TURF NOTES.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XXXIV, Issue 15, 15 April 1905, Page 18

TURF NOTES.

The Middy is still being restricted to walking exercise. S. Lindsay, the well-known horseman, arrived from the South last Tuesday. E. Power, the erstwhile chack Victorian jockey, who died recently, left £4510. Lady Annie’s name was left out of the list of acceptors for the Easter Handicap in error. Paritutu's withdrawal from the Avondale Handicap was a bit of a blow to double backers. Strathavon has incurred a 71b and Auratus a 101 b penalty for the A.R.C. Easter Handicap. Mr E. J. Watt's team for the A.R.C. Autumn Meeting will consist of Starshoot, Boomerang, and Lolret. C. ‘Weal did not have a single representative competing on the opening day of the Avondale Autumn Meeting. The filly by St. Clements—Marie in J. Chaafe’s, Jr., stable has had the name of Lady Clements claimed for her. Southern writers comment pretty strongly on some of the races at the recent Wellington meeting. Ilurihuri was passed under the pony standard at Ellerslie yesterday morning by Mr O’Connor, the A.R.C. official measurer. Seabird hurt herself while competing at the recent Paeroa meeting, and she was not seen out at the Avondale gathering. Solitary was passed under the pony standard yesterday by Mr O’Connor, but the pony by Regel, in D. Moraghan’s charge, failed to get under. Rambler, who burst a blood-vessel on Monday morning, was on the course again yesterday, but was restricted to walking exercise. It has ben definitely decided not to ship Talune and Moccasin to South Australia to fiulfil their engagements at the Onkaparlnga meeting. The gelding by Leolantis out of a Natator mare, purchased at the last Agricultural Show by C. Coleman, has had the name of Leonator claimed for him. Jewellery is still standing up to her work at Ellerslie, and will probably be seen out in some of the minor events «t the A.R.C. Autumn Meeting. The A.R.C. Committee have endorsed the disqualification of three months imposed upon the jockey W. Sharp by the Waiuku Racing Club. A Press Association telegram states that despite the wretched weather of last week the Wellington Racing Club come out even over their meeting. The New Plymouth pony Ilurihuri showed a lot of pace in the early stages of the Pony Handicap last Wednesday, but died away to nothing at the finish. Austerlitz has at last made a return for the purchase money expended upon her last autumn. Her owner, Mr J. Me Vicar, came from Dunedin on purpose to see his mare race. Young Bert Rae, the lad whose foot was amputated as a result of the train accident a short time ago, has recovered sufficiently to be discharged from the Hospital. It is not yet defintely decided whether Regulation will be a starter hi the A.R.C. Easter Handicap or not. * Punters would do well to hold off a bit until the owner’s intentions are made known.

Haydn is still very much on the big side, and one morning last wek he was sent about four miles on the tan with the sweaters on, with the object of taking off some of the superfluous avoirdupois.

The Auckland Trotting Club have been granted permission to hold their Autumn Meeting on the Takapuna Jockey Club’s course. The Takapuna track is an idea) one for trotting.

Although Golden Lily’s name still appears in the Great Easter and Autumn Handicaps, that mare is not in the colony, being shipped to her new home In Australia a week or so ago.

Both Laing and McConnon have appealed against the disqualification inflicted upon them by the Nelson Jockey Club for alleged foul practices in connection with the hurdle race run at the club's meeting.

Instead of treating the members of the Victorian Club to wine (as per custom of lucky owners on such occasions), Mr J. B. Whitehead, the owner of Dividend, donated £5O to charity, and also made presents to the lads In Hickenbotham's stable.

The acceptances received on Friday night by the Auckland Racing Club for the Easter Handicap are considerably above even what the most sanguine expected. Twenty-four acceptances out of an original entry of 34 Is highly satisfactory.

Full Cry ran a surprisingly good race in the Rallw’ay Handicap last Wednesday, and at the distance it looked as if he would win. He tired a bit in the last half furlong, and had to be content with the barren honour of third.

Orange and Blue has evidently regained her lost form, and In the Pony Races last Wednesday and Saturday, she simply made hocks of her opponents, and after three furlongs had ben covered, she was out by herself, and nothing ever got near her.

One of the features of the opening day of the Avondale Meeting was the success of horses sired by Soult. No less than five races were won by the descendants of Mr Walters’ horse, while., on the second day three of the St. Simon horse’s gets were successful.

Lady Annie fretted terribly before the start of the Railway Handicap at Avondale last Wednesday, and when she left The paddock to og to the past, she was in a perfect lather. Not a few good judges deserted her on that account, although she started a red hot favourite.

Sunshine was made favourite for the Maiden Plate at Avondale on Wednesday, but she was never prominent. Her poor showing was a big disappointment to her connections. Her win on Saturday in the Maiden Hurdles, however, fully recompensed them.

Visitors who were at the Wellington Racing Club’s Autumn Meeting state that Signalman was lucky to win the Thompson Handicap. It was almost a certainty that both Regulation and Kaharoa would have finished in front of him had they got anything like a decent run in the race.

The injury that befell Marshal Soult is evidently of a serious nature, as he has been allowed to drop out of ail his autumn engagements. It is understood it is a burst hoof that is the trouble, and this being so it is hard luck for his owner, Mr A. Hughes, who has had a very bad run lately.

Those interested will do well to note that all ponies will be required to be remeasured by the A.R.C. official measurer before they are eligible to compete at the A.R.C. autumn meeting. Mr O’Connor will be in attendance daily at Ellerslie for the purpose of measuring ponies.

Two valuable yearlings from Wellington Park Stud have been sold to a patron of Mr James Scoble’s stables in Ballarat, whence they will be shipped shortly. One is a chestnut filly by Phoebus Apollo from Lady Augusta and the other is a brown filly by Hotchkiss from Crescent.

Cannongate and Dingo were both schooled separately at Ellerslie last week, jumping both the big feuces and the hurdles. Cannongate, who has not had a jump since lie last raced, clearly showed that he had lost none of his cleverness in negotiating the obstacles. Dingo also jumped well.

The Melboame "Sporting Judge** states that when Gladsome returned to the enclosure after the Newmarket Handicap had been run, blacking off several pairs of boots was noticed from her Lead to her tail. It was therefore very apparent that she had l>een closely hemmed in at some part of the race.

Cannongate walked away apparent!/! sound after competing in the hurdle race at Avondale last Wednesday. The old fellow, cut one of his stifles a bit, and has been indulged in swimming exercise during the last couple of days. Cannongate raced in the nomination of his owner, Mr J. Marshall.

Bellman was sunning well in the hurdle race for about a mile at Avondale on Wednesday when he dropped right out of it, and finished about two or three hundred yards behind the winner. On being pulled up it was found, the old chestnut had broken down badly, and on appearances it looks as if he will be off the scene for some time.

At the monthly meeting of the A.R.C. Committee, the following licenses were granted:—Trainers: J. A. O’Sullivan. Jockeys: A. Dixon, W. Smith, R. J. Griffin, W. J. Bowden, J. 11. Quinn* Jas. Stewart, J. McAuliffe. The following programmes were passed:—Auckland Trotting Club's Autumn Meeting, Cleveland Polo Sports, and Hamilton Polo Club’s Sports.

The nonsuit point raised by the defendants in the case arising out of the alleged, infringement of the race cards for the Wellington Racing Club’s summer meeting, has been decided in favour of the plaintiffs, and further hearing of the case was adjourned till to-morrow (Thursday). The decision of the case is of the greatest interest to racing clubs, as the sale of cards is a big source of revenue.

The Wellington Racing Club's stewards were not satisfied with Trumpery’s display on the opening day of their autumh meeting, and had her rider (Cameron) before them, to explain the marc’s running. Although not altogether satisfied with h?a explanation, they took no action, but warned him that he would be closely watched: on the second day. The mare, hoWever. did not fulfil amongst the acceptances.

Cannie Cblel competed in the Autumn Handicap on the concluding day of the Wellington Racing Club’s meeting with one of his hoofs tied up. Experts who were present state that had he been warmed up» before the race he would probably have been returned the winner, as when they had covered half the journey he must been over a dozen lengths behind the leaders, but at the finish he was galloping over, everything.

