RACING AND TROTTING NOTES

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18451, 30 April 1928, Page 2

RACING AND TROTTING NOTES

RACING NOTES.

The Riccartcn trainers who assisted *t the South Canterbury Jockey Club’s meeting last week had more than their share of trouble before they completed the trip. When, they started from Sockburn on Thursday morning with Jfa*ir horses there were only four UG xrticiks, each of which has accommodation for four horses, the others travelling in G trucks, which have space for two horses. On Saturday morning they were informed by railway officials at Washdyke that none but the UG trucks would be taken home by the special passenger train, and that the other horses would have to travel by a goods train, which would land them at Sockburn some time on Sunday morning. Eventually, however, the official difficulties were overcome, and all the Riccarton horses returned by the passenger train on Saturday night. This was not the only trouble which the trainers encountered on the trip in their dealings with the Railway Department. Some time ago a loading bank was erected at the platform near the course gate, on the Fairlie branch line, and the horses were unloaded there when they arrived on Thursday. For some reason, however, the railway officials would not load there for the return journey on Saturday night, and the horses had to be walked to the ashdyke station. This arrangement is very inconvenient and risky, with so much motor traffic on the road. The trainers were elated when the loading bank was provided for them on the branch line, but now they are wondering why it was put there if it is not to be used.

Aberfeldy showed improved form in the Tekapo Hurdle Handicap on Saturday, compared with his effort the previous dav. He was in a good position all the way, and Tie won by a short margin, after an interesting struggle over the last furlong. The merit of his performance was greatly enhanced by the fact that he is not nearly ready. He will be a much better horse in another month, and he will be worth keeping in mind for important jumping events in the winter. His improved form on Saturday was widely expected.

* * Red Heather was beaten a long wav frhm home in the first day’s hurdle race at Washdyke, but he stuck on in good style on Saturday, when he beat all but the winner. It was a good perfonnance for a horse that lacks stamina, and who is at his best on a fast track.

Bonatic registered another attractive performance in the Pukaki Hurdle Handicap. He looked certain to be in the money when he turned for home in the lead, but he stopped over the last fifty yards.

Rangatahi showed a good turn of speed in the early stages of the Pukaki Hurdle Handicap, but he faded out a long way from home. He is not ready for a hard contest, and he will be in much better condition in a few weeks. When trained in the North Island he was a very useful hurdler, and he will win races for his new owner, provided his early experiences have left no ill effects.

Malmsey showed attractive form on Saturday, when she started twice. She is a slow beginner, but she put in a brilliant run in the April Stakes, once she settled down, and she had the result in safe keeping a long wav from home. Later in the day, in the Temuka Handicap, she was running on in fine style at the end, but she was so far back at the home turn that she was set too great a task. Under the circumstances she did exceptionally well to finish second.

Fair Exchange was unlucky at the st-rt of the April Stakes, and his chance looked hopeless when half the had been covered. From there he put in a good run which landed him in second place over a hundred yards from the post. When his rider realised that pursuit of Malmsey was hopeless he dropped his hands, and he went close to throwing away second money. The Bailiff came on again with a late rush.

* * * 4c The Bailiff, a three-year-old gelding by Warplane, showed promising form each day at South Canterbury. He has plenty of pace, and he looks' a good prospect for a race before the season as he is likely to improve a lot. He should stay wqU later on.

Antrim Boy created a surprise by the brilliancy which enabled him to win the Pareora Handicap. He was assisted by a lucky run on the rails from the home turn, but there was real merit in his performance.

Booster is at the top of his form at present, but he is racing rather unluckily. He carried his big weight like a tradesman in the Pareora Handicap, but while he was wearing the others down Antrim Boy got through on the inside and beat the Solferino gelding decisively. Booster may have a winning turn before the end of the season, though it is doubtful if winter -.rack o will assist him.

The Timaru Cup form was repejflr ,d on Saturday in the Autumn Handicap, in which Battle Colours and King Balboa outclassed the opposition again. It would have taken a lot of weight to bring the leading pair back to the others.

Battle Colours won the Timaru Cup very easily, and he scored in the Autumn Handicap with just as little effort. The Riccarton gelding is a very solid customer, who is improving with every race, and he will win much more important races next season. He has pace and stamina, and he is equally at home on firm or soft ground.

The Southland gelding. King Balboa, ran two good races at South Canterbury, and after proving so much superior to the other competitors, he was rather unlucky to meet a horse of the class of Battle Colours, who *• is only coming to his best.

Front Rank could not act. in the greasy ground in the Timaru Cup, but she shaped well in the heavy going on .Saturday, when she registered a creditable performance in the Autumn Handicap.

Thorndale had a host of admirers in the Autumn Handicap, there being plenty of people prepared to see him trouble Battle Colours and King Balboa. He cut up badly, however, being near the tail of the field all the way.

Baldowa was walking very groggilv when he went out for the Autumn Handicap, and only extreme optimism could have prompted his connections to undertake the journey from Southland to Washdyke last week. In his day Baldowa was a good horse, but he has got to the end of his usefulness, as, apart from age, he seems too infirm to be worth much consideration in future. In Saturday’s race he was unable to jump out, and he toiled hopelessly in the rear most of the way.

’fc ♦ 4c-t-t t^le w * nner the Temuka Hack Handicap, showed vastly improved «T m com P are d wiih her first day’s effort, but the extra distance was partly responsible. She is not a good beginner, but she has a nice turn of speed when she gets going. Later on, Puff will win. in much better company.

The North Otago gelding, Meadow Lark, showed plenty of speed in the Temuka Hack Handicap, but he failed badly over the last two furlongs. He is by Songbird, a Kilbroney horse who was a high-class sprinter.

