Turf Gossips.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XXIX, Issue IV, 26 July 1902, Page 209

Turf Gossips.

Bt

WHALEBONE.

TURF FIXTURES. August I—Amberley Steplechase Club August 11 14. li-CJ.C. Grand National October S. 11—Dunedin docker Club September—Avondale J.C. — * ® @ cTURF NOTES. Miss Blair died recently at Pukekohe. Goco is the only horse that has won the Wellington Steeplechase twice. A friend from Whangarel informs me that the newly-formed there will be a strong one. Northumberland was a bit sore after working a few days ago and has had to be eased up. Malatua has been definitely announced to be at the service of breeders this season near New Plymouth. Indabba, a crack Australian galloway in India, was In a bad way wirh fever when the last news came to hand. Powerful, the brother to Seahorse, still shc»w> the effects of strangles, and his wind may always be affected. M* G. G. Stead has promised the Christchurch Hunt Club a 25-guinea cup for taelr Point-to-roint Steeplechase. Royal Conqueror runs like a stayer. His connections did not back him extensively for the Hurdle Race at Wellington on Wednesday. J. Rae purposes leaving for Rice art on with his charges, which will be Mars. Matarawa and probably another, on the *3th last.

The Governor of New South Wales. Admiral Sir Harry Rawson, has been plea .- ed to become a patron of the Australian Jockey Ciub.

Persimmon. Isinglass, and Carbine were well at the top of the list of winning sires in England at latest accounts from Home papers.

Mr E. Hankins, the Southern horseowner trainer.is on a short visit to Auckland prior to leaving for South Africa, where he contemplates settling.

There is some talk of calling the LeolanUs—The Orphan geldlng.in J. Chaafe's, jun., stables. Manifesto, presumably after the Liverpool Grand National winner. Amongst other horses trained at one time in Auckland by the late T. Clarke were the steeplechasers Julia Ann i owned by Mr G. Brimblecombe) and Miss Griffiths towneu by CoL Dawson). Acetine, a grey gelding that _>erforaie! well last autumn at the A. J.C. meetlr e, at Rand wick, running second •> Wakeful in the Sydney Cup in the fastest time on record, has been sold to gj to India. Accommodation has been secured by F. MacManemin at Riccarton for three horses, and Scotty. Haydn and Royal Conqueror are expected to go South, and their mentor will likely proceed aouth also. Until the present week a prominent local bookmaker had not laid against Siege Gun for the New Zealand Cup, but backerfs came along and accepted hundreds to five the price he ha-i quoted all along against the Yaldhurst colt. The fine weather of the past week is enabling trainers to get more work done with their horses at head quarters. A lot of short sprinting work is being allotted most of the coming* two-year-olds required for early engagements. Spalpeen. from whom much was expected at two years old. is growing into a big colt. He may yet redeem his character. which so far has not been conspicuous for resolute finishing. He has plenty of pace, and stamina may come with age. The new totalizator which the Hodsdon Company had erected on the Charters Towers course, is reported to have done Its work almirably. says the Sydney “Referee.” and it is more than ever unaccountable how there came to be such a bungling at Port Adelaide recently.

In the chairman's address last week to the conference of delegates of trotting clubs appears an obvious mistake Id saying that the totalisator revenue had increased by £30.000 This really is the amount of increase in the turnover, and £2UX> would be the gross increase in revenue.

For some time past the Southern trainer H. Goodman, who has for years been located at the For bury. Dunedin, has contemplated coining Norths and from • let-

ter received yesterday I learn that in the event of securing stables at or near Ellerslie this well-known mentor may era long throw in his lot In that quarter. Attached to Goodman’s stable is the promising young horseman D. King, who has don- a lot of riding this season in the South.

A handicap race for three-> ear-old* only has been inaugurated by the Canterbury Park Race Club, N-SLW... to be run tn August. This is said io be the first handicap race of the kind ever run in the State.

It is reported that Nonet?® was backed by a bookmaker against Cruciform for the New Zealand Cup for £lOO for places, and for another hundred to finish in front of Mr Stead’s filly in the race. A Stratford settier was the backer of Cruetrorm.

The failures of the V.R.C. Grand National Hurdle Race according to a Melbourne correspondent of a Sydney paper wer" Battleaxe and Wo’lagorang. The former is referred to as big. handsome Battleaxe, who could have done with another week’s work: and the other as locking like one that had done a very sound preparation.

The Brooklyn Handicap, one of the biggest races a&soeiated with the America i turf, was won by a mare for the first time in its history. The record-breakec was a four-year-old. Reina, by Esher, from Reflection. 1-y Zorilla, anti according to "The Spirt'. ' she won bv an eyelash. “Jockey <T Connor riding her Ilk® a demon, and taking no chances.”

"Sporting Judge* is responsible f>.saying that “Owing to a punter expressing a wish that the bookie write Mun: chaka’a name legibly for the Welter Handicap at Flemington on Coronation Day. no business was done. Tie pencilled could not fulfil the order.”

A singular coincidence in connection with the London Coronation Cup is that Australian Stars was the first entry made (says an exchange), and in the published list it occupies first place. That horse cost his present owner (Mr S. H. Golla n) about S(*)grs. and has won nearly £s*») in stakes.

Long Tom. a recent winner at Hawkesbury (N.S.W.), is a two-year-old by Projectile. from Crossfire, who was by Goldsbrough from imported Powder, by Blinkhoolle. and cost his present owner at the yearling sales. There are some close relatives to this youngster in Southern studs, and the foot :s worth mentioning, as he is spoken cf as one that may tarn out well.

A layer of the odds in Auckland only betted against two horses in the hurdle race at Wellington, and they finished first and second. Another layer could not get a bet about Royal Conqueror, and he offered 100 to a tenner against that gelding to the owner, who evidently did not fancy h!s horse greatly. and j t j« was con . tent with a modest inevstment or. his chance. Royal Conqueror continues to improve. After the running in the V.R.C. Grand National Hurdle Race, Battleaxe was weighted a: 11.11. the second to the top weight, Californian. 12.2. in the Kei’.or Hurdle Race, and received top weight. 9.3. ir- the Braybrook Handicap, in which he broke a bloodvessel and finished last. Regalia had !■> 12 and 8.1 respectively in the same races, for both of which be was promptly scratched. A New York paper says that in view of the fact that owners have sending unschooled horses to the barrier in races at Gravesend, the stewards have decided to put into effect an old rule inflicting a fine of SOdol. upon an owner who sends such a horse to the starter in any future race. In this way owners will be compelied to school their horses. Mr J. J. Miller’s Annual Illustrated Sporting Pamphlet, containing full performances of all horses engaged in the coining big spring handicaps and classic rac£s in Australia, with a mass of other valuable information to sportsmen, has reached me from Melbourne. The pamphlet has been increased In size by 32 pages, but Is still published at a cost of one shilIt is said that Cannongate and Tresham have been backed for ail the money obtainable for the New Zealand Grand National Steeplechase and Hurdle Race double. This would make it appear probable that the reported visit to Sydney with may nOt crentuate some Thera were quite a number of falls in the Wellington Steeplechase. Gobo, for the first time this season, got round without making a mistake. Rufus, who has several times been unlucky, was one

of the few to finish the course, and Shylock. who has not raced over country for a long time, and only on a few occasions altogether, since he won the North New Zealand Grand Nati*onal Hurdle Race, was third. There were only two others who got through without mishap Fsney eight out of thirteen runners falling to complete *the course.

