TURF GOSSIP

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XXXV, Issue 16, 21 October 1905, Page 18

TURF GOSSIP

TURF FIXTURES. Taknpuna J.C. Spring—Nov. 25 and 29. TURF NOTES. Answers to Correspondents. **F.B.” No; Achilles did not win a race at the last New Zealand Cup Meeting. Laetitia, by Seaton Delaval Miss Letty, has foaled a colt to Hotchkiss. At Glenora Park, Mr Cunningham's Postmistress has foaled a colt to Sou It. At Cambria Park Sprite, by Dreadnought *— Elflock, has foaled a fine colt to Soult. Mr F. W. Edwards has been re-appointed handicapper to the Te Aroha Jockey Club. Mr J. O. Evett has been appointed handicapper to the Takapuna Jockey Club. Leo Feve is now in work at Ellerslie. He is an inmate of A. Mitchell’s stable. At Glenora Park Princess Alice has foaled a colt to Soult, and Sapphira a filly to the same sire.. Foremost has been withdrawn from the Great Northern Guineas, Great Northern Derby and Koya! Stakes. I beg to acknowledge receipt of member’s ticket for the Auckland Trotting Club for season 1905-6. The chestnut gelding Discoverer has -been placed in C. Coleman’s hands to be prepared for future engagements* The stakes to be given »way by the Takapuna Jockey. Club for the season 1905-G total exactly the same amount as last year. Latest advices to hand state that Mr Evett is making a good recovery from his recent serious illness. Cairngorm, who is in R. Barlow’s charge nt New Plymouth, is very sore, and has developed signs of lameness. . Word from Stratford states that Inglewood is being schooled over hurdles, and shapes in a proficient manner. The Middy having again developed symtoms of lameness is to be treated to a lengthy spell, and will be turned out at I’anaku ra. With the exception of the handicapper, the Takapuna Jockey Chib’s officials for the ensuing year are exactly the same as last year. Mr R. Coyle has been appointed handlcapper for the Hawke’s Bay Jockey Club’s Cummer Meeting. Boxes have been engaged at Ellerslie for Mr D. O’Brien s pair. Multifid and Grenade, both of which are to be brought from New Plymouth to compete at the A.ILC. Spring Meeting. During the last couple of months, the •local punters have given the bookmakers a very bail time, and it. is confidently estimated that the amount taken out of the ring during the period mentioned is the largest for some years. New Zealand has probably seen - the last of the old steeplechaser Dingo. Word from Sydney states that Mr Coleman has disposed of the, son of Sou'wester Betty to Mr, Anderson. of theatrical fame. The, price paid for the horse did' not transpire. The question of touts at Ellerslie, the subject of which was a petition to the A.H.c. Committee, was discussed at the special meeting lasi Thursday, when the mailer war. left in I he hands of the chairman, who. It Is understood, will endeayotir to get flirt her particulars on the question/’ R. Brough, who had charge of General Average and Alba Rose, for some vfmo. and who >Vas recently in the employ of J. Thorpe, the Ellerslie twiner, has leased Loxes al New Plymouth and started training on bls own account. So far. the only horse under Iris care is Claremont. In an exhibition against time at Pressburg. Hungary, on the Gth inst.. for a trophy put up by the Pressburg Trotting AsKochitidi), Mr Louis Winans’ Prince Alert paced a mile in two minutes 6 2-5 seconds, thus lowering the European mile harness horse record, which already stood to his credit. Tn ropnnse tn the requisition sighed by a lumber of members of the Auckland Racing Club asking for a special meet Ing to dis-

cuss the question of licensing the bookmaker's, the chairman (the Hon. E. Mitchelson) has called the same for the 30th inst., at 2 p.m., in the Chamber of Commerce rooms. A big commission was worked throughout the colony on Black Reynard for the Ngatihuia Handicap on the second day of the Otaki Meeting. Both in Wellington and Auckland, the hooks shut down r.md refused money. The price paid by Black Reynard, £2 1/,’ in a field of three, was a bit of a shock to the layers. The many friends of Mr J. O. Evett, the well-known handicapper, will regret to learn that he was suddenly seized with a serious illness on Monday at Paeroa, where he has been staying for some time. At latest advices Mr Evett was slightly better. He has the best wishes of all sections of the community for a speedy recovery. When the last mail left England. Isinglass headed the list of successful sires, his stock having won. 18 races, of the value of £19,181. Of this sum, Cherry Lass was responsible for £12,669. Gallinule was next with £14,479? closely followed by Cyellne £14,034. Then came Florizell 11. £13.215, St. Simon £ 1T,242, and Persimmon £11.270. The winnings of no other sire had got beyond five figures. There is nothing fresh to record in connection with the New Zealand Cup. Mahutonga’s success at Napier Park has not had much effect on his price. Nightfall still holds her position as first favourite, but her stable companion, Sungod. has been supported for a few hundreds at 100 to 16. Until Mr Stead’s intentions are known there is not likely to be much movement in the market. Beyond the fact that, the list of applications for the A.R.C. secretaryship has been reduced to something between three and six, the committee of-the Auckland Racing Club are maintaining strict secrecy on the matter. When the final decision is to be made has 'not been announced, bitt it is reported that those left iii for the final ballot are to be asked to appear before the. committee, ’ after' which the selection will be made. A promising lightweight named Porter was seen out at the Ota huh n Racing Club’s Annual Meeting. He was given his first mount in a race on Shrewsbury. in the Pony Handicap, and riding a judicious race, scored an easy victory. It is worthy of remark that, despite his high lineage ami numerous starts, Wednesday was the first occasion- on which Shrewsbury has scored a victory. Owing to Soult’s list being full, Mr W. Walters has decided to offer the services of his other horse. Swordfish IT., to the public. Swordfish 11., by Hotchkiss —Fishgirl, is a magnificently, bred horse, and in his day was a great performer on lhe turf, winning over all distances. Swordfish H.’s fee is fixed at the moderate sum of logs., and as his services are limited to a certain number of mares, early application is necessary. Full particulars will be found in our advertising columns. Partners can say nasty things to each other. .In connection with a well known firm, one of them was tailed before the Jockey Club to explain some alleged infringement of the rules. “Warned off?’’ queried the other partner on his return. “No,” was the reply: “I left the cou t without a stain on my character.” “Then you are belter off now than before you went in.” was the rejoinder, on which the articles of partnership were at once examined. The Te Aroha Jockey Club are out with the programme for their Spring Meeting, which is fixed for Friday and Saturday, the 17th and 18th November. The club are giving aw.-gy just on £3OO in - stakes, the principal events being the To Arolia Cup, of 50sovs, ami the Te Aroha Jockey Club Handicap of lOsovs. Nominations for all events close on Saturday, October 28th. at 8 p.m., and the weights are duo on November 6th. Those making entries with the secretary., will do well to remember that th.e Te Aroha telegraph office closes 5 p.m. ]• ** ; , *•' Sjuipe American Racing clubs have deemed It advisable to appoint a starting stew- . fil'd, whose duty will be to report infractions of the rules on tin* part of starters or jockeys so as io afford the racing judges lhe necessary data in disposing .of any particular ease. Referring to this step an American writer renmrks: “There has probably been more fining and disciplining of jockeys at. I.atonia than was ever known at any otheY meeting In Americi). and as some starters are Hable to lose their tern per ami use “cuss” words to lhe boys, if not foul appellations. the now rule is intended in the way of equity and justice for all.” j ■Writing of riding and various Jockeys recently, the English scribe “Sir Hercules”

says:—“The old style of jockeyship, revived. when at Sandown, to close the week, O. Madden carried off five out of six races on the card. To the horse went the Madden credit of victory on four occasions, but in the British Dominion Stakes brilliant jockeyship alone got Bitter Fill home victorious by a head over Sedately filly. Madden’s seat is to Sloan's seat at its best much of the same that Tom Cannon’s was to Archer’s in fighting efficiency. A few runs approaching rhe sort seen here would drop him into a strong style as against his now fashionable light sort of seat. I could, right off. name half a dozen “Tom Cannon's” now riding, with seat, light and semi-graceful, that would much increase their ’bracket' rides by a change to the Archer ferocity of driving ami being ‘always in his place.’ The frog seat has. in a fight at finish, more of a show of (work than real jockeyship.” It will he remembered that the New Zealand Cup winner Seahorse was bought in England a iltile while back for the purpose of being raced in steeplechases. in America, lie was taken to New York, and at his first appearance finished second, coming with a late run when his stable companion was beaten. lie made a good impression, and when he ran at Saratoga a few weeks later was made a hot favourite for the big jumping event, the Shilialah Steeplechase. Unluckily he struck one jump so hard that he had to be pulled, up. and hobbled off the course on three logs. The injured leg was so badly stripped, and otherwise knocked about, that it is improbable that the chestnut will ever be able to race again. However, as he is a stallion, he will still be worth something for stud purposes. Owing to informality, none of the Duke of Westminster's nominations could be accepted for the Derby of 1907. Mr. John Corlett writing of the circumstance, said: “In connection with the cancelled entries of the Duke of Westminster for the Derby and other great races owing to informality, we understand that the hair of the young gentleman at Messi's AVeatherby’s;' who attends to this class of business, was made to fairly stand on end, ’Who on earth is Paddox, he said, when he heard the message. Every rule, clause, or condition that couM be violated was violated .To begin with, there was a mistake in the telegram as to the name of the sender. If there had not Deen this mistake, it would have ben equally bail, as the sender had no authority to enter. The name of the Duke of WestihinsteT as owner was omitted, the telegram was not confirmed, and the rule as to registration was altogether ignoyed. There is nothing like doing a thing completely while you are about it. In some of the American States at the present time a big effort is being made to suppress betting at racecourses. Referring to a recent case the New York “Sports of the Times” says: “Like a thunderbolt from a clear sky yaine the ; news, from Cleveland that the Mayor had had issued an order to the Chief of Police to stop-’all b'opkinaking,’ pool-selling, and public betting at _the (.'k'veland tiack.. As a result the Cleveland meeting, was yleclared off. An attempt was made to transfer the meeting to Buffalo, but that was natiiially objected to, as i’. would necessarily . have . a depressing' effect upon the regular Grand Circuit meeting there the week following. Whether this is the end of the grand old track at Cleveland it is hard to say. It is to be hoped not. in an interview after the Mayor's message was received. IT. M. Hanna, president of the.company, said that the Mayor's action meant the closing of the track. ’Worse still,’ ho continued, ‘it means that the -horse-breeding, industry in Ohio will In l killed. The blow will bo greater than is thought. The movement must spread throughout the State. In order to be. consistent the Governor must stop pool-selling at each of the seventveight tracks in the State.” When it was announced during the week that Mr Evett, the A.R.C. handicapper, had heen taken suddenly 111, it was taken for granted that the issuing of the "weights for the principal handicaps on the opening day of tlu* A.R.C. Spring Meeting would have to be postponed, but Mr J. llenrys, the well-known Southern handicapper. on being communicated with, promptly stepped into the breach, and, contrary to expectations, the weights were published on their due date. Taking all things into consideration. Mr Henrys has succeeded fairly well in his task. The topweight, Scotty |9.2), has nothing to complain of. Mr llenrys has evidently altered his opinion of the relative merits of Scotty ami Gladstone since he handicapped them In the New Zealand Cup. In that race Scotty was in receipt of 31b from Gladstone. while now he is asked to concede him 61b, a difference of 91b in Gladstone’s favour. Certainly, the distance is shorter, but stilt, oh the performances of the pair the shorter journey would probably favour Gladstone moro than his older rival. Putty, after his Avondale performance, has nothing to complain of. Mr Henrys makes King Billy to be 81b better than his stable companion, Boomerang, and as he has seen 1 he colts performing on several occasions recently his estimate should be the correct one. Wai puna and Landlock have both