The Babe showed smart form in winning the Wai-iti Steeplechase. He is a useful sort, but never likely to reach good class.

Royal Wink, who filled second place in each of the steeplechases at South Ganterbur}-, is a great jumper, and this quality may serve him over bigger fences in the winter. He boasts a better pedigree that the average steeplechaser, being by Winkie from Lady \ ictoria, who claims the New Zealand Cup winner Roj'al Star among her progeny.

Wharncliffe had his first race over country in the Wai-iti Steeplechase and gave a very satisfactory exhibition of jumping for a horse who had not seen a brushed fence until two days before the race. More vigorously handled in the first mile, he would have been hard to beat, and he looks a great prospect for the winter campaign.

* * ■3e * Wild Work won the Beaconsfield Hack Handicap in impressive style, after leading all the way. The Autumnus mare stays well, and she may earn distinction in other races later on. There was a prospect that she would change owners before she raced on Saturday, and even now she would be worth buying. Her recent form has been very consistent. Wild Work was ridden by R. Chisholm, a young apprentice in Cutts Brothers’ employ. He rode the mare when she filled third place in a race at Riccarton, and he had his first winning ride on Saturday. Fie got his mount out smartly, and, after handling her nicely through the race, he kept her moving along right to the finish.

Rotor ran another good race in the Beaconsfield Hack Handicap, and, but for a little bad luck in running, he would have set Wild Work a harder task. Rotor will be worth keeping in mind for other races this season, as he is at the top of his form at present.

Amor cut up badly in the Beaconsfield Hack Handicap. He was going well at the entrance to the straight, but he collapsed over the last two furlongs. It was a disappointing effort, after his good showing the previous day.

Gay Sonnet ran well for nearly a mile in the Timaru Cup. and on this form her chance looked bright in the Seadown Handicap on Saturday. She showed her consistency by leading all the way and winning without an effort. Gay Sonnet is a brilliant galloper, at her best over seven furlongs.

Overhaul was strongly fanqied for the Seadown Handicap, his second start during the day. He was well placed at the entrance to the straight, but from there he made no impression on those in front of him. Overhaul is

very well, however, and his turn may come soon.

Mime raced very consistently at South Canterbury, filling second place each day. He has built up a lot lately and wFh average luck he will win a race If .ore long.

Sprinkler showed plenty of pace in his race at South Canterbury, but he did not last long enough to look a serious danger. The racing should benefit him, but he will need to improve a lot to win.

Moratorium was troubled by the heavy ground at Washdyke, and in Saturday's race he was in hopeless difficulties from the rise of the barrier. He will do much better the first time he finds track conditions to his liking.

TROTTING NOTES. Nominations for the Oamaru Trotting Club’s winter meeting will close at eight o'clock to-night. 4= :\z The Auckland trainer, J. Shaw, arrived from the north yesterday morning, on his way to the For bury Park Club’s meeting, where he has the pacer Direct Morning engaged. * * * Sj? Amongst those present at the Wellington Trotting Club’s meeting on Saturday was the Auckland handicapper, Mr G. Paul, jun. * * M Canterbury-trained horses had a field day at the Wellington Trotting Club’s meeting on Saturday. They won seven races, were second on seven occasions, and third six times. Derby Lynn won the third race; Peterwah and Sister Beatrice were second and third to Peter Swift in the Armstrong Handicap; while in the sixth race Bright Light got third money, being behind Kempton and Swiftbine. These were the only horses outside the Canterbury division to earn any money.

It is not often that there are false starts at trotting meetings since the institution of barriers, but there were two in the Progressive Handicap at Wellington on Saturday. Mr A. J. Hastings explained that on the first occasion one of the barriers failed to work, and he naturally declared it no start. On the second occasion the lever handle became loose and some cords broke, which prevented the starter from operating the barriers. Mr Hastings explained the position to the drivers and decided to start the race without the barriers. It did not seem to be a good effort, however. Only two of the seven starters went away well, but this was no fault of the official.

After the Progressive Handicap, an inquiry was held into the showing of Kempton, as compared with his effort in the Eastbourne Handicap. After hearing the evidence, the stewards decided to take no action.

Loiterer, who won the Trial Handicap, had finished second to Delightful on the previous Saturday at Ashburton, and he looked the best of good things for the race. Flooper never left the issue in doubt, being always in the front line, and finally winning easily. The winner is by Denver Huon, and, like a number of his stock, is not well gaited, but he possesses plenty of stamina. Loiterer may improve his gait with racing, and if so, he will develop into a fine racing proposition

In the Trial Handicap, Rose Marie was driven by W. J. Tomkinson, the Addington trainer making his first appearance in thfe sulky after his recent severe illness. Rose Marie went a fine race, finishing second to Loiterer, and she saw out the journey much better than in some of her earlier efforts.

Great Triumph went a capital race in the Trial Handicap and it looked as if lie would have troubled the winner. He made no race of the mile harness event, in which he was a hot favourite, leading the field throughout and winning comfortably.

Kiowa was a disappointment in the Trial Handicap, as she war well placed early but failed badly at the end. Like a number of other pacers who raced a t the meeting, she may have found the track unsuitable.

Tamerlane had a track quite to his liking on Saturday, and in the Eastbourne Handicap he soon had the issue beyond doubt, as he began so smartly Tamerlane looks as though he has improved considerably with his recent racing in the North Island.

Katute does not seem to be improving. She either fails to leave the mark in her races or else appears to break for no apparent reason. In both her efforts at Wellington on Saturday she performed very badly.

