TURF GOSSIP

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XLI, Issue 15, 7 October 1908, Page 15

TURF GOSSIP

(BI

WHALEBONE.

RACING FIXTURES. - . Hawke's Bay J.C.—October 3 Waltarif' rte.—October 9 Napier Park It.C.—October 14 and IS Otaki R.C.—Labour Day .Wellington R.C. —October 21 and 24 Masterttm R.C.—October 29 and 30 ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS. K.H., Green Lane.—Betrayer won tbe Wanganui Cup tn 1880. Fair Sport —Your query is a peculiar one, and It the facts are as stated, the amounts to be received are (1) £2 12/6, (2) 9/, (3) XI 7/6. |A H., Avondale. — The pair have met over four furlongs on two occasions, in tbe Welcome Stakes and the Electric Plate at the C.J.C. Spring Meeting, Armlet winning the former and Fleetfoot the latter. TURF NOTES. The Otahuhu Trotting Club made a profit Of £253 18/6 on last years operations. Seven of those that competed In the last ’Auckland Cup figure in this year’s contest. The much-boomed California has been nominated foY the principal events at the A. R.C. Summer Meeting. The jumper* Be Beau, which has had an easy time of late, has resumed active work at Ellerslie. ‘‘

The latest foalings at Glenora Park are, ■Waiorongomat- a colt to ‘Soult, And Caller Ou a colt to -Soult. . . ,t , .

•n *4 ' ' Bonny Glem and Uranium are the most BOtteeable absentees frohi the list of nominations for the Auckland Cup.

It is stated'.that H. Donovan, |he Souths em horseman: will have the mount on •Master Delavai in the New Zealand Cup. Mehari is thf» best two-year-old In Fra fife,And he is engaged in the English Derby »e>t year. i],

Mrs Leonard, has re-purchased Alba Rose, and the daughter of Seaton Delavai Is to fee mated witlr Soult.

The Otahuhu Racing Club notify that the racing meeting advertised to be held on the 14th Inst, has been indefinitely postponed. t

The Aueklaiid-owned Soultline has been awarded 8.5 In the Toorak Handicap, run at the V.A.T.C. spring meeting.

Nominations for all •at -the ‘Auckland Trotting ,Clbb> spring meeting close ory Friday, October 9.

The racehorses Douche and Reservoir were shipper to Napier by the Moana in charge of J. Loomb.

Mr G.,’ Hill’s Angassieur, by Cuiraesier — I«ady Agnes, has foaled a filly to Spalpeen, and is to be mated this season with Starina.

At Gleiiora'"Park,' Hotcherlna has foaled a filly to Soult. In all probability. Hotcnerina will be mated with Gluten this seaeon.

It ;is rumodred that litigation is likely to* Onhue- bet'w'een aii> owner and the Avondale'Jockey Club over the question of nominations; - y

The gelding has been disposed of>by Mr W. C. Ring, and he was taken South to hie new home by the last Sunday.

J. McComb will act as chief horseman for Messrs W,-Gi'aiml-;g. lx Stead, ami was upon the imported filly Ringdove when ehe ran at Aehburton.

Amongst the mares to visit Gladstone this fs >Dady ~Moth, dam of the onetime crack Holforo, which had such a dramatic death at Ellerslie.

the hope is entertained that tvrenadier will stay, as the son of Soult figures amongst the Auckland Cup nominations.

At Ctfftibria Pal-k, Henfta, by IlOtdhkisb - Agnes, has foaled a Ally to liierarvh,, ami The Dell, by The Officer — Fawn, a colt to Obligado.

It Io -reported from Sydney that Multiform s f O i‘ present season filled a Tort night after it was opened. Some very Choke mares have been booked to him.

•Tlie Torpedo gcMlng Creusot kept up his reputation in"**the" Second Steeplechase at Avondale, and whipped off at the second brush fence at the back of the course, afterwards covering about a mile and a-half tin the flat before he was pulled up.

Although Probable has won a couple of races during the past month, he has not so far incurred a penalty for the New Zealand •’up. As The Possible horse has only 7.0 in the big race at Ricearton, his owner may not care to race him again before that fix-

Denis Moraghan has left for the South with Master Delavai, Master Soult, and the two-year-old Elysian. The trio make a fairly strong'team, and it will bo surprising if the Ellerslie trainer returns without appropriating some of the plums of the southern clubs’ gatherings.

The nomination of Soultline for the principal events at the A.R.C. Summer Meeting did not. reach the secretary until 40 minutes after closing time; and, therefore, had tp be rejected. Evidently his owner, Mr. J. Twohill, did not allow for the difference in time between Sydney and Auckland.

The English Local Government Board refused the petition of the Jockey Club Stewards and of forty-one trainers for a maximum speed limit for motors in the Newmarket urban district. In 1906 the limit was applied to the principal thoroughfares only, but it has been almost universally disregarded. <

1 learn on authority, that R. J. Mason will, in future, train solely for Mr Greenwood, of Christchurch. The filly RoseHke. which-has been under Mason's charge since the wale of;;Mr G..G. Stead’s horses, is to be transferred to another >dable, but it has not yet been decided who is to get her.

Tt evidently Mr. E. J. Wa.tt‘s intention to send Aborigine to Auckland toj fulfil his engagem’ent tn the GfHt Northern Guineas. .as.'the ( ii<m; ; iMerrlwee hws been .nominated for the Birthday handicap at fte spring gathering. His stable companion, King Billy, has also been.*nonbintttbd for thel principal events at the : meeting.,- r

Mr W. Casey .ie , successful tenderer for the new members’ stand at ! Ellerslie. Mr <’asey has* doiie a number of jobs for the Auckland Racing Club, work in the past has been of sqch q.,.character as to guarantee the club getting a firstclass building. Operations are to be started at once.

The most successful sire at tlie recent Avondale meeting was Soult, the stock of which accounted for no less than eight races; The defunct Phoebus Apollo was represented by three winners. St. Crispin, Cyrenlan, and Jet d’Eau, by two each; and Mitlora, Leolantis, Cuirassier, Seaton Delavat, Conqueror, San Fran, and Gold R'eer, one /each.'

One of the most promising candidates for jumping honours seen out for some time is the Loch Ness gelding Darkness, which is in F. Hill's:charge at Ellerslie. Darkness was a starter in the Maiden Hurdle Race at. Avondale, and made ! a bold showing for about a mile and a-quar-ter. With a bit more condition, Darkness should prove* useful. ' ‘' '

The nominations received on Friday night by Mr. J. F. Hartland for the principal events at the spring and summer gatherings, ard a record .. as far as / the 1 flatter . meeting is ; conj-ceiim-d, : and with 60 horse« jt»nga ged in Auckhirtd'Cup (which Ihrlude'the pick bf thb handicap horses of N.Z.), the coming summer . meeting should see a record meeting rpß6<t. I J .a.L-.-h

The Wellington Pony and Galloway meeting was held on Saturday last, when two vx-Auchland ponies .were successful Herculean accounting for the Wonderland Handicap. and Inspiration fqr the Flying Handicap/ The i other' iWea ‘tre^iilfed Bncoutage Handicap, Wee Nannie; Maiden Handicap. Lady Dauphin; Spring Cup, Miretta; and September Handicap, Firefly.

Mr Spencer Gbljaib whb is One of the 1 best all round sportsmen who ever supported the Turf, has Jong been cursed with baa horaee opys [ah Enklinh paper), and thd Tifdiltdric coUtl is of a clans to rehab ilitate the stable’s fortunes. He was heavily backed to beat Angelos in the Lammas stakes at Sandown, but after leading until the distance, he was easily beaten by the favourite. \ , ? !

