Downs only four friends further away, then a long way off Great Way, Explosion and .Todd Lonzia in order. When leading at the home turn from Garner, Teviot Downs left his feet badly and dropped out. but it was noticeable that he was trotting shiftily when leaving the stretch for the last lap. He is an improved performer, but still inclined to leave his feet seriously. Sea Gift trotted her last mile and a-half in 3mi_, 19 2-ssec, mile in 2min 13 4-ssec, last half lmin 6sec.

For the Queen Mary Handicap the pool vzas almost 6000 chances. Iraq was a warm fancy, leading Llewellyn’s Pride by about 750 followers, with Fernbrook Lass 200 friends of; and Agile 600 tokens further away. Agile, trained and driven by G. S. Smith, dashed up from the rear half a mile from home and, pacing very fast, led into the stretch to win by a length. The ex-Invercargillite drove a fine race and was treated to a round of applause. The first mile took 2min 18 2-ssec, one and a-half miles 3min 26 sec and the last mile 2min llsec. Iraq tangled and lost his chance with half a mile to’go.

There was a total of about 5800 chances for the Selwyn Handicap. Cloudy Range was a warm first choice, showing about 450 chances over Will Guy, the only others followed being Willow Wave, Bingen Palm and Waress, but a long way off. The favourite was very unlucky, meeting with

serious interference, but he finished on well. Mocast raced badly and Willow Wave tangled.

There was a pool of over 7000 for the concluding event, with Taxpayer over 300 chances in advance of Pronto Bingen, while Sure and Chancellor were almost equally fancied next in order. Taxpayer did not get away too well and never threatened danger. The South-land-bred Sure moved out smartly and was always prominent to win cleverly from Prairie King, the ex-Southlander returning a double figure quote, while Sure’s return was useful. FORM OF THE RUNNERS BRILLIANT AIR FLOW. GAMBLE A GOOD COLT. (Notes by The Rook.) Christchurch, August 11. It was dull for the opening day of the Metropolitan Trotting Club’s Spring meeting. Owing to the dry spell the track was in perfect order. The attendance was large. The odds-on favourite Ail - Flow must have caused her numerous backers some uneasiness when she reared over when walking round at the barrier for the first event. When lined up she stood quietly and was somewhat slow to move, but with a rush she hit the front at the end of a quarter. The order was Air Flow, Mataunga, Kotinga and Gyrate. After them there was a gap. Always going well, Air Flow was not troubled when Mataunga ranged alongside her half a mile from home. She was still under a pull when she passed the winning post three lengths ahead of Mataunga, with Welcome Guy, who finished fast, half a length further back. Norman Fox was a poorfourth, followed at intervals by Kotinga, Sandy N and Gyrate. It was a one-horse race once Air Flow went away properly. She ran her last quarter in 33scc and could have gone faster. Young Travis broke up at the start and took no part in the Advance Handicap. Village Guy led from Royal De Oro and Black Jester. He was always a winner. At the end of half a mile Black Jester, Royal de Oro, Supertax and Battlefield all closed up and tried him out, but to no effect. With three furlongs to go he went on and he led into the straight well clear of Black Jester, Battlefield and Supertax. He ran home two lengths ahead of Grace McElwyn. who had come from nowhere. Golden Cross was a close third. He also came from a long way back, just beating Royal de Oro, Supertax and Racketeer, who was last half a mile from home. Raydus and Blue Mountain were withdrawn from the August Handicap, for which War Buoy was sent out a worse than even-money favourite. The start was somewhat ragged. Avernus led, with Vesuvius, Master Roy, Tempest, Great Logan and War Buoy, who had dwelt a little, following. The order was the same for a long way. Starting the last round Vesuvius and Great Logan led from Master Roy and Tempest, with War Buoy on the rails behind them. The order was the same up the back, where Taxpayer ran up and snowed War Buoy in. The favourite got clear two and a-half furlongs from the judge and he turned into the straight alongside Vesuvius and he ran on to win well by three lengths from Tempest, who was two lengths ahead of Vesuvius. Wrecker was fourth, then came Gold Tinge and Wild Guy. The winner has to win another two-mile race to qualify for the N.Z. Trotting Cup and he has to do it at this meeting. He ran his last halfmile in lmin 4sec.

The Trial Handicap served to show what a good colt Gamble is. He began well, but for some reason he did not race with the others and was soon last. He made up his ground, only to break when trying to push into the middle of the field and drop back last again. He put in a terrific- last halfmile and was only beaten a length by Graham Direct.

