TURF GOSSIP

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XLIV, Issue 6, 9 February 1910, Page 11

TURF GOSSIP

(By

WHALEBONE.)

FIXTURES.

February 9, 10—Egm on t Racing Club. February 10. 11—Poverty Bay Turf Club. February 12.16,19 Otahuhu Trotting Club. February 16, 17—Rotorua Jockey Chib. February 16, 17—Taranaki Jockey Club. February 19—Huntly Racing Club. February 23, 24 —Woodville District Jockey Club. February 23, 24, 26—Dunedin Jockey Chib. February 25, 26—South Auckland Racing Club. March 3, s—Wanganui Jockey Club. March s—Waihi Jockey Chib. March 7, B—Te Aroha Jockey Club. March 12—Thames Jockey Club. March 17—Whakatane Racing Club. Mar. 17, 19 — Obinemuri J.C. Annual March 26, 28, and 29—Auckland R.C. Autumn. April 9 and 13—Avondale J.C. Antumu. May 21, 24—Takapuna Jockey Club.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS. Wager. — In the case of a dead-heat, ali bets are divided. The rules of racing do not allow of dead-heats being run off. Wager. — In the absence of any stipulation, the bet is off. For “A” to win, First Guu would have had to run first in the Cup. The gelding Rob the Ranter is now under the charge of E. Tope, at Ellerslie.

The Auckland-bred gelding Snowfoot ran fourth in the A.J.C. Challenge Stakes, won by Filli Fogi.

The Canterbury Jockey Chib’s Summer meeting opens at Riccarton to-morrow (Thursday), 3rd inst.

A trainer’s license has been granted to E. Pope by the Metropolitan Committee, and an apprentice’s license to 11. Pell.

Mr F. W. Coombes, who Is well-know n In Auckland, left for Wellington on Monday night, to take over the position of sporting editor of the “N.Z. Times.”

There is every probability of the Soult mare Maheno being taken South to fulfil her engagement in the Taranaki Cup.

At Sydney, on January 27, the ex-New Zealand pony Frederick (Soult—Hippocampus mare) changed hands for guineas.

Provided the weights are suitable, it la understood Sedition will be taken South to fulfil his engagement in the Wanganui Cup.

The Rand is said to be jumping in great style at his owner’s place (Hastings), and should be heard of when the jumping season comes round.

So far, IT. Gray has had thirteen rides at the Takapuna Summer Meeting, but lias only ridden one winner, Mighty Atom, in the pony race. On the concluding' day he had two winning mounts.

The big disappointment of the Takapuna Cup was Ngapuka. The son of Soult was made a good favourite, but got a bad run, and was never dangerous at any part of the contest.

One of the most unfortunate stud happenings reported for a long time occurred a few weeks ago. That great mare Pretty Polly slipped twins to the Derby winner Spearmint.

The feature of the Takapuim J.C. Handicap, run on the opening day, was that out of the five runners, four were owned by Waikato residents, and thiee of them trained in that district.

Com us, which was bought for 200 gs at tho London December sales by Mr Tanner, is reported to be coining to New Zealand. He is by Cyllene from Galleottia, and was bought for stud purposes.

The Auckland-owned gelding Rarata managed to get his expenses at the Gisborne Meeting, winning the Final Handicap, in which he defeated a solitary opponent, the inueh-buonied Dan Leno.

The Sabretache gelding Sabie, which put up a great race over hurdles at Ellerslie at the Summer Meeting, finished last in both liis essays at Takapuna, and is evidently a bit below form at present.

There were no less than four ‘•Browns” riding at Takapuna — <’ Brown, R. E. Brown, R. W. Biown, and S. Brown. The last two, who are both apprentices, arc brothers, but the others are not related.

Blue Jacket, which won the Auckland Cup for two years in suceesaion. Is now nt Mr S. A. Taylor’s place at Logic Plains, Warm, in Queensland, doing stud duty, ami such a hardy horse should do well there.

Tho annual meeting of the Helensvilla Racing Club, which is run under A.R.C. rules, is fixed for March 17th. The principal event of the gathering is the Heleusville Cup of 25sovs.

The Stepniak gelding Sir Aitegal was badly galloped on during the running of the Stewards’ Handicap at Takapuna on Saturday, and was unable to run again at the meeting.