been given chances, but more to my liking is Apologue, who is let In with three pounds above the minimum. Too much notice cannot be taken of Apologue's Avondale running, as the going was decidedly, against such a bmg-stridiirg colt, if Apologue is started for the City Handicap in preference to the Guineas he will take a lot of boating. In the Hurdle Race Mr Henrys has taken no liberty with Inniskillen. but the class engaged is very poor. Hakaria has nothing to complain of. but on recent running, might have escaped with a few pounds less. Vexation reads the best of the light-weight division, and if she has improved since her successful effort at Avondale should run forward. In a chat with Mr W. Lyons, the popular Aucklaml peneiller and owner of that good horse Up to Date, who has just returned from an extended visit to Sydney and Melbourne, the subject of the refusal of the committee of the Victorian Racing Club to allow Up to Date to start on the second day of their steeplechase meeting cropped up. Mr Lyons was naturally a bit sore over the matter, especially as a number of the know-alls lay the blame on him, bvt as he points out, his was the first occasion on which a certificate for a New Zealand horse had been demanded. Ibid the matter been mentioned by the officials in. the office when the entries were made, there would have been plenty of time for the omission to have been rectified, but the entries were accepted without comment. A lot of sympathy was expressed for Mr Lyons by the leading members of the club, who di<l everything in their ponTr to help him out of the difficulty, in fact, one of them, Mr Miller, offered to guarantee the horse was what was represented, but. of course, that was not sufficient. Mr Lyons was a bit disappointed over Up to Date’s display in the V.R.U, Grand National Steeple<-has< v ,' but formoil the opinion after •the race that the horse had not done sufficient schooling. It was intended to start him at Caulfiebl. but the horse showed slight signs of lameness, and it was decided tn give him'a short spell, and thru get him ready for his spring engagements, the wisdom of which was borne out by. his performances. Mr Lyons Supported his horsb in the First Steeplechase, in which he ran third to Sultana and Dingo, and is of the opinion that he would have won but for striking a fence when making his run. In the Second Steeplechase. Mr Lyons again accorded Ids horse solid support, and had his p’uck rewarded by seeing his horse run" home an easy Winner. Up to Date’s victory was one' of the most popular, at the meeting, and Mr Lyons was heartily congratulated by his numerous friends on bis success. Up to Date is to remain in Sydney in charge of 1. Earnshaw, the well known trainer, and will be raced in the various Australian cross country events. Writjug before the last .English St.’Leger, “Vigilant.” in the .“Sporting Times.” says: Betting; on the St.. Lejger has nevAr been on the same heavy scale as for the Derby. On three occasions x at Epsom the owner of the Winner has netted £100,000; indeed, in the case of Hermit it was put at £150,000, but a good deal of that was on paper. Mr Naylor wou £IOO,<XK> on Macaroni, and Mr Merry is said to have won the same sum on Thormanliy, but probably seventy thousand pounds wouid be nearer the mark, as in . these matters there is always a tendency to exaggerate. On ■ Teddington and Musjid. Sir Joseph Hawley won from sixty to seventy thousand pounds, ami on Beadsman something under £50,(300, On Bine Gown he won nothing, though at one time he stood to win £60,000 by his success. We canont call to mind any such winner in connection with the St. Leger. Great Stakes were landed more than once by John Scott’s stable, which also won a tremendous sum on Daniel O.’Rourke for the Derby. Gully, after winning £60,000 on St. Giles for Hie Derby of 1832. netted £35,000 -when Margrave won the St. Leger of the same year, but this money he had to divide with Robert Ridsdale. • Over th<‘"cntting up”tliere was a. quarrel, the result of which was that Gully thrashed Ridsdale within an inch of his life in lhe hunting field. An action for assault followed, ami Ridsdale got £SOO <l;**,nages. As Gully had been la prize fighter, all the sympathies were with Ridsdale: but from this date we mark his decline, until at last he was found dead in a hay loft at Newmarket with a few’ coppers only in his pocket. The big figures we have mentioned present a strange contrast to those of the present day. So little is the St. Leger now regarded, that, although its decision is immediately before us. for some days quite recently not a quotation of any description was issued with regard ro it. There will probably he more people at Doncaster than over, but there are more people in the country, and the place' is easier to get at. Will there, however, be the same amount of enthusiasm? Thus an exchange:—Fnncliestown rapes are most popular with all sections of .sporting mi n. and it was at a rm-mit. meeting on th<‘ far-famed Irish course that a few of the “boys” ( oncocted a great sclieine.. by which they should enrich themselves considerably without running much risk. They eschewed all the old games of “lift-

lug” pins and watches, or ticket snatching. They had never “done” Punchestawn before. and they wanted to feel their way carefully. This they did. At last there came a great opportunity. ••Little Benny” had spotted In a quiet corner of the ring a fat-looking black bag. which looked for all the world as though it belonged to a prosperous bookmaker, who had. perhaps, just laid it by in a hurry the while hc» rushed in the bar to get a drink. ••Benny” did not hesitate snatching up the black bag, In a second he quickly had it under his capacious overcoat, and immediately proceeded to look for the other ■boys. Found, they hurriedly, yet with duo decorum, left the precincts of the racecourse, listening the while with avidity to /‘Little Benny’s” story how he lifted the bag single handed from the bookmaker. •'Much in it, Benny’?” said one. ‘•Not ’arf,” he replied; “it’s a bit heavy, I can tell yer.” After about two miles tramp away from all signs of habitation, the “boys.” full of eager expectation, pulled up to divide the ewag. The bag—strange that they should never have thought of opening it—was gently pulled open, and as the boys looked from the contents to “Benny” they went for the latter with one accord. • Benny had pinched the racecourse doctor’s bag of surgical instruments, medicines, etc. ! Although the doctor offered rewards for the recovery of his lost bag. the appliances were not discovered till .wine three months later, when a wayfaring villager found an empty hag with various forceps, scalpels, and surgical scissors encrusted by rust and scattered about the bag. But what the boys did to Benny deponent knoweth not. Mr George Ilodgnian, surely the most remarkable veteran of any time, in his book, “Sixty Years on the Turf,” relates a comical incident respecting Custance and his friend, George Fordham, that occurred at Carshalton when the first-named gentleman lived there 40 years ago. The jockeys had gone down one day to ride in a trial the next morning on Epsom Downs. In the evening Mr Hodgman, Custance. and Fordham went to a little hostelry known as “The Greyhound.” kept by an old gentleman of the name of Denby. While we were seated in the cosy smokeroom, Dr. Shorthouse dropped in; and here I must inention that I had instructed Mr Denby and his, family not to call Fordham and Custance by their names—the one was to be “Simpson” and the other "Wilson.” After sitting talking, I. knowing the Doctor’s prejudice against both Fordham and : Custance. said, thinking there would be some fun, and noticing that the Doctor (who. did not then get a deal about) hail not recognised either: “Doctor. what do you think of C'ustance’s riding now?” ••Custance!” returned the peppery old gentleman, “He'be d— —-d. He can’t ride a bit/ lie hangs on. That’s all ho does.”' Custance at first was inclined to take the matter seriously, till I winked at him. ' •'Well.” I /said, ‘“perhaps there is' some ’truth* in what /bn 1 say. But surely 1 you’ll allow Fordham is better.” "Oh.' yes! " He’s a bit better. But. mind you. not much. Tom Chaloner can beat his head 'off.” ' < The fun was a little bit too real for Fordham. so 1 .suggested the throe of them should take* a hand at cards. I looking on. . . The stakes were nominal, but Fordham and Custance between them won from the old Doctor live shillings. Both were as pleased as if they had netted a big sum. They might not be able to ride, but they were too clever for him at cards. • “Now,” I said, “I must be off. Doctor, in the morning I am going with these gentlemen up to The -Warren to have an hour’s shooting and a look- at the-house. AN ill you come ami have a bit of lunch with us here. “Certainly.” “Milrov,” of the '•Sydney Mail.” pens the following: While Australians are addling their brains to produce the impossible to please Indian buyers, the Japanese, who taught the world many new tricks in Manchuria of late, are buying up every usefullooking thoroughbred stallion they can lay hands on In Australia. The Japanese have tried the American trotter. English hackney, and pretty well every bleed that supplies size first hand. They know all about the Arab and other Eastern breeds; have taken exceptional pains to acquaint themselves on all matte's appertaining to cavalry horses, and know to a hair the strength ami weak spots in every mounted corps in the world. The Japanese are reticent to a fault, and are certainly not given to telling the man in the street all they know; but often valuable secrets, like other valuables are discovered in unexpected place?, and the wilier has got some interesting Information from a source he little expected. As far back as ten years ago specially trained, vigilant observers were, sent out from Japan to every civilised, and also certain uncivilised, country to si udy the cavaliy horse, and at different times these experts have been changed about in such a manner that each one of them can speak with confidence, the result of experience, about the world’s cavalry, and an overwhelming majority voted the Indian MS the best mounted cavalry In the world. When our allies . needed horses to meet The Russians a commission was sent to -Australia, whence the Indian cavaliy horses came. Here they bought largely for the army, and are still buying material from Which to breed their own horses, and wl’l continue to do so as long as horses to suit their purposes are available. This we take to be the highest compliment over paid to our horse stock. -The. Japs had /ti.e world to go by, but came here. Despite the verdict of all men in a position to judge of the strength and extraordinary vitality of the “Waler,” Indian authorities and particularly their suppliers, the fat middlemen, aie without provocation ever ready to disparage the Australian horse and {Australia generally. Canadians can get £2O a head piore with their utility horses , In London than Army gives for picked Aiistraltart rehiounta. yet It Is Cal-