H, Howe’s bad liiek still continues. During the running of the Welter Handicap on • the ' concluding day of the Avondale meeting, Sonltmaid, which now races in his nomination, dislocated one of her fetlocks, and will to 4 be given a spell. Soult ma id was ruuuing* well forward when

the mishap ‘occurred, add her rider <B. Lindsay) wa<s mmtident that she would have nearly won.

Mr Godfrey Watson, with the consent «‘f the V.R.< . committee, has lieen appointint starter to the Ascot. Richmond, and Fitzroy Chibs, which are controlled by Mr J. Wren. Mr Watson will- continue to act as starter at Flemington, Caulfield, and others registered courses. He commenced bis new duties last Wednesday, when he did the starting at Richmond. lie must have been a holy terror to the riders during the afternoon' as he inflicted tines all round.

The age of a horse cannot always he told by looking at his teeth. After the eighth ycar ?h , the horse gets no more new teeth,., so that this method is useless for a horse more than eight years old. As soon as the set of teeth is complete, however, a wrinkle begins to appear on the edge of the lower eyelid; and another wrinkle is added each year; so that, to get the age of a horse more than eight yertr,s old, you must count the teeth plus the wrinkles.

I have received another communication from a correspondent at Onehunga, “Fair Flay,” in connection with the Avondale* Guineas. “Fair Play” takes the opposite view to my two previous correspondents, and attributes the losing of the race to the boy whom the others defend. J am unable to publish any of the letters received, as the writers seem to have overlooked the fact that there are libel laws in New Zealand.

The action of the Metropolitan body in refusing the request, of the Otahuhu Racing Club for permission to hold their annual meeting at Alexandra Park is only in accordance with the expressed intention of the president to refuse all qpplications to clubs to race on any course not in possession of the club. This stand will be approved of by all who have the interests of the game at heart, and It will stir the Otahuhu executive to have the course <which I understand they have in their own district) put in order at once.

My. Huntly correspondent writes as follows: "Mr. J. B. Harris, of Harrisville,. owner of the well-known mare Lily, has had a pleasant surprise. For 20 years now the mare has been barren, and was presumed by. experts to bp so. Last season, however, Mr. Harris sent her to Te Awamutu, to Messrs. Cavanagh and Weal’s Spalpeen, with lhe result that the persevering and hopeful owner is now the happy possessor of a fine filly foal, which, to recoup him for his hopes so long deferred, as well as for his persistence, blight to lirove a clinker.”

The tinkering that Is going on with racing in America is likely to be of advantage to the English Turf, say H the "Sporting Times,” and the.first fruits of this are observable in the entry for the National Breeders’ Stakes at Sandown Park, which is the richest -two-ye'Ctf-okT nace in this country. For this event we have yet to receive particulars of sixty mares that have been named in New York, the lotal con'.ributton of the Yankees to the stake amounting to close on a hundred.

We cannot see (says the .."Australasian”) that Sir George Clifford need worry about bookmakers keeping horses. For one thing he cannot stop it. Of that there is no doubt whatever. We have had bookmaker owners in Australia* for years past, and as long aw they race their horses openly, we cannot see that there is any objection to them. Their horses are run quite as fairly as those of the average oxyneV. That a big speculator should own horses secretly is not right/ It gives him too great an advantage In the battle foV mon<Py.

According to a leading article in the 1 "Australasian,” reports from Melbourne as to the betting done there are not to be trusted. That paper says: — "The Epsom Handicap and Metropolitan are said to bo creating a good deal of betting; but we do not attach much importance to the stories about horses being backed nowadays. Betting before the day is very limited, and it so often happens that the report that so-and-so has been backed or 'talked about’ — is. followed by the .announcement that so-and-so has been scratched.”

Hannon heads the list of winning trainers at the Tecent Avondale meeting, supplying four winners. Sid Hodge was represented by three, D. Moraghan, W. G. Irwin, J. Loomb. and Mr McKenzie had two each, aqd H. French. Winder, C. Coleman, G. Pritchard, A. Robertson, George, N. Ciuiningham, and Lindsay one each. B. Deeley and Brady were easily at the top of winning riders, the pair riding six winners each/ accounting for just half the programme. M. Ryan, C*. Brown. C. Cress, and A. Whittaker rode two each, and A. McMillan, A. Julian, Jones, and J. Bm-hnnan each.

Usually the Avondale stewards are fully alive to their responsibilities, and on several occasions have taken ri firm stand when matters crooked have emne under their notice. At. the meeting just. com*luded, however, the ofllciuls did not art up to their previous standard, and. for some reason or of her, allowed one oV twit thiiigs to escape

in which they certainly shonhl have taken' svine avtien. tn ene raec in particular a certain horse not only looked affected with "sleeping sickness," bitt lie also looked to he shepherdiug another .Uftrse In the race The ease was a glaring one. and the stew arils lost a golden opportunity by not deal* Ing summarily with the olfemlers.

Sir Rupert Clarke ran ills two-year-old Finger Post, by Rice (imp.) Index, in the 14.2 hands race at Richmond last Wednesday. The eolt-was not realty, and made no show. Bir Rupert himself was present. Under V.H.C. rules any owner may uow run a pony In a pony race at a ■ meeting wnteh is uot registered by the V.R.C., and Sir Rupert Clarke thinks his position In the matter quite Justiflahle. His brother, Mr H., K. IU. Clarke, does uot relish the Idea much, and In consequence they have dissolved parUilershlp In their racehorses. Mr W. W. D. Clarke hns bought out Sir Rupert's share of Jack Smith ami the two-year-old Keynote, by Wallace Key, and the transter lias been duly registered by" the V.R.C

A little wldle back, therte was some talk uf "PPO'ntlng stipendiary stewards. In England, and according tn reeeut co'onial visitors to that country, they are badly needed there, as all sorts of things nioer. “ s r, “ nln 8 in working shoes—are quietly passed over. However the following from the pen of "Rapier " suggests that soilie of the trainers have been going to even greater lengths than usual and badly need pu ling up: "Now that the Steward? are paying attention to the riding they really might extend the field ijf their operations and examine a little into the bigger scandal of horses’ running. i cannot Itn agine .anything that would have a more salutary effect than for the stewards to • pen their eyes, see what is oeeaslouaiiy so very visible, and without any fuss simply w,arn oft one of the 'hot’- trainers who seareely pretend that their horses are, as a rule, ‘out.’ The recent performances of certain animals have been in such marked contrast that it, would have been na more than reasonable if their trainers had been pressiiigly invited to exphjin the variation. . Things are deplorably lax. lax-all round.” ... . .