A cablegram from Sydney states that Bobrikoff and Downfall have arrived there in good condition. As Mr. 'l'. 11. Lowry’s horses will not be asked to race until Marell 26, they should have plenty of time to become acclimatised.

The New Zealand jockey Ronald Cam cron, who went from Melbourne to Launceston to ride Active in the Cup. made up for his defeat in that race by riding Active to victory in the principal race on the second day of fhe fixture.

The Wellington Racing Club has issued summonses against two prominent officials of the Wellington Pony ami Galloway Racing Club for trespassing on tho club’s pioperty at Trent bam during the recent meeting, and refusing to leave when requested to do so.

The Metropolitan Committee met last week, when the appeal of the jockey, B. Deeley, against the 12 months’ suspension imposed upon him by the Takapuna Jockey* Club, was dismissed, and the decisi m ■ «»f the suburban club endorsed.

A very popular win at Takapuna on Saturday was that recorded by Peggy Pryde. in the First Pony Handicap. Iler owner has had anything but the best of luck at rhe racing game, but as Peggy Pryde is one (»f his own breeding, the victory should be a doubly sweet one.

The performance of the Ellerslie trainer, T. A. Williams, on fhe opening day of the Takapuna J.C. summer, in winning four races on end, is in these days a remarkably good one. Painstaking and attentive. •‘Tom’’ Williams well deserves any success that falls to his lot.

After a number of disappointments. Fuss managed to get her name on the winning list at Taka puna on Saturday last, accounting for the Maiden Plate. Fuss won in the colours of her owner, Col. L. E. Brown, and is trained by Koss Heaton, whose return to success no one will regret.

'rhe Takapuna Cup on Saturday provided an interesting struggle, and that two sofar non-stayers should light out the finish of nearly a mile and a-half race was something novel. Wauchope was distinctly unlucky to lose, and it would have occasioned no sin prise had a protest been entered on his behalf.

The Gluten two-year-old Doughboy, although still a bit fractious, showed a big improvement in his manners when at the barrier at Takapuna on Saturday last, and when the tapes lifted was first out. Doughboy, however, was early in trouble, and probably the going was not altogether to his liking.

The victory of Arlstos in the Rangltoto Handicap at Takapuna on Wednesday last is the first registered by the son of Explosion. Aristos, however, has not troubled the starter a great deal, but probably his best efforts will be registered over short courses.

The Gold Reef mare. Gold Thread, was shipped to Sydney from Wellington last Friday. On arrival. Gold Thread will go into F. McGrath’s stable. The mare Ik engaged in the Newmarket Handicap, but it is understood she will not be a starter in that event.

The International Pony Plate (14.2), of 3000 rs to the winner, run over seven furlongs, on the opening day of the first Calcutta meeting, proved a good thing for Mr. M. Gocilklas’ English bred gelding Refresher, who won easily by half a length from Mr. J. C. Galstiiun's Winnie R. and the ex-New Zealander llughle.

The Freedom gelding Mighty Atom, which accounted for the pony race at Takapuna on Wednesday, has not won a race since he was successful lu the Shorts Handicap at Oh hie. niuri J.C. Annual Meeting of 1908. If people were to believe half they hear, they would have to cieilit Mr Ring, his owner, with considerably more patience than possessed by even “J >l».”

The Te Aroha Jockey Club advertise the programme for their Annual Meeting, which is fixed for March 7th and Sth. Tho principal event of the gathering In the Te Aroha Jockey Club Handicap of BOsovs, while tho Te Aroha Cnn has aOsovs added monpy attached to it. Nominations for

Bfl events close with the Secretary. Mr. E. O. Nash, Te Arolia, ou Wednesday next, the 9th lu*L

The secretary ot the Waikato Trott tag Club has been noticed that appeal* have been lodged with the New 'Zealand Trotting Assoc*La lion in connection with the deciaioos of the steward* at the last meeting, aud *the hearing will take place to-morrow evendug. A reply has been sent that the elnb desires to be represented, but the time is <OO abort tv send anyone.

The victory of Madam Soult in the Ferry Handicap at Taka puna on Saturday last the first time Mr R. L. Cleland’s colours have been seen on the van slnca Apologue won the Melbourne Cup in 1907. Mr Cleland has been a consistent supporter of racing for a number of years, and a kvin for his coiouis is always pleasing to chronicle.