Marie Celeste led from Chechahco. Real Burton, Prince Author and Young Travis in the next event, the lot being in close order. The order was the same for a long way. Starting the last lap Marie Celeste, Chechahco Young Travis, Morello, Real Burton and Guy Junior was the order. Running up’ the back Graham Direct made a fast move on the outer and later bn Gamble could be seen flying through from last place. Marie Celeste was first into the straight from Chechahco and Morello. In the straight Graham Direct looked a certain winner when Gamble came at a terrific pace and got within a length of him. Marie Celeste was three lengths away, followed by Morello, Guy Junior and Chechahco. Graham Direct and Gamble quite outclassed the opposition.

Teviot Downs led King's Voyage. New Metford, Great Way, Writer and Norma Bingen all in strung out order, in the trotters’ event, the backmarkers being in apparently hopeless positions. The order was the same entering on the second lap. Teviot Downs and Garner were together entering the straight, where Teviot Downs broke and Todd Lonzia, who had put in a fast run, tired. Garner went on 'by herself and looked a winner when Sea Gift flashed up from nowhere and, finishing very fast, beat Garner a halflength. New Metford was three lengths away, clear of Norma Bingen, Great Way, Todd Lonzia, Raima and Teviot Downs, all in strung-out order. Explosion and Raima were coupled.

The pace set in the early stages of the Queen Mary Handicap was not a solid one. Sylvia Sydney led Fernbrook Lass, Llewellyn’s Pride, Mountain Ore and Plain Pearl, all being bunched, with the favourite trailing the field. In the next round they were running in pairs, Sylvia Sydney and Fernbrock Lass, Llewellyn’s Pride and Mountain Ore. Iraq made a forward move, but left his feet when Agile rushed past him. Agile led into the home stretch from Mountain Ore and ran on to win by two lengths from Fernbrook Lass, all out. Mountain Ore was three lengths away, clear of Llewellyn’s Pride, who was followed by Plain Pearl and Iraq. As the race was run Agile beat them all for speed. How Iraq would have run is problematical, as he broke at the critical moment.

In the Selwyn Handicap Eureka Boy ■was first to show, but he broke before going a-quarter and interfered with Cloudy Range and Gunfire. Bingen Palm "then took the lead and was never headed again. Homeward, who was always following Bingen Palm, struggled hard, but could not make any impression; as a matter of fact Bingen Palm. Homeward and Wild Guy ran in that order for over the last six furlongs. The only horse to threaten trouble was Native Chief, who ran into fourth place wide out, but could not carry on and soon fell back. Golden Direct was a poor fifth, just behind Wild Guy, who was beaten for third money’ by Cloudy Range right on the post.

In the International Handicap Pronto Bingen and Sure led from Chancellor, Avernus and Prairie King, who were in line, while Taxpayer, Arikitoa and Rey Spec broke up. The order was the same right round into the straight where Sure went on from Pronto Bingen and won well by two lengths from Prairie King, who was a neck in front of Chancellor, who did not finish generously under pressure. Raydus was a poor fourth, followed by Colonial Boy and Silver de Oro.