Lady Fan was favourite for the Eastburne Handicap but when going well, just behind Tamerlane and Nelson Boy, about four furlongs from home, she seemed to stop as if. she had struck herself and she was quickly out of the contest.

The Taranaki trotter Bright Light went a couple of fair races at the Wellington meeting on Saturdaj' - . He is by Petereta from Rosechild, and is a powerful, solidly built horse, who may show a lot of improvement next season.

The Nelson-trained mare Louisiana is not at present racing in her best form In both her races on Saturday she failed to keep to her gait at all well.

Derby Lynn, who won the Waiwetu Handicap, is a three-year-old filly by Nelson Derby from Edna, owned by Mr J. A. Mitchell, of Palmerston North. Derby Lynn's win was full of merit, as she had none the best of the running, but she finished with great gameness.

Exclusive, who was second favourite for the Waiwetu Handicap, failed to see out the distance. She was in the lead for more than a mile and a quarter, but in the race up the straight she stopped and only finished fifth.

•* * * 4= Two pacers in the Waiwetu Handicap found the going against them. Binscarth did not seem able to get up any speed and Marlindo, after a bad beginning, broke up half a mile from home.

Peterwah, who was driven by his owner’s son, seemed very slow over the first part of the Armstrong Handicap, made up little of his handicap. In the race up the straight, the American trotter put in fine work and caught all but the winner. The young reinsman handled his charge in a ver}' capable manner.

The Hawera-owned trotter, Sister Beatrice, went a fine race in the Armstrong Handicap. Trotting without a mitake, she was on the rails the whole way until pulled out in the straight for the run to the winning post. The. three trotters in the race had the finish to themselves, and the trio gave a splendid exhibition of trotting, going the journey without any mistakes. The time seems to be very opportune for high-class trotters’ races to be established bj' the leading clubs.

-J: 4: •{: Guide Rangi was responsible for a couple of good performances on Saturday. In the Trial Handicap, after being with the leading division, she finished in fourth place, whilst in the mile harness event she was third. Great Triumph beat her on each occasion, but in the first race she beat Peter Daunt, who was in front of her in the mile event.

Kempton won the progressive handicap after a good fight with Swiftbine. Each of them had started earlier in the day in the Eastbourne Handicap, but they had not raced prominently. Over the two-mile journey, in which there was a very weak field, Kempton always looked a winner. Kempton is by Nelson Bingen from Pearl Pointer and was bred by Mr H. F. Nicoll. He was purchased by his present owner a few months ago and won a race at Addington at Easter. He is trained by C. Donald at Belfast.-

Peter Swift’s performance in winning the Armstrong Handicap was a brilliant effort. For nearly a mile and a half he was on the outside of Loch Moigh, the pair leading the field. When Loch Moigh failed, Withers kept the trotter hard at it, he held his lead to the finish.

Kingcraft, who won the Palmer Handicap, was a solid favourite. He won at Addington in his first start there and did his work so decisively that Saturday’s race looked a good thing for him. Fie is a three-year-old by Quincey from Colene Pointer, a mare who has raced successfully this season.

The Blenheim-owned Mercury was solidly supported for the Palmer Handicap, but he found the distance too far lor him. Mercury, who was bred in Australia, is by Adonis, and is now trained by M. B. Edwards.

Epigram’s performance in winning the fast mile and a quarter event on Saturday was a highly creditable effort. lie showed a lot of speed over short courses early in his career, but of late he has been racing in two-mile events. In the Farewell Handicap on Saturday he appeared to be hopelessly out of it, as he made a bad mistake entering the straight for the run home. His owner-driver, however, got him going again, and he came up the straight so fast that he just got up to beat Black Admiral in a thrilling finish. DEATH OF CATMINT. A SUCCESSFUL SIRE. Per Press Association. AUCKLAND, April 29. The Auckland Stud Company’s stallion Catmint was destroyed, owing to illness. Catmint was bred in England in 1909, being by the Carbine horse, Spearmint from Red Lily, by Persimmon, so that he represented the successful Musket— St Simon cross. He was a good performer in England, all his wins being over long journeys, the Goodwood Cup, two miles and five furlongs,, being one of them. He sired a lot of winners in the Dominion and last season he was eighth on the winning sires’ list, sixteen of his progeny winning £12,527 10s.

BATTLE COLOURS RACES CONSISTENTLY.

PLEASANT CONDITIONS AT WASHDYKE.

The autumn meeting of the South Canterbury Jockey Club was concluded on Saturday. Rain continued to fall throughout the night, but the weather cleared at about daybreak. The sun came out later and continued to shine brightly until well on in the afternoon, when the sky became cloudy. The weather remained fine, however, until after the programme had been disposed of, but half an hour later heavy rain set in. The race track was heavy, and the first day’s experience was repeated, many of the horses failing to show their real form. The attendance was much larger than on the previous day. The to ta lisa tor investments were £14,715, compared with £13,748 on the corresponding day last year, the total for the meeting being £24,062, against £22,911 last year. Racing opened with the Pukaki Handicap, for which the eleven acceptors lined up. Aberfeldy was a pronounced favourite, with Royal Land a good deal better backed than Bonatic, the third choice. - Rangatahi, Royal Land and Heisler led over the first hurdle but Rangatahi then dropped back, Heisler going on from Red Heather, who was several lengths clear of Rangatahi and Scion. Then Royal Land moved up to the leading bunch, while after passing the six furlong post Aberfeldy also joined in at the tail of the front division. Bonatic was well back at this stage but he made a forward move, and he was in front three furlongs from homee, with Red Fleather second, while three lengths further back Aberfeldy and Scion were next, with Royal Land handy. Heisler was done with at this stage. Bonatic showed the way to the straight but at the last hurdle Bonatic, Red Heather, Royal Land, Aberfeldy and Scion were in a bunch. Bonatic tired in the run home and an exciting finish resulted in Aberfeldy beating Red Heather by three-quarters of a length Royal Land was a length and a half away, a neck in front of Scion, who beat Bonatic by a length. The others were strung out, Krasnoi and Rangawhio being a long way back. Tarleton fell at the second last hurdle, when well beaten, though he was showing up five furlongs from home. The winner’s performance was quite attractive, as he is not nearly at his best. He will improve a lot during the next few weeks.