3t fe a long while since racing was carried on under such adverse circumstances n« prevailed at Takapuna on Saturday last. (Throughout the afternoon rain fell solidly, ©nd it was a wet and bedraggled crowd that •wended its way home after the last race. Voder the circumstances the racing was exceptionally good, while speculation was considerably above expectations.

In connection with the brawl that took (dace in the jockeys’ room at the Foxton meeting, evidence has been taken by the local stewards, and the matter will .shortly •come before the metropolitan body at Wanganui. Beenes such as those tend to lower the tone of racing, and it is anticipated that the Wanganui stewards will hold an eriianative inquiry into the disturbance.

How easily a man’s luck is turned, was evidenced at Takapuna on Saturday last. J. Conquest was engaged to ride Fuss in •the Maiden Plate, but was late in arriving on the course, aud the services of C. Brown were secured, and the mare dub’ accounted for the event. Brown was in good lortu during the afternoon, riding four winners and two thirds, out of six mounts.

The New Zealand Trotting Association rejected an application from the newly-form-ed Westland Trotting Club for registration, despite the president's statement that |.he formation of the club whs the outcime of a conference between hitoseif and the ,Jion. A. R. Guinness and Mr Seddou, M.P., find that the application was endorsed by tho Grey mouth Club.

the disappointing son of Seaton Oelaval, was given his first run over hurdles rat Taka puna on Wednesday. He made a ;4>old showing for about a mile and a-quar-l ter, but then died out of it. A bit of ■ racing over fences will probably work wonders in Celtic, and he may yet make Amends at the illegitimate game for his failures on the flat.

'*The Calcutta Plate, of 5000r5., 6 fur.longs, run ou Boxing Day, was responsible (for « great rare between Soultline and TanSgaroa. Soultline went out with the lead, Kind was well clear at the half-distance ■Avhere Tangaroa started to cut him down. StThey passed the post on even terms, and '*fthe judge recorded a dead heat. In a field ,wf four, Soult line was a red-hot vdds-on ‘favourite, while long prices were on offer •gainst Tangaroa. They carried 9.3 apiece.

'Tim balance-fifheet of the recent race meeting at Ohaupo shows a credit of £5O. (The case of the horse entered as “chest'll ut gelding by Leolantis—Tetford mare,” ■and which turned out to be a horse named Stlardiock, was referred to the Auckland [Racing Club, as the committee were not certain whether the case should be dealt with as a fraudulent entry, or under Rule 3LV., Pait 1., as an unnamed horse.

■Wenonah, the winner of the Calliope Handicap on Saturday last, is by Spalpeen from Wai manga, and is the first of that (horse’s gets to race. Wenonah is a splendid advertisement for her sire, and her performance ou Saturday was an exceptionality good one, for although she only had 7.0 in the saddle, she was a long way out of it in the early stages, and only won through sheer gameness aud slaying power.

It Lh understood, says a Southern writer, that the moi vices of James Barden will be •ecured for BobrlkofT in Australian events. Barden has had a remarkable career during iho past few years, and his success is attributed in a measure to his adherence to .the rails. When riding Bobrikoff, Barden Will, no doubt, bavp to depart from his .usual practice of hugging tiip rails, as the (New Zealand horse is a slow beginner, 11 nd a position on the rails would not always be useful.

It will sut prise many people to learn that in the opinion of at least one trainer ©f racehorses there is no hay in the world to equal that grown in Australia. The trainer lefered to is J. E. Brewer, who some years ago set up as a trainer in England. and has remained there. All dial time, however, he has received regular supplies of hay from Melbourne, and before leaving that city recently left an order for 10 tons of the best oaten hay Io be forwarded to him at Newinaiket. One <»f the most consistent two-year-olds Been out for some time Is the Salvndan youngster Solus, w'hirli has st:ft ted on seven occasions this Henson, and has run second on three, third on three, and been once unplaced. In connection with Solus’ rnn®dng, the owner has received very little encouragement from the handicapper to spin Ids horse out consistently, for ho has always had 11 bit the worst of the poundage*. Dihlh' the present system of bundle ipping in New Zealand, straight-go-ing owners are not treated as they denerxe <4* be

Another big Australian stud is to come under the hammer The dispersal of the Wilton Park Stud has been decided upou by the executors in the estate of the late Mr. Samuel Hordern. Since its foundation, some fifteen years ago, Wilton Park has been responsible for the production of a fair number of high-tlass racehorses, included amongst them being Coliarlt. The sale takes place at T. Pay ten’s Newmarket stables, on April 4th, when all the stud mares, with foals at foot and again stinted, will be submitted to auction, as will the imported stallions Haut Brlou and Gossoon.