There Is nothing much to report in connection with the Epsom and Metropolitan (says •'Umpire”) either as regards betting or track work. Speculation is pretty wed confined to doubles, and it will probably be some time yet ere any of the fancied candidates are put against the watch. The only developments during th® week were the sale of Acetine and San Fran’s appearance in the private sale list, which probably puts both out of court. far as the spring events are concerned.

The police complained of the way Surf wae spurred while taking part in the Coronation Handicap at the Butchers' meeting at Hobart The trainer’s explanation was (says an exchange' that if his horses are not ridden out the stewards institute inquiries. and if they are ridden out the police make a complaint, so that he gets into trouble either way. This waa surely a poor excuse. Some horses do want riding, but many are needlessly and cruelly punished.

A remarkable scene occurred at a funeral at Capetown not long since, and Is thus told of in a London paper: “The funeral of a well known jockey named Spinks took place, and was marked by unseemly scenes. A clergyman who was present took occasion to deliver an oration. in the course of which he violently denounced horse-racing, and those who took part In it as a park of wolves and dogs seeking ill-gotten gains. The friends of the deceased strongly resented these remarks, and the rev. gentleman subsequently publicly apologised for using them.”

The "Referee*’ says thaj. the fact of San Fran being placed in the private sale list suggests • that T. Payten has come to the conclusion that he will not stand winding up for his spring engagements. Until recently the Gozo horse was doing well a. Kensington, but presumably h’s leg has again gone wrong. At the stud he should command attention, as he has both breeding and performances to recommend him.

The question as to the wisdom or otherwise of taxing stud horses has been raised. It is not one that should be dealt with by persons who have no interest Ln common with breeders and stud-mas-cers. If we could be sure that a proper system of licensing horses would be brought about, and the tax were not too heavy. I fancy tha» some real good would be accomplished. Many owners would be willing to pay tax on their horses If they could be certain that only good horses would be granted certificates to travel th® country. Competent judges ccstd. of course, be obtained by the Government to regulate these matters. but there ar* many difficulties in the war of setting the machinery in motion. The intentions of th® Government will soon be known.

There have been many better performances in the race than Rawdon’s.and also bigger fields than he beat (says the “Daily Telegraph” in commenting on the Grand National Hurdle event). Rawdon carried 5 7, rhe lightest weight but four—Dizzy 9.4. Ocean 9.4. and Buzzl and Aquarius 9.0— that the race has been won with, while against the field of 17 that he beat there wer*» 25 runners in 1891. *3 In 1*92. 22 in 1895 and 1901. and 20 in 181*8. Not once in its lons history has the Grand National been won with a heavier weight than I’l.ll Don Quixote carried so much when he won in 1884, ar.ad the next best performance In that line was Rodleap 11.12 in 1892. but at a later period R*d!eap put up the thumping impost of 13.3 and beat IS opponents in the Grand National Steeplechase. The "Spirit of the Times” says that through his faith in a cricket club Hon. W. J. White, of Cleveland, has allowed the champion pacer. Star Pointer. Imin 59isec. to become a victim of the Sheriff. The West Cleveland Banking Company, through Sheriff Barry, has levied upon Scar Pointer to satisfy a claim of 23»d01. The horse is in the care of the Sheriff's deputies. The Cleveland Cricket Club is also a defendant in the suit. According to th- Banking Company, the cricket club gave a promissory note, which was endorsed by several of its stockholders. When the club went out of existence, judgment was taken on the note. Mr White was one of the endorsers. The bank decided to levy upon something belongzng to him. Th* famous pacer was the handiest, and the horse will be held until the judgment is satisfied. Oban, th* Australian-bred horse, whose arrival in England was heralded with such a flourish of trumpets, and who was going to win the Cambridgeshire, proved an arrant rogue on the fiat; but. like other animals of this class (says an exchange). jumping practice has greatly Improved his courage, and there are many more unlikely things than that he will turn out an accomplished performer over a country. Well, he has a great expiatory work to perform. A Cambridgeshire failure, as costly as it was Ignominious. has to be atoned for. It was so costly and so ignominious that, however nobly it may b* expiated, it win never be forgotten. Oban's owner, if may b* mentioned.says the same authority, formed one of the syndicate which financed Lord Rosalyn for the purpose of breaking the bank at Monte Carlo with hie much* trumpeted system.

Consequent upon the effects of the longeontinued drought and Federal encroachments. the finances of the Queensland 6iate have been brought to such a condition of late that the heads of all the departments have been hunting around for all the soft spots likely to admit of Increased taxation. As a source of revenue (eays the Queensland correspondent of the •‘Referee”) the Railway Department has had to suffer with the rest, and with the object of raising the wind Minister Leahy has deemed It necessary to explode a bomb amongst the racing people, who are affected by the rates of carriage for horses travelling forward and backward to and from the country race meetings, lae cheapness of the ratee heretofore has been highly appreciated both by horseowners and by the country clubs, and It was dependent upon that to a considerable extent whether meetings were successful; so that the announcement to the effect that the rates for forwards Journeys were to be Increased by 50 per cent., and a similar rate charged for return (not charged for at all under the old rates) has caused quite a flutter of excitement and Indignation. The majority of owners are not at all likely to take on nearly so many trips into the country districts if the new and heavy charges are to rule, and as a result all of the country clubs must suffer. If some of them do not actually go to the wall. With this end in view, the policy of the Railway Minister seems short-sighted. It is like killing the goose that lays the golden eggs. Deputations are in the course of formation to point out to the Minister the dire consequences which must follow a determined adherence to this latest scheme, and perhaps he .may unbend to some extent. .♦>r it must be patent that small returns unon the lower scale are preferable to none at all upon the higher.

The conference of representatives of the Rosehill. Warwick Farm. Moorefield.Canterbury Park. TattersaH’s. Hawkesbury, and City Tattersail’s Clubs, with the A.J.C. committee, to consider the question of appointing stipendiary stewards to control the racing in the metropolitan area was held on the 7th Inst, fsays the* Sydney “Telegraph"), and though nothing definite was done, it is satisfactory to know that these nresent were unanimously in favour of the proposal. The conference was r>ot nnen to the press, but the

A.J.C. committee promised to place the views of the deputation before the full committee at their next meeting, and report the result. It is understood that the. A.J.C. committee intend to consider the advisableness of appointing one set of stewards to supervise the running at all meetings held within the metropolitan area, and in the event of deciding in the negative to go into the question of the sum the A.J.C. will contribute towards th** salaries of stipendiary stewards for meetings of Tartersall’s. City Tattersall’s, Sydney Turf. Hawkesbury. Rosehill.Warwick Farm, Canterbury Park, and Moorefield Racing Clubs, which are to be privileged to make the appointments. It was recognised that it will be absolutely necessary to secure the services of men who by long and intimate association with racing affairs possess the necessary qualifications. and. therefore, that the emolument must be sufficient to induce them to undertake the discharge of rhe responsible duties. A suggestion was thrown our. to include the Newcastle Jockey Club In the list of institutions to which the stipendiary stewards would require to turn their attention, and that phase of the question will receive due consideration. Those who take an interest in turf affairs will be pleased that the appointment of stipendiary stewards is soon likely to take a definite shape.