The scratching of Amourette, Sea Gay and Merivale left eleven starters for the April Stakes. Fair Exchange carried a few pounds more than Malmsey, each of them having more than twice as much support as Impertinence, who was third choice. Star Raid streaked out at the start but Fortune’s Wheel The Bailiff and Stringbow soon joined him and after going a furlong the lastnamed pair drew clear. Star Raid dropped, back a little further oil and ratting round the home turn Impertinence and Malmsey joined Fortune's Wheel, three lengths behind the two leaders. Then Malmsey moved up fast and she ran to the front on reaching the straight, where she had The Bailiff in second place, with Stringbow next and Fair Exchange closing up. Malmsey was not troubled, winning a,s she liked by two lengths. Fair Exchange ran past The Bailiff a furlong from the post and looked certain to be second. He was not ridden out over the last twenty yards, however, and The Bailiff, coining on again, just failed to catch Fair Exchange, who had an advantage of a neck at the finish. Phastai was close up fourth, with Stringbow next. Fortune’s Wheel and Impertinence faded out in the run home. Malmsey won decisively and will gain further distinction. Fair Exchange ran a good race, after getting off slowly. The Bailiff showed promise of future usefulness.

Solfcrite was withdrawn from the Pareora Handicap, leaving half a dozen runners. Booster was a good deal better backed than Solrose, who carried nealy twice as much as Money Mine, while Antrim Boy was the outsider. Money Mine, Booster and Apple Dighton ran in line for about a furlong, when Apple Dighton drew clear. Ronaki then moved up and at the end of two furlongs he joined Booster and Money Mine, two lengths behind the leader. Ronaki kept up his run and a little further on he joined Apple Dighton, whom he headed at the home turn. Booster and Money Mine were handy at this stage and they joined the leading pair at the entrance to the straight, wfyere the field swung out. Antrim Boy shot through on the rails and a fur-

long from the post he was in front. Antrim Boy held on well and won by a length and a half from Booster, who beat Ronaki by a neck, after a punishing finish, Money Mine being a length further back. Apple Dighton stopped badly in the straight, while Solrose ran a bad race, never getting near the front. The winner was one of rhe last to reach the straight but T. Metcalf made the best of his opportunity when he got an opening on the rails. Antrim Boy seemed to revel in the heavyground. Ronaki went well for a horse who had not raced for a long time. The eleven acceptors lined up* for the Autumn Handicap. As Was generally expected, Battle Colours was a pronounced favourite, with King Balboa easily second choice, form pointing to these two as pretty certain to beat ail the horses they beat the previous day. King Balboa and Don Jose led Fresco and Lucy Locket for two furlongs,, when Carnot ran through, joining King Balboa in the lead. A furlong further on Carnot headed King Balboa, who was two lengths in front of Battle Colours, Overhaul and Front Rank, with Fresco and Tintoretto handy. They raced like this to the home turn, where Carnot collapsed, leaving King Balboa showing out from Battle Colours and Front Rank, with Overhaul and Fresco not far away. Once in the straight Battle Colours moved up. He was being ridden till he headed King Balboa over a furlong from the post, after which he won with ridiculous ease by over a length. There was a gap of several lengths to the next bunch, Front Rank being third, a neck in front of Fresco, with Tintoretto close up, while after another interval Overhaul headed the remainder. Lucy Locket was last, with Thorndale and Baldowa just in front of her. The last-named pair were always a long way back. In the case of Baldowa it was no surprise, as he moved very unsoundly before the race. Battle Colours won like a good horse and he should be worth keeping in mind for big races next season. King Balboa again ran well. The race was a repetition of the Timaru Cup, Battle Colours and King Balboa outclassing the opposition. The only difference was that Front Rank showed greatly improved form on the second day.

The scratching of Camisader and Fair Exchange left thirteen hacks to contest the Temuka Handicap. Malmsey was a pronounced favourite. She had a 71b penalty, but a 51b allowance was claimed under an apprentice rider. After her the Carinthia-lleather Doon bracket and Meadow Lark were evenly backed. Solgele was smartest out, but was steadied, Sea Gay and Solfello going on in front, with Solgele and Meadow Bark also prominent, while Greyfinch joined in after going two furlongs. Puff was well back at this stage, with Malmsey still further back. Sea Gay and Solfello were joined by Greyfinch at the home turn, with Solgele and Meadow Lark handy. Greyfinch ran to the front on reaching the straight, with Solgele in close attendance. A little further on Puff came on the scene with a strong challenge, joining the leading pair a hundred yards from the post, where Malmsey could be seen coming on very fast. Puff drew out to win by a good length from Malmsey, who got up to beat Greyfinch by a neck. Solgele was close up fourth, with Carinthia heading the others. Puff is a poor beginner, but she has a lot of speed once she gets going. Malmsey is another who does not jump out well, and her effort in finishing second was highly creditable. Solgele and Greyfinch are better at five* furlongs than at six. The nine acceptors took part in the Wai-iti Steeplechase. Royal Wink was a little better backed than Royal Fashion, with Wharncliffe following after another short interval. Royal Wink, Monko and Jovial ran together for nearly a furlong, when Royal Wink and Jovial drew away together, while Wharncliffe. The Babe and Whipcord tailed off. When six furlongs had been covered. Royal Wink and Jovial were just in front of Royal Fashion, who fell at the first of the stand double, through overjumping. The Babe had closed up a lot at this stage, and seven furlongs from home he was within five lengths of the leading pair, while Sir Wai and