cutta to a bag of rice on a hundred or a thousand, or ten thousand. “Waler®’’ Insiting an equal number of Canadians over a long Journey under heavy weights at a slow or high rate of speed, for t lie best of all reasons, the majority of •'Walers” have t hree-foui ths of pure blood in their veins, while “Canucks” are yet generations behind them in this respect. In an article on racing In Buenos Ayres un exchange says:—There are no poker machines in Buenos Ayrt s, ho the natives lose a lot of fun. which they try to make up on the racecourse at Palermo by playing on the tote. The most magnificent building in the city is the Jockey Club, which owns the tote and the racecourse, and controls racing in the Republic. It is very exclusive and enormously wealthy. The entrance fee is £2OO, and the subscription £2(Hi a year, but nobody, pays for anything in the clubhouse. Fancy if we could run our clubs on thosoe lines! What a lot of our members would quit living at home and take a room in the club! Racing and gambling are a passion with the people here. I counted 180 horses training and exercising on the Palermo course one morning. Every race is fixed beforehand, and as the stewards stand in with the jockeys, everybody is satisfied. The natives pay any price for British horses and stock, and. in consequence. the carriage horses and hackneys would do credit to Central Park. New York, or Rotten Row. Some of the carriages of London make are stylish: but the Buenos Ayres swell does not occupy his equipage as to the manner born. He is a servile imitator of European carriage folk. The evening gathering in the Park at Palermo reveals the wealth of the place in an astounding manner, for there are hundreds of smart turn-outs, ami thousands whose wear is motley. How is it we have in Melbourne not half-a-dozen chic and correct carriages with equipment en regie? Are we too poor? And are our rich people scarce? Judged by Buenos Ayres style there Is only one carriage in Collins street whose horses are comme 11 faut and their owner never drove or rode in his life! I fear we Australians are pitiably bourgeois in all we do. The costers’ parade of traps to St. Kilda and Brighton on Sunday is laughable enough to be hissed at in. any of the big cities of the world. We can breed the fines! horses and are content with screws, scrags, and rats. It is sad. The Spanish and Creole ladies in the carriages average as many good-lookers as anywhere else, though spoilt by scent and paint. Their voices are harsh and unpleasant, and their manners might be improved. Scent does instead of .baths for both men and women here. Hot as the climate is—and it Is warmer than Melbourne —the natives have no bathrooms in their houses. Curiously, with a piercingly cobl windy winter, they have no fireplaces. In fact, here you find the houses, food, manners. and customs of 4<h> years ago perfectly reproduced in a modern environment. That’s what makes Buenos Ayres so inteTfic sole topic of conversation In sporting circles during the week hast been the decision of the Auckland Rabtng. Club not to license the bookmakers to' bqt at. Ellerslie. The Hon. E. Mitchelson. -chairman of committee, was’lhc prime moV£r in the matter, and it was on his motion that the refusal was Carried. Mr Mitche’lson. in taking the stand he did. argued that the presence of bookmakers at Ellerslie tended to lower the moral tone of racing, and was a strong inducement for young people and women to invest beyond their means; but he rather spoilt his argument by almost in rhe next breath pointing out how much more money would be handled by that respectable instrument of gambling, the totalisator. Had Mr Mitchelson confined himself to the statement that, in his belief the presence of the bookmakers was against the financial interests of the club he would have left lit th; room for argument, as the matter is entirely one of opinion, and until it Is given a trial there are no means of proving the correctness or otherwise of the statements; but. that Mr Mitchelson should endeavour t«> makiT^^'n pegoat of the bookmaker for the increase fST^am bling is altogether unreasonable. Mr Mitchelson makes the astounding statement that the bookmakers handle during the year something like £89.009. but to anyone with a knowledge of racing at all this would require to be verified before it. would be accepted. Even if it wire so. the club are evidently not sanguine enough to imagine that they will handle that amount in addition to that they already handle, as no preparation is being made for extra accommodation in the shape of totalisator houses, etc., and I am positive that under the present arrangements not half the amount mentioned could be handled. Then, again. Mr Mitchelson seems to have overlooked the amount of money put into the machines by the bookmakers in order to save themselves. This, to my personal knowledge, is no inconsiderable sum. The strongest argument, to my mind, against the pencillers is the tote betting: but who has driven them to this style of betting if it is not the club themselves by the introduction of the one-two dividend business? When the machines only paid out. on the first horse there was not a tenth of the tote betting carried on that there is at present; but now if a bookmaker wants to do business this is the only way in which his clients will bet. Of all the pernicious schemes for bleeding the putnic ever introduced. the two-dividend scheme is certainly one of the worst. The club, not content with a percentage of 10 per cent., which in all conscience is extortionate enough, really. what witli fractions and other items, often get as high as 15 per. cent., and one wonders how long the public will stand this sort of thing. If Mr Mitchelson Is really in . earnest over, the matter and sincere in his efforts to try and raise the standard of racing and protect the public, let him give the pernicious one-tyro dividend system his attention, and if lie does not arrive nt the conclusion that the public will not be able to stand the percentage deducted as at. present for very much longer I will have to confess myself greatly mistaken. The club that first reverts to the straight-out betting again will do more good to racing and the totalisator ’than all the agitation® against bookmakers.'

r Auckland Racing Club.

Tile committee of the Auckland Racing Club held a special meeting lasi night to consider a lot of important business in connection with the club. The applications for the secretaryship were gone through and reduced from 95 to three. The candidates left in are to be asked to appear before the committee, and a final selection will be then made. The committee derided to purchase the block of land containing 17 acres, and formerly used as the old showgrounds, for £4150. A petition was received from 56 members of the club asking for a special meeting to be called to consider tlte question of the licensing of bookmakers. The petition was left in the hands of the chairman, who will call the meeting as requested. Mr J. Ilenrys whs appointed deputy handicapper during Mr Evett’s illness. The following additional jockeys* and trainers” licenses were granted: Trainers: 11. McKenzie. E. Hillary. E. Allensby. *l'. W. Cotton. J. McKenzie, 11. Barr, \V. Gosnell. D. J. Stewart, W. McGee. J. W. Stockley. H. Williams, 11. J. Hickton. Kean, and G. Wright. Gentlemen riders: Messrs <’. Dawson and W. Mills. Jockeys: W. Mobberly. J. O’Connell, G. Henderson. E. Munro. E. Reid, A. Ericksen. W. Gosnell. F. Porter. M. Quinton, A. S. McKinnon, 11. Sparks, and A. Berry. @ © Auckland Racing Club's Spring Meeting. The following handicaps were yesterday declared by Mr J. E. Ilenrys in connection with the A.R.e. apiing meeting, which opens on November 4:—

Auckland Trotting Club's Spring Meeting. Thq following,,acceptances have been received for the opening day’s lacing of the Auckland Trotliiig Club’s, spring, meeting, which takes place at Alexandra Pjnk on Saturday next:— Spring Trot Handicap, two miles.—Young McKinney scratch. Logan 4s, Harold Abdallah Bs, The Mooress 11s. Le Rosier Ils, Torpedo 11. 14s, Albertorlous Ids, Weary Willie 18s, Rvdleaf 20s. Steward’s Trot Handicap, one mile and a half.- Specialist scratch, Young McKinney 7s. Stranger 10s, Lady Love 12s, Waitekauii 12s. Harold Abdallah 13s. Le Rosier 10s. Torpedo IL 18s. Farewell 11. 18 s. A Ibertoi ious 19s, Sir Robert 20s, K.D. 20s, Coh-nso 225. Electric Trof Handicap, one mile. — Logan Bs, Baxter Bs, Taihoa 10s, The Moorcss 10s,

