BOUND FOR ENGLAND

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 79, Issue 31, 6 February 1935, Page 6

BOUND FOR ENGLAND

"SILENT BILL" LEAVES. MR. T. A. DUNCAN’S GIFT. DUKE'S GELDING IN FINE FORM. (Own Correspondent). MABTON, Feb. 5. | At a very early hour this morning, I “Silent Bill,” the five-year-old chest- | nut gelding which Mr, T. A. Duncan has presented to H.R.H. the Duke of Gloucester, loft Marton for Wellington. “Silent Bill” travelled to Wellington on the first express and is due to sail at seven o'clock in the morning in tho Akaroa. Everything possible has been done for his comfort and on his arrival in England he will be stabled with the Duke’s other horses. After having been very successfully trained by Mr. L. G. Morris, of Marton, “Silent Bill” appeared on tho course yesterday morning for the last time. ’ Among the few privileged to witness the final preparations for departure were several local racing men, one and all of whom were unanimous in their expressions of admiration for tho gelding’s fine appearance. Looking verv fit in his glossy, well-groomed coat and ready for the long journey across the sea, ••Silent Bill” made a perfect picture. A beautifully made chestnut horse with a white blaze and a white hind leg, the gelding was in exceptionally good condition. So much so that his trainer expressed the opinion that “Silent Bill” has never looked better. There seemed no doubt that this splendid horse would distinguish himself overseas and, finding favour with his Royal master uphold the traditions of the country from whence he came. . . “Silent Bill” (Nassau— Lady Christina) has been racing for just on eighteen months. His performances so far have been very good, in hrs last four starts he has secured two first places and one second, while at Wanganui, the last time he ran in New Zenland he carried list. 31bs. ami finished fourth. His trainer, Mr. L. G. Morrris. is very sorry to lose him as he was showing very promising form for tho coming season. Mr. F. McHugh, his iockev, also expressed regret at bilent Bill’s” departure. trainer ami iockcv loud in the praises and lmv.»'declared him a perfect jumper.