HANDICAPS FOR WEDNESDAY. (Per United Press Association.) Christchurch, August 11. Tire following are the handicaps for-the second day of the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club’s meeting:— IMPROVERS HANDICAP, £2OO. Class 4.49. Two miles. Flotsam scr Real Boy 12 Ganton scr Wahnooka 12 King Oscar scr Enigma 24 Kotinga scr Air Flow 36 Mataunga scr Guy o’ Mine 36 Sandy N scr Amonos 48 Welcome Guy scr Ruin 60 yds bhd Gyrate 12 Billy Sundy, Kuini and Norman Fox are ineligible. DASH HANDICAP, (saddle), £2OO. Class 2.13. One mile. Homeward scr Pronto Bingen 12 Mocast scr Raydus 12 Willow Wave scr Reporter 12 yds bird Somerby 12 Arikitoa 12 George Rey 24 Colonial Boy 12 Master Roy 24 Logan’s Pride 12 Native Chief 24 Peter Locanda 12 Sure 24 Prairie King 12 Taxpayer 24 KING GEORGE HANDICAP, £5OO. Class 4.28. Two miles. Avernus scr Wrecker scr Craganour scr yds bhd Gold Tinge scr War Buoy 12 Great Logan scr Wild Guy 12 Kewpie’s Blue Mountain 21 Triumph scr Sunny Morn 36 Kingcraft scr Glenrossie 48 Taxpayer scr Red Shadow 60 Tempest scr Roi L’or 72 Vesuvius scr BELGIUM HANDICAP. £250. Class 4.40. Two miles. Dollie Derby scr Guy Junior ’ 36 Marie Celeste scr Morello 36 Nobleman scr Mountain Mist yds bhd (T) 36 Chechahco 12 Prince Author - 36 Grand Finale 12 Real Burton 36 Young Travis 12 Worthy King 36 Jimmy de Oro 24 Llewellyn’s Pride 48 Jolly Wave 21 Sylvia Sydney 48 Margaret Bell 24 Graham Direct 72 Gamble 36 LINCOLN HANDICAP. £250. Class 2.47. One iiiile and a quarter. Eureka Boy scr Cloudy Range 12 Girvan scr Craganour 12 Golden Direct scr Pra.nc King 12 Gunfire scr Prciito Bingen 12 Home scr Queen Author 12 Iraq scr Arikitoa 24 Lilian Bond scr Avernus 24 Lord Leslie scr Raydus 24 Mocast scr Rey Spec 24 Waress scr Wild Guy 24 Willow Wave scr Kingcraft 36 yds bhd Native Chief 36 Agile 12 Sunny Morn 36 Bingen Palm 12 Sure 36 Bracken 12 Wrackler 36 Chancellor 12 AVON HANDICAP, £250. Class 3.27. One mile and a-half. Fifa scr Norma Bingen 12 Garner scr Mountain Mist 21 Great Way scr Raima 36 King’s Voyage sc.’ Stanley T 36 New Metford scr Sea Gift 48 Teviot Downs scr Write: 48 vds bhd Nicoy.- 60 Admiral Bingen 12 Todd Lonzia 72 Bessie Parrish 12 Ticinpfast 11'8 CANTERBURY HANDICAP. £250. Class 4.35. Two miles. Fcrr.brook Iraq 12 Lass scr Huon Voyage Mm main Ore scr (T) 24 Plain Pearl scr Reporter 24 yds bhd Agile 36 Bingen Palm 12 Queen Author 36 Colonial Boy 12 Chancellor -18 Golden Direct 12 SPEEDWAY HANDICAP. £3OO. Class 2.43. One mile and a quarter. Blue Mountain scr Roddy 12 Sir Guy scr Silver de Oro 12 Tempest scr Glenrossie 21 Vesuvius scr Red Shadow 36 yds bhd Indianapolis 48 Great Logan" 12 Roi L’or CO Kewpie’s Harold Logan 72 Triumph 12 NOTES FROM RICCARTON ARRIVALS FROM THE NORTH. DUNMURE TRAINING ON. GOLDEN HAIR v. KNOCKFIN. WINGATUI HORSES IN EVIDENCE. (By Sir Modred.) Christchurch, August 9. Frosty nights and warm sunny days are still being experienced at C.J.C. headquarters, with the tracks in beautiful order for winter racing. F. Shaw has reached Riccarton with Umtali, Kemal Pasha, and Southlander Viking, all well. ft transpires that it was not T. A. Langford who sustained a fall from Bandy Boa in a schooling effort over the big fences on Thursday, but B. Shand, who at one time served in an tn vercargill stable. Shand had a shoulder injured and his back grazed by the heels of Punchestown in jumping over him as he rose from the ground, but he expects to be fit and well for the National fixture—he was riding flat race work on Friday. Wingatui mentor F. Shaw will produce Umtali looking to be in great buckle for the Grand National Steeplechase. He is very bright and in robust condition and it will not cause surprise if he should win a race at the forthcoming fixture at Riccarton. A number of his G.N. Steeplechase riyals suffer by comparison with Umtali in appearance, but they raced strenuously at Trentham recently and have since been galloped and jumped consistently at Riccarton, Valpeen, Dunmure and Royal Limond being cases in point. Of the trio named Valpeen came through the Wellington ordeal best, while Dunmure lightened up, and Royal Limond followed suit, in addition to which he is very tender when away from the beautiful springy sward of native grass on the cross-country course at C.J.C. headquarters. When he reaches the gravel or bitumen on his homeward way daily, Royal Limond steps short if not tenderly and it is safe to say he will have to be given respite after the G.N. meeting. L. J. and A. E. Ellis have practically completed their arrangements to leave home and will depart for Sydney on or about August 19. The former has yet to make up his mind in connection with a visit to Melbourne following the A.J.C. Spring meeting, but he will be guided by circumstances, the showing made by T. R. George’s string at Randwick and elsewhere.