<’olenso 15®, Miss llnon ISs. Empress Ks Black Rose ISs, Maequairic 20s, KitCOiUh tea 23k. Mangonui 235, Green Lavender 2&i Middle-class Trot Handicap, one mile an*, a half. —Little I’aul scratch. Miss Diminor/ 9s. General Election 9s. Macquarr'.o 9s, Special Light (late Spcciallic) 10s, Kltconetea 13s. Miss Rue IGs, Day dawn 16s. Onehuuga Handicap, six furlongs and a half.—Marisa 5.3. Ma tain a 7.12, Gladys Rose 7.9, Solitary 7.7. Shrewsbury 6.9, Little Mabel GO, Lucy Godfrey 6.7. October Handicap, five furlongs.—Sonoma 9.10, Kilderkin 9G, Orange mid Blue V.2, inspiration 8.5, Etu 7 12. Mataura 7.12. Gladys Rose 7.10. Solitary 7.8, Merry Dentval 7.8. Galvanic 6.12, Legeritc G. 10, Rcsurgam 6.10, Lucy Oodfidy G. 7. I’ony Trot Handicap, one mile.—Little I’aul scratch, Special Light (late Specialite) 7s. Fibre 9s, Mangonui 9s, Seacole 10s, Glitters 12s, Cleveland’s i’ridc 13s, Sami Uy 14 s. Maiden Trot Handicap, one mile.—Olive (late Jessie) scratch. Prince Trixie 3s, Jermalda 3s. Huon Leal 3s, Red Wilkes 7s, Gory Lass Bs, Next Time Bs, Miss Vola Bs. Willing Boy Bs, Andy Brown Bs, Cleveland’s Pride Bs, lago 9s, Eager Ils, Tatar.unaikn Us, Nui Ils, Porangl Us. Messis Gabriel Lewis and Co. yesterday disposed of the privileges of the club s meeting. which realised the following pt ices:—The publican’s booths were knocked down to Mr J. Molloy for £GO, the cards to Mr L. A. Adams for £ll. and the refreshment stall to Mrs Murphy for £1 10/. © © © Otahuhu Racing Club's Spring Meeting. The annual meeting of the otahuhu Racing Club took place yesterday nt Ohahuhu. The weather was fine, and the course lu fair order. There was' u good attendance, about 2000 being present, in the absence of the totalisator speculation was cat tied un per medium of the bookmakers, who had, If anything, the best of the deal. Messrs Harris, Rutherford and Absolum divided tlie duties of judg.<\ Mr O’Connor officiated as starter, and Mr IL B. Massey as timekeeper. The meeting was admirably conducted by the secretaiy, Mr F. D. Yonge, and the various officials, everything passing off without, a hitch. Racing commenced with the Handicap Hurdle Race, from wiilcli Cannonicr, Mozart and Kakino were withdrawn. Major was installed favourite at 6 to 4 against, while 2 to 1 was on offer against Te Papa. Te Papa went to the front when the flag fell, and was never afterwards headed, winning comfortably b.v a length from Bachelor, who was three lengths in front of Major. Time, 3.9. Colenso, Mongonut and Prince Trixie dropped out of the Dash Trot, for which Specialist was favourite al even money, Faiewell ll;'being next In demand at 6 to I against. Farewell-11. took charge when they had ’gone , a quarter of a mile, and though Specialist got within striking distance of film »»s> they turned' for home, be tired in the run to the post. Farewell rIL whining by t wo : lengths, with Harold Ab riallah three lengths away third. ’.rime, 256 J. • * Celerity. Cannoiiier. Te ■■Papa. Royal Shell ami The Dunce declined their engagements In the Maiden Plate. Omatl found most suppoil, 5 io 4 being the best price to be had about his chance, 2 to 1 Lady Clements, and 6 to I -Knrern. Matahuhwru made the running to the entrance of the Straight, whore Kerern took charge, and stalling off a Lute run by -Lady 4'leinents. won by a length and a half, with Qmali close up third. Time, 1.38|. All the acceptors carded came out for the Otahuhu Cup, Kola Nip being backed down to 2 to 1. which price was also bn offer against Calle Iris. Kola Nip rushed

to the front wbeu the word was given to go, and was never afterwards headed, winning eashy by three lengths from Little Bduoel, who uas a length tn front of Calle Iris. Time, 2.22. Inspiration was the only defection from the Puny Handicap, and liurihuri was the popular fancy at 6 to 4, while 6 to 1 was to be had about Shiewsbury. Solitary made play till tuey turned for home, where Shrewsbury came through and going «»n won easily by three lengths from liurihuri, who was two lengths in front of Gladys Hose. Time, 1.9. Andy Brown was the only withdrawal from the Labour I lay Trot. Punteis made Mangonu! and Harold Abdallah equal favourites al 2 to 1, with <» to 1 on offer against Lady Love. Porangi. from the limit, made play for about a mile, where Mangonul got in front, ami she had charge till within twenty yards of the post, where Lady Love got on terms, and the latter staying the longest won an exciting race by half a length, with Harold Abdallah a length away third. Time. 4.23. Desdemona. Jean. Lunetta, Celerity, Kola Nip, Lady Clements. The Dunce and Gipsy all declined their engagements in the concluding event, the Railway Handicap. Lu-crec-p. who opened out at 2 to 1 against, quickly went to 2 to J on. nothing else being backed with spirit. Klondyke was Indulged in the lead for about half the journey, when the favourite took charge, and from that out the race was a procession. Lucrecc winning easing up by two lengths from Calle Iris, who was a length in front of Blueskin. Time, 1.22. © © © Poverty Bay Turf Club's Spring Meeting. . NAPIER, Thursday. For the Poverty I?ay Turf Club’s Spring Meeting the following weights have been declared by Mr Chadwick:— First Handicap Hurdle Race.- Romany Girl 11.12, Inspan 10.8. Roseplot 10.7. Local Option 10.2, Lady Raven 9.11, A.B.N. 9.11, Rechablte 9.9, Hikairoa 9.0, Artilleryman 9.0. Spring Handicap. Faro 9.0, Taura 8.4, Heywood 8.4, Minerve 7.13, Romany Girl 7.18, | A.B.N. 7.8. Tukaka 7.6, Benefactor 7.4, Kaipetepete 7.4, Te Uku 6.9, Wahnaou 6.7, Hiki 6.7. Flying Handicap. Gold Seal 9.4. Soultine 7.13, Minerve 7.9, Martyr Klug 7.9. Kaipetepete 7.6, Tnkapa 7.6, Dalny 6.12, Casino 6.10, Probieda 6.9, Flag 6.7, Waipai 6.7. © © © Napier Park Racing Club’s Spring Meeting. FIRST DAY. NAPIER- Wednesday. The Napier Park Racing Ciun. after the postponement, were favoured with splendid weather for the opening day of their spring meeting. The attendance was very large, and the racing was good. Zimmerwan beat King Billy rather easily in the Napier St axes, and Mahutonga, after his very indifferent display at Hastings, came out and won the Park Stakes like a racehorse. Mr E. J. Watts’ English-bred colt Gazeley won the Trial Hack Handicap, but the Held was not strong in point of quality. The sum of £6OOB was Invested on the tola lisa tor. The following are the results: - Trial Handicap, six furlongs.—Gazeley, 8.9. 1; White Squall, 7.8, 2; Dalny, 8;3, 3. All started. Time, 1.19 2-5. Dividends, £2 13/ and £2 14/. Taradale Handicap Hurdles of lit mile.— Romany Girl, 9.9, 1; Inspan, 9.3, 2; Midia, 9.9. 3. Won easily. All started. Time, 3.24 3-5. Dividends, £3 13/ and £1 8/. County Hack. 1 mile.—Operetta, 7.12, 1; Captain Shannon, 8.0, 2; Faro, 6.7, 3. Scratched: Blackwater. Time, 1.48. Dividends, £2 19/ and £1 2/. Park Stakes Handicap of 150sovs, one mile and a quarter.—Mr L. F. Williams’ ch g Mahutonza, syrs, by Quilt—Maude. 9.3 (Buchanan). 1; Whakawehi, 7.8, 2; Heroism, 6.13. 3. Also started: Asteroid, 8.19; Rose Madder. 7.8: Tonderghie, 6.7. Rose Madder and Heroism made the running, for six furlongs, with Whakawehl and Mahutonga In close attendance. Half A mile from home the top weight took charge, and won a good race by half a length from Whakawehi. A demonstration

was made against the winner owing to his reversal of form from Hastings. Time, 2.14 1-5. Dividends, £3 13/ ami £1 6/. Naiper Stakes of 25Osovs, for two ami three-year-olds, live furlongs.—Hon. J. D. Ormond’s b c Zimmerman, 2yrs, by Birkenhead- Solitaire, 6.7 (Olliver). 1; King Billy, 9.3 (Davis), 2; Sweet Helen, 7.1 L (Buchanan), 3. These were the only starters. Zimmerman got off the mark smartly, but King Billy ran up to him after going a furlong, and they swept into the straight racing neck and neck. Sweet Helen being two lengths behind. In the last furlong Zimmerman drew out and won easily by two lengths, the samp distance separating tlie second and third horses. Time, 1.4 2-5. Dividend, £3 1/. Spring Welter Handicap of HOsovs, seven fur'ongs.—Hon. J. D. Ormond’s hr in Perdita. 4yrs, by The Officer— Montdred. 8.9 (Gallagher), 1; King’s Lynn. 8.0. 2; Polyanthus, 9.2, 3. Also stat ted: Soulthia, 8.9; Waipunehu. 8.0. King’s Lynn led for five furlongs, but Perdita then went to the front and won by two lengths. Time, 1.32 4-5. Dividend. £2 6/. Ahuriri Hack Handicap of HOsovs, five furlongs.—Mr S. Humphries’ h ni Lady Warwick, 4yrs, by Torpedo—Lady Lome. 6.10 (Milne). 1; Moata. 6.12. 2; Dalny, 6.12, 3. Also started: Notoorini. 9.12: Contender, 8.9: Banzai. 8.1: The Seer. 8.1; Eonp, 7.9; Spark, 7.7: Ruanui. 6.7. Banzai led for half a mile, when the field closed up, and after a capital finish Lady Warwick won by half a length from Moata. with Dalny a similar distance away third. Time, 1.5. Dividends, £8 17/ and £27 6/. Railway Handicap of TOsovs. six furlongs. —Mr F. Armstrong’s hr c Probable, 3yrs. by The Possible—Primula. 7.4 (Olliver). 1; Starshoot. 9.0, 2: The Stake. 7.11. 3. These were the only starters. Probable was in front all the wav and won by a length. Time. 1.18 1-5. Dividend, £3. SECOND DAY. NAPIER. Thursday. The Napier Park Racing Club concluded the spring meeting to-day in tine weather. The attendance was good, though not as large as on the first day. Very few of the finishes were close. The sum of £4525 was invested on the totalizator, making £lO,535 for the two days, an increase of £1065 <•11 last year's total. The following, are the results:— I’uketapu Hack.—Hippo-rofla, 7.5, 1: Benair, 7.2, 2; Noteorini. 9.7, 3. Scratched: Blackwater. Won easily. Time, 1.33 3-5. Dividends, ±’3 17/ and £2 7/. Korokipo Hurdles.—Romany Girl. 10.8, 1; Comfort, 12.0, 2; Needlework. 9.0, 3. Scratched: British Navy. Won by a length. Time, 3.23 1-5. Dividends, £2 5/ and 13/. Nursery Handicap. — Cantor, 8.9, 1; Squatter 2, Ruataumata, 7.9, 3. All started. Timo, 50 2-5. Dividend, £1 15/. Racing Club Handicap of lOOsovs. one mile and a distance.—Mr W. S. Davidson’s <h m Douche, syrs, by Jet d’Eau—Cartouche, 7.6 (Olliver), 1; Melodeon, 8.5, 2; Heroism, 6.11, 3. Also started: Mahutonga. 9.13; Asteroid, 8.7; The Stake, 6.9. Heroism was the first to show out when the flag fell, but Melodeon soon took command, and was bowling along in front for seven furlongs, when Douche moved up, ami passing Melodeon in the straight, won fairly comfortably by nearly a length from Melodeon, who was clear of Heroism, the last named securing third place by a head from Mahutonga. Time, 2.2 2-5. Dividends, £L 12/ and £1 3/. Caledonian Welter Handicap of 50sovs, six furlongs.—Mr P. D. O’Sullivans br g Ballyneety, 6yrs, by Sou'-wester—Little Primrose, 8.0 (D. Kemp), 1; Soultina, 8.10, 2; Captain Shannon, 9.5, 3. Also started: Outer, 8.9; King's Lynn, 8.7. Captain Shannon was in command for half a mile, but Ballyneety then shot up and won easily by a length. Time, 1.18 3-5. Dividend, £8 18/. Telephone Hack Handicap of 50sovs, six furlongs.—Mr E. J. Watt's ch c Gazeley, 3yrs, by Grey Leg—Lygia, 8.0 (Davis), 1; Oryx, 7.4, 2; Banzai, 7.10, 3. Also started: Contender, 8.4; The Seer. 7.8; Moata. 7.1; White S<piall, 6.13; Spark, 6.11; Rawhlti, 6.7. Banzai made the running from Contender and Spark for four fuilongs, when Gazeley, The Seer, and Oryx all put in their claims, and a good race home ended in favour of Gazeley by a length from Oryx, who just beat Banzai. Time, 1.18 2-5. Dividends, £2 1/ and £2 7/. Grandstand Handicap of 60sovs, seven furlongs.—Mr F. Armstrong's br c Probable, 3yrs, by The Possible—Primula, 7.8, 1;