The special reporter of the “Sydney Morning Herald" in his notes on the V.R.C. Grand National Hurdle Race has the following:—Pathos melted out of it as they came round the bend,leaving Colonel Shilllnskj and Rawdon almost on terms as they swept into the straight, with Conquest just behind, and Nansen coming very fast. Rawdon and Colonel Shllinskl crossed the last hurdle on terms, and the pair shaking off Nansen inside the distance fought out a brilliant battle, the issue being in doubt until Rawdon, witn a supreme effort, got his nose in front in the last couple of lengths, and secured the victory by a very narrow margin amid a scene of intense excitement, while Nansen and Conquest followed them home. The favourite and Battleaxe shaped most disappointingly, and were absolutely the last to finish, while the much-fancied California was at the tai! of the main body. The severity of the pace from the jump may be gauged by the fact that the time recorded for the race is R seconds faster than that reglstn»-«'l by Aquarius and Shoddy in 1900 and last year respectively. The oflicl d records show that the first mile and a half was cast behinp in 2 minutes 53J seconds. the next four furlongs in 59 seconds. the succeeding half miles in 5S and 57?: seconds respectively. The last mile of the journey was run in 1 minute 45J seconds. and last s.lx furlongs in 1 minute 27 seconds. The winner was bred by Mr W. Pile. In Routh Australia, and is by Rival from Lady Consort, by Prince Consort (son of Countryman) from Alberta, by Talk o’ the Hill from Princess of Prussia. by South Australian. Tn his native country Rawdon attracted public attention by running third in the Onkaparlnga Cup In 1900. an<l occupied a similar position in the South Australian Tattersall’s Cup. He was purchased by Mr Albert Mill* r prior to last year’s Grand National Meeting, and carried his colours unplaced In the Maiden Hurdle Race, won by Lowland Chief. Having qualified for the Jumpers’ Flat Race, ho ran unplaced in •ne of those events during the current

season, and first attracted public attention as a jumper by finishing very fast in the Crown Hurdle Race at the V.R.C. Coronation Meeting, in which he ran fourth. That brought him Into the market for the big race, and after the mishap to Holkar the son of Rival was at the head of the quotations until deposed by Battleaxe. Consequently he was a bad horse for the ring. The performance of Colonel Shilllnski was highly meritorious, and fully justified his army of Ballarat friends In according him the sound support that he received. Nansen ran a good horse, and the position of Conquest at the finish came as a surprise, as he was not mentioned in the betting.

At the present time the question of appointing stipendiary stewards is a burning one. The following from the

“Sydney Referee” will be read with interest: —When the V.R.C. required the proprietary clubs racing in the Melbourne metropolitan district to choose stewards not pecuniarily interested tn the courses, the requirement was duly met. Results, however, have shown that there is still something left to desire from the stewards acting In Melbourne, and, from time to time, the sporting writers of the South have been demanding stewards who shall be paid and from whom shall be required a strict account of their stewardship. In these days honorary service is too much to expect in connection with any business which is worked mainly for cash results. Financial considerations do not necessarily clash with a high ideal of sporting etiquette. but there is always a suspicion that the almighty dollar has its effect. Stewards who are not paid may consider themselves quite at liberty to indulge tn a wager or two, hoping to find their Judgment borne out in results. There are odd owners and trainers, possibly, only too willing to assist with information calculated to help in anticipating winners correctly, whilst others would scorn to play the game so low down. And I have no doubt, speaking from experience, that there are stewards in the Commonwealth who are much more keen on looking for probable winners than in carrying out the responsibilties of their contract as stewards. At the same time, the worst examples of indifferent stewardship would certainly not be found in the metropolitan district of Sydney, where, according to the present indications, the first regularly organised experiment in the employment of paid stewards is about to be made. The employment of stipendiary officials, with a definite commission to act in an Impartial, just and vigorous manner, having the interests of the Turf and a proper idea of the ethics of sport as the general groundwork of their, official duty, Is calculated to have an effect of a salutary character on racing. Such a line of procedure has been advocated time after time by the Press in different States, and particularly so in the State of Victoria and the colony of New Zealand. Still, the agitation for paid stewards has not yet resulted in their establishment in either place, and. rather unexpectedly, the first thorough experiment is likely to be made in Now South Wales. The situation was forced, so to sneak, by the A.J.C. committee, who. falling in line with the views of the V.R.C. long ng o expressed, requested the proprietary dubs to nominate as stewards gentlemen not Interested in the clubs as shareholders. At the first blush directors »f clubs displayed irritation, but on mature reflection they have come to the conclusion that the proper solution of the situation is a trial of paid stewards. In a conference with members of the A.J C Committee on Monday these views were plainly laid down, and as the representatives of the ruling body were in accord with the proposal, it may be taken for granted that stipendiary stewards will be installed next month. If so. the body will probably be directed to include supervision of all the proprietary club racing in the metropolitan district and that by the betting and other clubs outside of the A.J.C. itself, in their commission. The matter has gone through the preliminary stages, and It only remains for a pronouncement by the A.J.C. Committee to give the necessary authorisation and apportion the individual shares of cost among the clubs concerned Tt seems well that New South Wales should strike out with this new policy in racing affairs, and if results are deemed satisfactory similar action is pret*y sure to follow in the neighbouring States. One immediate effect is sure to be a disposition on the part of people who race horses to avoid conflict with the new official supervisors, untn, at any rate, it is seen what standard is going to be exacted from those who are always prepared to do as bold deeds as they dare do. It will be expected, under the new order ->f things, that scandalous and impudent exhibitions will be suppressed at all times, and not intermittently, also that go-as-you-please tactics will be subdued. If it is known that the eyes of competent, keen, and exacting stewards always about, there is bound to be a better standard of racing, and it is to be hoped the right man will be found. This may be a matter of more difficulty than would appear at first sight.

Backers of horses, as is well known, sometimes adopt a plan of investing on one race and asking the accommodating penciller to follow contingent Instructions In the event of back! ig the right one for a start. A well-known sport, who wished to follow this plan, on the opening day of the Wellington Racing Clubs Winter Meeting, having received advice or inspition that Hippowai. Will-o’-the-Wisp, and Royal Conqueror would win their respective races, went up the street to look for bls usual bookmaker. Whether that personage had been “moved on” or not by the police on the day in question mat-