Late on Friday morning at Riccarton, when the track touts had departed for the city, the novice hurdler Vitaphone, was produced to jump the schooling battens and it must be admitted that he gave a very attractive display from the writer’s point of view, although there were onlookers who declared that he took liberties with his fences. He dashed into his work at a very sound pace and as confident as an old hand at the game, and the timber as if it were matchwood, while there was no doubt about his galloping ability. It is on the cards that he will develop into a batten-topper <of the highest class and his career at the National fixture will create interest in some quarters where his promise has been duly marked down for future reference.

Wingatui mentor J. A. White, was on the scene on Friday superintending the activities of his five-year-old gelding High Glee and it can be chronicled that the son of Paladin—Real Glad looks healthy, strong and well. Bred by his trainer, High Glee is of useful class and may furnish into a valuable performer. He defeated a useful field in the Trial Handicap (7f.) at the recent D.J.C. Winter fixture, and it will be remembered that he scored officially by eight lengths, but it was probably nearer a dozen and then A. E. Didham was performing the “strong man act,” while at the machine there was a win quote of more than double-figures displayed to the delight of a limited circle apparently fully sized up of the merits of the winner. On the occasion referred to he beat McHeath, Land Raid and Mount Vai in that order and the trio have since won. distinction on occasions. Land Raid, by the way, is a four-year-old of undoubted speeding up merit. The Aucklander Master Musk has arrived here a well-conditioned gelding and he moves as if he will be one

of the most prominent of the Jumpers’ Flat Race field on Tuesday. Prince Vai was giving his connections cause for concern after his arrival at Riccarton, probably as the result of a tumble at Wellington, but he is now declared to be sound again. He was moving fairly well this morning. The Te Rapa trainer J. F. Tutchen, reached the scene of action to-day with Ruby Meteor and Adelene (a smart hack claiming engagements in the Winter Cup and other races). It is pleasing to learn that his jumping pupil High Commissioner has come in sound following a lengthy spell. He is to be hacked about until after Christmas, when he will be gradually seasoned for next winter —they take time in the North Island to prepare jumpers and this fact may be addressed to southern friends who fondly imagine a G.N. Steeplechase candidate can be made cherry ripe in two or three months. The come-back jumper Make Up has proved since his arrival at Riccarton that he will have to be reckoned with in future. On his initial appearance here he fenced splendidly, then he came out on Friday morning and refused to let two rivals give him a lead across the flat. He is likely to be an odds on quote for the Enfield Steeplechase, despite the reputation borne by a youthful rival called Diamond, who may or may not be equal to the occasion, but he will have to clear the big fences proficiently to have a fighting chance with the veteran.

Revision is ready for the fray next week and it is safe to anticipate that she will be a hot pot in her flat or leaping essays. To be classed as a clever and dashing jumper bred in the purple, the North islander will probably head the poll for win and place returns in the G.N. Hurdles. The Hawera-trained mare, Golden Hair, is improving with every gallop and on Thursday ran down six furlongs in brilliant fashion. Many discussions took place as to whether the sprinting honours of the day referred to rested with Golden Hair or Knockfin at a shade over 1.16 2-5, but the latter accomplished her effort on a smooth inside grass circuit, while the visitor galloped on the outside of the course proper and to the pupil of O. Cox must be awarded the palm of the occasion. At the same time, Knockfin is a rare little galloper and Riccartonites will not hear of her missing Winter Cup honours, but the fact that she is a pony must be held against her in the chance of a bumping send-off, while she is inclined to be temperamental at the post. Now that Parasang is moving freely again his trainer, P. T. Hogan, is wearing a cheery smile, as he has always contended that his charge is more than useful. It is to be hoped for the sake of sporting owner, Mr J. S. Hazlett, that this claim is a good and reliable one.

Those who fancy a good old galloper for the Winter Cup in the shape of Gay Crest can rest assured that so far* all is well with him while he is galloping very fast and stoutly ,when called upon. A split hoof has been packed and treated with satisfactory results so far and he walks and extends without giving any symptoms of trouble or concern.