Some figures dealing with the turf In New Zealand were furnished recently by the Government Statistician. These showed that for the past ten years 1553 licenses had been issued for total isators, races had been held on 2917 days, the percentage paid to the Treasury for the totalisators had amounted to £222,864, and the amount invested by the public had amounted to £14.805,744. The population of the Dominion in 1899 was 756,505, and in 1908 it was 960,642, showing that about £1 10/ per head of the population had been invested In totalisators. This money, however, i» not lost to the investors. It is returned to them less 10 per cent.

The method of starting trotting races in Russia is slightly different from, and a great improvement over, ours (writes George Starr in the “Horse World”). The judges and starters are stationed in the grandstand, and an .assistant starter takes his position on the track and directs the positions of the horses. Iu addition to' the judges in the stand, there are three patrol judges, stationed in boxes on the track, one at each turn, and one at the middle of the back stretch. In the case of aged horses, if the same horse spoils three starts by bad acting, he is sent to the stable, and not permitted to start, and the money bet on this horse is returned.

J. Chaafe, jr., left for the Sough on Sunday by the Rarawa, with Prophet, which claims engagements at the Egmont Racing Club’s Summer Meeting. Prophet is one of the most promising hurdle horses seen out in Auckland for some time, and provided he trains on all right, should earn much higher honours over fences than fell to him on Saturday. J. Clhaafe, jr., who trains Prophet, rode St. Paul, his sire, in nearly all of his engagements, and as he -has been out of luck for some time, it is pleasing to find him at last with a promising horse.

Very few people were prepared for the dividend returned by Wenonah, when she won the Hobson Handicap on Wednesday last, for, on form, she ought to have been first favourite. In this connection, the fact that M. Ryan, who had the mount, has been out of luck for a long time, kept a number of people off her. The public are very fickle, for it is only a little while ago Mark was one of our favourite horsemen; but a run of “outs” has caused a lot of hard things to be said against him. The veteran, however, confounded his detractors, for though his mount was badly placed in the early stages, he gradually worked her througth the big field, and riding a desperate finish, just got up in time te •natch a short head victory.

The report of the running of the Viceroy Cup, for which the ex-Auckland gelding, Master Delaval, ran third, shows that half a-mile from home, Fizz went to the front from Devereux and Misty Morn, then Master Delaval, Retort and Pelargonium IT. ahead of the rest, who were all beaten horses. Wandin broke down completely somewhere at the half-mile, and then after walking a bit Firth got off and led the poor old fellow home. At the half mile Fizz’s white-blaze face showed up in front of the field, with Devereux and Misty Morn just behind him, and Retort and Master Delaval next. Master Delaval then made a run and came round the home turn on a level with Fizz, Retort just, behind these two. In the straight Retort tackled Fizz, and then ensued a wnagnificent set-to between the pair. First It looked as if Fizz would have just lasted out, but inch by inch Retort crept up tfl the little horse. and, with a magnificent final effort, Murdison just pushed her home a winner by a short neck. Master Delaval was four lengths behind Fizz, with Misty Morn two lengths further away. Time 3.6fc.

(To the Sporting Editor of the “Star.*’) Dear Sir, — The Auckland Racing Club refuse to take any responsibility In legat’d to bookmakers and their actions. Do you think this is the right attitude for the only body which has any power to control the bookmakers? Surely, if they Issue licenses to men to het, it is their duty to protect the public. The racing public have surely some right to protection at their hands, seeing that they contribute the bulk of their revenue, and though the racing club may not wish to be arbitrators in racing disputes, they surely should make a condition, when issuing licenses, that the holder should conform to the rules of racing and betting, which all decent men holding licenses would wish. To issue licenses to all and sundry, without any restriction, is only to encourage an unprincipled class of men, who do not want to do legitimate business, but who are on the look-out for every chance to get all they can without risk. In this matter, I am referring to the bookmakers refusing to return money on scratched horses in the first leg of a double, when bucked on the course. Tliis is against the rules of betting, and backers are ns much entitled to a start in the first leg of a double as in any straightout bet on a single event ou the course, and to allow bookmakers to override this rule is to encourage the worst class of Spelt. f*.l ill lots of j||>t tlires, it is wellknown, to certain people, that well-per-formed horses are non-starters, after accepting. while the unsuspecting public are bucking them for pounds, shillings, and pence on the course. The commit tee of