Mainspring were next, with Wharncliffe commencing to move up. Royal Wink outjumped Jovial at the third last fence, where The Babe was about half a dozen lengths away, with Mainspring and Wharncliffe following after another interval. The Babe then went after the leaders, and he followed Royal Wink over the last fence, with Jovial not far away, and Wharncliffe going strongly a little further back. The Babe wore Royal Wink down and won by a length. Wharncliffe was eight lengths away, with the tiring Jovial fourth. The Babe ran a solid race, and though just a useful hack steeplechaser on anything he has done, he may win again in modest company. Wharncliffe was kept a long way in the rear in the early stages. Had he been kept closer up he would have been hard to beat.

In a field of seven for the Beaconsfield Hack Handicap, the first day's winner. Rotor, was a strong favourite, while after him Amor, Wild Work and Solzia were well backed. Amor and Wild Work jumped out in front, with Rotor. Green Cloth and Crossbow next. Wild Work was soon out clear, and when three furlongs had been covered, Solzia had taken second place, with Amor two lengths away, at the head of the others. Racing round the turn Wild Work was just clear of Solzia, with Amor handy. Rotor was not far away at this stage, but he dropped back suddenly. Apparently he had got into some bad ground, as when the straight was reached he came on again. Wild Work was going well in front of Solzia when the straight was reached, while Amor was starting to drop back. Wild Work held her place and beat Solzia decisively by a length. Rotor, who finished on strongly, was only a length further back. Then there was a long gap to Amor, who headed the remainder. Wild Work won in very attractive style. Solzia ran a solid race, while Rotor also put up a fine performance. Amor was a great disappointment, as he collapsed at the end.

The scratching of Assurance left ten runners for the concluding event, the Seadown Handicap. Gay Sonnet carried a few pounds more than Overhaul, with Flying Mist a good third choice, and Mime also well backed Overhaul was first out, but Gay Sonnet and Sprinkler soon ran to the front, while at the end of a furlong Ronaki, Gold Mint, Mime and Overhaul were their nearest attendants. Mime then moved up, and after going half a mile he was in second place, closely followed by Sprinkler, while after a gap Ronaki and Overhaul headed the others. There was no further change till the straight was reached, where Gay Sonnet had Mime in close attendance, with Overhaul next. Gay Sonnet went on to win easily by three lengths from Mime, with Tintoretto, finishing fast, a length away. Overhaul was two lengths further back, with Ronaki fifth. The win was scored with ridiculous ease. GatSonnet is very well at present. Mime

ran another good race. Overhaul failed at the business end. Flying Mist ran into some trouble on the journey.

HYNANNA WINS J. D. ORMOND CUP.

(Special to the “ Star.”) NAPIER. April 28 The Hawke’s Bay meeting was concluded to-day in very warm weather, before a good attendance. The Ormond Gold Cup provided a high-class contest, which aroused the utmost enthusiasm. The Ilawk, of course, was the popular call in a gruelling finish, and there would have been an ovation had he won. Alter the race Mr T. 11. Lowry presented the trophy to T. ,T. Daly, the trainer of Ilynanna. the owner, Mr Kemball, not being present. X. Davis, the rider of Gold Bag and of the two big dividend payers', Bag and Jeanette, on the first day. was suspended for fourteen Hays for interference in the Juvenile Handicap. In the Karamti Hurdle Handicap, Braeman and Peneus carried twothirds of the total invested. Braenian and Geyser Land were slow away, and Peneus led down the straight from Peshwa, Ballyfarnon, Timi Pouri and Bonny Rill, with Braeman last. Peneus drew away going down the back and went on to win comfortably by three lengths from Ballyfarnon, who beat Peshwa by four lengths. Geyser Land and Bonny Rill were next. Peneus outclassed the field. Peshwa is improving, and Geyser Land is a useful novice. For the Pakipaki Handicap. Aston was backed with confidence, but the winner turned up in Callanmore, who was always at a good price. Aston was the first to move, but Callanmore soon ran past him and showed the way to Aston, Helotis and Takutama. Helotis went up and joined Callanmore going to the turn, where they were well clear of Aston, Silver Tray ami Fee Simple. Callanmore held llelot’S off in the run to the post and won by a head. Fee Simple was two lengths away third. Aston, Silver Tra' . Plimmerton and Hinekatorangi were next. The light weight and a favourable barrier position were all in Callanmore *s favour, for Helotis ran a brilliant race from number thirteen wTh 9.9 up. Aston was beaten by his 10 7. and Fee Simple failed at the end, alter having every chance.