Dunmure was treated to easy exercise on the sand track this morning and moved freely. He is undoubtedly strung up to concert pitch and many experts declare that he is too light for the task ahead of him, but as he has jumped well this week, galloped stoutly across the flat, and moves well, it can be taken for granted that his lady trainer and V. Langford know what is best for the son of Panmure. He does not present any outward sign of shoulder trouble, but horseman A. J. Peart who has been piloting him over the obstacles, states that the gelding takes some time in his essays before he will hit out and measure off his fences without changing his legs. It is generally believed here that Punchestown is not forward enough to see out a National Steeplechase journey, and the critics on this side of the argument may be correct, but the chestnut has improved with every effort of the current week and he may surprise them on Tuesday. He is the right stamp for a steeplechaser of the first class, while his galloping and jumping standards are of an attractive character. He has only to stand up to get some of the cross-country prize money next week and in the doing of it, win one of the best steeplechases carded, while the writer is not going to place the G.N. Steeplechase beyond his compass. GRAND NATIONAL MEETING SATURDAY AT RICCARTON. SOME GOOD WORK WITNESSED. NOTES BY THE ROOK. Christchurch. August 10. It was dull but fine at Riccarton this morning. The inside of the trial grass was open for fast work. A lot of nice gallops were put up on it, but nothing of a sensational nature. Southdown, Joyous and Sunee went out to gallop six furlongs together with light boys up. Joyous broke away and Southdown was with her, but Sunee lost some lengths. The last half-mile was' run in 51 4-ssec. Southdown, who finished clear of Joyous, was never off his bit. Sunee finished up at Joyous’ girths. Bereft, who was in receipt of a lump of weight from Dollar Princess, beat him by lengths over six furlongs done in lmin 18sec. The last half was run in 50 l-ssec. Dollar Prince did not appear to be galloping generously. Sea Fox was finishing a little better than Royal Gallant at the end of seven furlongs run in lmin 32sec. Rebel Chief was too good for Horowhenua in a try-out over six furlongs, the time being lmin 17sec. The going at present suits Rebel Chief much better than it has done at the meetings he has competed in during the winter. He is not much good in mud. Red Sun gave Verdun a beating over ten furlongs, the last mile • of which was run in lmin 48 l-ssec. They were carrying light boys. Ruby Meteor and Cardhu were companions in a schooling gallop over the steeplechase fences. Ruby Meteor made two rough jumps, but altogether she shaped fairly well. Cardhu jumped better than she did. The fences on the course proper were not open for schooling to-day. Revision and Tareha were schooled over the hurdles. They went very fast, but their jumping was rough on occasions and both of them banged several fences very hard. Diamond, Make Up and Umtali ] jumped the country. At the end of a circuit Umtali was pulled off and Make Up finished after jumping two more fences, leaving Diamond to complete the second circuit alone. Diamond is very fast and he is a brilliant jumper. Next year he will be in the best class. At present he is inclined to be somewhat rash at brush fences. Make Up gave a good showing and so did Umtali. The showing that Diamond gave is sure to send him out a good favourite for the Enfield Steeplechase. Pahu, Royal Limond, Billy Boy and Valpeen finished as named at the end of ten furlongs, the last mile of which took lmin 49sec. Royal Limond made the pace, being hunted along from Billy Boy and Valpeen, with Pahu trailing them. In the straight, Pahu. under pressure, went up and beat Royal Limond by a length. Billy Boy was three lengths further back, two in front of Valpeen. Pahu carried the lightest weight of the four. All pulled up well. Esteem beat Manawatu very easily over a mile in lmin 44 l-ssec. The

’. time was good, but is not as brilliant ; as it looks, for they were only carry- ' ing light apprentices; still, it was a good showing for jumpers. I Master Musk and Giggleswick were I sent twice round over the hurdles. ' Master Musk jumping rough. He gets close to the fences and jumps high. Giggleswick jumped well and gained ground at every fence, but on the flat Master Musk had too much speed for him and always picked up all lost , ground. They rose at the last fence I together. Master Musk will have to i jump better if he is to win a hurdle j race, but he has enough speed to win I on the flat.

Polydora and Lycidas were sent over r mile together. They kept abreast to the carriage paddock, then Polydora cleared away and won the gallop by many lengths. They carried small boys and the last seven furlongs were covered ■in lmin 30scc. Fair Weather, who was not carrying 6.7, got a big break on Silver Sight with a welter weight up in the first four furlongs of a gallop over a mile. From there on Silver Sight gradually reduced the gap and was within a length of his opponent at the winning post. The last seven furlongs were run in lmin 31 4-ssec. Valarth and High Glee were matched over six furlongs, but were not fully extended to run the distance in lmin 18 3- High Glee looks well. Knockfin and Golden Hair caused some excitement when they walked on to the No. 7. grass to try each other out. They went six furlongs and they were each carrying about 8.0. In one rush Knockfin shot to the front and at the end of three furlongs done in 34 4- she had a lead of eight, lengths. Golden Hair made very little impression on her in the run home and Knockfin passed the winning post six lengths ahead of her opponent, her time being lmin 14sec.

Parasang, Prince Vai and Dunmure was the order as the three passed the winning post at the end of a mile done in lmin 49 4-ssec. Anvil and Nocturnus schooled over four flights of hurdles together. They went at a solid pace, but their jumping was rough. Joppa and Radiant Rose did not shape well in a school over four flights of hurdles.