ters very little for the purpose of the story, but not being able to find his man, and believing that It was nearing the starting time for the race, the wouldbe investor decided to put his £1 on with the first penciller he wet, and approaching one he knew only by sight he offered him £1 on Hippowai, and was about to give him the further instructions for the playing up of any money that might be won, when he was cut short by the penciller looking hard at him and telling him to go away. At this he was somewhat astonished, but thinking the bookie did nut understand him he said, “There is a horse called Hippowai in the Maiden Hurdle Race to-day at Wellington, and I wish to back him.” Another hard look frorri the bookie, and a request to take his £1 elsewhere, was followed by information that news had been received that Hippowai had been returned the winner. It was bad enough to discover that he was too late: worse that he should have been suspected of trying to get money on a horse that had already won. The result was that he could not follow the Intention he had set out with in its entirety, and in disappointment and confusion neglected to follow his other fancies. All three horses won, and, even with the limit to liability fixed by the pencillers, which In the case of Hippowai was exceeded, the ‘all-up, all-up” plan would have returned in round numbers over £250. This is a. very good way of backing a treole for the investor who is fortunate enough to get on, but in this case there is a moral somewhere. Another case is reported in which an investor gave a penciller £2 to put on Will-o’-the-Wisp, the proceeds to be all up on Royal Conqueror, and in the event of their bfftb winning the money to go on Swimmer. That wager cost the penciller a tidy sum, for after the two first legs had come off in the backer’s favour, the bookie partly insured himself by turning backer of Swimmer, who lost and got him out of what would have been a much more costly afternoon’s w T ork. These are only samples of many similar events that are seldom referred to in the press. It is a long time since we have heard of three consecutive winners being backed upon the doubling-up system, and there are fewer pencillers now who will accept such risks than was once the case. ® ® ® NEW’ ZEALAND RACING CONFERENCE. WELLINGTON, Thursday. The Racing Conference opened this morning. The chairman (Sir G. Clifford) in his annual address congratulated the clubs on the continued prosperity of the turf and the capabilities of the colony as a breeding place for horses of high excei’erce. A second volume of the Stud Book would be published before next meeting, the work of preparation being already far advanced. A reaction was setting in against sprint races, and he hoped that c-.i clubs would endeavour to voluntarily give prizes t© reward staying power. With reference to the charge that some of the racecourses were unsafe, possibly the co a'erence could devise means of reassuring the public. An illadvised and ill-info r med agitation against the tota.lisator had for a long time existed, and it might he opportune to direct attention to the evils which would certainly result from its abolition. The sport was too firmly established to permit of its entire extinction, but the opponents of the totalisator might -succeed in doing great injury to the racing pastime, which an honest man could honourably follow. Nearly every innocent act of mankind coulu be converted into evil by its abuse. It was not the totalisator but the failure of the authorities to carry out the laws safeguarding its operation that had produced the few quotable cases of ruin or disgrace which had been claimed to be due to it.

The report of the committee appointed to consider the desirability of appointing stipendiary stewards and the best form of local administration of the trainers’ and jockeys’ provident fund was presented The committee saw insuperable difficulties of procuring and maintaining a competent staff of stinendiarv stewards and recommended instead that each club should appoint a judicial committee to deal with ail protests end disqualifications, also that metropolitan committees should be empowered to appoint advisory stewards to assist the country clubs when so requested. As to the provident funds, it was recommended that no change be made in the separate trainers’ fund at present, but in connection with the jockey fund it was in favour of a scheme of insurance to cover the risks of accidents such as had in the past been considered le,iefI e,ief - Messrs Alison, Nolan, McVay, Miller, and Guinness were appointed a committee to arrange dates and totalisator permits .

„ Chairman made an explanation regarding the Takapuna Jockey Club £<enee to the Takapuna Jockey Club which last year was spoken of as being nnid r, ? tary nature. The club had paid £lOOO towards the purchase of its twelve years 1 * 8 balance waa ‘“ be in

A petition was presented by Mr Freeman Holmes with reference to the pavW totalisator tickets on Rosemere in the New Year, Handicap at the Grevmouth Jockey Club's meeting. A statement was made by the petitioner that a steward of the club had won a good stake over the race. The Chairman stated this was not correct. Mr Petrie tthe Greymouth Jockey Club's delegate) asked for an >? qulry * nto the circumstances of the petition. Mr Wilson moved, and Mr Allson seconded, "That the petition be not

entertained.” This was agreed to. An amendment, moved by Mr Petrie, seconded by Mr Card, “That be matter be allowed to stand over,” was negatived. The committee appointed by the conference to consider the desirableness or otherwise of appointing stipendiary stewards reported that It had considered the question very thoroughly, and unanimously resolved, “That in view of difficulties. which it regards as insuperable, It cannot recommend their appointment.” The committee recommended two amendments to the rules of racing, viz., to advise that all racing clubs should select from among their stewards a judicial committee, not exceeding five in number, to consider and determine all matters in relation to protests and disqualifications, such committee to have power to substitute for any of its members who may be absent or interested in the case submitted to it, such other person as he may select. Messrs Guinness, Alison, Nolan, Millar, and McVay were appointed a committee to consider the question of totalisator permits and dates.

Mr Samuel moved on behalf of the Taranaki Jockey Club, “That, at this meeting, and at all subsequent meetings of the conference, until otherwise decided, all resolutions adopted at the conference shall take effect without further reference to individual clubs, provided that such resolutions be agreed to by not less than three-fifths of the total voting power present, and that rule 166 be altered accordingly.” This was negatived. Mr Card moved, “That a bare majority be sufficient to decide alterations to rules. -* With the permission of Lhe conference this was withdrawn.

The Chairman moved, on behalf of the committee appointed to report, “That it shall be a duty of the Metropolitan Committee, at application of any racing club in its district, to appoint for any race meeting of such club, an advisory steward, with or without fee. to be paid by the club so applying, such advisory steward to have power to require an investigation by the stewards of any matters occurring during the meeting which he may deem of sufficient importance. as breaches of racing law or otherwise.”

This was agreed to. The committee appointed to consider the best form of local administration for trainers’ and jockeys’ provident funds, recommended a scheme of accident insurance. The Chairman said they were barred by the charges quoted by the insurance companies from doing anything in the matter. Under the circumstances ho would ask to withdraw the report. On the motion of Mr Alison, it was decided that the committee be reappointed to consider the matter, and report at next meeting of the conference. Mr Samuel (Taranaki Jockey Club) moved to amend the definition of club the words. “duly registered under these rules,” being added, which exempts point-to-point steeplechases, polo sports, etc., disqualification. This was agreed to.

The Hawke’s Bay Jockey Club’s amendment to rule 2, "That only clubs where the totalisator is used, at which stakes exceed £lOO per diem, shall advertise once at least in the Official Calendar,” was agreed to. A notice of motion by the Otago country clubs, concerning the Official Calendar, was generally discussed, and negatived.

Mr Alison moved, and Mr Wilson seconded, • * hat a committee be set up to report at next meeting of the conference as to the advisability of the conference publishing its own Official Calendar, and generally report on the whole question.” This was negatived. The Hon. J. D. Ormond proposed, and It was agreed, “That the ‘Referee’ be the Official Calendar ut the Racing Conference.”

A verbal amendment to rule 2, moved by the Taranaki Jockey Club, was ag’reed to. The chairma.n moved a new clause to rule 7, as follow: “Notwithstanding anything herein otherwise provided, pony races may, subject to the sanction of our Jockey Club, be included in any day's racing at a legally constituted trotting meeting, if the programme of such meeting shall have been duly submitted for the approval of the jockey club.” This was agreed to. An amendment to rule 21, to provide that any official could not employ a deputy or subsitute, was negatived. The Hon. J. D. Ormond moved, on behalf of the Hawke’s Bay Jockey Club, a new rule, “That no horse, three years old or upwards, shall be allowed to start in any handicap run over a distance of less than six furlongs.” The Taranaki and Takapuna delegates opposed the motion. The chairman agreed to the motion, provided it did not become operative for 12 months. The motion was negatived. The chairman moved, on behalf of Die Canterbury Jockey Club, a new rule, “That all horses entered in a handicap, which have never, prior to the publication of the weights, started in any race, shall be allotted, if of the same age, equal wkeights subject uo the usual sex ual allowance, and if of different ages weights proportionate to the weight-for-age scale, unless the special conditions of thb race provide otherwise.” This was negatived. Mr Millar moved, on behalf of the Dunedin Jockey Club, to extend the season for flat racing from May 31 to June 7, to permit clubs racing on the Prince of Wales’ Birthday to race under a light scale of weights. This was agreed to. The motion of the Taranaki Jockey Club to strike out rule 47, which refers to the placing of any person who gives a cheque f<sr the payment of entry or acceptance that it dishonoured in the forfeit list, was negatived. The Hawke’s Bay Jockey Club moved, “That a fee of £5 in connection with changing a horse’s name be paid to th#