Donovan, whose death was reported by cable a few weeks ago, was insured at Lloyd’s for £BOOO. When Mr Moore, the veterinary, reported to the Duke of Portland the seriousness of the aged horse’s injuries His Grace telegraphed that he was to be destroyed immediately without the attendance of the Insurance agent. The horse was subsequently skinned, and his hide will be utilised as a chair-covering, as a mememto of so famous an animal, whilst nls hoofs will also be preserved.

Speaking of the probable existence of a' jockeys’ ring in England, the well-known authority, “Vigilant," of the “Sportsman," recently said: “I do not often bet, and when I do I like >to have my modest investment on something that appears to be as near a certainty as possible; and, quite in accordance with those principles, I should like to bet that the average jockey of today is incapable of telling you, after race, not only what the other horses have been doing but even what he has been doing himself." And so say many more.

Voluminous police reports prove that the more restrictions the French Government place on turf speculation, the larger the number of those clandestine betting offices which are known to everyone save the po"Matin" has Interviewed M. , eil-Picard,a member of the sub-committee deputed to examine the complex question Getting. M. Veil-Plcard has enumerated) all the arguments possible against the intervention of tkr& Government with regard to turf speculation, and he thinks that the only vray out of the difficulty is the crealiug ’ with au admission fee of 20fi. (16/) on the course.

As showing the interest evinced in a good horse, the crowd that witnessed Wairikl’s arrival last Thursday is a good proof, fully 600 persons being present. The horse was brought across in a special box made for the purpose, and it was almost impossible for better arrangements to have been made for the safe conveyance of an animal. The horse was landed In splendid condition, and although he w r alked very short after being landed, nothing else could be . expected under the circumstances. No doubt Mr Bradley will be greatly relieved now he has his champion home again.

The racing war has commenced in America, the prominent owner, E. Corrigan, having been disqualified by the Western Jockey Club consequent on having taken a leading part in conducting race meetings in opposition to those hold under the auspices of the body named. In addition to

Corrigan* Captain B. B. Brown, the PittsSura millionaire, and another well-known American racing man, T. C. McDowell,who are assisting Corrigan, hare been placed under the ban, as have a large number of owners, trainers, jockeys, and horses. A great fight is expected between the rival parties, and it is anticipated that free admission will be the rule at many courses.

After “standing down" for four years Tod Sloan made his reappearance In the saddle at the City Park track. New Orleans, a few weeks ago, and received a tremendous ovation. The “Sports of the Times” says that it was hardly In accordance with the fitness of things though, that he should have been selected to ride an animal not having the slightest chance to win. Luralighter is almost worthless on a hard track, but a wonder in the mud. And that she should have finished even a poor third was due to Sloan’s masterly ride. Probably do other jockey at the track could have landed Luralighter “in the money.” And it speaks well for Sloan’s future. Sloan is tinder engagement to EX Corrigan, who is now running meetings in opposition to those of the Western jockey Club.

The French racing authorities object to the hoodwinking of handicappers, and with a view to in some measure putting a check on those owners who go in for working points, have passed a rule that horses which have run In selling races will not be eligible to start for the principal handicaps of the season. Occasionally this rule is bound to come hard on an owner entirely guiltless of trying to deceive the handicappers, for many a horse considered of little account at the commencement Of a season, has developed first class form before its close. In Australia this season we have a ca.se in point In Dividend, whose form in September last scarcely suggested that he was worth persevering with, but who is now one of the best of his age.

Mr Whitehead recently stated in Melbourne bow he came to be possessed of Dividend. The story runs that one of his •peculations seemed the reverse of promising, but one day it unexpectedly yielded a dividend. Mr Whitehead’s share amounted to about £3OO. So pleased was he with the windfall taht he determined to give it a chance in another direction, and hapfienlng to be in Sydney during the yearIng sales, he expended 20 guineas on a black colt by Simmer from Lady Trenton, £nd straightway bestowed upon It the Same of Dividend. And that was before Lord Cardigan had gained any distinction. Dividend was put into training by W. Bhicklock at Eagle Farm, near Brisbane; but although he ran five times as a two year old, he showed no form, and seemingly Mr Whitehead had mado a bad bargain; but it has turned out quite otherwise. Placklock, who broke Dividend in. and had the training of him as a two year old, 4ald that he was the slowest youngest m had ever had anything to do with, and from this one can gather how much the horse has come on.

At a meeting of those Interested in racing held at Kimima on Monday evening it was decide dto form a hack" club, and |he first race meeting was set down to take place on May 6th, on the private bourse of Mr It. R. Ralph, who kindly offered the use of his track for the occasion. The following office bearers were elected, viz.: President, Mr R. R. Ralph; yice presidents, Messrs J. P. Bailey, J.P., end J. B. Harris; hon treasurer. Mr J. Jphnson; hon. secretary, Mr R. G. Rainger; ■tarter, Mr J. P. Bailey; judge, Mr R. R. Ralph; clerk of the scales, Mr R. Grundy: clerk of the course, Mr 8. R. Hammond; handicappers, Messrs N. Evans, J. Johnson, and J. Dooley; committe and stewards, Messrs J. Johnson, J. Dunn, T. Duun, A. Mennle, R. G. Ralph, M. Russell, J. Scotson. J. Ralph, J. Dooley, J. W. Moir, S, R. Hammond, N. Evans, Wm. Spiers, and iJV. Ralph. The following is the programme Arranged:—Malden Race, 6 furlongs; Hack Race (local miners only), 5 furlongs; Klmi‘Fhia Cup, li miles; Pony Race, 5 furlongs; Ladles’ Bracelet, half mile, lowest weight stone; Selling Hack Race, 6 furlongs, minimum weight 9st; Maori Race, 1 mile, patch weights. The course is in tip top order, so that with good weather and a large attendance, a good day’s sport should snark the initial effort of the new racing club.

Chatting about the engagements of loading jockeys io England this season, a xx>u-‘ don writer remarks that tht Manton stable will have first claim on the services of D. Madden, Gilpin’s stable having second call, while J. 11. Martin will ride when Madden Is not available. D. Maher is again to be Jockey for Blackwell’s stable, Mr G. Lambton’s stable having second claim. Hulsey will continue his engagement with Mr F. Lambton’s stable and will again be first jockey for Sir E. Cassel, Mr J. A. Miller having second call on tiis services. Lord Durham has secured first claim on W. Griggs. Mr F. Taylor (wLo trains with Gurry) having next call. H. Jones will remain first jockey for Egrrton House, and will, when available, ■ gulu ride for F. Leach’s stable. R. Jones remains at R. Marsh’s establishment as to his brother Herbert. F. Hardy will be first jockey for T. Jennings’ stable, and Lord Westbury (whose horses Jeunings trains) has secured a claim on •• ary l®» who, of course, continues to ride for his father’s stable. K. Cannon will ride for Mr L. de Rothschild when the MJlght allows, and Plant will continue ro light weights from Blackwell’s Stable from which he holds a retainer.

on tlnental writer says that a couple w interesting cases are awaiting the deci•lor of the French Law Courts. M. Colsties Viscount d’Harcourt, Viscount fie Iredern, and the Marquis de Gauay, •8 stewards of the Roclete d’Kncouragestaut, for the turn of £4OOO as damage* for

having refused to grant him a license to ride. His name was ou the list of licensed jockeys in 1899 aud 1900, and in 1903 M. Celsiant made application by registered letter for permission to ride. This letter has remained without response, aud M. Colmant taxes the damages he has sustained through not being able to follow his chosen calling at the sum of £4OOO, and asks the Court to order his inscription on rhe list of licensed riders under penalty of £5 for each day’s delay from the commencement of the racing season. Tht other case Is that of an owner suing his trainer ft r damages owing to the claiming of a filly. The filly In question was thought to be good, and encouraging reports were sent by the trainer to the owner during last sum mor. Later on she seemed to have lost all form, and her trainer declared that she was a very indifferent plater. She was entered in a selling race to be sold for 240 sovs. Her owner did not object to her going to the post, aud she won easily. She M 9 claimed after the race by another owner, who sent her to the Marseilles meeting, where her second victory prompted her former owner to commence an action for damages against his trainer, who, he alleges, misrepresented facts.