Romance of rarsng is in extremes, or even worse (says a Southern writer). The : turl is peopled by all sorts and conditions of men—good; bad, and better'-'fbetter off tlian on it for (he turf’s sake) andons.wasIn evidence at Ashburton. A- strenuous* battle for supreiuqey . was fought out between Held Gun and Chief Eochlel hi tbo principal event oil' the second day of the meetings Romance wolihi say: "As they, tail locked together stride for .stride Into the (Straight, the crle s from their rent the air....Fo’r a monielit Moiikey Puxsle threatened’’dinger btif the telling"stride# of the> leaders quickly. Paused him to- eall peecayl. On came, tlie, others locked together, and straining every muscle end sinews; outstretched necks taut'with the hist of Battle, ■wltb’--the jockeys rtdlng'-as If their very life hung on thp .Issue. . Field!,.. *x' l ,01111, j , .some’, and.''. Chief ■ Loehd-e-ei vociferously otnirs,"as tlie horses gailafittS''fotfgiit* rttoh Other foi- vic* ' torjil Field Giiii, ■ Field 'Gun, 'Mekl i Gun, Flel’ Guul you yowl rang high above the £>d dashed, past .the. post: and as ike numbers shot up pioelalhlthg Field Gun'u victory,- a sport wh<s had' got on'the" cream of the-market nipped bls field glasses intohls.oase,. and salik lo ,alb who cared, to listen; "That he thought the crimson son of a sausage was going to gel Wat*®

An English writer thus discourses on therecent defeat of - Noetuiform: 'Whether there,wps any. excuse for Noctuiforin I am not at the. moment aware. He bad done so well since being put in training again this year,-and had won «• little-race lil'stiwh convincing style that, there seemed to-be reasonable grounds to hope hp would even at the eleventh hour make Mr Buchaiinii a. good return for many disappointments; but young Sam Darling seemed a bit dubious ' when last I saw him, and said he wan afraid the horse was uow rather an "old man." It may be so, though Noctnlforni was only Just six years old recently, and never ran but twice as a two-year-old, and four times as a three-yeurold In Australo.- ; sin. The greater probability Is that, being asked to'race In thW country before he was acclimatised or ready to do his beet, be found the experience so distressing that he < determined to abjure any serious effort lif., future. Still, it did seem when be ran, right away with bls raee'at the first time of asking , this year that he bud taken a new lease of racing life, and even uow I uni not entirely without hope that this defeat may be excused for some valid reason. If it cannot, then the only other hope is io put the horse to Jumping, and'At that' game lie might very well gpiu distinction, it- is very annoying to own a horse likq Nootuiform, who, by tlie way, did not cost, 7000 guineas, as we are so Often tOid. bitt ft considerably less sum. Had-lie remained;-tn Now Zealand he would probably never bavp; beet) beaten, mid bis owner, the late Mr stead, did hot at'all ‘want to 1 sbn lilm. Unfortunately, lie wits tempted to do so, 1 With what result we all kupw.sHowever, Mr Rocha nan knows how tp take the rough t with the smooth in racing affairs, us in others, and I do not suppose lie iVOrVios himself much about Noctuiform.

The Spring Meeting of the Avondale Jo< key Chib Just concluded was easily the most successful yet held by the club, and the'officials are to be congratulated on the position attained. There is no doubt that the Avondale Club has made rapid strides during the past couple of seasons, and, thanks to careful management, is now in n strong financial position. Now that a new caretaker lias been appointed who seems to understand his work, I would like to* draw attention to a matter that requires remedying at once. This is the banking of the top turn just past the half mile post, und also the turn Into tin* straight. The latter is not so bad. hut the former should )>e seen to at once, as it is anything but eafe. With the turns indicated attended to lhe Avondale racecourse would take rank with the best in the province.

In writing of Belgian courses, a writer in fin exchange says: "Before going any further. a word must be said in favour of the manner in which things are managed at Ostend. Looking out of the window at seven in the morning, and Hatching the morning gallops of the horses. 1 saw, when the horses had returned to their stables, the ra< c track invaded by an army of men armed with all Ihe necessary implements for making good the turf wherever it had been cut up by tin- hoof of a horse. They were under command of a leader, who, when the Indo was too deep, had a fresh sod cut from lhe neighbouring turf, so as to avoid all danger to the sinews of those who were destined to show their best form in public later on. These operations, carried out by a body of men almost shoulder to shoulder as they walked across the whole of the course, were repeated prior to Ihq.,i,irami Criterion, so that the ten competiiovs ran under the most favourable conditions,'’

In America the idea obtains that the lockers now riding in that country are pot. up to the standard of those of a few rears ago.. Dealing with' this subject, a New York writer remarks that Notter and E. Dugan are in a class by themselves, but neither ••an be considered a finished horseman. He adds that in the days of Hayward, McLaughlin, Garrison. Maher, Tara I, and Peakes horses ran for form, and that is something they seldom do now. The start settles the race now, not the condition nor quality of the horse. Unless a horse gets off in front he has no chance, for the jQckey on him does not know enough about pace to make up his ground where he ought to, but goes at it hammer and tongs, and tries to get in front in the first quarter as if his whole life depended upon it. Seemingly it is a case of win from Hart to finish with American riders, and that, too, seems to be the trouble with their English copyists. At least, the following, from the pen of "Vigilant,” of the London "Sportsman,” lends itself to that idea. "The copyists of the American methods have, perhaps, erred on the side of exaggeration, whether as regards crouch or length of stirrup, and as regards knowledge of pace have still much to learn, for in most instances the supreme idea is, at any rate, to win Home where, if not where the money is actually paid. It seems to be a case of get off first and make every post a winning post if possible, and as regards equality at starting that is all rubbish, and more than one jockey could be instanced who owed bis quick beginnings—and so much the more to his credit —to the fact that, without committing any 4 apparent offence, he is clever enough always to have his horse more or less on the I move, and consequently in action.” However, lhe "indifferent jockeys*’ cry is one that will be heard as long as racing continues.

1 have received a letter from correspondent, "One Who Saw the Whole Thing,” In uhh h' he inakefr strung charges against a number of riders who had mounts In the Avondale Guineas. My correspondent’s contentions are, however, not borne out by facts, and J ~ cannot agree with him that a set was made against any one horse. Persona Ny, 1 saw several horses -as badly interfered with as th<? one my correspondent mentions, and it would undoubtedly have been in the interests of racing if the stewards had given all concerned an opportunity to explain matters. If any rider was treated in the manner the letter states, it was clearly his duly to lodge a complaint with the stewards, who would certainly have taken steps to get at the truth or otherwise of the allegations. It is only with lhe assistance of riders that racing club stewards <an successfully cope with foul riding. Another correspondent makes similar statements, ami under the i-ircnm stances, they should at once place the Tacts at their disposal before the stewards. I have also received a <oinmunieation from • nother correspondent on the subject of the Axondale Guineas, who also makes strong allegations on the question of foul riding. He concludes his letter by saying:—"Now, what Is to be done? Then? «an be no doubt that it was a deep-laid scheme, planned and carried out by the jockey ring. Why does this state of things exist? That is wiiut the stewards and those in authority must endeavour to fiml out, by holding a sum thing inquiry into the whole matter, us the responsibility rests with them. They ’xt find out who pays the crook jockeys ji doing such dirty work, causing the defeat <• horses which should undoubtedly have w n, and violently assaulting lads who are n< members of the ring. ' Both my corr< pendents state that one lad riding In t! • race was badly injured by the interf« enee, but the lad mentioned rode in four r. ces after the one m question, one of wLKh be woo.

Hays the "Australasian”: Next year English owners will have further opposition from Americans. The stoppage of betting on racecourses iu New York has practically put an end to racing in that State, and, as a protest, some wealthy Americans are going to transfer their horses to England and France. Presumably,, one object of this move is to bring home to the people the loss the country must Incur through the thousands and thousands spent in running these immense. breeding and racing establishments being spent abroad instead of at home. There may be trouble over this American invasion. Mr August. Belmont, the President of the New York Jockey Club, and Mr .1. R. Keene will be welcomed in England; but the Jockey Club stewards have had more than enough of the American professional racing man and his tricky ways. This class of owner certainly will not be encouraged. A few years back a good many American trainers got a footing in England, and the in-and-out running of their horses caused the suspicion that they were resorting to the "dope.” Nothing was ever proved against anyone in this respect; but the Jockey Club stewards gradually got rid of the American professionals, and the probabilities are that they will be very careful as to which Americans they let in again. The action of Messrs Keene and Belmont in shipping their studs to England reminds us of what happened in South Australia when Parliament repealed the Totalisator Act in 1884. This meant stopping racing, just as the prohibition of betting on a racecourse means putting an end to racing in New- York. The S.A.J.C. had taken entries for several young stakes, which they were bound to run off, and the committee adopted the rather extraordinary course of borrowing Flemington, and running the Adelaide Cup meeting there. In three years time the people of South Australia had realised what no-racing meant to the community, and the totalisator was legalised.