the A.R.C.. like every public body, have a duty towards the public, and having the power, should put a stop to this imposition. Trusting you will give this matter publicity. —Yours faithfully, AUCKLANDER. (I quite agree with my correspondent, that the racing clubs should protect their patrons, and ought not to issue licenses except to those who conform with the recognised rules of betting. — Sporting Editor.]

TURF TALK FROM THE SOUTH. CHRISTCHURCH, Friday. The summer meeting of the Canterbury Jockey Club, which started on Thursday, was just as dull and uninteresting as any of its predecessors. The attendance was small, aud speculation practically reached the bed rock of pars im onion sir ess. Altogether the fixture can be written down as the most disappointing ever held at Riccarton. The only redeeming feature was the weather, which was delightfully fine, while the track, though a little on the slow side, afforded Ideal going.2 Guianforte followed up his Wellington success by capturing the Trial Stakes from a much better fancied candidate in Outlander. Only for the fact that he is troubled in his respiratory organs the relative of Nonette, Cruclnella, and Dos Angelos would be a valuable property on his Wellington running. Federal appeared to have little chance of winning the Hornby Welter Handicap, besides which he looked decidedly overdone; but, getting well away In his accustomed style, he made the pace so solid all through that Rose Noble could not quite catch him at the finish. Fasnakle scored a comfortable win m the Filly Stakes, but the honours of the race rested with Lady Reina. The latter (the only two-year-old in the contest) put in a splendid effort, and the honours of the race rested with her. Prim’s withdrawal from the Midsummer Handicap robbed the event of considerable interest. After a very rough passage Tikitere put in a sensational last four furlongs, and, considering the state of the course, her achievement deserves to take rank with the best ever established in the race. Field Gun ran like an arrant duffer, and has apparently lost his pace. Passion made a runaway race of the Graven Plate, though, had Flit•way got better away, she might have reversed positions with the winner. Gravitation was among the field, but after going five furlongs he got pushed into the rails, and was the last to finish. It has been calculated that £1 invested on every horse that started at the Gore meeting would have netted the investor £69 8/.

Pikopo is going well again, and will be facing the fences at Wanganui next month. All Red will probably make his last appearance on the racing track at the Wanganui Gup meeting. He will then be sent South to do stud duty on his owner’s station at Oam-aru.

Mr Bidwiil contemplates sending Stepfeldt (dam of Elevation and Provocation) ou a visit to the imported horse Martian next season.

There are likely to be further developments in connection with the disturbance in the jockeys’ room at the Fox ton meeting. It is stated that the stewards took evidence on the matter, and that it will shortly come before the metropolitan body at Wanganui. It is to be hoped that the matter will be thoroughly investigated, as that sort of thing tends materially to give racing a bad name.

TAKAPUNA JOCKEY CLUB’S SUMMER MEETING.

The second day’s racing in connection with the Takapuna J.G. summer meeting took place yesterday afternoon, in perfect weather, and with a good attendance. The racing throughout was interesting, and several exciting finishes were witnessed, notably in the Suburban Handicap, Pony Handicap, and Hobson Handicap. Mr. W. J. Ralph officiated as judge, Mr. S. Kohn as timekeeper, and Mr. C. O’Connor as starter, the latter gentleman being in good form. As on the opening day, no fault could be found with the management, the secretary (Mr. R. Wynyard) and the officials under him getting through their various duties in a capable manner. Speculation was fairly brisk, and during the afternoon the machines, under Messrs. W. Blomfield and Co., handled the sura of £BlOl, making £16,623 for the two days, as against £18,729 10/ last year, a decrease of £2106 10/. Thirty-two bookmakers were licensed at a fee of £l2 10/. Resul'ts:—

MOANA HANDICAP of ROsovs. Distance, seven furlongs. J. Hill’s br in Castle Blaney. 4yrs, Salvadan— Blairina, 74 (Whittaker) .. 1 R. L. Cleland’s br m Madame Soult, 9.7 (C. Brown) 2 R. Hannon's br in Jill, 7.12 (P. Brady) 3

Scratched: Dsgodsby. Monocle was first to move, but passing the stand Castle Blaney was in the lead, and going along the back had two lengths’ advantage of Madame Soult, after which came Jill, Monocle, and Klug, with Alicia last. Madame Soult moved up closer to the leader crossing the top stretch, but it was only on sufferance, Castle Blaney easily drew out again in the run home, winning nt the finish by two lengths. Jill was half a length further back, third, with Monocle fourth. Time, 1.32, Monocle wai favourite.