Punchestown and Hounslow went once round together. Both galloped well and pulled up sound. Their time of lmin 48 3-ssec was really good. The work concluded with Polyform going once round the steeplechase fences at a steady pace. RACING IN VICTORIA THE AUSTRALIAN STEEPLECHASE. FULHAM THE WINNER. (United Press Assn.—Telegraph Copyright.) (Rec. 6.30 p.m.) Melbourne, August IL At the Caulfield races, the chief events resulted: AUSTRALIAN STEEPLECHASE. £l5OO, About three and a-half miles H. Parker’s b g Fulham, by Poitrel —Larlee, aged, 10.12 (W. Sandiford) 1 E. P. Cox’s blk g Character, by Bobniak—Harmonist, aged, 9.0 (Meagher) 2 F. Matson’s b g Kingstol, by Pistol King—Troumerei, aged, 10.3 (Ryan) 3

All started. Won by two and a-half lengths, third half a length away. Time, 7min lOsec.

BALACLAVA STAKES, £3OO. One and a-half miles. Highardo, 7.5 (S. Tomison) 1 Metro, 8.5 (K. Voitre) 2 Gaystar, 9.2 (H. Skidmore) 3 Six started including Bunsby Gaze. Won by a head, third two lengths away. Time, 2min 33,jsec. The Mirror was second in the Arkaringa Hurdles in which Shatter was unplaced. First Song was unplaced in the Staubin Welter Handicap. Membo was unplaced in the KnowsIcy Steeplechase. AUSTRALIAN JOCKEY CLUB. PROFIT FOR LAST SEASON. (United Press Assn.—Telegraph Copyright.) Sydney, August 10. A profit of £18,537 was made by the Australian Jockey Club last season. This is £3OOO less than the previous season, but was most satisfactory, considering the increased prize money. MELBOURNE CUP STAKE. REDUCTION ON LAST YEAR. (United Press Assn.—Telegraph Copyright.) Melbourne, August 10. The Victoria Racing Club is providing £30,750 for the Melbourne Cup meeting this year. This is £6OOO less than in 1934, when the stakes were raised owing to the Centenary. The Melbourne Cup this year will be worth £BOOO, compared with £lO,OOO last year. The other stakes will be proportionately reduced.