Says the Dominion: "During the meeting of of the Wellington Racing Club last, night, the bookmakers came in for a good deal of criticism —the major portion of it unfavourable. The chairman, Mr. W. H. S. Moorhouse, in his remarks on the annual report, mentioned that he had received a letter from Captain Falconer, who was unable to attend the meeting, sugesting that the club should take some action regarding defaulting bookmakers. Captain Falconer was of opinion that when defalcations were reported racing clubs should refuse licenses for future meetings to the bookmakers concerned. Mr. Moorhouse said he did not think such a course would meet with the approval of members. The bookmakers were forced on them by Parliament,'and it was no business of the clubs to inquire into their financial stability. They could only point to the totalisator as the safer medium of investment. Those of the public who patronised the bookmakers must take the risk of not being paid. Later on, Mr. Moorhouse referred to the totalisator revenue, which had suffered on account of the bookmakers being licensed, but mentioned that the loss to the club had more than been made up by the License fees received. The Hon. T. K. Macdonald, M.L.C., who has always been an opponent of the bookmaker, expressed some surprise that members had had no opinion from the president as to how the new order of things (the licensing of bookmakers) had worked during the year. He strongly disapproved of legalising the fraternity at all. Formerly. Parliament had legalised the totalisator, and practically prohibited the bookmaker, but now- it had chosen to alter the law and give the bookmaker a standing. If the club, without a murmur, were going to allow the bookmaker to get a free hand, it was quite possible that later on it would have to face the question of the abolition of the totalisator. He was of opinion that the club should do all in its power to oppose the bookmaker. Mr. W. H. Turnbull also made reference to the bookmakers during the evening. He had given notice of a motion favourable to the appolntipent of stipendiary stewards, but asked leave to withdraw it for the present. In doing so. he mentioned that he had for a long time been in favour of stipendiary stewards, and was still a believer in them; in fact, he thought they were absolutely necessary now that the bookmakers had been licensed to bet on the racecourses.”

Luder »he heading "A South African Opinion of tile Starting Gate," a London paper publishes an interview with Mr E. A. Halliwell. who has for 15 years been a starter in various parts of South Africa. Asked which he considered the best, the walk-up or the standstill start, he answered: "I do not agree with the walk-up start, because if you have such a start you might as well revert to the old method of the flag. My system is to make the good horses stand still, the restless and vicious opes I put behind. leaving an opening for them to come tip. When the bad ones come up in line, and are about a length behind those already standing still, the signal is given, and in 119 eases out of 100 I get the field off like men off the mark. 1 consider that about a length when a horse is on a slow move is n fair allowance to make as against those horses which are standing up to the tape.." Regarding the TTifferent characteristics of the starting gate, he said: ■•Personally. 1 have a strong objection to any gate whose action causes the tape to fly in front of the horses. The great merit of the gate used at Tnffouteiu, Johannesburg. is that it has only one tape -obviously an advantage: for the less a horse sees the less fear is instilled into him. But a greater merit still is to Ire found in the fact that the machine flies up so quickly and noiselessly, the tape going over the horses' heads, and in the seventh of a second is at rest again. The machine is perfectly noiseless.” Mr Hnlliwell said the practice of having a platform for the starter is an undesirable one. At Tnrffontein the starter is practically hidden from view, only his head and shoulders being visible, so as not to frighten the horses. The lever la so placed that the Jockeys canot see the starter

pull it. Tie thought the lever preferable to the electric button. 4 The rule in England as regards starting lays down that every horse must start, from a stand. "In my opinion.’* said Mr Halliwell. "this is a moral impossibility, because in nine cases' out of ten you cannot get your held to stand still. In South Africa we have what le, in tny opinion, a better rule, for it gives the starter discretion to -start bis” field either from a “standstill or a walk, and in this, I think, lies the secret of a successful, even start. Of course, your starter must be a man well up to his work —quick of eye, and must not hesitate a fraction of a second once he has the field in line or as near so as possible.’*

Last year, when the Turf Guardian Society was established, we expressed the opinion (says the "Sporting Times") that such an institution, if managed on straightforward and business-like lines, protecting the interests of both layers and backers, would be of great benefit. The particular object of the society is to prevent fraudulent transactions between commission agents and backers, and we are glad to see that it is receiving the support of the right people. On the register of members are the names of Mr. Henry Slowburn, Jun., Mr. R. Moore. Mr. Joe Thompson. Mr. E. C.* Irish, Mr. W. Schlesinger. Mr. Charles Giles, and many equally sound men in the provinces. The general committee is composed of agents of high standing at the clubs and in the ring. We learn that no commission agent is admitted as a member without the approval of the general committee, and it is essential that each member shall honourably meet his liabilities. Backers can report any complaint against a member of the society, and such complaints will be impartially investigated by the committee in the presence of all parties concerned, and the Interests of backers are safeguarded at these investigations by the presence of representatives of the leading sporting papers. The scheme has been most carefully thought out. and it is to be hoped that mushroom turf accountants, as well as a class of dishonest backers, will be stamped out by the prompt ami vigorous action of the society. No person in the service of the society has ever been directly or indirectly connected with the business of bookmaking, and every member of the staff is prohibited from betting. If it can succeed in doing all that it aims at. the Turf Guardian Society will become a great institution, and membership should convey a guarantee in the sporting world similar to that given in the city by membership of the Stock Exchange. There is room for such a society Id New Zealand. ■.

Mr. Guillermo Paats, the manager of the stud for which Cyllene and Polar Star were bought, has given an English writer some infoimation respecting, the Ojo de Agua Stud, and breeding and racing in the Argentine, The Ojo de Agua Stud is a farm three miles square (nine square miles), lying about 3ao miles south of Buenos Aires. - Many of the paddocks cover an area of 200 acres! It yvas established seventeen years ago, though the propiietors had previously carried on the breeding of■ bloodstock elsewhere. .The first stallion imported by the stud was Gay Hermit, a son of. Hermit, He died three years ago. He proved himself a treasure. Mares by him aie among the most successful breeders in the Argentine. They have 30 of them at Ojo de Agua. Then came Stiletto, bv Beaudesert; next Kendal,- now 25 years of age; then Pietermaritzburg, who died on January 1 last from tumours in the intestines, caused, it is believed, by flies; and now Cyllene and Polar Star. And, by the way. the two last named have been iusuied for £sl.<mm). Cyllene for £31,000 and Polar Star for £20,000. There are 90 brood mares at Ojo de Agua, so that it is obvious that an enormous capital is sunk , in the farm and its stock. But if the outlay is heavy, so Is the return substantial. At Aires last year the stud sold 37 yearlings, and they made an average of just short of £lOOO. That is a figure calculated to make breeders* mouths water, the more so when it is explained that the youngsters were not all by fashionable sires. It would thus seem that Cyllene and Polar Star cannot fail to turn out great business propositions. When Kendal was bought for £BOOO he was said to be a dear bargain, for he was 18 years old at the time. As a matter of fact he has got his purchase money back over and over again; From the breedings point of the view the Argentine seems,'indeed. to be an El Dorado. And what is the secret of. it ail? Simply that racing, out there can be made - a profitable pursuit. There is no prize of less value than £300! The entry fees and forfeits aie very trifling. The monev comes from the totalisator. Ten per cent is deducted from the .money invested at the totalizators, and the Jockey Club gets seven-tenths of it. Mr. Paats is the owner of one of the most important racing stables in the Argentine. Three times he has won the Derby at Buenos Aires, twice his horse has finished second, and on two or three occasions' his colours— cerise, green cap—have been cdrrled into third place. Last year Mr. Paats won stakes Io the value of £21,000. although no single prize amounted to more than £lOOO. ll« has been racing for 11 years, ami during that period his winnings average £13,000 per annum. The Argentine Derby is worth £4500 Io the winner, and £4OO is allotted to the second horse. It is in contemplation to offer an international prize of £lO,OOO or £12,000 in 1910, the entries for which will close within a short time of the race. The contest will take place in October, and it Is hoped to attract some English and French horses of classic calibre. ♦ ♦ ♦ PRESENTATION TO MR. 11. H. HAYR. Last Friday at the Occidental Hotel a pleasing ceremony took place, when Mr. H. 11. Hayr, the well-known totalisator proprietor, was presented by the members Of the totalisator staff with an illuminated address. Mr. Gray, in making the address, on behalf of the staff, referred to the kindly relations which bad always existed between Mr. Hayr and hta employees. Mr. Hayr suitably responded, after which three hearty

