WAVERLEY

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 80, Issue 86, 12 April 1938, Page 10

WAVERLEY

EGMC NT-W AN .-ANU HUNT

FIRST MEET )F SEASON

The first hunt of the 1938 season was hold on Saturday, April 9, by the Egmont-Wanganu. Hunt club. This meet is known as the “Plantation, ’ and the throw-off at 1 p.m. was on Mi G. Hawkin’s property. Heavy rain fell on the previous night and continued throughout the morning, but cleared away about noon, leaving an occasional misty shower and a light wind from the south—very .good hunting conditions. The rain had made easier going for the horses after the long dry spell. There are a number of young hounds in the pack this season which, as yet, are a little green and lack oi packing was noticeable, but time and experience will correct that fault. A new official has been appointed to the club this year in a salaried “whip,” Mr Agnew, late of Wairoa. This addition should prove a great help to thG honorary whips and Huntsman Miles. There was a good crowd of followers present with mounts in great fettle. Soon after the throw-off, the hounds found, with the ensuing run of fair length over prepared property, but after the hare had found cover, although other hares were raised, the runs were very short as scent seemed poor, probably on account of long growth. However, seme excellent jumping was enjoyed with very few spills, which are to be expected at the commencement or the season. There was a number of onlookers in cars who had rather a disappointing afternoon as the country is not particularly suitable for such enthusiasts of the sport, points of vantage being few. However, a minor accident, when a car while negotiating a small bridge over a drain missed the planking caused an amusing interlude. At the conclusion of the meet the master (Dr. Simmons) thanked the property-owners who had given and prepared their country for the use of the club, Messrs Stewart Bros..