STRATFORD GYMKHANA.

Taranaki Herald, Volume LXII, Issue 144357, 23 March 1914, Page 6

STRATFORD GYMKHANA.

Glancing through the schedule of the Stratford Gymkhana, to bo held on Faster Monday next, April 13, one cannot help being struck by tho novelty of the events. In tho first place, amateur athletics aro catered for by three Hat races, 100, 220 and 440 yards. The athletically minded can hero find something to interest thorn. To say that athletic events have lost their savour for tho public is incorrect, a& tho average person is just as keen as ever to witness n good race. This was evidenced by tho interest that was taken in tho ’tradesmen's Handicap at tho recent carnival. Tho winner of that event is .still in training, and several more are doing light work with a view to participating in a like event at tho gymkhana. Children will find plenty to amuse themselves in the pony trotting and jumping events, children s races, and lollio scrambles. Trotters have two races allotted to them, a. mile and a mile and a half handicap. These events always draw a good entry, and, judging by entries already received, this year will bo a record. Trotting as a sport is rapidly coming to the front, os, in addition'to the sporting side, the trotting horso has a utilitarian value as well. Horsemen havo three events for their benefit, Maiden and Open Hunters, and a leaping competition. These events arc always brim-full of interest to the pub’ lie. *' The ladies have tho Ladies* Driving and tho Harnessing and Unharnessing Competitions. Tho Sheep Dog Trial, run on similar lines as that given at the rccont show, is certain to bring out some remarkable performances by man's best friend, and should, in itself, be worthy of the small admission charged. The novelty events include tug-of-war, sheaf tossing, buckjumpmg. Victoria Cross race, motor-car and fowl competition, and apple bobbing. The committee- is endeavouring to arrange for a sensational never before shown in the Taranaki district, and if successful the event will bo advertised later. Schedules will bo posted to any address on application to B. Fearon, secretary.