In the Juvenile Handicap, Kaihoro and Knightlike were the favourites. Miss Ransom was comparatively neglected, after her defeat on the first day, and she returned a good price. Kaihoro, Miss Ransom, Millais and Knightlike began best, and racing for the turn Kaihoro, Banket and Gold Bag

led Keightlike. Miss Ransom and Millais Gold Bag appeared to croVd Banket and Kaihoro at. the turn, and Miss Ransom and Millais drew away to fight out the finish. Miss Ransom getting the verdict by a head. Toxeuma was three lengths away, half a length in front of Sylvan Dell, While Clarendon. Briar Root and Gold Bag were next. Miss Ransom showed her real form, and Millais stuck on well. Kaihoro, Banket and Gold Bag all had their chances prejudiced by the crowding at the turn. Sylvan Dell was unlucky early. Knightlike ran badly. The Ormond Gold Cup saw Reremoana, of course, a sound first choice, but there was a good measure of support for Joy King, with The Hawk the absolute outsider. Reremoana began best, but Joy King headed him off round the turn into the back straight, the pair being closely attended by Great Charter, The Hawk and Crown Area, with Hynanna last. Racing past the three-furlong pest. Reremoana again took the lead, with Great Charter, Hynanna, Crown Area and Jcy King raring on terms, about a length behind the leader, with The Hawk three lengths back last. So they raced to the turn. When in line for home Hynanna went up and joined Great Charter and Reremoana, with The Hawk commencing his run wide out. Halfway down the straight Great Charter was doing best, with Reremoana weakening. Nearing the post, Hynanna got the better of Great Charter, and then The Hawk joined them. In a great battle Hynanna stalled off The Hawk by naif a head, with Great Charter a neck away third. Reremoana was half a length further back. Crown Area beat Joy King home. Hynanna showed himself really in the best class. The- Hawk was a trifle unlucky, and Great Charter ran a firstclass race. Reremoana was asked to do really too much. In the Burke Memorial Handicap Tresham was always first choice, with good support for David Garrick, Royal Damon and Vesperus. Royal Damon led down the straight from Addlepate, Cohesion. Vesperus and Tresham. Addlepate led Royal Damon and Vesperus right round to the turn, with Cohesion, Tresham, Perle de Leon and David Garrick following in that order. Tresham came through at the turn, and Vesperus moved up on the rails, the pair fighting out the finish. Vesperus prevailed by half a head. Royal Damon was three lengths away, with David Garrick fourth and Perle de Leon and Addlepate next. Vesperus staved on well, and was just a little luckier than Tresham at the turn. Royal Damon had every chance, but David Garrick's inability to go the pare in the early stages settled him. For the Akitio Hack Handicap Moa Bird was a short-priced favourite, with Rapiata and Royal Picture best backed of the others. Takutama began best, and with Dreamy and Le Champ led round to the turn from Royal Picture, Hinekatorangi, Moa Bird, Kahu Ariki and High Heather. Le Champ and Dreamy turned for home clear of Royal Picture, Hinekatorangi and Moa Bird. Moa Bird came through in the straight to win by half a length from the fastfinishing High Heather. Dreamy was half a length awav third, and Hinekatorangi, Takutama, Le Champ, Royal Picture were next. Moa Bird outclassed the field, though perhaps High Heather was a little unlucky.

In the Ohiti Handicap Gaze was first choice in a good betting race, but an outsider rolled home in Lin Arlington, with Huikai at a great price for second. Huikai, Lin Arlington and Gaze led into the back straight, but at the end of two furlongs Lin Arlington was at the head of affairs from Huikai, King Midas, Gaze, Royal Ehn, Coot and Princess Nata. Royal Elm moved up across the top, and at the turn Lin Arlington just led Royal Elm, King Midas, Huikai, Coot and Gaze. Lin Arlington held on to win by a length and a half from Huikai, who beat King Midas by a head. Princess Nata was fourth, and Othon, Royal Elm, Mountain Heath and Clavers were next. Lin Arlington won well all the way. Gaze was rather a disappointment.

In the Okawa Handicap, a really good betting race saw Jeanette favourite. Jeanette soon ran to the front from Kaiti and Plain Sailing, with Sarchee and Epistle next. The apprentice rider of Jeanette was over anxious and had his whip out at the turn, with the result that Kaiti headed him off in the run in and won by a length. Sarchee was two lengths away third, and then came Plain Sailing and Royal Time. Jeanette was a certainty beaten.

CANTERBURY HORSES IN GREAT FORM.

SWEEP BOARD AT WELLINGTON TROTS.

The Wellington Trotting Club was particularly fortunate in getting such a favourable afternoon to race, after the very bad morning. In spite of the threatening weather which kept many people away, there was a capital attendance and some fine racing was seen. The sport has made rapid strides in popularity in Wellington during the last few years and it now seems as though it is firmly established. The meeting was well managed in every way. The last race was about twenty minutes late but this could hardly be put down to bad management, as there were two unavoidable delays. The track was holding, owing to the recent rains, and it cut up rather badly. As was expected. Loiterer was favourite for the Trial Handicap, on account his showing the previous Saturday jt Ashburton. He went away fast and jot clear of all trouble in the early Stages. At the end of two furlongs the favourite had a good lead and after that Hooper took matters easily, win-