chairman of the Racing Conference instead of the Jockey olub,” was negatived. The chairman moved, on behalf of the ’Canterbury Jockey Club, a new rule, “That ad clubs having races on their programmes on which forfeits are payable, shall post notices of such forfeits to the owners at least 14 days before the same become due.” This was agreed to. The Canterbury Jockey Club’s motion to amend rule 63, registration of partnerships, was agreed to. The rule now provides that only partnerships in horses above the age of one year need be registered, which releases breeders. Th Wanganui Jockey Club’s motion to amend rule 71, that the name of a person or horse on the unpaid forfeit list shall be deemed to have ceased to be thereon from the actual time when the forfeits shall have been paid to the registry office,” was negatived. The rule at present is that the name of the person continues to be on the forfeit list so long as his name Is published In the Calendar. At eleven p.m. the Conference adjourned till half-past ten next morning. At the Racing Conference to-day It was agreed to add to Rule 79 a proviso that jockeys may be required to produce their licenses to the clerk of scales, and Rule 96 was amended so that races started before the appointed time shall be run again. It was resolved to draft a rule making it clear that in the case of any disqualified person training a horse during the period of one month prior to the date of nomination such horse would be disqualified also, and that no disqualified person may be employed to assist in training.

At the Racing Conference to-day, provision was made for licensing stable servants.

It was made clear that clubs could grant relief from the provident fund to the widow or the family of a trainer or jockey. A fine of £1 was made compulsory in the case of horses running w.wi the wrong polours up. It was resolved that gentlemen riders could apply direct to racing clubs for certificates, and that it bp a recommendation that the fees so received go towards trophies for events won by gentlemen riders. WELLINGTON, Friday. At the Racing Conference to-day Mr Samuel, on behalf of the Taranaki Jockey Club, moved to add to rule 79 the words ‘‘every jockey shall produce his license to the £lerk of scales if required to do so.” '±nis was agreed to. Amendments to rules 80 and 81 moved by the Taranaki Jockey Club were withdrawn.

The Wellington country clubs’ delegate moved to amend rule 89, that no race can be started more than half-a-chain behind the starting post. This was negatived.

On the motion of the Hawke’s Bay Jockey Club rule 96 was amended to proOvide that if a race is started before the appointed time it shall be run over again.

The Taranaki Jockey Club’s motions to amend rules 113 and 116 w r ere Withdrawn. Mr Petrie moved to amend rule 118 by striking- out the words 'an appeal from any such decision may be made to the Racing Conference, and its decision shall be final.” This was negatived. An amendment to rule 138, moved by the Greymouth Jockey Club, which referred to horses being in charge of disqualified persons, was agreed to, making the rule more clear and to prevent evasion of the rule.

On the motion of the Wanganui Jockey Club rule 143 was amended by the addition of the words “or take part in training,” applying to persons training without a license.

A motion of the Hawke’s Bay Jockey Club to license stable servants was carried.

The Hawke’s Bay Jockey Club moved to amend rule 143 to provide that relief may be granted from the provident fund to the widow or family of any trainer or jockey. This was agreed to. Mr Bidwill moved, on behalf of the Wellington country clubs, that rule 155 shou. be amended so that a fine of £2 for jockeys carrying wrong colours should be made compulsory and not optional as at present. This was negatived. An amendment that the fine be not less than £1 was agreed to.

Mr Bidwill moved to amend rule 156, that the application for gtntlemen riders’ certificates shall be mad-; to the committee of the jockey club in which district the applicant resides, instead of the metropolitan clui', as a 1 present, was agieed to.

The Conference re<Gn mended that the fees re reived from gentlemen riders’ licenses be devoted to trophies given to such races as the metropolitan clubs may consider desirable, the winning ridesrs being gentlemen riders.

Sir William Russell moved, "That no hurdle race be run over a less distance than a mile and three-quarters.” This was negatived. The Chairman moved, on behalf of the Canterbury Jockey Club, a new clause to rule 161, “That the number used for any horse on the totalisator must correspond with that under which the horse is entered on the race card, except where horses are bracketed or where the totalisator will not carry the full number of horses starting.” Tnis was negatived.

Mr Samuel moved, on behalf of the Taranaki Jockey Club, to strike out clause 20 of the rules of the totalisator. This was negatived.

Mr Petrie (Greymouth Jockey Club) moved to repeal rule 168, appeals, and substitute therefor, "That the Conference shall at each annual meeting appoint six judges to consider and decide all appeals to the Conference, three to form a quorum, and not more than one judge to be selected from any one metropolitan district.” This was negatived. The Greymouth Jockey Club’s delegate moved, "That the Conference give a de-

finite ruling as to whether inconsistent running is a question ot fact.” The Chairman stated that amongst the regulations issued for the guidance of appeal judges, was a ruling by the Conference which it was decided to publish ror the information of clubs in the Official Calender, that inconsistent running was not a question of fact. The Chairman moved, "That he may at any time appoint any member of the Conference to act In his stead, if circumstances arose.” Inis was agreed to. An amendment to Rule 171 moved by the Taranaki Jockey Club, "That all new rules shall come into operation In August Ist each year,” was agreed to. Mr Percival, Auckland, moved, “That a race for apprentices be placed on the programme of every Metropolitan Club, except at winter meetings.” This was withdrawn.

Mr Percival moved that all nominations shall close on the same day of the week, and suggested Monday. This was negatived.

Mr Percival moved: "That on and after August Ist, 1904, no programme shall be passed for any Club whose course is less than a mile in circumference, where the totalisator is used.” This was negatived. The Chairman moved, "That he be empowered to appoint three experts in cases where any complaints have been made as to the safety of any course, and report to the ensuing meeting of the Conference.” This was agreed to. Mr Samuel moved, on behalf of the Taranaki Jockey Club, "That a committee be appointed by the Conference for the purpose of preparing rules of racing." This was withdrawn.

On the motion of the Hawke’s Bay Jockey Club, it was agreed to place the words "Official Calendar” in the rules where the words "Racing Calendar” at present appear.