HANDICAP MAIDEN HURDLES of 99 •ova.; dUtauce about one mile and B-half, over 6 flights of hurdles. V. Bolger’s bg Prophet, by St. Paul— Tawhlti, syrs., 9.0 (Julian) 1 R. MeMiken’s br g Explosive, aged, 9.2 (Speakman) 1 W. Montgomery’s ch g Hoanga, 4yrs.. 9.8 (Horne) 3

All started. When they reached the stand Barrel was Showing the way just Hear of St. Marla, with Celtic, Hoanga, Explosive, Sabre and Prophet following in that order. St. Marta had takeu charge when they jumped the second fence, but First Barrel was on terms again as they passed the stand the second time, and then followed Explosive, Celtic, and Prophet, with Sabre last. At the back, the whole field, with the exception of Prophet and Sabre, were in line. Crossing the top stretch. Explosive was the leader, but turning for home. Prophet had run into the lead, and getting over the last fence safely, finished up an easy winner by n length and half from Explosive, which was a head in front of Hoanga, Celtic was fourth and Sabre last. Time, 3.1. St. Maria was favourite. SUBURBAN HANDICAP of 80sovs. Five furlongs and a-haif. R. W. Duder’s br g Devonport, aged, by Soult—Auna, 8.9 (T. Brady) .... 1 R. Millett’s b c Hyperion, 3yrs, 7.5 (Whitaker) 2 W. J. Barleyman’s br m Tarina, aged, 8.2 (Gray) 3 Also started: Jena, 7.10: Aim well. 7.9; end Lady Frances, 7.3. After some delay, caused by the breaking of the barrier and the fractiousness of Aimwell, the tapes lifted to an even staff. Devonport was first to move, but after they had gone half-a-furiong, Hyperion was In front, and showed the way along the back, followed by Lady Frances and Devonport, with Tarina most prominent of the others. Lady Frances was on terms with Hypetion crossing the top stretch, but the latter was out by himself again at the ihome 'turn. At the distance D'evonport came through and challenged Hyperion, and a great race resulted, Devonport getting the verdict by a neck. Tarina was half-a-length away, third, and Jena was fourth. Time, 1.12. Tarina was favourite.

TAKAPUNA JOCKEY CLUB HANDICAP of 200sovs. One mile and a quarter. W. Cook’s br m Azoff, 6yrs, by Menschikoff —Queen Cole, 6.11 (J. Brady) 1 N. Banks’ ch m Uranium, aged, 9.0 (P. Brady) 3 D. McKinnon’s b g Rimlock, 4yrs, 7.3 (Conquest) 3

Also started: Waucbope 9.0, Lochbuie 8.0. When the tapes lifted Lochbuie was caught, and lost several lengths. Uranium was quickest on her feet, and. a? they passed the stand, was slightly in advance of Rimlock, and then followed Azoff, Waucbope, and Lochbuie. Uranium was out two lengths clear as they raced along the back, where Azoff ran up second, and then came Rimlock, Wauchope, and Lochbuie. Crossing the top stretch Uranium looked as if she would win easily, but stumbled badly and nearly came down, Azoff shooting to the front, and, making the most of her advantage, won comfortably by three lengths from Uranium, which beat Rimlock half a length for second honours. Lochbuie was fourth, and the favourite last. Time, 2.13. Wauchope was favourite.