The principal topic ot conversation in raciug circles the past few days has been the distancing of Putty by the Avondale stewards and the disqualification of his rider, McCluskle. When the matter is looked at from a disinterested point of view, it is hard to see what other action the stewards could have taken than that which •they did. The alleged interference took place in the straight, right under the very eyes of the officials, and had they allowed the matter to pass without taking action, then they would have been guilty of a distinct neglect of duty. A lot of argument has taken place as to whether the bump affected Strathavou’s chance of winning. Personally, I think it did, and although anyone with any experience of the game could see that Putty finished first pretty comfortably, it must also be cousldered that Strathavon seemed to be knocked clean out of bls stride and must have lost a Sood bit of ground. The foul riding that as been going on for some time past has been the subject of strong comment from one end of New Zealand to the other, and it has. to be stopped, or else we will find our racecourses converted iuto a miniature slaughterhouse. The thing has got to be put down, and the hardest part of it is making the first plunge. Someone has got to suffer, and the connections of Putty are unfortunate to be first to come before the stewards, and although they at first blush will undoubtedly consider themselves hardly treated, I am sure that they have sufficient of the sportsman iu them to see that the stewards are really acting In the Interests of the sport in general. I think the Avondale stewards are to be commended for their action. As regards McCluskle, It is hard to think that a horseman of his reputation would act so foolishly as to throw away a race in such a manner, and wheat I saw him after the occurrence he strenuously denied wilfully interfering with Strathavon, and stated that his mount (Putty) was running unkindly throughout the race, and that in order to try and prevent his boring he rode him with a pricker on the bit, but even then he was unable to keep him straight. He admits that he ran across the course, but explaints this by sayiDg that the horse was pulling so hard that he momentarily released the reins In order to get a shorter hold, and while doing so he swerved across. He was not aware that he had in any way interfered with Strathavon, and is positive that had he been called before the stewards ho could have satisfactorily explained the occurrence to them.

It Is not. at all surprising (says the English “Field”) that the most popular form of horse-race should be the handicap. The liner points of horse-racing are missed, we fear, by the greater mass* of those taking an interest In the sport, the excitement of wagering being the chief consideration, though we need not be despondent about this, and put down the fact to the degeneracy of the times, for It has always been so.

The origin of the handicap and the selling race is, of course, the same—the necessity for preventing all the races being won by a few good horses, aud for disseminating the prizes over a wider field. If the etymology (hand I’ the cap) that is claimed for handicap Is to be trusted, the early efforts must have been very haphazard affairs, the lighter weight being as likely to go to the better horse as to the Inferior. But that system. If it ever prevailed, belongs to a very misty past, upon which we need not dwell. It Is easy to see that, as the supply of thoroughbreds Increased—the mediocrities, of course, preponderating largely—so would the demand for handicaps, and racecourse managements, with shareholders to satisfy. have for a long time been alive to the fact that nothing draws like a good race of this description. The wide scope which the most popular ones offered for speculation has made them notorious in turf history, which tells of enormous coups brought off by the patient concealment of a horse’s true form, and money put on nt long prices. It seems quite correct lo speak of those of those times as past and gone. The person who made the handicaps naturally became an Important factor in the system, and the aim to be ■trivet) for was to get on his blind aide. Over much of the handicapping it would be charitable to draw a veil, esneelally over that which was undertaken by the officials' of a meeting. It will seem Incredible to the newest generation of racegoers that ft period existed, which their fathers can vividly remember. In which the non-payment of jockeys wat a common thing, and the withholding of •takes from the winning owners n not uncommon occurrence. A man whose horse was purposely let In, as was done, was ■opposed to be satisfied with the money won in bets and not to need the comparatively paltry stake. That waa the

time of honorary handicappers, aud the man whose name will always be spoken of lu this connection, as In others, was Admiral Reus. The present-day turf world ts In no mood for dlctniorauips, even In the event of a tit and proper person for the position of dictator presenting himself, but no doubt the autocratic position taken up by Admiral Rous was justified by the times. The bookmaker was a real power In those days, and bls trail was everywhere to be seen where racehorses were In question. Jis would like to be a power atlll, but circumstance* are too much for him.

With the creation of the handicapper as a distinct official a new era was entered upon. As a paid official the handicapper lost most of his Independence, although In return a considerable Income was made possible for him. The salary of the late Major Egerton from the Jockey Club alone was, we understand, £lOOO per annum, whilst ho demanded, and received, as much as £25 per day from outside meetings for which he made handicaps. The fact that this sum was paid shows that his work found more favour with executive* —and, by inference, with owners—than has bOeu accorded to some other handicappers. Thv action of the Jockey Club, through its stewards, has betrayed symptoms of uneasiness as to the quality of the handicapping, a significant regulation being the prohibition, incorporated In the Rules of Racing, of a handicapper handicapping at more than one meeting per week except by express permission. The same rule provides that the handicapper shall be present at the meeting for which he has made the handicaps, or be represented by a licensed deputy. On the top of this we have the significant fact that at all the meetings where the Jockey Club stewards are iu power the handicapping Is done by a committee of three. The suggestion that three heads tire better than one does not, unfortunately, find favour with the ma jority of owners, for at preseut a widespread feeling of dissatisfaction is abroad. So acute. Indeed, is the feeling that certain prominent owners have broken out Into open revolt, aud declared their intention of running no more horses in handicaps. The causo for complaint Is the way in which the principal handicaps are •’farmed ’ by certain stables. Relying upon being handicapped upon public form, all that Is necessary, it is alleged (the horse capable of winning under a certain weight tak'cTi for granted), is to run him in such a way as to lead the handicapper to believe him to be a verv considerably worse animal than he Is. This is of course the oldest of tricks played upon the handicapper, but the handicapper’s task is now very different from what It was. With the free hand he took. Admiral Row bothered himself very little about the book, where the horses of clever stables were concerned. To use a wellkucwii turf expression, he handicapped the man. But let the handicapper of to-day handicap the man, and instantly the owner lodges a complaint with the stewards, based ou some previous running of the horse. This baPug up of handicappers has become a’ freely-used custom, but it is no more than a custom. The Rules of Racing contain not one line of justification for It, and the handicapper would be perfectly within his rights If he declined lo give any explanation. Our contention is that, a mau having been appointed handicapper, his work must be accepted. An objection to It should have no more standing than a plea by an owner that a start should be considered void because his horse was left, through the fault of the start, or that the judge, having made a mistake iu placing the horses, his horse, placed second, should be given the race. Handicappers are continually being badgered by owners concerning the weights given their horses, and we have always considered it doubtful policy on their part when they allow courtesy to outweigh other considerations and discuss the matter. As well might the judge discuss why he placed the horses as he did. But when one adds to this the possibility of being dragged before the stewards to explain why one has departed from the book form the situation is made almost untenable. An Important reason why those who plan handicap coups are so often successful is the way the hands of the handicapper are tied. We know of one handicapper who declines to be so hampered, and who, in answer to a complaint, gave as bls reply to the stewards that, in his opin ion, the complaining owner did not try once in nine times. A little more of that spirit of independence would do no hatm.

