STARTING OF RACES

Southland Times, Issue 25737, 30 July 1945, Page 6

STARTING OF RACES

Sir, —I notice that at a recent meeting of the Southland Racing Club the president stated that “all clubs in Southland have been well satisfied with the ‘standing start.’ ” If the clubs have been satisfied, I am sure the public on numerous occasions have had every reason to feel otherwise. I am not criticizing Mr Marshall who, considering the fact that he is compelled to adhere to the “standing start” rule, has not made a bad job under the circumstances. Nevertheless, I am fully convinced that, were he allowed to operate the “walk in” start, a vast improvement would be effected. The “walk-in” start has been most effectively demonstrated by starter Bert Hastings, who has acted in this capacity up north for a number of years. His method, which I consider admirable, was as follows:—Prior to the start of each race, he called the jockeys together and informed them that the field would not be dispatched unless they were perfectly in line. “Now, boys, walk your horses up to the post.” And he added that any rider attempting a flying start would be fined £5, which rule was strictly enforced, with the result that the fields were dispatched evenly and promptly. I think it is high time that those who are the greatest contributors to racing, namely the owners and loyal public supporters, should have some say in a matter which so vitally concerns them. There is far too much foisting of rules and regulations on the public by racing clubs in Southland—as, for instance, the introduction of the win and place method of wagering. Come on Southlanders, wake up and let us improve our standard of racing. EX-OWNER.