PONY RACE of 80sovs. Four furlongs. W. C. Ring’s br g Mighty Atom, aged, by Freedom—Jewel. 9.9 (H. Gray) 1 A. Sadler’s b m Peggy Pryde, 4yrs, 7.4 (C. Brown) 2 A. J. Webber’s br m Mahinga, 6yrs, 10.9 (Porter) . 3 Also started: Miss Stella 8.6, Malka 7.4, Effulgence 7.3. The field were troublesome at the post, and, when the barrier lifted. Mighty Atom was on the move, and, when they settled down, was in the lead, followed by Peggy Effulgence and Mahinga most prominent of the others. At the home turn Mighty Atom was still the leader, just clear of Peggy Pryde. The leading pair ran wide, and Mahinga got through next the rails, aud, joining issue with the leaders, a great race was witnessed. Mighty Atom getting the verdict by a neck from Peggy Pryde, which was a head in front of Mahinga. Miss Stella was fourth, and Effulgence last. Time, 52 2-ss. Effulgence was favourite.

HOBSON HANDICAP of lOOsovs. For twe-year-olds. Five furlongs and a-half. J. Cavanagh’s ch f Wenonah, by Spalpeen—Waimanga, 7.11 (M. Ryan) 1 W. Gall’s ch g Solus, 8.5 (Oliver) 2 J. Marshall’s br f Hamadryad, 7.6 (C. Brown) 3

Also started: Merrlgee 7.12, Princess Soult 7.11, Doughboy 7.5, Master Jack 7.2, His Highness 0.13, Muskewai 7.7, Domino 6.13, Master Theory 7.7.

Solus was quickest on his feet, and, joined by Hamadryad, the pair made the running along the back, with Doughboy and Merrlgee at the head of the others. Crossing the top stretch. Solus and Hamndrynd were still in the dead, while Wenonah bad run into third position, and then came Merrlgee. At the distance Solus had a slight advantage of Hamadryad, but a little further on Wenonah put in a strong challenge, and a desperate finish resulted, Wenonah snatching a head victory from Solus, which was a neck in front of Hamadryad, with Master Theory, which finished very fast, a head away, fourth. Time, 1.12 2-5. Solus was favourite.

RANGITOTO HANDICAP of 100sovs. Five furlongs and a half, W. Milkm’s blk g ArUtoa, 4yrs, by Explosion Hippocampus mare, 7.7 (Conquest) 1 W. Scott’s b m Waipa, aged, 8.2 (Gray) 2 T. Davis’ b g Frontino, aged, 8.13 (Ackroyd) •

A!*> started: Madam Soult, 9.9; Goldwin, • 1; Steplink, 8.0; Captain SooH, 7.8; Haku, 7.7; Pairawaat®, 7.7. Waipa save ■ lot of trouble at the post, but the barrier eveatuaUj lifted to an even start. Steplink was first prominent, but Pairawaatu immediately roe bed to the front, and piloted the field along the back, followed by Stepllak, Frontlnp, and Haku. Crossing the top stretch, Aristos shot out, and was first to turn for home, where the whole field were close up. In the run home Waipa singled herself out, and challenged the leader, but she could mate no impression on Aristes, which won comfortably by two lengths. Froutino was a neck away third, and then followed Steplink and Madam Sou It. Time, 1.12 2-3. Madam Soult was favourite. ANNIVERSARY HANDICAP of lOOsovs. Seven furlongs. Te Hikakaha’s b h Waiari, 4yrs, by St. Paul—Tbirhnere, 8.8 (C. Brown) 1 McHngh and Tooman’s br g Adm* al Soult, 3yrs, 7.5 (Conquest) 2 S. Saulbrey’c b m Mistime, syrs, 7.7 (H. Gray) 3 Also started: Sea Elf, 7.9; Rangibaeta, 7.7; Zinnia, 7.3; Spectre, 6.12. When they raced post the stand Waiari was the leader, the order of the others being Admiral Soult, Zinnia. Mistime, and Sea Elf. Waiari was out three lengths in. front going along the back, when Zinnia, was in second position, with Admiral Soult and Mistime next. Waiari still had charge when the home turn was reached, and was never seriously troubled, winning easily by two lengths from Admiral Soult, which was a head in front of Mistime. Zinnia was fourth, and Rangibaeta last. Time, 1.29. Waiari was favourite.