The Chairman, on behalf of the Canterburjr Jockey Club, asked whether or not an apprentice’s license expired at the termination of his indentures, or at the end of the season. On the motion of Mr Wilford, it was agreed that in the opinion of the Conference an apprentice who desires to ride must apply for a license immediacy on the expiry of his indentures. The committee appointed to consider the question of the arrangement of dates and totalisator permits reported as follows:—That the same number of permits be allocated as in the past season; that they are unable to entertain the many applications for additional and new permits, as the limit allowed by the Act has been absorbed. In the event of there being any permits available, they recommend that the following clubs In their respective districts receive favourable consideration:—Auckland district: Whangarei Racing Club and Papakura Racing Club. Otago district: Forburv Racing Club. Taranaki district: Eltham Racing Club and Stratford Racing Club. Wanganui district: Waverley-Waitotara Racing Club. Wellington district: Wairarapa Racing Club and Pahiatua Racing Club. Note: In the Otago district the Walkouaiti Racing Club is entitled to a permit used ’ast season for the Palmerston Racing Club. Dates of Meetings: The Masterton Racing Club to select dates for their spring meetings to the satisfaction of the Chairman of the Conference. The Dunedin Jockey Club to race on Dec. 26th and 27th. Wyndham Jockey Club to select dates to the satisfaction of the Chairman. Westland Racing Club to select other dates for their Autumn Meeting. Wellington Racing Club to select other dates for their Autumn Meeting, to the satisfaction of the Chairman. Dunedin Racing Club to race on June 3rd and ,6th, North Otago Jockey Club’s dates to be altered correspondingly. The Committee recommended the registration of the following racing and snorts clubs under Rule 170 — Auckland district: Bay of Plenty Hack Jockey Club, Towai Racing Club, Otahuhu Hack Racing Club, Waihi Hack Club, Waiweka Jockey Club. Canterbury district: Geraldine Hunt Racing Club, Lauriston and Lyndhurst Sports Club, Springfield Racing Club. Hawke’s Bay district: Mohaka Racing Club. Otago uistrlct: Centre Bush Hack Racing Club. Taranaki district: Eltham Hack Racing Club, Hawera Mounted Rifles Club. The committee did not recommend the Rotherham Sports Club (in the Canterbury district) and the Turakina Racing Club (In the Wanganui districts, which meetings were not approved by the Metropolitan Committee. The committee recommend that all returns from metropolitan clubs relating to the business of the Conference must be in the hands of the secretary to the Conference not later than June 30 In each year, and that the order paper, reports, and returns may be forwarded to delegates at least seven days before the meeting of the Conference. The report was adopted. The executive was authorised to issue a second volume of the New Zealand Stud Book, the cost and remuneration to the editor to be left in the hands of the chairman. Sir George Clifford was re-elected chairman of the Conference and accorded a hearty vote of thanks for past services. This concluded the business. ® ® ® TV RE TALK FROM THE SOUTH. (By Telegraph.—Special to the Graphic.) CHRISTCHURCH, Saturday. The Dunedin Jockey Club Is pursuing the work of improving Its racecourse, although rather too slowly to please some of the Southern critics. The work, however, will be finished In ample time for the club’s next meeting. Considering the

comparatively email number of horses in training there, Wlngatu! is fairly busy. Most of McGlnniss’ team have re-com-menced work, and Canteen has also been re-commissioned. The son of Castor and Vivandiere is reported to be In rude health; and if the severe ordeals to which he was subjected last season have not found a weak spot In his heart, he ought to run an Improved horse next month. Pampero is working well, and a similar remark applies to Vladimir, who' has lengthened without having grown up perceptibly.

The most promising yearling at Wlngatui is the Hon. Geo. McLean's Sychem, a half-brother to Lord Rosalyn to Vladimir. He is a particularly well-grown young gentleman,with a very pretty style of moving. The attempt to get another race out of Jupiter has failed, the old son of St. Clair having broken down. The Dunedin Jockey Club has decided to abandon its intention to prosecute Mr T. Godfrey, the owner of Gold Spur, for trespass in his capacity as a bookmaker.

Mr G. G. Stead announces for sale Knight Errant, the four-year-old son of St. I>eger and Multiform’s full sister, Forma.

The weather since Monday has been bright and clear. Although the frosts have been abnormally severe, the tracks have presented an animated appearance.

Hobbs has abandoned all hopes of getting Dundas to the post for the Grand National Hurdle Race. The son of Perkin Waibeck 11. is not lame now, out It has been deemed advisable to treat him carefully, and as a result his preparation has been delayed so much as to render hopeless his chances of racing with any prospect of success next month.

Of the few rising three-year-olds in training at Rlccarton none is progressing more satisfactorily than Imperator. I suppose Mr Stead had good reasons for getting rid of the son of Gipsy Grand, but at the present time they are not apparent to .the casual patroniser of the training tracks.

Huku, our sole representative at We’Ilngton, ran no better than I anticipated. Hurdle form here is, I am afraid, some distance behind that in the North, and, moreover, Mr horse has devoted most of his last couple of months to schooling over the big fences. No doubt these two facts accounted for his defeat. Still, the Riccartonites stood him to a man, and dropped a good deal of money over him. CHRISTCHURCH, Tuesday. "Advance,” in the "New Zealand Times,” publishes some racing statistics for 1901-1902. The principal winning •horses were:— Two-year-olds: Porirua, £1140; Orloff, £1125; Idas, £1010; Vladimir, £660; Achilles, £515. Three-year-olds: Nonette, £4052; Cruciform, £3635; Royal Artillery, £2435; Menschlkoff. £1295; Red Gauntlet, £710; Goldenmere, £630; Windwbistle, £625; Canteen, £530; Torowai. 525. Four-year-olds: St. Michael, £2085; Cannie Chiel, £1155; Fakir. £820; Matamataharakeke, £820; Bowman. £815; Beddington, £785; St. Olga, £730; The Shannon, £710; Terrapin, £635; Lady Lilian, £595; Motor, £500; Pampero, 470. Five-year-olds: Rosella. £1150; Ostiak. £910; Glenogle, £855; Westguard. £800; Highlander, £675; Halberdier. £600; Hohoro, £565; T&aritsa, £405; Sanfoin, £400; Great Scott, £4OO.

Six-year-olds: Tortulla, £2560; Royal Conqueror, £1385; Dundas, £885; Huku, £860; Rufus, £858; Will-o’-the-Wisp, £750; Rebel, £660; Bluejacket, £600; Palaver, £570; Abaydos, £505. Aged: Battleaxe, £1390; The Guard, £1080; Gobo, £935; Scallyw’ag. £805; Queen’s Guard. £785; Haydn, £700; Goldspur, £665; Waiwera, 600: Evening Vvonder, £550; Cannongate. £535; Okoari, £510; Tirea, £505; Blazer, £495.

The Hon. Geo. McLean’s absence from the Racing Conference is explained by the fact, that he had to be at Oamaru to attend the funeral of his old friend and namesake. Mr John McLean.

The refusal of the Racing Conference to grant a totalisator permit to the newly formed Forbury Racing Club caused no surprise except among a sanguine few, who had helped to organise the club. Now that the Racing Conference has extended the flat racing season until June 7th, it is probable that the Dunedin J C. will alter the date of its usual May m *eting till June 3rd and 6th.

As was generally expected. The Guard heads the handicap for the Grand National Steeplechase, and it may fairly be said that he has earned every pound of the 13.2 against his name. It is a big weight for any horse, and up to the present it has been a prohibitive one. At the same time there is no reason why it should stop Prosser’s horse, who. I certainly think, has a chance. So too has Moifaa. The son of Natator has run shiftily once or twice this season, and it must be borne in mind that last year he showed a marked dislike to the Rlccarton course. Still, he is said to be coming .on nicely now, and a horse who started favourite last year with more than 13 stone on his back, cannot be ignored this, when ho has only 12.8 to carry. To my way of thinking, however. Cavaliero is the pick of the heavy weights, and If he jumps correctly, he will nearly win. If Cannongate comes South, he too is bound to run a good race. Gobo, even in the face of his victory In

Wellington, will have to improve a good deal to place another Grand National to his trainer’s credit. Plain Bill ran disappointingly in the Wellington Steeplechase, but his victory on Saturday showed that he is not a hopeless case, and fit and well, and in his best form, he will have to be reckoned with. I have no par-

ticular fancy for Haydn, Waiwera and Evening Wonder, but if the Grand National la ever to fall to a maiden performer between the flags, Huku may achieve this feat. The son of Vanguard lost the hurdle race at Wellington through jum/lng too big, a fact which is not surprising, considering that all his schooling during the winter has been done over the big fences. He has a fair turn of pace, and can stay thoroughly well, and he is one of the safest maiden jumpers I have seen. Rufus must have a chance, and a similar remark applies to Frost, and Roller is looking so well that I don’t feel Inclined to discard him altogether.