AVONDALE JOCKEY CLUB’S AUTUMN MEETING. FIRST DAY. The opening day of the Avondale Jockey Club’s Autumn Meeting was held on Wednesday In fine weather. There was a good attendance, but speculation during the afternoon was anything but brisk, the small sum of £3145 being passed through the machines,

this representing a decrease of £l3OO on the opening day last year. Mr J. Bollards MUR.. officiated as Judge, and Mr W. H. Hanken as starter, the latter gentleman being very successful in bls efforts, aud he Is to be congratulated on his success. The raciug throughout the afternoon was Interesting and exciting, Mr Evett succeeding in bringing his fields well together. The meeting was well conducted by the secretary, Mr H. H. tlayr, who was ably assisted by the various officials. After the running of tht) Avondale Handicap, Mr J. Montgomery, the owner of Strathavon, lodged a complaint against Putty being awarded the stake on the grounds of alleged interference. However, as the occurrence took place in the straight, Uhe stewards did not consider the protest, but took the matter up themselves, as being a question of fact. After a lengthy discussion they decided to distance Putty, and award the stake to Stiathavon, and to disqualify McCluskle, the rider of Putty, during the pleasure of th? stewaids. Malden Plate of GOsovs; G furlongs.—Mr F. L. Armitage’s Lycla, 8.5, 1; Leo Delaval, 7.10, 2; Seatonia, 7.G, 8. Scratched: Jean, Seabird, Discoverer, Roinola, aud Kapunl. The field was despatched to a good start, Lycla, Waltatl, and Lllymea being the first to show out. Lycla was first to the turn for home, and, drawing away from tho rest in the run to the post, won easily by three lengths. Time, 1.19. Dividends, £3 10/6 and £2 5/G. Hurdle Race of lOOsovs; 2 miles.—Mr J. B. Williamson’s Irish, 10.5, 1; Major, 9.8. 2; Cannongate, 11.0, 3. Scratched: Hakaria, Valkyrie, and Andy Regan. Bellman and Lingard were in the lead for about a mile, when Irish took charge, and he was never afterwards headed, winning by a clear length from Major, with Canuoiigate three lengths away third. Time, 3.53. Dividend, £4 12/6.

Juvenile Handicap of 80sovs; 5 furlongs. —Mr F. W. Arnold's Annette, 7.11, 1; Master Delaval, 7.3, 2; Devouport. 8.3, 3. Scratched: Ilorsa and Lady Jane. Merry Delaval rushed to the front when the barrier lifted, and she was In charge for a couple of furlongs, when Annette passed her, and was never afterwards troubled, winning easily by a couple of lengths. Time 1.3 2-5. Dividends, £2 3/6 and £2 17/6. Avondale Handicap of 200sovs; second hors? 20sovs, thfrd lOsovs. One mile and a-quarter.—l 94, J. Montgomery’s ch g Strathavon, aged, by Blairgowrie—Mantilla, 8.0 (Cotton), 1; 47, R. and R Duder’s b c Akaraua, 7.8 (Buchanan), 2. Also started: 59, Romeo, 9-5 (Speakman); 68, Durable, 7.12 (Gray); 109, Putty, 7.7 (McClusky); 54, Zulelkn, 7.7 (Pinker); 13, Str Gilead, 7.0 (Towers); 81, Delanlu, 7-5, Including 51b penalty (Sceats); 12, Souitfish, 6.7 (E. Cotton). No time was? wasted at the post, the field being got away to an even start at the first attempt. Borneo was first on his feet, but he was only in charge for a short distance, as when a furlong was covered Zullekn, Putty and Durable were racing abreast, just clear of Strathavon, with the rest of the field close up, and this was the order as they raced past the stand. Going out of the straight Zulleka took charge. Putty lying soewid, Durable third, and Strathavon fourth, and Delanta whipping In. At the five-furlong post Zulieka was done with, and Putty was In command, with sir Gilead next, and then Strathavon. Putty showed the way across the top stretch ft length in front of Strathavon,and he was first to turn for home when the field closed up. As they straightened up for the run to the post, Strathavon was almost on terms with Putty, and the pair fought out a good finish. Putty eventually winning by n long neck from Strathavon, with Akarana four lengths away third. Romeo was fourth. Sir Gilead fifth, and Souitfish last. Time, 2.9 1-5. Dividends: Strathavon, £2 3/6; Akarana, £3 0/6. Although a protest was entered against the rider of Putty for alleged interference, the stewards did not consider it, but took the matter up themselves upon a question of fact, and decided that Putty be distanced and the race award to Strathavon. McCluskle, the rider ot Putty, was disqualified during the pleasure of the stewards. First Pony Handicap of 50sovs; second horse ssovs.—44, H. Barr’s br in Orange and Blue, aged, by Soult —Rose and White, 8.4 (Barr), 1; 51, B. Cunningham’s br ni Lucrcce, 7.12 (Scents). 2; 70, J. ton), 3. Also started: 145. Girton Girl, Montgomery’s b m Gladys Rose. 7.8 (Cot--8.4; 39, Sentinel, 7.8: 10, Dr. Quest. 7.0; 42, Miss Cnrlassier, 7.0; 31, Hurlhurl. 7.0; 20, Storytellei\ 7.0. Hurlburl and Orange and Blue werT*first to show In front, and, joined l>y Sentinel, the trio raced abreast till the turn for home, where Orange and Blue took command, Girton Girl runnlncr second and Lucrece and Gladys Rose coming fast. Orange and Blue increased her Advantage In the run to the post, and won easily at the finish by three lengths from Lucrece, who was a neck in front of Gladys Rose. Girton Girl was fourth and Storyteller last. Time, 1.17. Dividends, £7 2/ and £1 18/6.

Chevalier Handicap of 50soys; second horse ssovs. Six furlongs.—B4, F. L. Armitage’s br in Lycla, Syrs, by Boult—Lady Musket, 9.5 (Wilson), 1; 12, a. Telfer’* br g Nervine, 9.5 (Mobberley), 2; 24, W. Lang’s b in Jean, 10.0 (Julian). 23. Also started: 42, Discoverer, 8.11 (White); 23,

JBll>cla, 8.11 (Gray); 75, Antabl, 8.3 (Ryan); 6, Sir Godfrey, 7.7 (Pinker); 25, Star of the South, 7.7 (Cotton). The barrier was raised to a good start, Jean and Lycia being quickest on their feet, but before e furlong was covered Discoverer was In front, and be Jed to the entrance to the straight, with Lycia almost on terms. At

the distance Lycia was in the lead, and, •tailing off a late run by Nervine, she won a good race by a length and a-half, with Jean three lengths further back third, just In front of Discoverer. Time, 1.17. Dividends, £2 6/6 and £5 9/. Auction Stakes of 50sovs. Five furlongs.—sB. W. Lovett’s b g Mechanic, tiyrs, by Hotchkiss—Mantilla, 8.11 (McLeod). 1; 80, J. George’s ch in Mataura, 9.4 (George). 2; 45, A. Bray’s ch ui Seatonia, 9.4 (Julian). 3. Also started: 13, Brookland, 8.11 (Sceats); 28. St. Cyril, 8.7 (Cotton): 04, Sir Hector, 7.7 (Marchant). Mataura was quickest to get Into her stride (Sir Hector being left), and, going along the back, she had three lengths’ lead of Scatonia, after whom came St. Cyril and Mechanic. Mat aura was first to the borne turn, where Mechanic put in h’.s claim, and. getting on terms at the distance, the pair fought out a desperate finish. Mechanic staying the longest and winning by a neck, with Seatonia three lengths away third. Time, 1.4 2-5. Dividends. £3 S/6 and 16/ The winner was sold immediately .after the race for 25sovs, Mr Brophy being the purchaser. Mr IL T. Gorrie officiated as Buctioneer.

Railway Handicap of lOOsovs; second horse lOsovh. and third horse £sovs. Seven furlongs.—77, J. J. McVicker’s b m Austerlitz, syrs, by Soult - Sappho, 7.6 (Marchant), 1: 229. B. Armitage’s b in Lady Annie. 8.0 (Julian), 2; 67, A. Champion's b g Full Cry. 8.0 (Lindsay), 3 Also started: 37. General Average, 7.8 (Buchanan); 58, LoveHnk, 7.2 (Towers); 58, Chola, 7.2 (Gray); 15, Soultfish. 6.10 (E. Cotton); 18, Merry goult, 6.10 (Deery). Austerlitz gave a lot of trouble at the post, aud when the barrier was lifted she was slow to move. Full Cry was first to show cut, but Merry Souit immediately rushed to the front, aud she showed the way till they turned for home, where Full Cry and Lady Annie were on terms. At the distance it looked as if '’"this pair would have the finish to themselves, hut Lovelink and Austerlitz both put in a claim, and a hundred yards from the post the quartette were almost in line. Austerlitz, however, put in a surprising run, and, shooting clear away from the opposition, won a good race by a length and a-half from Lady Annie, who was a head In front of Full Cry Time, 1.29 4-5. Dividends, £4 18/ and 10'6.