cheers were given, 'ine address, which a handsome one. bears the signatures of the staff, and is as follows: "To Mr. 11. 11. Hayr. Dear Sir, —As a slight token of the esteem in which you. are held by those totalisator employees over whom you -exercise control, we desire your acceptance of this address. Your unfailing . kindness, thoughtfulness, ’'and courtesy to all who have had the pleasure-of working in your interests have always been.manifested in a marked degree, and have been most sincerely appreciated. In thanking you for’ the efforts you have made to render pleasant the work in the various departments, your employees trust that you may long be spared to direct and control them in the execution of duties. Wishing you and yours all health and prosperity.”

TURF TALK FROM THE SOUTH.

CHRIS'rCIiVP.eU. Tuesday.

The tracks at Riccarton are again in splendid order, but the work at headquarters* has been rather slow of late, owing to the absence of several horses at the Geraldine and Wanganui meetings. Bonny Glen. Lapland, Don Orsino, and Prim have all been responsible for good work, and the firstnamed is standing up to his tasks as well as can be wished. He still wears bandages, however, ami there is always a doubt if his joints will stand the winding-up gallops l when the tracks become bard. Lapland is coming on nicely, and should be qfiite tit for his task when November comes round. I’as Soul is another showing great improvement, but her understandings have been giving her mentor considerable anxiety. Mr. G. Payne left on Wednesday last for Sydney, taking with him his three recent purchases, in Contorp, by Conqueror, Amboise, by- Stepniak. and the pony Silk Thread, by Silk web. Sheenan has Kelp in work again, and though as yet backward in condition, he is coming on nicely. Harry Cults returned from Wanganui on Saturday, accompanied by Husbandman and Inchbonnie. The former did not run up-to expectations in the Wanganui Guineas, but, being a somewhat gross colt, racing and travelling is sure to benefit him. ; As a result of their creditable performances at the. Wanganui meeting. Tiptoe, Glenullin, and .'Frisco have come into greater favour for the New Zealand Cup, while the showing of Master Delaval at Avondale and of Probable at Geraldine have gained them many friends. The entries taken, for.. the Canterbury. Jockey Club's classics easily constitute a record for those events, there being dq less than 984 nominated, as against 763 last * year. Amongst the biggest contributors are the Hon. J. D. Ormond, Sir Geo. "Clifford, J. B. and J. F. Reid, G 1 Duncan, Cambria Park Stud Coinpany, Sir W. Russell. Hon, • G. McLean, T. 11. Lowry, E. J. Watt, W» > and G. Stead, and G. D. Greenwood. R. J. Mason is training Mr. G. D. Greenwood’s team at Yqldhurst, and will continue there till the- New Zealand Cup meeting; The two-year-old colt Broadsword.• which. - met with a severe accident in a blacksmith’s ' shop at Riccarton last week, is progressing favourably,’ and should he go on as he is now doing may be able to fulfil some of hfc* autumn engagements. In addition to the . recent accidents'that have befallen members* of the Chokebdre team, influenza is rife ly ! the stable.- Consequently, the horses will be backward for their spring engagements. The imported mare Lady Wayward II. S by Ladas froin Vane, has been mated with the English-bred horse Charlemagne 11. : Stepdancer is to visit Martian, and Nantes wil have Charlemagne 11. as her consort. Mr. D. C. Mitchell, of Dunedin, has been appointed caretaker of the Canterbury Jockey Club's course. He will commence his duties at the end of the. current month. Recent foalings at Sir Geo. Clifford’s stud are ' Golden Vale, bay filly by Treadmill, Golden Crest, brown filly to Treadmill. Terednia, chestnut filly to Clan ran a Id. . \ . At Kinloch Fireside has produced a colt foal to Martian. Heirloom recently changed hands at a moderate figure, and has been placed with . R. Ellis, who also has Rubretta and S-tepen-feldt in work. At Wingatui Flavour and Lady Ronald * have been taken up again by McEldowney, - and both are looking well and healthy. The filly by Hotchkiss from Coal Scuttle in J. Rae’s stable has been'named Dominion ; Queen. . - v Crichton . is in steady work again at ' Wingatui, but his legs do not look any ,too sound, and I.shall be surprised if he stands a New Zealand Cup preparation. ' • G. Ruthven has a fair-sized team in work at • Wingatui, its principal members being Octave, Little Medallist, Peak, Miss Casket, Casque, and Cockleshell. . - Dirw Hammerhand won the championship in the thoroughbred class at the, Otago Horse Parade. Ideating Pallas and Hendock. J. Ellis is slipping plenty of fast work into the Bhu-kstone—lnvicta two-y«‘a ( r-old, evidently with the object of racing him at the early spring fixtures. C>IRISTCf 1U R<' 11. Frulay. Sir George Clifford’s tine colt Broadsword is making a tine recovery from the accident he'sustained, and hopes are entertained that ho may ho able to race in the autumn. R. Emmerson has an addition to his team in a three-year-old tilly of much promise, by Sant Ilario from Zealous. Makaroff has been going very dott’ly in his work during last week, and it is probable that he will he retired from racing. A large number of Riecarton-tralned horses are suffering from a mild form oC influenza, the latest victims being D. Roberts’ pair of two-year-olds, Cronstadt and Crlspip. by Walla co from La Tosco, hatf fooled a colt foal to Multiform at Sir Geoc. Clifford’s Stonyhurst slud. Madowla, by, Trenton —Azalea, has foaled a colt to Ckiiiranald, and will be mated this season with Treadmill. Mr. C. G. Dalgety lias decided to send Nantes, by Stepniak—Huguenot, bjr Charlomague, aiMj Stepdaucer, by StepnUli— PU