rosehill meeting new ZEALANDERS BEATEN. (United Press Assn. —Telegraph Copyright.) (Rec. 6.30 p.m.) Sydney, August 11. At the Rosehill races Latharna was second and Saecula third in the Three-year-old Handicap, in which Golden Treasure, Parquet and Maestro were unplaced. . , Loud Applause was Second in trie Maiden Handicap. Silver Ring and Theo were unplaced Gladswood was third and Limoux fourth in the Rosehill Handicap. Golden Gate was second in the Parramatta Mile. Silver Ring’s performance greatly disappointed his connections. He was strongly fancied Tor the Flying Handicap but was unable to finish better than sixth, after getting away poorly. GOLF INVERCARGILL CLUB. VISIT FROM GORE PLAYERS. With such weather as that of yesterday the return visit by members of the Gore Golf Club to the Invercargill Club’s course at Otatara could not have failed to have been successful, both from a golfing and a social point of view. Twenty members made the journey from Gore, and they competed in four-ball matches and singles against the Invercargill players. Hospitality was extended by the Otatara men, and at the end of the day the president of the Gore Club, Mr R. Fisher, returned thanks, the president of the Invercargill Club, Mr A. E. Smith, replying. QUEEN'S PARK CLUB. a. e. McGrath wins HOLLOWAY SHIELD. - The final match of the Holloway Shield competition was played on the Queen’s Park Golf Club’s course oyer the week-end, A. E. McGrath winning the trophy by defeating A. T. Walsh 1 up. McGrath, playing from a handicap of 20, conceded his opponent, whose handicap was 23, a stroke at the 7th and 14th holes. The weather and state of the course were favourable to good golf, and both played soundly and carefully, the match being keenly contested all the way. The first hole was halved in fives, and McGrath won the short second with a correct three. A wretched drive wrecked his chances at the third, which Walsh won with a six. McGrath took the lead again with a four at Bonnie Jean but Walsh squared the match at Feldwick with a four. The sixth was halved in fives, but an indifferent eight at Elies Road made Walsh 1 up. Tapper’s was halved in regulation fives and a five at Turnagain put Walsh two up at the turn. McGrath began the journey home by winning Runaway with a bogey five and Cosy with a par four and the match was again square. Walsh took High School with a par three and McGrath Pollard’s with a par five. Both took sixes at Waihopai, but Walsh’s allowance of a stroke gave him the hole. McGrath avenged himself with a three to Walsh’s four at the Gap, and then went on to win the 16th in par figures. Both failed to find the green with their mashie-shots at Howitzer, and the hole was halved in fours, leaving McGrath dormy one. At the 18th McGrath was on the green in two and Walsh in three, but the former treated himself to three putts and the hole was halved, McGrath thus winning the match 1 up. BRITAIN’S RYDER CUP TEAM. (United Press Assn.—Telegraph Copyright.) London, August 9. Ernest and Reginald Whitcombe will complete the Ryder Cup team, creating a record of three brothers being included in an international golf team. On July 8 it was reported that Britain’s Ryder Cup team would comprize the following: C. A. Whitcombe (captain), P. Alliss, R. Burton, J. H. Busson, W. Cox (of Addington), —. Jarman, A. H. Padgham and A. Perry. CYCLING SATURDAY’S RACE. G. JONES FIRST AND FASTEST TIME. The local club further advanced its season with a 42-mile event under unsettled weather conditions on Saturday with a field of 18 competitors. The roads were in .a heavy condition and fast times were not realized. This event being the longest so far staged this season and after a gruelling ride G. Jones secured first and fastest time honours. The official placings were as follows:— G. Jones (3. 1 , min) Ihr 58min 15sec 1 L. Wilson (3,jmin) Ihr 58min 45 1-5 sec 2 C. A. Robinson (Simin) Ihr 58min 15 2-ssec 3 H. Reynolds (3.,min) Ihr 59min 28 l-ssec 4 The winner also being successful for the fastest time honours with C. A. Robinson 2-ssec back to secure second fastest time. The following members competed: J. McCarthy 9min, H. Patton 7min, R. Wilson and E. Lyon 6min, W. Bailey and R. Dixon s|min, H. Reynolds and L. Wilson 3’min, G. Jones, A. Drury H. Robinson, C. A. Robinson and P. Meehan Sjmin; L. Johnson and E. Summers 2 l-smin, M. Smith Imin, W. Frame and C. W. Robinson scr. Tire Race. On the outward journey M. Smith was overhauled by the scratch members at Lorneville. W. Bailey and P. Meehan retired at Makarewa. The 3]min men were racing well and overhauled the 3?min men at Makarewa. At Ryal Bush E. Lyon had dropped back to the former bunch from the 6min mark. One mile past Ryal Bush the 9, 7, 6 and smin 45sec men were bunched and averaging 20 miles pel’ hour. H. Patton, who was riding well, came to grief, losing a lot of ground which he could not make up. At the turn R. Wilson and R. Dixon were the first to turn taking 59 minutes for. the journey with J. McCarthy turning 15secs later. After a further 15secs elapsed G. Jones led a big bunch to the turn with a break of 2min 20sec. E. Summers set out on the return journey, the scr men following Imin 55sec later, these riders having gained l.lmin on the first rider to turn. On the return journey G. Jones and Co. went through the field and at Lorneville a close finish was assured. H. Reynolds, who was riding well, came to grief at Waikiwi when in a handy position. In the final sprint Jones secured the decision by half a length, a tyre separating second and third. The event was ably controlled by the following officials: Messrs D. Harris, H. P. Campbell, M. Wilson, R. Wilson, B. Hamilton, D. Patton, E. Smith and J. Dixon. TENNIS EASTERN UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIPS. (United Press Assn.—Telegraph Copyright.) New York, August 9. In the semi-finals of the Eastern United States grass court tennis championships, Frank Shields defeated Sydney Wood, 6—2, 6—2, 6—2. He meets Bryan Grant in the final on Saturday, 1