SECOND DAY. The Avondale Jockey Club concluded their autumn meeting on Saturday afternoon. The weather was tine at the commeneement, but just before the third race started thick rain fell, and continued nearly all the afternoon, making matters a trifle unpleasant. There was a good attendance present, and speculation was fairly brisk, the sum of £4413 passing through the tnachines. This, added to the amount handled on the opening day, gives a total of £7558 for the meeting, a decrease of £1297 ou last year’s amount. In the absence of Mr Bollard, Mr M. Foley officiated tis judge. As on the opening day. Mr Hankens performed the starter's duties, and was as successful as on that occasion. The meeting was well conducted by tiie secretary. Mr IL IL llayr, and the officials, and the programme was gone through, without a hitch. Mr T. King's catering on the two day’s was in that gentleman's usual style, end left no cause for complaint. The following are the later results:— Maiden Handicap Hurdles of 80 sovb., 1} miles.— Mr R. M. Weston’s Sunshine, 8.0, 1 ; Mr. (.’, Whitney’s Andy Regan. 10.0, 2; Mr. W. Tooman’s Murawai, 8.5. 3. Valkyrie was scratched. Sunshine was in the lead from the start, and although Andy Regan was on terms at the last fence, the mare drew out in the run to the post, and won by two lengths. Time. 3m. 28 4 ss. Dividend, £5 ss. Flying Handicap of 80sovs. distance four furlongs.—Messrs IL and R. Duder's Black •nd Gold. 9.5, 1: Mr C. Weal’s Desdemona ■nd Mr W. Ring's Certainty, dead beat, 2. Scratched: Inspiration and Merry Souit. Desdemona was quickest to begin, and was Joined by Black and Gold. The pair made the running to the distance, where Black pud Gold drew out, and. fiukriilug strongly, won by a length and a half. Certainty just vetting up in time to make « dead heat for second honours. Time, 51 sec. Dividends: Black and Gold, £4 2/; Certainty, jl 8/; Desdemona, 18/.

Second Pony Handicap of 45sovs, five iurlougs. —Mr 11. Barr’s Orange and Blue, 13. 1; Mr B. Cunningham's Lucrece, 8.5. ; Mr 11. Weal’s Inspiration, 8.9, 3. Scratchfl: Gladys Rose. Orange ami Blue shot o the front when the barrier was lifted, nd although Hurlhuri headed her, it was rnly on sufferance, as Orange and Blue nok comma ml at the home turn, and, going on. won in a canter by four lengths. 3'line, 1.4 35. Dividends, £2 11/G and £1

Autumn Handicap of IftOsovs. one mile.— f 132) Messrs R. and R. Duder’s b c Akarana, Byrs, by Senton Delnval—Anna, 7.10 1: (81) Mr W. L. Thomson’s b in Delanla. 4yrs. 7.7 »Scents), 2; (171) Mr F. James’ b g Romeo. Cyrs, 9.5 (Speakman', 8 Also started: (147) Full Cry. 8.2; (105) .Znlieka. 7.10: (49) Annoyed,* 7.5; (51) LoveJink, 7.0; (20) Soultfish, 6.7. Annoyed and 'Romeo gave a bit of trouble at the post, l»ut eventually Mr Hankins succeeded iu despatching them on fairly even terms. Romeo was quickest on his loot, and he set out to make the running, followed by Lovelink, Annoyed, Full Cry, and Delanla, with Akarana at the tall of the field, and they ■ need in this order along the buck. Passing the four furlong post Akarana and Delu»la moved up closer to the leaders, and crossing the top stretch the whole field, with the exception of Soultfish. were in a

heap. Full Cry took charge as they turned for home, and as they straightened up for the run to the post, he had a length's advantage of Romeo, Lorelink, Delanla, and Akarana, who were nearly on even terms. At the*distance it was bard to pick what would win, the whips being out all round, and an exciting finish home resulted in Akarana getting the best of the struggle in the last bit, and winning a great race by half a length from Delanla. who was a neck in front of Romeo. Full Cry was a head away fourth, Zuleika fifth, and Soultflsh last. Time, 1.45 1-5. Dividends, £3 17/ and £2 2/.

Nursery Handicap of SOsovs, second 10 sovs. six furlongs.—(l4l) Mr F. W. Arnold’s b f Annette, 2yrs, by Souit—Miss Annie, 8.10 (Cotton), 1; (13«) Messrs R. and R. Duder’s br c Devonport, 2yrs, 8.0 (Buchanan), 2; (65) Mr W. Foss* b c Master Delava J. 2yrs, 7.5 (Gray). 3. Also started: (7;>). Kilderkin, 8.7: (671 Foremost, 8.5; (54) Daidanus, 7.6; (15) Punui, G. 12. From a good start Devonport was first to show out, but before they had gotie a furlong Annette took charge, and galloping in good style, the little mare soon put a break between herself and the rest of the field, which was headed by Devonport and Kilderkin. Annette was still in the lead as they turned for home, and from that out she was never seriously troubled, winning easily at the finish by three lengths from Devonport. who was a length in front of Master Del aval. lime, 1.17 1-5. Dividends £2 12/6 and 18/.

Handicap Steeplechase of lOOsovs; second jOsovs; 3 miles.—To4, Mr F. B. Ross’ b g Hylas, aged, by St. Hippo—Can tiniere, 9.7 (Wilson), 1; 18. Mr J. Bowden’s b g Kowhal, aged, 9.7 (Bowden), 2; 104, Mr L. Coleman’s ch g Dingo, aged, 10.7 (Phillips), 3. Also started: 36, Nor’-west, 10.6; 89, Minna, 9.7. Kowhai showed the way over the first fence, where the order was Kowhai, Hylas, Dingo. Nor’-west, and IHnau, and there was very little change in the positions as they raced around the first time. With the exception that Hylas took a turn in the lead, the same order was maintained as they passed the stand the second time and went along the back,where Binau fell. As they passed the stand the last time Dingo ran up to Hylas, and it looked as 1f he would win; but Hylas outjumping him at the fence at the five-fur-long post, got a break of five lengths on him, and jumping the remaining fences proficiently ho went on and won easily by half a dozen lengths from Kowhai, who caught Dingo at the last fence and beat him home. Time, 6.22. Dividend, £2 12/. Mount Rosklll Handicap of SOsovs; second ssovs; 6 furlongs.—4l, Mr W. Handley’s b f Souit Maid, Syrs, by Souit—Merry Maid, 6.7 (Cotton), 1; 85, Mr A. Telfer’s hr g Nervine, Byrs, 9.3 (Mobberly), 2; 62, Mr H. Burch's ch g Discoverer, syrs, 7.8 (Buchanan), 3. Also started: 2)18, Jean. 9.6; 71, Culragno, 8.2; 58, Silicla, 7.8; 25. Lochawe, 7.0; 49, Pukekohe, 7.0; 8, Sir Godfrey, 6.7. Jean was first to break the Tine, and when they had gone a furlong she was out two lengths in front of Discoverer, with Nervine at the head of the others. Discoverer was on terms with Jean as they raced across the top stretch, and the pair turned for home together. At the distance Discoverer and Jean were still the leading pair, but Nervine put in his claim, and Souit Maid also joining in a great race to the post ensued, Souit Maid getting the best of it iu the last few strides and winning by a neck from Nervine, with Discoverer a similar distance away third, just in front of Jean. Time, 1.17 3-5. Dividends, £lO 3/ and £1 12/6. Waltakerei Handicap of lOOsovs; second lOsovs; G furlongs.—ll2, Mr W. C. Ring’s b m Certainty, 4yrs, by Sabretasche—Off (Tiance, 7.12 (Cotton), 3; 80, Mr W. C. Ring’s b m Miss Lottip, Gyrs, 8.7 (Julian), 2; 57, Mr W. L. Thomson’s b in Delanla, 4yrs, 8.2 (Ryan), 3. Also started: 113, Hohoro, 9.12; 115, Black and Gold. 8.8; 55, Liberator, 8.5; 135, Austerlitz, 8.5; 100, Te Aroha, 8.3; 55, Noteorin 1. 7.8; 5. Bacchus, 7.3; 26, Woodmount, 7.0; 47. Bonomlnna, *6.9. There was a bit of delay at the post, and when the barrier eventually rose Austerlitz whipped around and was loft. Miss Lottie, Te Aroha, and Black and Gold weie the first.to make piny, and the trio carried on the running along the back just clear of Certainty. Crossing the top stretch Miss Lottie had a slight advantage, and she was first to show-into the straight. At the distance Miss Lottie was still in front, but Certainty here put in her claim, and a good finish home between the two stablemates i-esulted in Certainty winning by the best part of a length, with 1 Mania, who came fast at 11ip finish, two lengths away think Time, 1.16. Dividend. £5 7/6.