btoch, to Martian. Both these mares missed to Martian last season. There was a good muster of North Otago ana South Canterbury sportsmen at the Ku row J.C. Meeting on Thursday last, and, despite the opposition of 10 the to>te receipts only fell short of last year’s /takings by less than £lOO. Whirlwind. (7.13) followed up her victory at Geraldine by defeating The Seer (8.12), iA.rdreigh (9.5), and Rosebloom (7.13) in the Otekaike Handicap, and • Stepniak’s da ugh* rter is evidently baca to her very best form Bgain. The Seer ran a fair race, but I am afraid he is becoming more and more deM*clent In stamina, for in each of his essays ithls season he has been in trouble at the end of half a mile. Later in the afternoon (Whirlwind gave a further taste of her lability by putting up a penalty and appro priathig the Belfield Handicap, after a neck lira neck struggle down the straight with IMlss Gal. The latter is not nearly so foriward as the winner, and when quite well 6he can be relied on to win a good race. (Wanganui had a very easy win in the Hunt tClub Steeples, his jumping being of a high order, in great contrast to that of most of >his opponents. The Conqueror gelding, bam .Weller, was altogether too good for the poor lot opposed to him in the Talamba Hack (Handicap, while Slaney captured the Ilalca* .taramea Handicap, and Ngawera was seen to advantage in the Maiden Handicap. In years past the nice tong of Hie Ohoka and Eyreton Jockey Club has been interesting in tiiat it has usually brought out a few prominent candidates for-the New Zealand Cip and Stewards' Handicap. Last week’s gathering was disappointing in this respect, for the quality of the fields was pour, and as a consequence very iittle interest was taken in the afternoon’s racing. Cavatina. the handsome but disappointing daughter of Lochiel and Melissa, gave her owner a long overdue win by capturing the . (Oh oka and Eyreton Handicap from a much (better fancied candidate in Merrie. Lass, Who led for three parts of the journey. On several occasions late'y Cavatina’s associates ihave fancied her dhanee and supported their opinion in no uncertain style, but her erratic displays made them chary of supporting her to any great extent for the race she won. lAntony Rater, the promising sou of Phaeton mid'Traitress, followed up his win at Geraldine by appropriating the Hunters’ Flat ißace, from Musketoon. Roan, Banner, and several other mediocre performers.

AUCKLAND RACING CLUB.

NOMINATIONS FOR LEADING events. The following nominations have been received in connection with the Auckland Baring Club’s Spring' and ‘ Summer ' MeetSPRING MEETING. City I louche, Uranium, King Billy, Rauparaha, Sand Stream, Paritutu, Ikon, Lochbuhie; ■ Dunborve, - Carl Rotfa, Tan .’ban, Delegate,' ±'e Aroha, Moral, Leonator, ,Celtic. - - - < - Manukau Hurdle Race.—Reservoir, -Hau* tapu. Bull wort h, Creusot. Pharos, Le Beau, (Lady Il tine, Crispess, Okaihau, Waihekau, Dolores. - - -• * . Birthday Handicap.—Douche, Uranium, (King Billy, Aborigine, Ran paraha. Sand '•Stream, Paritutu. Ikon, Lochbuhie, Duuborve, Carl Rosa, .Tan San, Delegate,' Star ißose, Pohutu, Fashionable, Te Aroha, Moral, Leonator, Celtic, Rimlock. SUMMER MEETING. Auckland Cup.—Waipuna. Signor, Carls* feima, Master Soult, First Gun, California, iMahuta, All Red, Aborigine, Parable, Zlm'merman, St. Aidan, Bollin, Ringdove, Rauiparaha, Daisy Paul, Paritutu, Riffelnaid, Master Delaval, Ikon, Downfall. Bobrikoff, (Stratagem, Whistleeraft. Dunborve, Carl (Rosa, Frisco, The Lark. Delegate, Diabolo, :Shuja, Grenadier, Pohutu, Fashlonable, Tip* toe. Formative, Mallet, Star Rose, Te Aroha, iA.il Guns, Moral, Leonator; Osgodby, Gleuullin, Uhlando, Tanghnoana. Grand Slain, Celtic, KimiocK, Bourrasqiie. : • ! •••» Grafton Hurdle Race.—Reservoir. Hauitapii, Kairoma, Paritutu, Waip’u, - Creusot, iKotiti, Pearl Necklet, Ben Jonson, Exmoor, (Lady Unite, Crispess, Okaihau,' Mark Time, Dolores.' - . ' . 'Railway Handicap.—lmprimus. Miss. Winnie, Master Soult Wauchopp. Advantage, Guidwife, Aborigine,' M nskejiy, Wimmera, Dawn. Miscast, North -Head. ('oiilendanL •NObel, Devonport. Ikon, Cambrian, Loch- • buhie. BobrikoflT, Goldbeater. Flitaway. •Whist lecraft. Glenculloch. Royal Soult,-Tai-mkriupo, Duart, Santa Rosa, . Gipsy Belle, .Grenadier, Lucio; Coromandel, Lady Frances, Gold Lace, Gohl Thread, Tiptoe, Silent, Mbratih; Loongana. Armlet, Gold Crest, Dogger Bank. Maheno, Jena. iStiniriltT Cup.—Waipuna, Douche, Uranium, (Signor, Carissima, Muster Soult, California, iMahuta; Wauchope, Trugatihii, All Red, •Abbrighie, Parable, Zimmerman, St. Aldan, (Bollin, Diamond Star, Ringdove, .Nobel, IRauparaha, Devonport, RiHemaid, Master Delaval, Ikon, Cambrian, LUelibuhie, Downfall, .BorbrikolT, Stratagem. Whistlecraft, Husbandman. Glencnlloch. Dunborve, Cart ißoaa, Waimangii. Frisco, The Lark. Delegate, Advocate, Diabolo, Shuja, Grenadier, Pohutu. Laud’ock, Formative* Tiptoe, Te (Aroha, . Mallet, All Guns, Sunglow. Moral, •Leonator. Uhlando, GlenuHhi, Gold Crest, Tangimoana, Grand Slam, Celtic, Rimlock, Maheno, Bourrasque. 'Racing Club Handicap. -Waipuna, Signor, Douche, Uranium. CarLssima, Master Soult, IFkst Gun, California, Mghuta, Ali Red, tA-bprigine., Zimmerman, Pa cable St. Aldan, (Bqll|h, Ringdove, Rauparaha. Ititiemald, Master Delaval. Ikon, Lochbuhie, Downfall, BobrlkolT, Stratagem. Whist Iceraft, Hus Fbaudman, Gleneiillocb, l>mihi>rv«*. Carl Rosa, IFrlgco, The Mik. .Moleisutc. Advocate, l>la Iboltv Sliuja, I'ohniu,, Faabh.iuible. Tiptoe, star Kosv. r.. Ajolia, All China, Moral, l.eonator. Uhlando, OlonnUiu, (Sold *»!*««. JMwlinoapa. Orarni. Midili, Celtic. Mahe.qq,, iiourru^yie.. Ttugaulnl, All Bed, Aborigine, Parable,, Zlbv

merman, St. Aidan, Rollin. Diamond Star, •flauparaha, Devouport, Riflemaid, Ikon, Cambrian, L«»ch'tmhie, Downfall, Bobrlkoff, Stratagem, Whist leeraft, Husbandman, Dunborve, Glenculloch, Car! Rosa. Walmangu, Frisco, Th** Lark, Delegate, Advocate. DUbolo, Shuja, Grenadier, Pohutu. La nd luck. Fashionable, Gold Lace, Tiptoe, Mallet, Te Arolia, Bully, All Guns, Sunglow, Moral, Leonator, Osgodby, Uhlaudo, Glenulliu, Gold Crew*-, Douche, Tangiinoana, Gram! Slam, Celtic. Riculock, Maheno, Bourrasqupe. >. * ♦ •

WELLINGTON R. C. SPRING MEETING.