ning without any trouble. Along the back Great Triumph put in a fine run and looked as if he would get second place, but he failed to sustain his effort and Rose Marie, who has been racing well of late, finished on well, beating the other three-year-old by a couple of lengths. With Loiterer out of the wav it would have been quite a good contest. The winner is owned in the Methven district. He is a verv promising pacer by Denver Iluon and looks like making a rare two miler. Rose Marie stayed on much better than in her previous races and the three-year-oid is improving in stamina. Great Triumph looked in good order and he paced a fine race. Ronganui showed the way for half the distance and then faded out. but Guide Rangi. who looked well, stayed on for a mile. Kiowa failed badly, after being well placed, and a number in the race gave very poor showings. There was not much excitement in the Eastbourne Handicap, as Tamerlane, from the back mark, began so quickly that before half a mile had been covered he looked to have the race in safe keeping. Although Nelson Boy kept him hard at it, Tameriane won rather comfortably at the finish. He has been doing a good deal or racing in the North Island, w’ith fair success. Had the ground been harder, it is probable Nelson Boy would have been seen to more advantage, whilst the going favoured the wanner. Lady Fan. who was favourite, was done with half a mile from home. Kempton was very slow over the first mile but he finished in great stj'le over the last quarter of a mile. Katute, as usual, did not keep steady after a good beginning, whilst Bright Light had every chance and failed. Louisiana went away fast but she did not keep to her gait, nor did Swiftbine. Over the last mile there were only two horses in the race, the winner and Nelson Boy. The Waiwetu Handicap was quite a good contest. Mate o’ Mine was a good favourite, with Exclusive next in demand. Exclusive was the early leader; in fact, she led the field into the straight and then stopped quickly. With a round to go, Derby Lynn (who was having none the best of the running) and Mate o’ Mine went up to the leaders. Aleron was also prominent, but in the race up the straight in the final round Derby Lynn outstayed the favourite and won by a length. The winner is owned in Palmerston North and is a rare good filly, possessing plenty of stamina. Edwards drove Mate o’ Mine to a break in the straight in his endeavour to beat Derby Lynn, but he quickly got the ex-southern horse back to his gait again, to finish second. Mac Dillon came very fast in the concluding stages and finished third. Zella reared up just prior to the start and broke her sulky. At the despatch she refused to leave the mark. Marlindo misbehaved at the barrier, but caught up to the field quickly. Later, however, he broke up. Aleron went well for a mile and a quarter. Binscarth was never dangerous at any stage of the contest. Kreisler finished fast, but Meb gave a very poor display, and, judged on her last two efforts, she is a long way below her best form.

Shine Soon was the onl}' scratching for the Armstrong Handicap, which was a capital betting race, with a keen contest and a fine finish. Loch Moigh was favourite and flattered his sup porters by leading for a mile and a half, when the Palmerston North owned horse was well beaten, dropping right out of the contest. All the time Loch Moigh was in the lead, Petei Swift was in close attendance, and half a mile from home he took com mand, staying on long enough to win comfortably. Peterwah made a very slow beginning, and"" he had a lot o) ground to make up over the last mile, but the brilliant trotter came fast at the conclusion of the race and beat a!« but the winner. Another trotter, Sis ter Beatrice, who trotted a solid race all the way, stayed out the journey to the end. Logan Chief put in a fine dash at the end and finished fourth, the big pacer staying on much bettei than usual Fight Ever had a good passage on a track to his liking, but he found the speed just a little too good for him at the end. Billy Sea did not see out the journey and did not pace one of his best races. Trimmer broke up at the start. A fea ture of the race was the form of the three trotters, who went throughout without any mistakes and finished in the places. ‘Great Triumph was a hot favourite for the mile harness race, and he began verv smartly, being first out. He led all the way and won by four lengths. Guide Rangi, who had shown up well earlier in the day, was second to the favourite in the early stages, but in the straight at the finish Peter Daunt came along and beat him by a couple of lengths for second place. Mona Logan was fourth, and the first four horses had the race to themselves for the last half of the distance. Horotone, who was well backed, was never dangerous. The race did not produce a good contest, many of the starters being soon out of it.

Tamerlane, who had been penalised 48yds for his win in the Eastbourne Handicap, and Great Amazon, who did not make the trip, were scratched for the Progressive Handicap. Kempton, who had finished fourth in the first trotters' race, was made a hot favourite, and he won with ease at the finish, after being always prominent. Swiftbine was very slow to begin, but once he got on the journey he trotted a fine race. Bright Light went a much better race than in his previous effort. Nelson Boy found the distance too far for him, and Katute, as in the first race, broke up. There were two false starts, and in the final despatch Miss Lcda and Kempton had a decided advantage, the rest of the field being verv slow to move.

Kingcraft was made favourite for the Palmer Handicap, and at the finish he won decisively. Mercury, who was second favourite, was in the lead for half a mile, when Kingcraft went to the front and from that on was never headed. With a round to go Erin’s Royal raced into second place,

and he held his position to the end oi the race. Pageant began very slowly, losing a lot of ground, but. the Welling ton-owned but Canterbury-trained pacer came fast in the concluding stages and got third place. Matagouri finished fourth, and he went a solid race from 36yds behind. Erin's Royal saw out the distance much better than expected, and paid a good dividend for second place. The distance troubled a lot of the field, and some of them were a long way behind at the end of the two miles. Logan Park and Black Admiral carrier] most of the money in the fast mile and a quarter event, but the former went away slowly and lost a lot of ground. Honour Bright led till a round had been covered. Logan Park made up his ground very fast. Honour Bright had had enough before the straight was reached, where Epigram broke badly. In the run home it looked as though Jean M’Elwyn would succeed, but she failed over the last fifty- yards, whilst Epigram came on and just beat Black Admiral, with Jean M’Elwyn third and Logan Park fourth, not much more than heads separating the four horses. It was quite a thrilling finish to a race that did not promise to be a particularly good one, and which unfortunately was contested late in the day, in a very bad light. Epigram turned on a lot of speed over the last furlong, as did Logan Park.

handicaps. ASHBURTON COUNTY RACING CLUB. The following: handicaps .have been declared for the Ashburton Racing Club’s autumn meeting:— LONGBEACH HACK HANDICAP, of 110 sovs. Six furlongs. st lb st lb Bronstell 10 6 Despot 0 1

FORBURY park TROTTING CLUB.