AUCKLAND RACING CLUB'S AUTUMN MEETING. ACCEPTANCES AND GENERAL ENTRIES. The following acceptances have been received in connection with the A.K.C. Autumn Meeting, which tokes place nt Ellerslie on the 22nd, 24th, and 25th inst.:— THE EASTER HANDICAP of 500SOVS. One mile. st. lb. st. lb. Romeo 9 2 Putty 7 7 iScotty 811 Izudy Annie .. 7 7 Parltutu .... 810 Waikato .... 7 5 Gladstone ... 810 Delanla 7 4 Strathavou* .. 8 7 Heroism ..... 7 0 Regulation ..8 6 Te Arolia.... 7 0 llohoro 8 4 Crichton «... 7 0 Btarshoot ... 8 0 Rambler «... 7 O AurntuM* •••• 7 12 lx»velink «... 612 Mlm I«ottie.. 7 12 . Chola 610 Full Cry .... 712 Lady Rose... 6 9 Akarana .... 7 7 Pearl Necklet 6 9 *lncluding 71b penalty. flncluding 101 b penalty.

BRldtaTON HURDLE RACE of lOOsovs. Two miles. , st. lb. .Ulb. Dolores 11 5 Hakaria .... 10 4 Prin.of Thule 11 0 Andy Regan. 9 O Irish* 11 11 Lingard » 0 Innisklllen .. 10 5 •Including 71b penalty. THE AUTUMN STEEPLECHASE HANDICAP of SOOsors. About three miles and a half. at. lb. at. lb. Prin.of Thule 11 0 Innisklllen .. 0 8 Papatu 11 0 Kanaka H 7 Dingo 10 0 Andy Began. 9 7 Nor'-west ... 10 0 Hiuau » 7 Hylas 912 Kowhai 9 7 Evermore .. 9 8 TRADESMEN'S HANDICAP of lOOsovs. One mile aud a quarter. st. lb. st. lb. Durable 810 Inglewood .... 7 3 Zuleika 7 12 Franc. Lovejoy 7 2 Certainty 7 10 St. Harp 7 0 Idas 7 8 Yolette <5 12 Waikato 7 8 Soultfish ...... 610 Lady 11une.... 7 6 Seatonla 6 9 Cavalry 7 5 Bacchus ....... 6 7 Sir Gilead 7 4 EDEN HANDICAP of lOOsovs. Seven furlongs. st. lb. st. lb. Auratus 812 Noteoriui 7 3 Full Ciy 812 Grenade 7 2 Jewellery 8 7 Colle Iris 7 2 Austerlitz 8 6 Kola Nip 7 O Liberator ..... 8 8 Baltimore fl 10 Delanla 8 2 Stcpruar 6 9 Lyeia 7 10 Scatonia « 9 Chola 7 6 Bonomiana .... fl 7 Geordle 7 4 Ttthora 6 7 Southern Cross 7 3 Slllcia fl 7 ONSLOW STAKES of lOOsovs. Five furlongs. st. lb. st. lb. Lnrerome 812 Master Delaval 8 o Glenullin 8 7 Dardauus 7 10 Loirct 8 8 Silky 7 4 Inurangi 8 o Syren 7 0 TRAMWAY HANDICAP of lOOSovs. Five furlongs. Bt. Ib. st. lb. llohoro 10 3 Parkshot 7 2 P-laefi and Gold 9 0 SoultmaM 7 2 Kremlin 9 6 Culraguo 7 O Gwenlad 8 6 Discoverer .... fl 12 Desdemona ... 8 5 Hector 612 Alba Rose .... 8 0 Pearl Necklet 012 Lycia 7 8 San Paulo .... 610 la.relink 7 6 Woodmount .. fl 10 Mataura 7 5 Pukekolie 6 9 Millie 7 4 Merry Souit ..6 7 LTlyniea 7 2 PONY HANDICAP of lOOsovs. Seven furlongs. st. lb. et. lb. Orange & Blue 0 6 Sentinel 7 5 Sonoma 9 4 Whawhai 7 3 Fashionable .. 8 5 Etit 7 0 Forth 8 3 Miss Cuirassier 610 Glrtou Girl.... 8 2 Dr. Quest 610 Lucrece 8 0 Little Mabel .. C 7 Gladys Rose... 7 8 Storyteller .... 6’7 Stewards’ Handicap of lOOsovs, one mile.—Grenade, Geordle. Austerlitz, Seatonin. Bonomiana, Baltimore, Jewellery, Waikato, Rambler, Calle Iris, Auratus, Lady Hune, Liberator, Regulation, Delanla, Lyeia, Full Cry, Durable, Clroia, Certainty. Ellerslie Handicap of lOOsovs, six furlongs.—Multifid, Kilderkin. Apologue. Master Delaval, Glenullln, Carl Rosa. Boomerang, Loiret. Devonport, Annette, Dardanus, Foremost, Merry Delaval.

Hula Handicap of lOOsovs, six furlongs. —Kremlin, I.oveliuk, Sicilia, Pearl Necklet, Coronation, Woodmount, Certainty, Noteorlnl, Desdemona, Liberator, Millie. Hohoro, Crichton. Parkshot, Southern Cross, Te Aroha, Lycia, Stepmar, Tahora, Culragno. Pony Handicap of lOOsovs, six furlongs.— Ln France, Solitary, Little Mabel, Dr. Quest. Shrewsbury, Orange and Blue. Girton Giri, Norana, Inspiration, Forth, Fashionable, Storyteller, Sentinel, Gladys Rose, Hurlhuri. Etu, Sonoma, Sally Horner, Whawhal, Lucrece, Galvanic, Rapid.

Autumn Hurdle Race of lOOsovs., one mile and three-quarters. —Irish. Frances Lovejoy, Ilakaria, Dolores, Llngard, Andy Regan, Innisklllen, Ludo, Major. Electric Handicap of lOOsovs.. five furlongs.—Kremlin, Lady Rose. Discoverer, Lovelink, San Paulo, Pukekohe, 1-arly Bobs, Gwenlad. Lilymea, Desdemona, liberator, Millie. llohoro. Parksliot, and Gold, Stratbavon, Alba Rose. Te Aroha, Mataura, Merry Souit, Souit Maki. Malden Hurdle Race of lOOsovs.. one mile and three quarters.—Hector. Albuera, Reporter, Corporal, Lady Hune, Ludo, Sunshine, Malanta.

Criterion Handicap of lOOsovs.. six furlongs.—Kola Nip, St. Harp, Discoverer, Sir Hector, Simple Simon. Silica, Pearl Necklet, San Paulo, Baltimore, Kereru, Coronation, Wiiaklblbi, Piper, Nervine, .Ale Gun. Southern Cross, Sir Godfrey, l.eonator, Ijidy Clements, Waltata. Stepmar, Star of the South, Jean, Souit Maid, Culragno. St. Heller's Hurdle Race of 200sovs., two miles. —Irish, Hakarla, Dolores. Llngard, Andy Regan, Innisklllen, Princess of Thule, Major.

Malinta Welter Handicap of ISOsovs., one mile. —Bacchus, Geordle, Scatonia. Frances Lovejoy. Bonomiana, Whakihlhl. Waikato. Noteoriui. Rambler, Calle Iris, Yolette. Leo Delaval. Idas, I«dy Hune. Zulleka, Liberator, i’arkshot, Southern Cross, Akarana, Lycia. Full Cry, Cavalry, Durable, Chola. Pony Handicap of JOObovb., live furlong*. —La France, Solitary, Little Mabel, Dr. Quest. Shrewsbury. Orange and Blue. Girton Girl, Norana. Inspiration. Forth, Storyteller, Sentinel, Gladys Rose. Hurlhuri, Etn, Sonoma. Matanra, Sally Horner, Whawhat, Galvanic, Rapid.