Tonderghie, G. 9,2; Starshoot, 8.6, 3. Also started: Whakawehi, 7.12; Assay er, 7.10; Tyrone, 6.7. Probable and Stareboot got the best of an indifferent start, Assayer and Tyrone getting badly away. Probable continued to show the way into the straight, where Tonderghie displaced Starshoot. but could not catch Probable, who won by a length, Starshoot gainign thiid place, a head in front of Assayer, who made up his ground fast in the last three furlongs. Thue, 1.32 4 5. Dividends, £4 7/ and £1 11/. Scurry Hack Race of 50sovs. 5 furlongs, weight. 8.7. — Mr H. Heeney’s b m Flower Ghl (Kirk). 1; Ruanui (Olliver), 2; Napier Hapuka (Buchanan), 3. Also started: Cable, Reservoir, Spring Gun, Eruption, Mataika. Merriwai, Goldfield. The colours of Flowin’ Girl. Ruanui, and Merriwai -were prominent from a poor stait. ami this trio were In front when the straight was reached. Here, however. Flower Girl drew out from the others, and Napier Hapuka headed Merriwai. but no other change took place. Flower Girl winning easily by a length from Ruanui. Time, 1.6 2-5. Dividends, £7 5/ and £1 12/. © © © Dunedin Jockey Club’s Spring Meeting. FIRST DAY. DUNEDIN. Wednesday. Beautiful weather was experienced for the first day of the D.J.C. Spring Meeting. The attendance was fair, though not quite up to expectations, for which to some extent a not too suitable train service may be accountable. The course was somewhat heavy after the recent rain, and there were two small sheets of water at the back. The racing was interesting to a certain extent, but the smallness of the fields made some of the events appear tame, and speculation was not very brisk. The sum of £4007 was put through the totalisator, as compared with £.’<7ls 10/ last year. The results are as follow:— Spring Hurdle Handicap, 1J mile.—Narcissus, 10.13, 1; Wee Macgregor, 9.0, 2; Huku. 11.7, 3. All started. Won by two lengths, six lengths between second and third. Time. 3.8 2-5. Dividend. £2 2/. Barewood Welter Hack Handicap of six furlongs.—Ostrachkof. 8.12. 1; Bill Perkins, 10.0, 2: Red and Black, 9.5, 3. Scratched: Highland Fling and Reviera. A good race. Won by a bare length. Time, 1.23 4-5. Dividend, £ls 8/. Mosgiel Handicap of lOOsovs; second horse to receive lOsovs and third ssovs from the stake; 1 mile.—Mr S. Woolton’s b g Koputai, 6yrs. by Casket—St. Clair mare, 6.9 (Jas. Pine), 1; Apollodoris, 3yrs, 7.0, 2; Vladimir, 6yrs. 9.7. 3. Also started: Juniper, 7.1 (carried 7.5). After a breakaway the four were sent away well together, Apollodoris being first to show out, only to be at once replaced by Koputai, with Vladimir a length away and Juniper whipping in. Rounding the top turn Vladimir improved his position, and making for the straight the three leaders were together. Apollodoris appeared to have a slight advantage once they were facing home, but Koputai camo again, and a fine finish, in which it appeared as if any of the four might win, resulted in Koputai gaining the verdict by half a length, with Vladimir a length away and Juniper last, half a length away. Time. 1.50. Dividend, £3 10/. Juvenile Handicap of 50sovs; second horse to receive Oso vs and third 4sovs from the stakes; 4 furlongs.—Hon. G. McLean’s ch c Afer, 2yrs, by Stcpnlak—Mist, 8.2 (McComb). 1; Lady Landon, 7.11, 2; Assault, 7.11, 3. Also started: Erskine, coupled with From a good start Afer was the first to show out, followed by Lady Landon, and the pair, racing neck and neck, drew clear of the other pair. Rounding towards the straight they ran out somewhat, and Assault came up on the rails. In a good finish Afer shot out in the last few strides and won by a short length, Assault being a length and a quarter away third. Erskine was never prominent. Time, 54 3-5. Dividend, £2 4/. Electric Handicap of 75sovs: second horse to receive £l<> from the stakes; 6 furlongs. —Mr R. G. Harris’ b h Crichton, 4yrs, by Lochiel— Melissa. 8.8 (Rae), 1; Mr R. McDonald’s b m Flower o’ Clutha, aged, 7.10, 2. All but the pair were scratched. Flower o’ Clutha had a slight lead for over a furlong, when Crichton drew up, and after travelling side by side Crichton drew’ out,

and coming on won fairly easily by a and a quarter. Time, 1.21 4-5. DivhU'Uti, £1 67. Taloma Hack Handicap of 50scvs; second horse to receive Usovs and third 4«ovs from the stakes; 5 furlongs. -Mr J. Ellis’ b o Mandjik, 3yrs, by Stepniak—Vaultress. 7.J (Robertson), 1; Paparwa, dyrs, 8.8. 2; ch c Canada, 3yrs, 8.3, 3. Also started: Bill Verkins, 9.0; Curlosettia, 8.13; Peak, 7.0» Mandjik and Paparoa showed out from the start, with Canada and Curiosettia a length away. Rounding the top turn the field, with the exception of Peak, closed up, but Mandjik was never headed, ami coining on won comfortably by a good length, with Canada four lengths away. Time, 1.7 1-5. Dividend, £8 6/. October Welter of sGsovs; second horse to receive Gsovs and third 4sovs from the stakes; 7 furlongs.—Mr J. Ellis’ cli h Brighton, syrs, by Euroclydon Ma Belle, 9.2 (J. Rae) ,1; Notus, 3yrs, 8.2, 2; Rubrette, 4yrs, 8.2. 3. Also started: Casque, 9.10: Heirloom, 8.11: Apprentice, 8.11; Sniallshot. 8.6. Brighton was first to show out from a good start, followed by Notus anil Apprentice. In the straight Rubrette ran into second place, but could not trouble Brighton, who won by two lengths and a-half. Notus, in a good finish for second place, beat Rubrette by a head. Time, 1.37 2-5. Dividends: Brighton, £1 18/; Notus, £1 14/. SECOND BAY. DUNEDIN. Saturday. The weather turned beautiful for the second day of the Dunedin Jockey Club’s Spring Meeting, but the ntfn of the two previous days made the course heavy, and the ground conditions ware not so pleasant as those overhead. The attendance was good outside, but only fair on the lawn. The racing was interesting, but the fields were again small. The sum of £3593 !<»/_ was put through the machine, making £7600 10/ for the meeting, as compared with £6323 last year. In the Shorts Handicap, the stewards considered that Crichton’s form called for an explanation. Rae, the jockey, said the horse did not take kindly to the heavy going. As he was approaching Apollodoris, coming Into the straight, lie came to the conclusion McComb would not let him up on the inside, and he pulled out, and was not able to get up to the winner again. The stewards let the matter go, with a severe censure. The following are the results:— Hurdles, 12 miles.—Huku, 11.10, 1; Wee MacGregor, 9.7, 2; Blackpool, 9.0, 3. These were the only starters. Huku made all the running and won by two lengths. Time, 3.49 3-5. Dividend, £1 12/. Telegraph Welter Handicap, six furlongs. Notus, 7.9, J; Rubrette, 7.7, 2; Hierloom, 8.2, 3. All started. Ostackhof, the favourite, whipped round the uost and took no part in the lace. Won by a neck, a length between second and third. Time, 1.26 4-5. Dividend, £4 10/. Burnside Welter Handicap of 50sovs. second horse to receive 6sovs and third horse 4sovs; 5 furlongs. — Mr P. Tansey’s Rio Grande*, 3yrs, by Stepniak—British Queen, 8.3 (Beale), 1; Gypsobelle, 8.3, 2; Paparoa, 9.7, 3. Also started: Moudjik, 9.2 r Sarchedon, 8.8; Design, 8.0. Won by a head. Time 1.12. Dividend, £3 14/. Ranfui’ly Handicap of lOOsovs, second horse/ to receive lOsovs anti third horse 5 sovs; 1 mile.—Mr J. Ellis’ Brighton. syrs, by Euroclydon—Ma Belle. 7.13 (J. Rae), 1; Juniper, 7.2. 2; Koputai, 3. Also started: Beau Seaton, 7.13; Cavatina, 6.7. Won by two lengths. Time, 1.54 1-5. Dividend, £1 IS/. Shorts Handicap of SOsovs, second horse to receive Gsovs and thirel horse 4sovs; 5 furlongs.—Hon. G. McLean’s Apollodoris, 3yrs, by Phoebus Apollo—Brisa. 7.9 (McComb), 1; Crichton, 9.4. 2; Red Gaunt let, 9.6, 3. Won easily. Time, 1.8 Li-5. Dividend, £2 10/. Kaikorai Hack Handicap of 50sovs. second horse to receive Gsovs and third horse 4sovs; 6 furlongs.—Mr G. Mason’s b g Flying Spark, 4yrs, by Clanranald —Catherine Wheel, 8.3 (R. King), 1; Rubrette, 4yrs, 7.9, 2; Red and Black, 4yrs, 8.4, 3. Also started: Paparoa, 8.11; Astrakhan. 7.11. Won by a length. Time, 1.26. Dividend,. £6 18/. Farewell Handicap of 50sovs, second horse to receive Gsovs and third horse 4sovs; 6 furlongs. — Mr J. Ellis’ ch c Ostachkoff, 3yrs, by Stepniak—Miss Betty, 7.2 (J. Pine), 1; Bill Perkins, 7.10, 2; Casque, 8.11, X Won bv two lengths. Time, 1.25. Dividend. £2 4/.