WELLINGTON, Wednesday. The following handicaps have been declared l»y Mr. J. 11. Pollock for the first day of the Wellington Racing Club’s Spring 'Meeting, to be held on the 21st and 24th October-:— October Hack Hurdle Handicap, of l.OOsovs, one mite ami three-quarters.— ■Gleam ILO, Lyrist 10.13, Master Douglas 9.8, Dili! 9.4, Sherlock Holmes 9.4, The Dane 9.0, Waimaria 9:0, Yosa mi 9.0, Tairua 9.0, Liberator 9.0. Rimutaka Hack Handicap, of I(m»sovs, six fiirloiigs.-j-C?rueinella 9.2, Whitumaraina 9.0, Sand 'Stream 8.13, Bollin 8.5, Advantage, 8.2, Lady Lucy 7.10. Illustrious 7.9. He reward 7.9, (Effort 7.9. Euclid 7.8. Llandwern W.B, Sir Antrim 7.7, Pellicle 7.5. Fiintguu 7.4, Aotea 7.4 Blue Ribbon 7.4. Thaler 7.2, Voetgang 7.0, Parable 7.0, Mania 7.0, Sir Single 7.0, Bonaparte 7.0, Grand Myrclla 6.12, Vinco 6.12, Cork 6.12. Hutt Park Hurdle Handicap, 200sovs, one mile and three-quarters.— Exmoor 12.2, Gold Dust 11.4. Mahoe in. 4, Gleam 9.9, Showman 9.8, Playmate 9.8, Lyrist 9.8. Snip .9.5, Pararaehi 9.0. Wellington Handicap, of 400sovs, one mile and a-quarler.—Zimmerman 9.6, Gold Crest 9.4, California 9.2, All Red 9.0. The Lark 8.6,' BO'brikoff 8.5, Goldbeater .8.3, King Billy 8.1, Sir Frisco 8.0, Irish Rifle 7.10, Seaman 7.10, W-ailet he 7.10. St. Aidan 7.10, Diamond Star 7.10, Downfall 7.9, Glenullin 7.8, Tiptoe 7.6, San Julie 7.4. White Lie 7.4, Swimming Belt 7.3, King Post 7.0, Silken ■Rein 7.0, Landweru 6.12, White Cockade 6.10 Saud Stream 6.10, Mallet 6.7, Lawn Rose 6.7, Parable 6.7. - • . Shorts Handicap, of lOOsovs. five furlongs. • 9.5, Gold Thread 8.13, Sun bon net 8.7, Sir Frisco 8.7. Moriarty 8.7, Tiptoe 8.4, Mon Ami 8.4, De Witte 8.0, Truganini 7.10, North Head 7.10, Axite 7.9. Gipsy Bell 7.8, Chantress 7,5. Contendent 7.5, kareroa 7.5, Lady Lucy 7.2, Duart 6.13, -Tupono 6.13, Jolly Roger 6.7. - - • ' Walnui Handicap, of lOOsovs, one mile.— Grand Slam 10.0, Uhlando 9..13, Apa 9.12, Taitoke 9.9/ <Sir Frisco 9.9, Moloch 9.7, Master Sou it 8.13. Diabolo 8.12, Swimming Belt 8 12, Merire Zealand 8.10, Vasa 8.10, King’s .Lyhii .8.7, Iranui 8.7, Mallet 8.7, Hiro 8.5, San/.Fernando 8.5, Letherin 8.5, Remission 8.0, 8.0. Spring; Hack Handicap, of lOOsovs, five furlongs.—AVhetumarama 9.5, Bollin 8.7, Ad.vantage 8.4, Waioriki 7.11, Illustrious 7.11, Effort 7.11, Hereward 7.11, Sir Antrim 7.10, Blue Bell 7.10, Ukrane 7.8, ' Pellicle 7.8, Merrwonia 7.8, Wimmera 7.6, Faux Pas 7.6, Togo 7.6, ,-naler 7.3, Bracken 7.0, Cork 7.0, Knytsford 7.0,. Vinco 7.0, Bonaparte 7.0, Sir 'Single'7.o. Bravery 7.0, Sweet Lethe 7.0.

> -t -fDUNEDIN J. C. SPRING MEETING

? . . - DUNEDIN, Friday., The following acceptances have been received for the Dunedin Jockey Club’s spring meeting:— ; Spring Hurdle Handicap of lOOsovs. one mile and three-quarters. Leeside 11.12, Grandstand 10.10, Leonardo 9.1:1. Sniallshot 9.3, Bay Lupin 9.0. ' . . . Mosgiel Handicap of 125sovs. one mile and?a Quarter.'—Probable .9.3, St. Joe 8.9, Armainento .8.5, Harvest 7.12. Saga 7.R. White Cockade 7.6, Apollodoris 7.3, Fandango 7.2. Electric Handicap of HSsovs. six furflongs.—Lupulite 9.9, Petrovna Ard Heigh. 9.5, Sweet Angelas 8.3, Octave 7.9, Dabchick 7.9, Cuirosettia 7.3., Tai ma Hack Handicap of 7Osovs, five furlongs.—Czar Kolohol 9.3. -Brown Belt 8.13, ■Spinning Flight 8.11, Wardland 8.11. Eesklne 8.8, Pronoun 8.5, My Lawyer 8.5. Kaikomaka 8.3, Truthful 8.3, Cockleshell 7.13, Linda 7.10, Largrusse 7.7, Flavour 7.6, Serenade 7.5; Little Medallist 7.2, Ngawera 7.0, Liza 7 0. October ’‘Welter II andi ca p of 10Osovs, seven furlongs.—Harvest 9.9, Zetland 9.3, Saga 9.3, Mythical 8.13, Rifle Range 8.10. Luresomo 8.10, Red and Black 8.9. Cuirosettia 8.8, Grandstand 8.8. Lone Star 8.6. Mango 8.5, Sam Weller 8.5, Tessera 8.3, Spniateriu 8,0, Heirloom 8.0. Dunedin Stakes of 25Osovs, four furlongs. Multifoil 8.0, Broad Sword 8.0. Taupaki 8.0,. Adage 8.0, Yellowstone—First Venture colt 8.0,-Wabun 7.9, Alma 7.9, Maud Gohne 7 9.

WAIKATO TROTTING CLUB.

'■ -HAMILTON, Wednesda.v.' The' Sniuial meeting of the Waikato Trotting Club was held last evening. The balance fffieet disclosed n very satisfactory position. The following were elected to the committee: Messrs Brind, Dalgleish, tlloopAr. Knock, Moles worth. Montgomery, Tenty, Williamson It was decided to hold the nQKt race meeting on Saturday, instead of : WedfiA'Sday. £l5O was voted for prize money, .qud a was appointed draw up a programme. £l5 in addition promised fqr a , three year old race, and a suggesHoti that the yid nailers should bv ask«d to subscribe, tp a ; |Miblican’s. Purse: wag loft (o Mr - Montgomery to arrange. OJk'ors for the appQipL. ed. In most caaes those of last year being re elected.