HARRIERS ST PAUL’S CLUB. An early run from Jed street hall was fairly well attended on Saturday. No trail was laid, the pack proceeding to Elies road and along to Thomson’s Bush. Here those who wished to finish early turned off under the deputy, A. Hind, and, traversing the bush, headed for home by way of Grey street and the Park. A solid pace was maintained all the way. The second pack was taken by the other deputy further along Elies road and then into the Bush on both sides of the road. Finally River road was reached and the runners then headed for the Park. The run home took the form of a handicap race through the Park and resulted: J. Walker (20yds), E. Dorman (scr), G. Couling (50yds) and H. Alington (85yds). Next week the run will start from the St. Paul’s Hall, Dee street, and the members will afterwards be the guests of Mr W. Torrance. INVERCARGILL CLUB. The Invercargill Harrier Club held a short run from Teviot street on Saturday and a fair muster under the whistle of Captain W. Pickard covered about four miles on the road. A fast pace was maintained all the way and in the run home B. Crowther, W. Pickard, R. Whyte and J. Metcalfe led in. Next Saturday the run will be from the Baths. Training on Tuesday and Thursday nights will be carried out as usual during the week. The club five miles road race will be held on Saturday week. BADMINTON WIN FOR ALL SAINTS. Playing in the Zealandia Hall on Saturday All Saints beat Balmacewan (Dunedin) at badminton by 14 games to 10. The match was well-contested and proved interesting throughout. The following are the results, All Saints names being mentioned first:— Men’s Doubles—Challis and Wren (12, 21, 19) v. Buehler and Mclnnis (21, 16, 21): Braithwaite and Skelt (21, 18, 20) v. Ferguson and Harvey (10, 21, 21); Smith and Mitchell (21, 21) y. Buehler and Dickinson (10, 15); Dobbie and Bevzs (16, 21, 21) v. Harvey and Dillon (21, 20, 15). Ladies’ Doubles—Miss Maltby and Miss Lockwood (15, 15) v. Mrs Mclnnis and Miss I. Philip (2,8); Mrs Skelt and Mrs Melvin (13, 14) v. Miss E. Logan and Miss A. Hindle (15,'15); Miss G. Neilson and Miss Dobbie (14, 14) v. Misses E. Philip and D. Hindle Misses Provan and Whyte (15, 15) v. Misses M. Hindle and E. Batchelor (11. 14). Combined Doubles—B. Chalks and Miss Maltbv (11, 7) v. Mr and Mrs McInnis (15, 15); J. Wren and Mrs Skelt (15, 15) v. J. Ferguson and Miss I. Philip (9, 13); J. Braithwaite and Miss Lockwood (15, 13, 15) v. Buehler and Miss A. Hindle (9, 15, 12); P. Skelt and Miss Provan (15, 15) v. Harvey and Miss D. Hindle (13, 7); N. Mitchell and Miss Neilson (2, 11) v. Ferguson and Miss E. Philip (15, 15): R. Smith and Mrs Melvin (15, 13. 8) v. B. Dickson and Miss Logan (13, 15, 15): a. Dobbie and Miss Dobbie (15, 15) v. E. Lucas and Miss M. Hindle (11, 8); W. Bews and P. Whyte (15, 15) v. F. Dillon and Miss Batchelor (12, 8). _ Combined Doubles: B. Cnallis and Miss Maltby (7, 12) v. J. Ferguson and Miss I. Philip (15, 15); J. Wren and Mrs Skelt (13, 10) v. Mr and Mrs Mclnnis (15, 15); J. Braithwaite and Miss Lockwood (15. 15) v. Harvey and Miss D. Hindle (2, 10): P. Skelt and Miss Provan (15, 6, 15) v. Buehler and Miss A. Hindle (13, 15, 12); N. Mitchell and Miss Neilson (15, 15) v. Dickinson and Miss Logan (11, 11); R. Smith and Mrs Melvin 110, 11) v. Ferguson and Miss E Philip (15, 15); P. Skelt and Miss Whyte (15, 15) v. Dickinson and Miss M Hindle (10, 12); J. Dobbie and Miss Dobbie (15, 15) v. Dillon and Miss Batchelor (10, 6). All Saints 14 games, 31 sets, rtb points; Balmacewan 10 games, 23 sets, 708 points. BOXING L. ADAMS MATCHED. WELTER TITLE FIGHT AT CHRISTCHURCH. Les Adams, of Invercargill, has been matched to fight .N. Mudgway, the welterweight champion, at Christchurch on August 21. The fight will be for the title which Mudgway recently won from Stirling. RUGBY LEAGUE MATCHES AT CHRISTCHURCH. (Per United Press Association.) Christchurch, August 10. League games to-day resulted: Hornby (31) beat Waimairi (2)._ Ruru (5) drew with Linwood (5). Addington (39) beat New Brighton (IDAUCKLAND FINAL. Auckland, August 10. In the League championship final today, Richmond (14) beat Mount Albert (9). HOCKEY CHALLENGE SHIELD. AUCKLAND BEAT POVERTY BAY. (Per United Press Association.) Auckland. August 11. In a New Zealand challenge shield hockey match Auckland (8) bear Poverty Bay (1). WRESTLING WOODS AND LURICH DRAW. (United Press Assn.—Telegraph Copyright.) (Rec. 6.30 p.m.) Sydney, August 11. At the Leichhardt Stadium Johnny Woods and Tom Lurich drew, both securing one fall each,