Wellington Racine Club's Spring Meeting.

' WELLINGTON, Tuesday. The Wellington Racing Club's Spring Meeting acceptances are as follows*.— October Hack Hurdle Race, one mile «»d three-quarters.—Black Squall 9.13, South Star 9.13, Taxpayer 9.12, Tbe Dauber J. 4, Gipsy Jack 9.2, Florio 9.2. titrate JO, Waimata 9.0, St. Amelia 9.0. Shorts Handicap, five furlongs.—Solution 9.3. Ballarat 8.12, Boris 8.12. Marguerite 7.12, St. Claltner 7.9. Veneer 7.9, Gawain 7.8, Medallist 7.6, Martello 7.0. Kudu 6.13. Coxswain 6.10, Hluerawa 6.7, Prelude 6.7. Wellington Handicap, one mile and aquarter.—Achilles 9.10, Mahutonga 9/A Gold Crown 8.10, Signalman 7.12. Black Reynard 7.11, Auratus 7.9, Shrapnel Shell 7.8 Rose Madder 7.8. Lyrist 7.3, Flamen 7.2’, General Symons 7.2, St. Zoe 7.1, Blythe Maid 6.12, Hukaaka 6.7. Flying Handicap, six furlongs.—Exmoor 9.4, Solution 9.2, Boris 9.0. Sir Tristram 7.10, St. Claimer 7.8, Blythe Maid 7.7, Tikarawa 6.9 Prelude 6.7. Rlnuitaka Hack Handicap, six furlongs. —Captain Shannon 8.2, Aorangi 8.2. dita 7.13, Marsellaisc 7.13, Matakokiri 4.JJ, Grand Poplar 7.9, Scrapiron Jack 7.5, Papatawa 7.4*, Gazelcy 7.3, Aberration 7.3, Dulcimea 6,12. Flotilla 6.7, The Voucher 6.7, Balsam 6.7, Waikakaho 6.7, Pat b. 7, Devonia 6.7. Walnut Handicap. seven furlongs.—Ghoorka 10.5, Regulation 10.3, Cannie Chiel 10.0, Veneer 9.3, Clanbnriv 9*3. Medallist 8.12, Wind 8.9 Kudu B.G, Hinerawa 8.4, Noneen 8.2. Seagull 8.0, Tikarawa 8.0. Spring Hack Handicap, live furlongs.— Maui 9.9, Petticoat 9.2; Gawain 8.10. Truce 8.1, The Seer 8.0. Scrapiron Jack 7.5. Pas Seul 7.5 Aberration 7.4,. Kaiuku 6.11, Devonia 6;7, Balsam 6.7. Waikakaho 6.7. & © © Otaki Racing Club’s Spring Meeting. FIRST DAY. WELrLIN GTO N, Wednesday. The weather was fine for the holding of the Otaki meeting to-day. and there was a good attendance. The following were the results: — Flying Handicap.—Marguerite 1, Kudu 2, Kremlin 3. Seagull and Delamere were scratched. Won 'easily. Dividends, £2 and £1 36/. Maiden Hurdles.—Land o’Cakes 1, Swop 2, Tambori 3. Flying Cloud fell. A good race. Won by a length. Fireball was scratched. Dividends, £4 8/ and 12/. Otaki Memorial Stakes of one mile.— Kuroki 1, Victoria Park. 2, Papatawa 3. Scratched: Dalky. A fair race. Won by a length. Dividends, £1 18/ and £3 2/. Maiden Plate. — Flotilla 1, Apiti 2, Mata riki 3. Won by a length. Scratched — Kiowa. Rosewood, ami Nova. Dividends — £2 9/ and £1 18/. Demonstration Handicap. — Prelude 1, Seagull 2. Dividends, £6 18/ and £1 13/. Maiden Plate.—Flotilla 1, Apiti 2, Matariki 3. Scratched: Kiowa. Rosewood, and Nova. Won by a length. Dividends, £2 9/ and £1 18/. Otaki Hack Hurdle Race. — Repulse 1, Flanagan 2. Baltic 3. Scratched: Monarque and Swop. Won by a head. Dividends, £5 7/ and £2 7/. Stewards’ Hack Handicap. — Flotilla 1. Lualla 2, Waikakaho 3. All started. Won by a length. Dividends, £4 11/ and 17/. Welter Hack Handicap.—Nova 1. Matariki 2, Monarque 3. Scratched: Apiti. Borasque. Tambourine. Dividends, £2 12/ and £1 W. During the day £5038 passed through the totalisator. SECOND DAY. WELLINGTON, Thursday. The-weather was cold for the second day of the Otaki races, 't here was a moderate attendance. The following were the later results: - Railway Handicap. —Marguerite, 8.11, Wind 4 7.5, 2; Mussel. 6.7, 3. A splendid race. Won by three-quarters of a length. Scratched: Regulation. Kudu, Prelude, and Blesabok. Dividend, £1 9/. Otaki Hack Hurdles. — Numa 1. Flanagan 2, South Star 3. All started. Won easily. A protest for inconsistent running was upheld, ajnl the race awarded to Flanagan. Dividends — Flanagan £2 14/; South Star, Otaki Hack Handicap. Kuroki 1, Pretty Maid 2. IHpporangi 3. Won by half a length Scratched —Marseillais and Waikakaho? Dividends — £5 6/ and 9/. Trial Handicap. — Pal 1. Lualla 2,- Oneiros 3. Won easily. Scratched — Probability. Dividends — £3 16/ and 13/. Ngatiliula Handicap. Black Reynard 1, Seagull and Tikarawa were the only other starters. Dividend. £2 TO/. Raugiuru Welter Handicap.—Dal key 1. Victoria Park 2, Flying Cloud 3. Scratched: Nova. Rose Bonheur. Won by two lengths. Dividends, £8 6/ and £1 7/. Electric Handicap. Petticoat 1. Waikakaho 2, Swop 3. Scratched: Flotilla. Truce, Apiti. Rimii. Lualla. Won by a length. Dividends. £1 4/ and £1 17/. Welter Handicap. Mnsaell 1, Seagull 2, Hydrant 3. Scratched: Kudu. Won easily. Dividends. £4 7/ and £1 14/. The sum put through the totalisator for both days • was £7553. © © © Master ton Races. t WELLINGTON, Saturday. The following weights have been declared for the Maatertoii races:— Masterton Cup. mile and ivqur rter.—Black Reynard 9.0. Douche 8.9. Ngataura 8.5, Venter 8.2, Wimkaweh! 8.1, Flamen