OTAHUHU TROTTING CLUB. The annual meeting of the Otahuliu Trotting Club was held on Wednesday evening, when Mr. R. L. Abso’om presided over a large attendance of members, and, ns showing the interest taken in the chib, no less than 72 out of 79 members voted for the election of officers. The following committee were elected from the eleven nominated: Messrs. Selby, Craig. W. Ca-sey, 11. R. McKenzie, D. A. Wallace, P. Turnbull, W. C. Watts, and W. Gray. The report and balance-sheet, which were adopted, showed that the year had been a successful one, resulting In a profit of £253 18/6. which had been carried to the profit and loss account, making, with the balance from last year £370 0/6, and bad debts received, £9 5/, a total of £633 4/. Expenditure. — Stakes, £1435; rent, £l6O 16/; advertising and printing, £l6O 10/; wages, £B5 13/; salaries, £176 5/; Govern men I tax, £222. 3/9; general special expenses, £216 14/10; balance, £253 18 6 Total, £2651 1/1. Receipts.—Nominations and acceptances, £649 5/; members’ subscriptions, £39; totalisators (gross), £1257 6/7; gates and stand, £213 9/; privileges and cards. £258; interest, £l4 10/6; bookmakers’ licenses, £219 10/. Total, £2651 1/1. ' n ♦ > ♦ ENGLISH RACING. THE JOCKEY CLUB STAKES. LONDON. October 1. The Jockey Club Stakes, of lO.OOOsovs. ono mile and three-quarters, run at the New market October meeting, resulted:Mr L. Neumann’s br f Siberia. 3yrs, by St. Simon—Sirenia 1 Duke of Portland’s b c Primer, 3yrs, by St. Simon —Breviary ■• • • £ Mr W. Hall yValker’s br c Royal Realm, 3yrs, by Persimmon—Sand Blast .... 3 AUSTRALIAN RACING. SYDNEY, October 3. The Australian Jockey Club inaugurated their 1 Spring Meeting in glorious weather at Randwick to-day. There was a large attendance, the Governor-General (Lord Dudley) and the State Governors of New South Wales and West Australia being present. Nine horses were saddled up to contest the Derby. The outcome of an interesting race was a victory for the Metal colt, Parsee. The New Zealand filly. Golden Slippet, cut up rather badly. The following are the details of the racing:— HURDLE RACE, of SOOsqvs, with a sweep stake of 6sovs. About two miles and a-quarter.. . •_ Mr. S. Whitworth’s l> g Aeolus, by Euroclydon—Santa Katarina * Mr. E. Kelly’s br g Portlight, by PortSea— Esmeralda '..... :. : 2 Mr. W. Felstead’s br g Jewel, by Emerald -Dally ■ •» Eleven started. Won easily. Time 4.16. TRIAL STAKES, of 300 sovs., with a sweepstake of 6 sovs. One mile and a quarter. Mr. A. Foley’s br m Virtu, by Dorchester—Vanity, 8.5 1 Mr. G. A. John’s b h Legation, by Diplomat — Kallatina, 8.10 2 Dr. R. K. S. McKinnon’s blk li Meat more, by Favor —Jewess, 8.10 3 Nine started. Won by halt’-a length. Time 2.8. . A..T.C. DERBY, of 2000sovs, with a sweepstake of 20 Sovs. each. One mile and a-half. Mr. C. Jeffries’ b c Parsee. by Metal - Pona, 8.10 1 Mr. Jos. Brown’s br e Monobel, by Posi tano —Carronade, 8..10 2 Mr. J. V. Smith’s ch f Mother Goose, by Wallace—Morisca, 8.5 3 Also started: Lord Nolan 8.10. Perkeo 8.10, Vavasor 8.10, Baw Bee 8.10, Ariki 810, Golden Slipper 8.5. Baw. Bee, . Lord Noiap. and Vavasor were the first to show in front from a spten did start. Passing the stand Perkeo and Mother Goose had the lead from Baw Boe and Monobel. At the old mile post Mother Goose and Perkeo were in command, Monobel being most prominent of the others. Mother Goose ami Perkeo. showed the way along the buck from Monobel. Ariki, and Lord Nolan, the . rest being in close order. Passing 4hq six-furlong post Perkeo amt Mother Goose were still . in the lead, ami at this point Golden Slipper dropped back last. The position of the leaders was unchanged at the turn. Mother Goo«e ami Perkeo were first into I lie straight from Parsec and Monobel. At the distance. Parwee, in the centre, made a brilliant run, which carried him to the front, and. going on, he beat Monobel comfortably by three* lengths. Mother Goose being a heael away, third. Golden Slipper tailed off last. Time 2.381. EPSOM HANDICAP, of lOOOsovs., and a sweepstake of 20sovs each. One mile. Hon. A. Wynne’s b li Melodrama, by Grafton - Drama, 9.0 1 Mr. J. (*. Williamson’s ch h Blue Book, bv True Blue Lady Mary, 77 2 Mr.’ K. S. MacLeod's b h lohiirc. by Grafton - Scotch Mary, 9.0 3 Aho started: Waipuna T».O; I'lnndm- 8.12; Decollctte 8.7; Hello 8.7; lady Ruvntrtf 8,6; .Kyeadgerle 8.1; Sea King 7 I'.; I adv Wilde 7.12; So.lllllino 7.12: The Climax 7 10; Eric 7 10; Meili RosO T.TOf Lady Melina 77; W’ar K(ar 7.5- Maesmore 7 I; Matchmaker 7.1; ArtlllVrife 7.0;' DumU‘ 6 lo; ,J Pfo'pottfou 6.T.

From a fairly good start Proportion wu the first to move, with Sea King following. When fairly going Sea King led by a COU pie of lengths from Matchmaker, Proportion, Soultline, and War Star. Before reaching the six furlong post Soultline was level with Sea King, that pair being two lengths in front of hdaire and War Star. At the half-mile post Soultline led by a length from Sea King, lolairc being two lengths off and the rest of the field fairly cluatered. Rounding the bend Soultline increased his advantage. Once in the atraight lolaire joined Soultline, and that pair led past the distance from Blue Book and Decollette, with Melodrama making his run on the rails At the half distance Blue Book appeared to have the race won. but Melo drama, finishing with great determination, cut him down and won by half a neck, iolaire was a head away, third, being fol lowed by Kyeadgerie, Proportion, ami Soultline. Time L39j. THE SPRING STAKES, a sweepstakes of lOsovs each, with lOOOsovs added. One mile and a half. Mr Gordondhas Kha tail’s b h Mooltan, syrs, by Pusltano Dltlsk. 9.5 (McLach lan) ; t Messrs W. and F. A. Moses’ ch h Sir Aymer, 4yrs, by Sir Hugo Peukridge, 9.0 fClayton) 2 Mr D. O’Brien’s b h Maranul. 4yrs, by MalatuH—Gratin, 90 (Bradshaw) 3 Seven horses started. The field moved off in a canter, with Cross Battery leading from Mooltan and Peru, Maranui lying last. The positions remained unaltered till just before the mile post was reached, where Maranui assumed the load, and the son of Malatua clapping 011 the pace, he showed out with h three lengths’ advantage. Cross Battery and Moot tan being most prominent of the others. Maranui led along the back stretch by a length and a half from Cross Battery; then came Mooltan, Peru, and Welcome Trist, Sir Aymer being last. At the half mile Cross Battery joined Maranui, and that pair led to the straight from Mooltan and Peru, Near the distance Mooltan took charge, and Sir Aymer put in a great run. but Mooltan kept him at bay and won by three quarters of a length. Peru was fourth and Cross Battery fifth, 'lime, 2.45, THE KENSINGTON HANDICAP, a handi cap sweepstakes of Usovs each, with 3(X> sovs added. For three-year olds and upwards. Seven furlongs. Mr W. R Hall’s ch h Coppertop. -lyrs, by Sir Tristram -Albicure, 8.2 1 Mr H. R. Denison’s b c Az urine. 3yrs, by Seaton Delaval Real Blue. 7.9...< 2 Mr Ewan Frazer’s br li Black Mark, 4yrs, by Grafton Disgrace, 8.12 3 Seventeen horses started. Coppertop won by half a length. Titue f