Of those further down the list old Straybird, as an honest tried and safe conveyance, cannot be overlooked, and Lochade and The Swimmer strike me as possessing outside chances. At the time of writing, however. I like The Guard, Moifaa, Cavaliero, Plain Bill, Cannongate and Plain Bill better than any other half dozen.

If CavaJlero’s capacity as a hurdler has not been Impaired by schooling over big fences, the son of Cuirassier will surely take a lot of beating in the Grand National Hurdle Race; but if it has, he will probably go down before Royal Conqueror and one or two others on the list. RoyaJ Conqueror, as a winner of over £l3OO in staJces thia season, seems to have escaped lightly, and I certainly like him the best of the heavy weight division. I have no fancy for The Guard and Moifaa, owing to the fact that their attention is now almost wholly given up to steepiechaslng. Battleaxe will have to make a rapid recoyery to stand the faintest chance of winning. Waiwera and Haydn are about in their proper place, and so is Huku, but he, in company with Cannongate and Gobo, now labour under the disadvantage of having been schooled over country. The Hempie has nothing to complain of, and Dundas is really well treated. The latter, however, may be dismissed without further comment, for although the lameness which has been troubling him is disappearing, he cannot possibly be forward enough to start with any prospect of success. Mars I like very much, and Kahuwai, Long Tom and Tresham may all be counted on to run prominently if they start, while Tauhel made such a creditable debut at Gisborne the other day, that it would be unwise to pass her by. Scottish Minstrel arrived at Rlccarton last week, and in a schooling gallop in company with Skobeloff. acquitted himself really well. The latter, too. did not jump half badly, and his owner certainly has no reason to complain at the weight allotted his hitherto over-rated horse. Chasseur, another maiden, has also been lightly treated, and a similar remark applies to Ruamahunga. Hippowai, as a fair performer, has escaped with a pound or two less than he might have been given, and if Reliance is worthy of his breeding, he ought to win. Winsome is another that I like. 1 understand that she has been jumping none too well, and I shall therefore leave her out of my calculations, and take the following to furnish the winner: Royal Conqueror, Haydn, Waiwera, The Hempie, Mars, Tresham, Tauhel, Reliance and Scottish Minstrel.

The following is tfie latest betting locally on the Grand National Steeplechase and Hurdle Race:—7so to 15 against The Guard and Tresham. 700 to 15 against The Guard and Strathnairn, 600 to 12 against Cannongate and Kahuwai,6oo to 10 against The Guard and Waiwera, 500 to 5 against Haydn and Kahuwai, 500 to 5 against Roller and Kahuwai, 500 to 5 against Haydn and Royal Conqueror. 400 to 5 against Frost and Kahuwai, 400 to 6 against Moifaa and Huku, 400 to 8 against The Guard and Battleaxe, 400, to 5 against Gobo and Long Tom, 300 to 4 against Cavaliero and Tresham.

The following business has been done during the week on the New Zealand Cup:—6oo to 22 against St. Michael, 400 to 19 against Melwood,3oo to 3 against Sparkbrook, 300 to 22 against Exmoor. 200 to 4 against Sensation, 200 to 6 against Grand Rapids, 200 to 10 against Beddington. The following handicaps have been declared for events to be decided at the annual meeting of the Amberley Steeplechase Club:— Handicap Hurdle Race of 25sovs, about 1J mile: Skipper 12.J1, Surrey 12.11, Surrey 12.9, Skobeloff 12.2, Redoubt 11.8, Apremete 11.2. Jibboom 10.7, Single Event 10.7, Ahua —Lottery gelding 10.7, Waimaru 10.7. Itis 10.7, Call Boy 10.7, Hurricane 10.0, Sovereign 10.0. Brackenfield Plate of 80sovs, about 2 miles: Tarragon 12.13, The Whip 12.3, Doopey 12.0, Chorister 11.12. Wet Blanket 11.7, Mahoo 11.0, Harkaway 11.0. Tally-ho Plate of 35sovs, about 3 miles: Tarragon 12.10, Apremete 11.9. Doopey 11.9. Chorister 11.7, Swivelfoot 11.2. Komoroff 10.7. Harkaway 10.7. Hunters’ Flat Race of 21sovs. 11 mile: Skobeloff 13.13. Skipper 12.11. Glitter 12.3, Single Event 12.3, Gunshot 11.13, Playfair 11.12, Hurricane 11.12. Silver Denny 11.10, Bruges 11.10, Slow Tom 11.10. Acceptances for the Grand National Hurdle Race. Steeplechase, and Winter Cup, and entries for the minor events to be decided at the meeting, close on FrlHorses are beginning to .arrive at Rlccarton for the Grand National Meeting. The arrivals during last week Include*/ Roller and Hurricane from Ashburton, and Scottish Minstrel and Jibboom from the AmurT. Mention of Roller reminds me that his full brother In training at Rlccarton has been re-named Call Boy. As I anticipated last week, the stallion Lakeshell Has been sold to a North Island breeder. The son of Lochlel and Nautilus 1s to leave for his new quarters immediately.

Among those horses which are doing gpod work at Riccarton are Long Tom end Muscovite. Lady Dundas has resumed work. The death is announced of Mr H. Mace, a very familiar figure in Canterbury trotting circles, and a noted breeder of trotting horses. © © © NSW ZEALAND GRAND NATIONAL MEETING. ' THE WEIGHTS DECLARED. Mr J. E. Henrys has declared the following handicaps for the above meeting:— NEW ZEALAND GRAND NATIONAL HURDLERACE HANDICAPof 500sovs.

Right Metal and Sudor, who are dead, were entered, but not handicapped. ® ® © WELLINGTON RACING CLUB’S WINTER MEETING. FIRST DAY. Maiden Hurdle Handicap of lOOsovs, second 20sovs; 11 mile.—Hippowai, 9.10, 1; Roer. 10.7, 2; Osborne, 10.3, 3. Ruamahunga. 11.2; Chasseur, 10.9; Pearl Shot, 9.10; and Sophia, 9.4, also started. Won easily by five lengths. Time, 3m 0 4-ss. Dividends: Hippowai, £S 15/; Roer.£l 16/6. Stewards’ Handicap of ISOsovs, second lOsovs; 7 furlongs.—St. Olga, 10.5, 1; P’».itypus. 9.4. 2; The Miller, 9.0. 3. Fleka, 11.2; Field Buttery, 10.4; En Garde, 10.0; Katriona, 9.7; Bugler. 9.6; Hokio, 9.5; Gipsy Jack, R0k0,9.4; Tyrone, 9.0,a150 ran. Won fairly easy by a length and a-half; a length between second and third. Time, 1.35 2-ss. Dividends: St. Olga. £2 1/; Platypus. £1 15/. Parliamentary Handicap.—Will-o’-the-Wisp 1, Loch Erin 2, Oracle 3. All started. Won by half a length. A similar distance between second and third. Time 2.4. Dividend £4 10/6 and £1 4/6.