Skyquest 30 3 T ,y tup 0 0 Scoff 18 Prompter 9 0 Amorist 9 12 The Bailiff 0 Greyfinch 9 11 Rangatatu 0 Fair Waihemo 9 0 Exchange 9 11 Star Crossbow 9 Stranger II. Red Heather 9 6 Thurso Wreath of Lighthearted 0 Myrtle 6 Quexis 0 Sea Gay 5 Page Boy0 Exide 3 Heather Real Glad 9 1 0 Beaming: 9 1 Cynejli 9 0 Philanderer 9 1 AUTUMN HANDICAP, of 175 s ovs. One m lie St lb lb Battle Moratorium Colou'rs 8 Aberfeldy 7 Thorndale 3 Sir Roy X 13 Tintoretto 7 13 Killoeh Jubilant 12 Gold Mint 7 0 Gay Sonnet 7 3 2 Amor 0 Assurance 7 11 EFFLETON HACK HANDICAP, Df 110 One mile. lb lb Jubilant 2 Honey-comb 8 Money Mine 8 11 7 Oriflamb 8 8 Crossbow 7 Lancer S 8 Ayroski 7 0 Malmsey8 2 No Response 7 0 Fair Thurso 7 0 Exchange 7 8 Solfello 7 0 FAREWELL HANDICAP, of 115 sovs. Seven furlong-s. lb lb Thorndale 9 5 Money Mine 7 1 . Gay Sonnet 8 10 Finora 7 0 Zaragoza 8 9 Mime 0 Chick wheat 8 8 Ronalti 7 0 Sagittarius 8 3 Bronstell 7 0 Polydectes 7 6 Killoeh 7 0 Sprinkler 7 5 Gold Mint 7 0 SELMA HANDICAP (in harness) of 110 sovs. Class Smin 50sec. One mile and a half. Logan d’Or Thoreda Invader Wild Voyage Lough Neagh Travis Llmosa Axworthy Becky Mine Danny Boy No Fear Moira Beatrice yds bhd Locanda First Wrack 24 Mountain Ore Royal Locanda 24 Teaika Forward Maid 72 Royal Wrack Rose Marie 96 Locanda Lu Eiffelton Las 120 Dice RAKAIA HANDICAP (in harnes s) of 105 sovs. Class 2m in 26’sec. One mile. Royal Moira Locanda Thoreda Lough Neagh Slogan Wallace Roger Lyons Logan yds bhd Strychnine Fair Dillon 12 Zonophone Red Pepper 24 Audubon Lad Tennis 24 Tewhitte Eiffelton Lass 24 First Wrack 48 Forward Maid Wrack ler 60 Greateaux St Bridget 60

PALMERSTON NORTH. April 2 9. The following handicaps have declared: — TONGAHOE HURDLE HANDICAP, of 200 sovs. One nile and three -q larSt. lb. lb. Ngata ~1 2 4 Strategy 9 7 Erifiradier^jj 11 13 Glengariff j) 2 Euchre 11 0 9 2 Town Bank 1 0 8 Whisogne 9 0 Elysianor 10 Plowing Vexatious 10 Bowl 0 Airtight 9 13 Radiate 0 Rahepoto 8 13 Blagn 0 Mister Gamp 9 Wenday 0 Mount Marta 9 9 TELEGRAPH HACK HANDICAP, of 150 s Six furlongs. lb. st. lb. Onward Bright Keddar 1 1 Comet 7 2 Silver Tray 8 5 Land Rent 0 Eka 8 * Segment 7 0 Bisox 8 0 Green Acre 7 0 Miss Mercia 1 2 Monsogne 0 Desert Bad 7 11 Angiuaile 7 Luminary 7 11 Royal Lover Fermanagh Biforte 7 0 Warflams 7 5 7 0 Pinon 7 2 geld. 7 0 Le Champ 7 0 hack steeplechase handicap, of 200 so About two mile St. lb. st. lb. Brigadier 1 1 1.1 10 Roya 1 10 9 _ Banjuke 5 Ruby Ring 2 Eonmark 2 Royal Flight 0 Gilgai Elysianor 1 0 10 7 Waitauna ha 9 0 Maldos 10 30 2 Haercmai 9 0 EG MONT ST I* EPLECHASE HAND!CAP. of 400 lies and a halfsl lb. lb. Comical i i Frisco Jack 9 1 7 Passin’ Through. 10 13 13 Bonny Rill 9 4 Pu whero Brigadier 10 Hacremai 9 0 Bill 5 PT.YING HANDICAP, of 225 sovs Six furlongs. lb. lb. Benzora 9 3 Melissa 7 0 Silver Mine 8 Captain Maeroom 4 Uaxeley 0 Broad Acre 8 4 Sea Star 7 0 Flying Juliet 7 13 Lorna Dbone 7 0 Paxlaga Bonogne 7 PaU Lucerne 7 0 Ned Kelly 7 2 MTT1AK memorial handicap, of 300 sovs. °" lie and a qua te r -' Lady Desmond 0 Kilmiss Blimp X 8 5 Toma Nukumai 8 1 0 Hipo Dayguard 7 5 Town Bank 8 Nucleus 7 Oration 2 Orazone 1 3 Toapaiti 0 Manly Paitonu 7 9 Athenry Opa 7 0 0 tawhiti t-iack HANDICAP, o 1 75 sovs. Eigl furlongs and a. half. st. lb. lb. Royal Acre 9 0 Kerry Dance 7 Limosa Mendip 8 1 1 Sovena 7 •j Kawhakina 8 King Mart Barryanda 8 7 1 j Kyngzone 7 jj Flying Shot 7 Segment 1 7 0 Aropeta Miss Mercia, 7 Ranee 7 0