PLAN MISFIRES

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21259, 1 November 1940, Page 8

PLAN MISFIRES

RACEHORSE SHOT ATTEMPT ON BEAU VITE EL GOLEA HIT BY BULLETS (United Press Assn.—Elec. Tel. Copyright) MELBOURNE. Oct. 31 Shots fired in an attempt made during the night to maim the Melbourne Cup favourite, Beau Vite, instead seriously wounded El Golea, who is stabled in the same quarters. El Golea was found lying in his box this morning with bullet punctures in his off hock and near stifle. The horse was in a bad way and unable, to move. The police ascertained that the shots had been fired through a hole specially cut in the back of El Golea’s box at Caulfield. An empty .22 calibre cartridge shell was found outside the stable. Hint a Few Days Ago Beau Vite’s trainer, M. McGrath, stated today that he had received a hint a few days ago that an attempt would be made to shoot Beau Vite. Since then special precautions had I been taken for his safety, a night watchman and dogs being constantly in attendance near his stall. McGrath, who described the attempt as dastardly, voiced the opinion that the miscreants apparently mistook El Golea for Beau Vite, owing to their marked similarity of colour, and even the type of bridle and rugs worn by them. Beau Vite and El Golea occupied boxes within 20 yards of each other. Apparently they were watched but the attackers must have confused the pair when they were entering their respective boxes. Bookmakers Offer Reward Entrance to the stables is gained through unoccupied property at the back. A veterinary surgeon who examined El Golea decided to take an Xray photograph in an effort to locate the bullets, prior to an operation for their removal. The owner of Beau Vite, Mr R. Stewart, has no doubt the attempt was designed to maim Beau Vite. He extended his sympathy to the owner of El Golea, the Hon. A. Crofts, and to his trainer, J. Fryer. Mr R. Jansen, president of the Victorian Bookmakers’ Association, announced that his association was offering a reward of £2OO for the apprehension of the person or persons responsible. The affair caused a sensation and widespread indignation.