Wellington Steeplechase of 400sovs. second 50sovs, third 25sov*s; 3 miles.—Gobo, 11.0. 1; Rufus. 10.2, 2; Shylock. 9.7. 3. Also started: Plain Bill, 11.0; Whangaroa, 10.11; Lochade, 10.5; Straybird, 10.3; Kohunui, 9.12; Right Metal, 9.11; Cronje, 9.10; Awahuri. 9.7; Sudor. 9.7; Madman, 9.7. Won easily at the finish by five lengths. AH ace to grief except the placed horses and Whangaroa and Madman. Gobo. Shylock, and Rufus were together the last time past the stand. Rounding the hill bend Shylock dropped back, and Rufus and Gobo were left to fight out the finish. Gobo went away from Rufus at the last jump and won easily in the run homo by five lengths; Shy lock a dozen lengths away third. Time, 6.41 2-ss. A protest against Gobo for alleged crossing has been lodged, and the dividends withheld. The protest was dismissed. Dividends: Gobo. £4 10/; Rufus. £2 12/. Winter Hurdles.—Royal Conqueror, 1; Kahuwal. 2; Waiwera, 3. Scratched: RUfua, Dr. Bill and Sudor. Won by a length after a good race. Time, 4m IS Mth aeea. Dividends. £7 9/ and £1 19/S.

First Hack Handicap of Stoors. One mile.—Culcita. 9.9. 1; Aroha, 9.9, •; Lissa, 10.0, 3. Culcita won by half a length. Time, 1.52 2-5. On the totalizator, £1623. Dividends: Culcita, £4 5/6; Aroha, £6 16/. SECOND DAY. Hutt Flying Handicap of USsova., 6 furlongs; Titokl, 9.6, 1; Ringlet. 9.4. 2; Hokio, 9.0. 3. Scratched: Platypus, Cave, Tyrone. Won by half a length, a similar distance between second and third. Time 1.2 L Dividends £l9 15/ and £1 12/6. Maiden Hack Handicap of Stoors., 6 furlongs: Dodona, 9.3, 1; Geordie, 9.5. 2; Redan. 10.2. 3. All started. Won easily by two lengths. Time 1.21 4-5. Dividends £3 9/ and 18/6. July Steeplechase Handicap of 25050v5.; second 40sovs, 2 J miles: Plain Bill, 10.10, 1; Straybird, 10.0. 2; Lochade, 10.4, 3. AU started except Gobo. Plain Bill and Straybird singled themselves out from the field the last time round, and Plain Bill settled Straybird at the turn and won easily by five lengths, several lengths between second and third. Rufus, Hylas. Awahurls, Kohinui and Sudor came to grief, the last named breaking a leg. Time 5.25. Dividends £5 13'6 and £2 11/6. Winter Oats Handicap of 15toovs. one mile.—Loch Erne. 9.12, 1; Platypus. 9.7. 2; Cave. 9.13, 3. All started. Won by two lengths. Time. 1.49. Dividends. £3 9/6 and £2 3 . Final Hurdle Handicap of SOtoovs, 1? miles.—Osbbrne. 9.3. 1: Royal Conqueror.. 12.0. 2; Strathnaim. 10.0, 3. Ail started except Gobo. Won by a length. Time, 3.27 1-5. Dividends. £34 14/6 and 17/. Second Hack and Hunters’ Steeplechase. —Swimmer. 1: Hutana. 2; Phantom. 3. All ..started. Won easily. Time. 4.27. Dividends, £1 15/ and £1 4/6. Final Hack.—Waiwhera. 1: Lissa. 2: Laureate. 3. Ail started except Bellinite. Won by a length and a-half. Time, 1.21 1-5. Dividends. £4 12/6 and £1 17/6.

second 75sovs. third 36sovs. Two miles. st lb st lb Cavaliero 12 9 Hotu 9 7 Ryl. Conqueror 11 13 flcot. Minstrel 9 7 The Guard ■ 11 12 Penrose 9 5 Moifaa 11 Ruamahunga. 9 4 Battleaxe ... . 11 9 Chasseur 9 7 Waiwera 11 4 Dr. Bill 9 0 Haydrj 11 3 Reliance 9 0 Huku 11 2 Surrey 9 0 Can non gate ... 10 11 Hippowai 9 0 Gobo 10 9 Skobeleff 9 0 The Hempie .. 10 9 Smithy 9 6 Dundas 1C 8 Mourner 9 0 Mar.-, 10 •7 Stockade 9 0 Kahuwal 10 B Winsome 9 n Long Tom .... 10 4 Rcseplot 9 0 Treshara 10 0 Alde-de - Camp 9 n (Rufus 10 0 Redoubt 9 0 Frost 9 13 Land 1 ax .... 9 Hellman 9 13 Pearl Shot .... 9 Strathnalrn 9 1“ Wilson 9 0 Tauhe? y 11 North Star.... 9 a Roller 9 9 Medallius 9 0 Kohunui 9 8 WINTER CTT * (FIAT) HANDICAP of 500sovs: second. TSsovs; third 25sovs out of stake. On 1 ? mile Tortulla 12 0 Ardnaf 9 7 Blazer 11 9 Magnificent ... 9 t Ostiak 11 6 Somerled 9 Dundas 11 2 Materoa 9 ■ Battleaxe Will-o-the\ 11 2 Kelpy 9 Rosemere 9 4 Wisp 10 11 Oracle 9 2 Cora Linn 10 10 Djin-Djin 9 2 The Shannon.. 10 9 Bill Perkins... 9 0 Glenaladale ... 10 5 Penrose 9 0 Muscovite .... 10 0 Clanburn 9 0 Fleka 10 5 Rubin 9 0 Ideal 10 3 Durable 9 0 Terrapin 10 0 Hinekaura .... 9 0 Windwhistle .. 10 0 Culcita 9 0 Scotty 10 2 Walwhera .... 9 0 Jupiter 10 0 Good Spec 9 Field Battery.. 9 13 Calotyle 9 0 Tauhei 9 12 Count of Siege Gun .... 9 12 Kolmar . . 9 0 Cameo 9 7 En Garde 9 0 NEW ZEALAND GRAND NATIONAL STEE PLEC HAS E HANDICAP of 750 so vs; second lOOsov s, third 50sovs from ■the stake. Two mi les. st. lb st. lb. The Guard .... 13 9 The Swimmer <1 12 Moifaa 12 8 Stray bi rd ... 9 11 Cavaliero 12 0 Lochade 9 11 Gobo 11 13 Rowlock 9 10 Cannongate ... 11 8 Whsngaroa ... 9 9 Plain Bill 11 0 Kohinui 9 8 •Ev’ing Wonder KI 9 Pin! 9 7 Haydn 10 9 Dr. Bill 9 t Waiwera 10 4 Awa'nuri 4* 9 Huku 10 7 Smithy 9 *7 Rufus 10 2 Great Scott.... 9 4 Roller 10 0 Shylock 9 Frost 10 0 Hylas 9 7 The Phantom.. 9 13