Buckland Handicap of Ibosovs., seven furlongs.—Grenade, Kremlin, Lady Roue, Austerlitz, Lovelink, Seatonla, General Average. Pearl Necklet, Baltimore, laidy Annie, Certainty, Miss Ixittic, Waikato, Desdemona. Liberator, Millie, Crichton, Regulation, Black and Gold, strathavou, Te Aroha, Delanla, lycia, Full Cry, Auratus.

Victoria Handleap of lOOsovs , five turlongs.—Multifid, i’unln, Kilderkin, Apologue, Silky, Master Delaval, GlecuPin, Cart Rosa, Horsa, Luresome, Boomerang, l.oiret, Devonport, Annette, Dardanns, Foremost, Merry Delaval. Lady Annie( "st 71b) should have appeared amongst the acceptances for the A.R.C. Easter Handicap. © ® • MANAWATU AUTUMN MEETING. FIRST DAY. PALMERSTON N., Wednesday. The Manawatu Racing Club’s Autumn Meeting commenced In beautiful summerlike weather. There was a large attendance, plenty of speculation, fair average fields, and some very good horses; but quite the average number of bad ones and moderates. The Manawatn Stakes was contested for by fonr runners, Achilles being made a- very decided favourite. He looked well, and so also did Machine Gun, while Stronghold looked bright and fit. Sir Tristram also had a more seasoned appearance than in any of his previous arrays. The course w.as very fast, and the representatives of Sir Geo. Clifford and the Hon. J. D. Ormond cut out the work at a smashing pace, running the first half-mile in 49sec. Achilles at that stage being away lengths behind Machine Gun, who was at their heels, Achilles seemingly being slow to get on his legs. Mr Stead’s big colt came sweeping down on the leaders entering the straight, but under persuasion, and all four ridei*s were at work 300 yards from home, Machine Gun drawing away; but it was not until within the distance that Aehiiles passed Sir Tristram and Stronghold. He, however, failed to reach Machine Gun, though going the faster, and suffered a length and a-half defeat, the time being 1.14 1-s—a record for the course. Thus the first Manawatu Stakes fell to Hotchkiss’s son, whose supporters received the nice dividend of £4 11/. Twenty horses were struck out of the number coloured oa the card for the event, many persons having been drawn to the meeting iu the expectation of seeing a big field. The Hurdle Race came next on the list, and there were five starters, KlHarney, who looked well, being made favourite. The race w«h a cracker, Killarney aud Magnificent (the last-named under punishment) being Iu front for the first mile, when Levant went up and a little further on headed KlHarney, and Waiwera drew into third place passing the halfmlle post, from which stage the race was a procession, Levant winning easily by over CO yards from Killarney, Walwera half that distance further back. The time was 3.-£5 A and the dividend £4 18/. The Champion Hack Plate saw nine runners out of 19 on the card. With the exception of Mr Buxton’s filly, Pearl Necklet, and Mr Stead's Lady Lyonors, all had penalties, and this brace had allowances. So far as the Auckland Ally w r as concerned, it would not have altered the result bad she had considerably less to carry; but half a stone or 101 bs might have stopped Mr Stead’s filly, who had to be ridden to beat Gawain, who is unsound but ran one of his best races, Pretty Maid, another of Mr Ormond’s cast-offs, being third, while St. Winifred was fourth. It is something new for Mr Stead to start horses in hack races.His Multiform filly carried nearly half the money on the machine. Time, 1.29. Dividends, £1 12/ and £2 17/. Auratus was favourite for the Longbnra Handicap, and won just as easily from Noneeu and Veneer as The Stake had don« earlier in the day. Time, 1.56. Dividends. £2 8/ and £2 11/.

Mairfapoto had half a dozen in opposition in the Electric Handicap, but though he was last to leave the mark he was witlft his horses in a furlong, and waited there and won just as he liked from Sir Geraint and Tondergbie, a pair of moderates. Dividends of £1 6/ and £1 4/ were paid. His Excellency and his aide-de-eamp: were present, h good many visitors? from different parts of the colony being also on the course. Telegraph Handicap.—The Stake 1. Noneen 2, Veneer 8. Scratched: Balia rate, Chrysels, and Good Intent. Won by length easily. Time 1.15 4-5. ' Dividend, £2 13/ and £2 15/. Welter Hack Handicap.—'Mania poto 1, Royal Blue 2, Faro 3. Scratched: Pardon. Won easily by a length. Time. 1.43. Dividends, £2 1/ and £8 15/. Hack Hurdles.—Roseplot 1, Wind 2, Vallma 3. Scratched: Sleepwell. Won easily. Handsome Rose. Gipsy Jack, and In the Van fell. Won by a length. Time, 3.21 4-5. SECOND DAY. PALMERSTON NORTH, Thursday. The Manawatu Racing Club's Autumn Meeting concluded In beautiful weather. There was again a great attendance, and plenty of speculation, the sum of £10,566 being passed through the totes, making £20,517 for the two days, as against £21,747 (or £1270 less than) last year. His Excellency was again present, and on taking his departure the stewards and officials gave him a hearty send-off. Borough Handicap.—Maniapoto 1. Regulation 2, Wet Reef 3. Scratched: Anratwu Won comfortably by a length. Time, 1.26. Dividends. £1 18/ and £1 1/. Flylug Hack Handicap.—Toiulf rghic L Royal Blue 2, Pardon 3. Scratched: Manlati>to. St. Winifred, Spoil. Furneaux. Aotea, paik, St. Amelia, and Victoria Park. Woa easily by a length. Time, 1.16 L Dividends £3 19/ and £1 15/. Repulse and Wind were the favourite selections for the Second Hack Hurdles, and it was only in the last hundred yarils where Hnerere came and split the pair. Whataroa fell. The dividends were £1 39/ and £4 16/.

Kaharoa was n strong favourite for the Autumn Handicap, but after Spoil and The Stake had cut out the running for six furlongs Submarine went up and joined the

•rst-namrd. and Koseal and Kaharoa followed at their heels. The Slake droppins back. Submarine came at Spoil nearing borne and won easily by half a length from the outsider, who beat the faater-finisblng Koseal the same distance, Kaharoa beaten oil three lengths away. The time was 2.8, and the dividends £4 4/ and £4 16/. The Maiden Scurry was won comfortably by Aotea from Hipporaugl, Blink Bonny, and several other moderates. Aotea's backers received a dividend of £l’ 12/. The Second Handicap Hurdles saw Levant go out favourite, but she had to strike her colours to Kliiaruey, who came strongly from the last hurdle home and won by a length and a-half, Talune three parts of a length away. The dividend was £2 17/. The Juvenile Stake Handicap saw five runners at the post. Prelude and Purdey were smartest to move, aud Lady White and Purity began badly. Prelude had too much pace, aud won easing up by three lengths from Aoraugl, Lady White, finishing fast, close up. I’relude paid a dividend of £2 7/. There were seven starters for the Farewell Welter Handicap,which Crimson Lake won comfortably by a length and a-half from Noneeu, who beat Gold Dust the same distance. Ngataurn got stopped by being caught in the tapes, and then finished fourth. The dividend on Crimson Lake was £4 16/, and on Noneen £1 17/.