7.13, Subma vine 7.11. TTydrant 7.8, Spoil 7.6, Royal Blue 7.0, Tikarawa 6.12, Bowman 6.7. Contingent 6.7, Capulet 6.7, Silverlent 6.7. Publican Handicap, seven furlongs.—Exmoor 9.7, Jeanne d’Arc 9.3, Venter 8.2, Assay er 7.13, Rustique 7.10, Wind 7.10, Narcotic 7.10, Prelude 7.10, Hinerewa 7.6. Roana 7.5. Noneen 7.3, Taka'rawa 7.0, Bowman 6.10, Furenaux 6.10, Blessbok 6.7, Capulet 6.7, Parkshot G. 7. October Hack Handicap, one mile.—Kuroki 9.12, Operetta 8.2, Aorangi 8.0, Silverlene 7.6, Letherin 7.6, Hatley 7.6, Papatawa 7.0, Levinia 6.10, Toady 6.10. Dulcinia 6.10, Alexieff 6.7, Reservoir 6.7. Dash Hack Handicap, five furlongs.— Gwain 9.0, (’ontender 8.10, First View 7.11, Waipunihu 7.8, Truthful 7.3. Paper 7.3, Moatn 7.3, Gold Find 6.10, Narrow Escape 6.10, Damascus 6.10, Devonna 6.10, Ta kina 6.10. Ladies’ Bracelet, oue mile and a-quar-ter.—Togo 12.0, Flanagan 11.4, Waipunihu 11.0, The Ruler 11.0, Pemmican 10.12, Huremoana 10.12, Rosegrove 10.10, Starlight 10.7, Hlkatoa 10.7, Buster Brown 10.7, The Shadow 10.7, Rino 10.7, Sherlock Holmes 10.7. Hack Hurdles Handicap, one mile and threequarters.—Bounce 10.11, Flanagan 10.4, Hydrant 10.3, Makurl 10.1, Moetoropuku 10.0, Kia mot 9.12, Grand Jury 9.9, Needlework 9.9, Waitoti 9.3, Florio* 9.0. Reah 9.0, Stamelia 9.0, Kingsborough 9.0. Flying Hack Handicap, six furlongs.— .Gawain 9.0, Captain Shannon 8.6, Red Cross 8.1, Aberration 7.10, First View 7.10, Pat 7.7, Truthful 7.2, Moata 7.2. Alexieff 6.7, Liquid Air 6.7, Rifle Matti 6.7. © © © TURF TALK FROM THE SOUTH. CHRISTCHURCH, Friday. After three bright warm nays the weather broke again on Thursday night, and cold showers fell at intervals. Hardly enough rain fell to do the tracks much harm, but the continued unsettled weather is nevertheless a great Inconvenience to trainers. The dispersal sale of the Kelburn s’.'.id is announced to be held at Christchurch -on November 7th. I notice in the current number of the ‘Weekly Press’ a statement to the effect that Cuneiform is the ••fastest’ of the Yaldhurst three-y ear-olds. As some people seem to thnk that Kiug Billy had he started would have beat Cuneiform in the Hawke’s Bay Guineas, the foregoing statement suggests that King Billy must be nearly as good as the best of the Yaldhurst colts. If that is really the case Mr Ormond must have a very promising colt in Zimmerman. The Yaldhurst three-year-olds Soltykoff and Highland Reel have just joined Mason’s active division. The name of the fourth mare brought over from Sydney by Mason on a visit to Multiform was Porttilaeea, by of Portland—Azalea. Stud News: Clytie, by Phaeton Nerotl, foaled dead twins to Finland; Jess, a filly to Formosan; Wepener, by Musketry— Miskal,.a colt to Formosan: La Gloria, hv St. Leger—Charente, a filly to Finland; Rumour, by Eridisford—Glensis, a fillv to Formosan; Kate Craig, by Pilgrim’s ‘Progress—Kate Dalrymple, a filly to Formosan; Ruplne, by Carlyon — Lyloan Queen, a lilly to Formosan; Proposal, by St. George —Apropos, a colt to Obligado. Bulawayo’s half-brother, Quagga, is reported to have broken down. The weather cleared just in time for the opening of the Dunedin Jockey Club’s Spring Meeting on Wednesday, and to-dav was beautifully tine. The attendance was rather larger than usual, and speculation was slightly brisker. The course was very heavy. The racing on the whole was most Interesting. The Rleearton-trained Narcissus had no difficulty in winning the Spring Hurdle Race. Wee Macgregor separating him from his stable companion, lluku, who was some distance away at the finish. Red and Black was made a strong favourite for the Barewood Wolter Handicap, but lost ground at the start, and Ostiak’s three-year-old full-brother, Ostachkof, finishing in good style, won by a length from Bill Perkins, who defeated the favourite by a similar distance for second position. Apollodorls, who was most in demand for the principal event, the Mosgiel Handicap, would probably have won if lie had been differently ridden.He got into a bad position nearing the top turn, and it was only inside the distance that, he found an opendug, when It was too late to catch Koputal. who won by a length all out. Vladimir ran well, and if his unsightly fetlock stands lie should be nearly at his best next month. Of the four youngsters who comprised the field for the Juvenile Handicap, two, Afer and Erskine, hailed from the Hon. G. McLean’s stable. The former, who is a full-sister to Vladlmor. and a very nice-looking young lady, won by a short lengt h from Lady Landon. I he Aucklandbred daughter of Seaton Delaval and Robinilla. The latter held her own very well until a few strides from home, when she tired. Assault.fi who is a filly by Lord Roslyn from Foray, was third, a length away. The much improved Crichton easily defeated his solitary opponent. Flower of (’lutha, in the Electric Handicap. Moudjik. a three-year-ohl son of Stepniak and Vaultress. won the Talma Hack Race, a performance for which his track work had prepared a limited number of backers. He is a useful colt, and is pretty certain to be heard of again before long. Brighton was made an odds-on favourite for the Oe--tober Welter Handicap, and, being on his best behaviour, won as he pleased from Notus, the big son of Lord Roslyn and Miskal. There is nothing fresh to record regarding the New Zealand (’up. The local candidates are standing up to their work, though T am not aware that this fact is likely to have much bearing on the re-

suit of the race, nor is the withdrawal of Joe Chamberlain, which was notified on Tuesday, likely to affect the issue. (By Telegraph.—Special tu “Giaphic.”) CHRISTCHURCH, Monday. Riccarton may after all Imve a say In the New Zealand Cup. Quarry man and Golden Knight are both improving fast, and provided they survive the remainder of their preparation, they may he trusted to run well. 1 understand that Mason was far from satisfied that Golden Knight’s ease was hopeless when he got rid of him; indeed, he thought it quite likely that the half brother to Auruni might do something worthy of his breeding If he were persevered with. Mason’s advice is being followed, and there seems a possibility of his prophecy being fulfilled. Though still lame Golden Knight is getting through a sound prepaiation, and is improving on it. On Thursday last he accomplished quite a striking gallop. On the Inside of the grass gallop he covered 1£ miles in 2.42. easily beating Calibre. The atmosphere was all in favour of fast time, but the gallop was a capital one nevertheless. On the same morning Quarryman easily defeated Signalman over H miles in 2.13. He looks in tine fettle, and provided he can stay two miles, may bo trusted to run well in the New Zealand Cup. Of the lemalning local candidates little need be said. Clanbum, with General Symons and Probable, was scratched on Monday, and none of the others is likely to play a prominent part in the race. The betting market is unusually quiet this year. Nobody cares to field against the Yaldhurst candidates, and few are willing to take the shoi t odds on offer about Mr Stead’s three. The following business has been done during the week:—Cup and Stewards’ Handicap: 16(H) to 2 against Jeaniu* d’Arc and Veneer. 15(H) to 2 against Gold Crown and Medallist, 1000 to 1.”. against Gold Crown and Medallist, 1000 to 3 against Black Reynard and Solution, 750 to 3 against Golden Knight and Master Alix, 750 to 5 against Golden Knight and Chivalry, 750 to 5 against Mahutonga and Vladimir. 600 to 2 against Boomerang and To-morrow. 600 to 2 against Douche and Ciichton. 600 to 2 against Gold Crown and King Bfily, 6(H) to 2 against Jeanne d’Arc and Chivalry. S(H) to 2 against Achilles and Chivalry, 500 to 7 against Mahutonga and Savoury, 500 to 5 against Achilles and Machine Gun, 500 to 5 against Melodeon and Savoury. 500 to 5 against Golden Knight and Cuneiform. S(H) to 5 against Melodeon and Solution, 500 to 5 against Melodeon and Muujeet, 500 to 5 against Nightfall and Vladimir, 500 to 5 against Nightfall and Petrovna, 500 to 3 against Mahutonga and Petrovna. 500 to 3 against Golden Knight ami Crichton, 500 to 3 against Golden Knight and Ingleueuk, 500 to 3 against Mahutonga and King BHly, 500 to 2 against Achilles and Red Gauntlet, 400 to 12 against Nightfall and Cuneiform, 300 to 9 Nightfall and Muujeet. Several entries for the Canterbury J.C. spring meeting close on Friday, when acceptances will also close for the New Zealand Cup. Mr F. H. Tyne, well known in local sporting circles, who has been absent for some months on a visit to England, is expected back In time for the Canterbury J.C. spring meeting. Mr J. B. Reid has sold his stables, known as Gladsome, to Mr J. F. Buchanan, for. it is said. £2OOO. W. Pine. Mr Buchanan’s trainer, takes possession this week. Machine Gun is a regular attendant at Riccarton. He looks well, though a trlfl<* jolly. G. Aynsley did not wait for the second day’s racing of the Dunedin J.C., but, leaving Hnku in charge of Davies, returned on Thursday. ll<‘ thinks that the Dunedin two-year-olds do not compare favourably with the local youngsters, that Pampero’s half-brother Notus, is a promising colt, and that Vladimir’s trainer will have all his work to do to get the son of Stepniak ready for his Canterbury engagements. H. Donovan, whose period of disqualification has expired. Is now training Quickfire. The disappointing daughter of Hotchkiss is looking well. Hobbs, with Pas Seul and the two-year-old Ivanoff; 11. Cults with Cannie Chiel, Signalman, and the two-year-old Kerrlemuir; and Hope with Veneer. left for Wellington on Saturday. Clanburn and Blythemaid. in charge of McCracken, and Graduated Tax, Taxpayer, and the two-year-old Knastikofl’, in charge of Clark, left yester-