WAIKAKAPA RACING CLUB’S MEETING. WELLINGTON, Friday. The following weights have been declared In connection with the Walrarapa Racing Chib’s meeting: — Tawhltl Hurdle Race, one mile and a half.Taiune 11.3, llamea 11.3. Koseplot 10 13 Cassiopea 10.0, No Shot 10.3, Moeraki 10.3, Bounce 10.3, Grand Jury 9.10. Warwick 9.4, Haerere 9.3, Saraband 9.3, Clovelly 9.3, Gipsy Jack 9.2, Komingo 9.0, K Easter Handicap, one mile and a distance—Submarine S.lO. Armistice 8.9, Hamua 7.9, Crimson Lake 7.9, Polyanthus 7.9, Hydrant 7.9, Sunfish 7.8, Capulet 7.8, Non een 7.7, Zlska 7.7, Needlework 7.7, Coxswain 7.5, Benefactor 7.2, Immersion 7.2, Makikihl 7.2, Tomairangl 7.1, Waitoa 7.0, (Variation 0.13, Sylverle 0-9, Ngatatoa 0.7. Wangalmoana Handicap, seven furlongs. Platypus 10.9, Hamua 9.0, Capulet 9.5, Needlework 9.5, Ziska 9.5, Waltoti 9.2, Rungarawa 8.13, St. Lyra 8.11, Immersion 8.10, Hluurewa 8.10, Waitoa 8.10, Makikihl 8.9, Roseplot 8.8, Furneaux 8.3, The Leader 8.8, Hoity Toity 8.2, Sir Agnes 8.2, Sir Agues 8.2, Waitatapua 8.0. Tewaka Hack Welter Handicap, seven furlongs.—Faro 9.13, Sllverlene 9.9. Benmore 9.7, The Leader 9.7, Lethellne 8.13, languid 8.13, Clem 8.18, Bonnie Prince 8.13, Artisan 8.13, Lavlnia 8.12, Loch Tay 8.10. Hindoo 8.9. Pemmican 8.8, Kaharawa 8.7, Miss Foreshore 8.7, Walohine 8.7, Keali 8.7. . . Torohanga Hack Handicap, six furlongs. —Sardonyx 8.9, St. Bill 8,9, Royal Blue 8.3, Declination 8.2, Matakokero 7.13, Furneaux 7.12, Fancywork 7.10, Galahad 7.8, St. Clalmer 7.7, First View 7.7, Clem 7.7, Phemle 7.3, Marston 7.0. Waforongomal Handicap, six furlongs. — Platypus 9.7, Rirstique 8.4, Rangarawa 7.9, Sunfish 7.10, Purdey 7.8, Hinurewa 7.7, The Ganger 6.8. Makatu Hack Handicap, five furlongs.— Sardonyx 8.13, St. Bill 8.12, Royal Blue 8.6, Declination 8.6. Lord Soult 8-4. Hukaaka 8.0, St. Clalmer 7.11, Mtss Lancelot 7.9, Scrip 7.7, Patuna 7.7, Eone 7.7, Montague 7.5 Hinup.nl 7.5. Atarangl 7.5, Phemle 7.5, Letheline 7.2, Sin Sin 7.0, Dnictner 7.0, Petrolia 7.0. Damascus 7.0, Acetylene 7.0, Rebel Prince 7.0, Plwa 7.0, Kaimere 7.0, Sea Yarn 7.0.

FEILDING JOCKEY CLUB. WELLINGTON. Friday. The following are the weights for the Feildiug Jockey Club’s meeting, declared l>y Mr Heurys:— Mangaone Stakes, six furlongs.—Black Reynard 9.5, Ballarat 9.2. Boris 9.2, Solution 9.2, Kaharoa 8.13, Auratus 8.11. Chivalry 8.11, To-morrow 7.11. Matuku 7.11, Wet Reef 7.10. Rustique 7.9, Catspaw 7.8, Good Intent 6.12, Purdey 6.11, Hinurewa 6.10. Gawain 6.9. Veneer 6.8, Le Beau 6.7, Assayer 6.7. Goldwal 6.7, Chartreuse 6.7. Kawakawa Hurdles, two miles.—Trumpery 11.4, Levant 11.0, Miss King 10.13, Killarney 10,7, Rungarawa 10.2, Evening 10.0, Magnificent 9.7, Defoe 9.7, Kohunul 9.6, ■Duffer 9.3, Handsome Rose 9.0, Waitoa 9-0, Lull 9.0. Felldlng Cup. one mile and a half.—Gold Crown 8.13, Kaharoa 8.10. Ghoorka 8.10 Bln.k Reynard 8.8. Cannie Chiel 8.7, Roscal 8.2, Joe Chamberlain 7.10, F’.amen 7.9, Fleka 7.2. Rapids 6.13, Spoil 6.7, Veneer 6.7 St. Winifred 6.7. Taonui Hurdles, one mile and threequarters.—Repulse 11.5, Wind 11.0, Handsome Rose 10.8, Cassiopea 10.7. Sleepwell 9.11. Hardwork 9.10, Lauree 9.9, Grand Jury 9.8, Apltl 9.3, Warwick 9.2, Kuroki 9.2, Valloia 9.0. lu-the-Vau 9.0. Gipsy Jack 9.0, Levent 9.0. Domestic 9.0, Commonwealth 9.0, Golden Comb 9.0, Bannockburn 9.0, Mischief 9.0, Whataroa 9 0. Onepnhi Hack Welter, one mile. —Manlopoto 11.9, Pardon 9.9, Admiral Cervcras 9.9, Black Squall 9.5, Barca 8.13, Dalky 8.9. Explode 8.7, Fairwind 8.7, Waltatapia 8.5, Kuroki 8.5, Vlctoila Park 8.0. Levent 8.0, Commonwealth 8.0, Wild Cat 8.0, Chartreuse 8.0, Queen Bess 8.0. llalcomhe Welter, one mile.—Asteroid 10.5, Auratus 10.3, Shrapnel Shell 9.’10, Joe Chamberlain 9.6, Fleka 9.0, Flamen 0.5, Tercelet 8.13, Chrysels 8.11. Ngatarua 8.9, Gold Dust 8.9, Good Intent 8.8, Crimson latke 8.8, Rapids 8.8, Toa 8.7, Veneer 8.3, Idassa 8.3. Le Beau Hinurewa 8.2, St. Winifred 8.2. Makikihl 8.2; Contingent 8.2, Glory 8.0. I,a Torpedo 8.0. Oligo Hack Handicap, five furlongs. - Manlopoto 10.13. Gawain 9.0, Bietwbok 8.9, Pretty Maid 8.0, Spoil 8.3, Sedgemoor 7.0,

Sir Geraint 7.7. Swop 7.7, Electric Gnn 6 13, Waltatapia 6.13. Signora 6.10, Paper 6.9, Atarangl 0.9, Merry Lad 6.9, Jolly Friar 6.7, Biiukbouuy 6.7, Mereshot 6.7, Blue Rock 0.7.

CANTERBURY JOCKEY CLUB’S AUTUMN MEETING. CHRISTCHURCH, Friday. The following acceptances have been received In connection with the C.J.C. Autumn Meeting, which takes place at Ulccarton on April 21 and 25:— GREAT EASTER HANDICAP of 75Csovs. Seven furlongs. st lb st lb Machine Gun Ghoorka 7 13 (tn 101 b pen.l 10 4 Exmoor 713 Nightfall (In. Alisa 7 9 101 b pen.) .. 9 <> Lady Lyonors Vladimir .... 9 4 (in. 71b pen) 7 9 Petrovna ... V 2 Melodeon ... 7 7 Convoy 810 Bagpipes 7 0 Savoury 8 9 To-morrow ... 7 0 Boris (in. 7lb Crichton .... 613 pen.) 8 9 Matijess 6 7 Golden Velu.. 8 3 Sandy 6 7 Stronghold .. 8 2 Cavatina .... 6 7 GREAT AUTUMN HANDICAP of 750sovs. One mile and a-half. st lb st lb Convoy 8 9 Savoury 7 10 Quarryman .. 8 6 Alisa 6lt Vladimir .... 8 4 Stepdftucer .. 6 7 Ghoorka 7 13 Crichton .... 0 7 Melodeon .... 710 Speculate ... 6 7 Canute Chiel 710 Cavatina .... 6 7 The following remain in Champagne Stakes of BOOsovs, 6 furlongs. —King Billy, lieu! Materoa, Amorelle, brown filly by St. Leger — Bangle, Gay Spark, Glenowlet, Delaware. Master Delaval. Ostlaschkoff, Mendjlk, brown colt by tCyrenlan—Porangl Potae, brown filly by Cyrenlnn—Silk, Rio Grand, Alexis, bay colt by Stepniak—Ranee Nuna, . Marguerite, Munjoet, Suugod. Thirteenth Challenge Stakes of SOOsovs, 7 furlongs.—Achilles. To-morrow, Stronghold, Boris, Ailsa, General Average, Savoury, Nightfall Delaware, Suagod, Highland Fling, Euclid, Makaroff, Czarevna.