day (Tuostlayi. Both Ivanoff and Kerrl<mulr are likely to run well in the juvenile Hilarity. Makaroff. (’zarewna, (’antic Grosvenor. Orcan, Naraugerie. Lady Lyonors. Royal t’rown. Stvpasidr. Maluku, Mango, Somaroff Bluestone, King’s Guest, Tessera. De la Rey. Ability, and probably ths illusion two-year colt will leave for Gaiuaru to-day to fulfil their respective engagements at the North Otago J. Club’s Spring Mcering. Shot nan’s Ren Nvrato (.reek Maid filly was to have gone to Wellington but has been kept at home by an attack of Infiuenza. Canada. I hear, is to go from Dunedin to Oainaru. The weather was threatening on Saturday morning, and though It cleared towards noon, few people could be induced to journey from Dunedin to Wingatui for the second day’s racing of the Dunedin J. Club's Spring Meeting. Considering the state of •llie ground, the racing was really Interesting. lluku won the Hurdle Race easily, after knocking down the last fence. He would have been much harder pushed, however. if Wee McGroegor had not laid so far out of his ground in the early stages of the race. Ostachkoff reared as the barrier rose for the Telegraph Welter Handicap, and was left at the. post: and Notus won after a capital struggle with Rubrotte. a circuinstance to which McComb's vigorous horsemanship largely coni rilmled. Later on Ostachkoff came out again in the Farewell Handicap, and, although he ran wide at the top turn, won very easily. The Burnside Welter Handicap produced a capital struggle between Rio Grande, Gypsobel, ami Taparoa, and the first-named had to be driven hard to beat Gypsobel. Bean Seaton gave a poor display in the Ranfnrly Handicap, ami the stable companions, Brighton and Jupiter, finished first and second respectively, the funner winning easily. Crichton 10l his stable companion, Red Gauntlet, ami Apoiiodoris, get right away from him hi the early part of the Shorts Handicap, ami when lie did make an effort to recover liis lost ground his effort was so feeble that he was easily beaten by Apollodoris. The stewards expressed dissatisfaction with Crichton's run ning. but beyond cautioning his rider (J. Rae) took no action. The leniency of the stewards has been adversely eritlcised. Treadmill’s half-brother. Flying Spark, who keeps on Ids legs in a surprising manner, had no difficulty in winning the Kaikora! Huck Race. Vladimir was a good deal above himself when he ran at Dunedin, and he will have Io be kept going to be at his best next month. Ailsa was doing very well until the Saturday before tin* Dunedin meeting when she was attacked by some undefined illness which prevented her fulfilling her engagements at the gathering. The trouble is only expected to he tempo- © © © Auutraliaii Racing. Betting Is dull over the Caulfield <’up. Pius has been further backed to win £2(KH» at 1(X) io 7. The following scratchings have been posted for the (’aulfieh! ('up: Sweet Nell, Bandmaster, and Japhet. The following are the acceptances for the Caulfield Guineas, to he run on Saturday: Bon Grafton, Forest Charm, Charles Stuart. Pius. Scotland. Lady Wallace, Simoda, The Infanta, King <»’ Scots. Dantzie, Wamlain, Jargoon, ami Admiral Togo. MELBOURNE, October 10. The V.A.T.C. Committee to-day discussed the question of Mr Wren’s horses, ami decided to allow Plus to compete in the Caulfield Guineas, Pius and Grand Rapids in the Caulfield Cup and Toorak Handicap, Gnpon. Winchester, Roberts, ami Toni Moore hi the Debutant Stakes. The entries proffered by F. Musgrave, Mr. Wren’s trainer, for minor events were refused. FLEMINGTON. October 10. At Flemington this morning Emir beat F.J.A. over 11 furlongs in 2.29. Maninpotp was sent a similar distance, which he traversed easily in 2.33. Charles Stuart covered six furlongs in 1.21. I\ady Wallace ran a mile In 1.48. Scot Free beat Jargon and Elvo over eight furlongs in the same time. Deinas, Class, and Sylvan King took 1.51 to cover a mile. Roller did the same, while. Billingsgate beat Japhet over a similar journey in 1.49. Harvest Home skipped over a mile In 1.50. Infanta beat Amazon over a like distance in 1.49. Red Streak

•Iso did a mile In 1.40. Step Out put In strong work. Torah is firm for the Caulfield Cup at 8 to 1; Step Out ami Warroo, 12 to 1. Emir has received steady support this week, ami has shortened to 1G to 1. Pius is being backed at 20 to 1, ami Boabdil was supported to win £3<Mwi, his price now being 25 to 1. FLEMINGTON, October 11. Maniapoto has receded to 10 to 1 for the Melbourne Cup. owing to his cough still being troublesome. Warroo, another horse which has been supported, is reported to be amiss. Torch is now firm for the Caulfield • ’up at 7 to 1. Emir, on the strength of being supported to win £2009, has shortened to 14 to 1. Step Out is firm at 10 to 1. Warroo is quoted at 12 to 1, while Pius is a strong order at 14 Lu 1. FLEM INGTON, * Oct ober 12. At Flemington this morning Emir heat F.J.A. over nine furlongs in 2m. Gladsome covered a mile in 1.47, Charles Stuart running a similar distance in 1.40. Canteen ran a mile on the tan in 1.54. Maniapoto did useful work, though his cold still clings to him. Elvo and Lord Fitzroy were together over a mile in 1.49. Jargon beat Scot Free in a six-furlong go. run in_I.LSA. Lady Wallace traversed a mile in 1.47. Roller, Position, and Simoda doing the sametime. Step Out and Bon Grafton ran a mile on the tan in 1.55. Marmont covered 11 furlongs in 2.31. Harvest Home galloped a mile and a half in 2.4 G. Red Streak left a mile behind in 1.49. Infanta registering a similar performance. Warroo was restricted to cantering exercise. Maniapoto has been supported for the Caulfield Cup for a further £s<hhi. and has shortened to HI to 1. Marvel Loch is firmer, and is now at 13 to 1. Emir is hardening, and the best price on offer against him is 14 to 1. Florin met with slight support at 33 to 1. Other quotations are unchanged. FLEMINGTON, October 13. A veterinary surgeon has been attending Maniapoto. and there is some doubt about, ills starting in the Caulfield Cup. Warroo is in the same position. The latest Caulfield Cup betting leaves Torch, Emir, and Step Out equal favourite's at 10 to 1. Pius, on the strength of his receiving further support to win £SOOO. has hardened to r_i to 1. Rosemead was backed to win £3OOO, and is now quoted at 10 to 1, the same price being obtainable about Maniapoto and Scot Free. ‘VICTORIA AMATEUR TURF CLUBS SPRING MEETING. .iX) THE FIRST DAYS RACING. MELBOURNE, October'l4. The Victoria Amateur Turf Club’s<spring liieeting was opened at Caulfield to-day. Light showers of rain, which fell during ilic morning, freshened up the lawns ami tfower beds, and later in the day the weather was glorious and fine, with a mild, genial sun. A great crowd were present. Ills Excellency the Governor, GvneialLord Northcotc, and Lady Northcote were Present. The course was in good order. In the Caulfield Stakes. Gladsome started with odds laid on her ability to win, but she sm'cumbed to both Torah and Marvel Loch. ’ Thackeray, who won the 1010 Welter, under the ’minimum weight, is a Caulfield Cup candidate, and his flue performance to-day should bring him into the betting for the big race next Saturday. A The following are the details of the racing:— The 1010 Welter Handicap of 150sovs. second horse to receive 3.»sovs. and third 15sovs from the stake, seven furlongs.— Mr 11. Patterson’s hr e Thackeray. 3yrs, by Majestic—Becky Sharp. 1: Japhet. 3yrs, 2; Purser, aged. 3. Twenty-four horses started. Betting: 14 to 1 against Thackeray. Time, 1.30}. The Debutant Stakes of 115Osovs. secoml horse to receive lOOsovs. the third horse KOsovs from the stake, for two-year-olds: colts, 8.0, fillies ami geldings 7.9, four furlongs.— Ebullition 1. Lady Evelyn, 7.9, 2: Orlellet. 7.9. 3. Sixteen horses started Betting: 2 to 1 against Orlellet, 10 to 1 Ebullition. Time. 51}. The Caulfield Slakes of 450sovs. second horse to receive 40sovs. and the third 10 rovs from the stake. For three-year-olds and upwards. Weigh t-for-age. Ono mile and a furlong.—Mr G. Anderson’s b c Torah. 3yrs. by Koran—Tarloch. 7.11. 1: Marvel Loch. 8.13. 2: Gladsome. 8.13. 3. Four others ran. Betting: 5 Io 4 on Gladsome, 3 to 1 against Emir. 10 to 1 Torah. 12 to 1 Marvel Loch. Other starters: Canteen, Emir, Roller. Warroo. Time. 1.064. The Ringwood Handicap Steeplechase of 200sovs, the owner of the second horst* tn receive 35sovh and the owner of the third l.isovs from the stake, about two miles.— Mr A. Clark’s ch g Sweeper, aged, by Ascot Veracity. 1: Advisor. 2: Mechlin. 3. Thirteen horses started. Betting: 4 to 1 against Sweeper. Time, 4m. The Caulfield Guineas of GfiOsovs. second horse to receive JOOsovs. and the third 59 rovs from the stake, for three-year-olds; colts 8.5. fillies and geldings. B.o.—Mr J. East’s br f Lady Wallace, by Wallace— Lady Musty 11. 1; Danzic. 2: Scotland. 3. Other starters: Bon Grafton. Charles Stuart, Slmmonda. King o’Scots. Jargoon. The Infanta, and Pins. Betting: 2 to 1 against Charles Stunrt. 5 to 1 Scotland. (> to 1 Lady Wallace. 8 to 1 Pius. 10 to 1 Danzic. Won by two lengths. Timo. 1.44}. The Toorak Handicap of Gsosovs, the second horse to receive lOOsovs. and the owner of the third 59sovs from the stake, one mile. —Mr 11. Avery’s b b Dandalla. 4yrs. by St. Switbin -Thelma. 7.13, 1: Mr W. A. Noake’s b h Overdnle. 4yrs. 8.11, 2; Mr W. Gerraid’s ch g Medallist. syrs. 7.5, 3. Eighteen horses started. Betting: 4 to 1 against Sylvan King. R to 1 Debenture. 11 to 1 Dandalla. A splendid race down ♦he straight, ended in Dandalla gaining the ▼erdiet by a head. Time, 1.43},

FLEMINGTON, October !«• On the tracks this morning Emir covered a mile in 1.47. Tartan and Warroo sprinted live furlongs in 1.51, Step-Out and Harmony ran ten furlongs in 218. Maniapoto did useful work; the horse’s cold is improving. Marmont ami MoHusk covered a mile ami a-half in 2.4 G. The latest quotations on the Caulfield Cup are 5 to I against Torah, 12 to 1 StepOut and Roller, 14 to 1 Rosemead ami Marvel Loch, 1G to 1 Pius, 20 to 1 Einir, Maniapoto, and Warroo. _i T J Fiji Jockey Club Races. The following are the results of the Fiji J.C. races, ‘which took place on September 23: — Governor’s Cup, one mile.—.T. B. Turner’s Laudlet iMacaulilTe), 1; NouetE Morrigan), 2; Victorine 3. Five horses started. Exhibition Handicap, about nine fur-Jongs.--T. Brophy’s Mechanic (Buckland), 1. Farewell Handicap, six furlongs. Moina, 1; Sally Horner. 2.

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