THIRD DAY. The Takapuna Jockey Club’s Summer Meeting was concluded on Saturday in fine weather, and with a large attendance. The racing was easily the best of the gathering, the various events being well contested, while several were only won by the narrowest of margins. Mr. J, W. Ralph officiated as judge, Mr. S. Kohn as timekeeper, and Mr. C. O’Connor as starter, the latter gentleman being hardly as successful as usual and his dispatches in the Marine Handicap, in which Doughboy got out with a flying start, and in the Welter, in which Matora and Spectre were left, were not good ones. During the afternoon speculation was very brisk, the sum of £11,226 10/ being handled, by the staff of Messrs. W. Btomfield and Co., which made a total of £27,849 10/ for the gathering, a slight decrease over last year. Bookmakers’ fees fur the gathering amounted to £1342. The racing resulted as uader: —-

WAIWERA HANDICAP HURDLES of 100 sovs. One mile and J. Hill’s br h Armagh, tfyrs, by Salvaflan —Leone rte, 9.9 (Cowan) 1 H. Windsor’s ch g King, aged, 9.0 (Windsor) 2 'H. .Weal’s ch g Leo, aged, 11.2 (Porter) 3 Also started : Tui Cakobau 10.4, and Celtic 9.4. King was first to move, and when they- passed the stand was showing the way to Leo. after which came Armagh, Celtic, and Tui Cakobau. King still had charge when they passed the . stand the second time, with Armagh on his quarters, and then followed Leo, Celtic, and Tui Cakobau. Crossing the top stretch, Armagh headed King, and, getting over the last fence safely, won, pulling up by three lengths from King, which was a length in front of Leo. Celtic was fourth. Time, 3.19 1-5. Leo was favourite. BOROUGH HANDICAP of lOOsovs. Four furlongs. W._ C. Ring’s b g Hohungatahi, 4yrs, by Freedom —Blackwatch, 8.9 (Gray) 1 A. Morgan’s b m All’s Well, aged, by Hotchkiss —Miss Annie, 7.5 (Percival) . 2 W. J. Barley man’s br m Tkrina, aged, by MenschikoflT— Signet, 8.6 (Porter).. 3 Als-7 started: Turbine 8.6, Mahinga 8.0, Hikuai 8.0, Lady Frances 7.1, Rob the Ranter 7.0, Lady Betty 6.13, Pairawaatu 6.13, Lady Dot 6.13. Lady Dot was the first to move, but before they had gone far Hohungatahi rushed to the front, followed by Hikuai and Turbine. The latter had ruu into second place when they turned for home, and the field closed up. In the run to the post the lot were hard at it, but Hohungatahi always had a bit the best of them, winning easily from All’s Weil, which was a neck In front of Tarina. Lady Frances was fourth just in front of a closelybunched field. Hohungatahi was favourite. Time 51 3-ss. After the race the stewards held an inquiry into the running of Hohungatahi, as compared with his effort on the opening day. The explanation given of it was accepted as satisfactory. SUMMER HANDICAP of 150sovs. One mile. W. Gall’s br h Coromandel, 4yrs. by Menschikiiff—Golden Rose, 7.8 (Oliver) 1 R. Hannon’s c m Miss Winnie, aged, 8.1 (Brady) 2 E. W. Alison’s b f Elegance, 3yrs, 6.9 (Ross) 3 Also ran: Lochbuie, 8.3: Rauparahn, 7.8 f Miss Advance, 7.9 a and Aristocrat, 6.10. Miss Winine was first to move, but Elegance at once took up the running, and led past the stand, closely attended by Miss Advance and Miss Winnie. Then followed Aristocrat Coromandel, Lochbuie, Rawparaha, in that order. Racing along the back. Miss Winnie was on terms with Elegance, the pair being two lengths in front of the field, the meet prominent of which were Aristocrat and Coromandel. Miss Winnie and Elegance turned for home together, find at the distance the former had Elegance beaten, but Brady took matters too easy on the favourite, and Coromandel putting In a great run on the outside, snatched a victory by a short head. Elegance was a neck away, third, Aristocrat was fourth, tne last to fiuiah being Lochbuie. Tkne, 1.44 2-5. Miss Winnie wm favourite.

THIRD PONY HANDICAP ot 75sovs. Five furlongs. A. Sadler’s b m Peggy Pryde, 4yrs, St. Peter—Gaiety, 7.6 (C. Brown) 1 M. Jones' b m Miss Stella, 3yrs, 8.3, (Conquest) 2 S. Sanlbery’s b in Mistime, syrs, 8.3, (Brady) 3 Also started: Mighty Atom 9.13, Cyrona 8.2, and Nora Soult 7.3. Nora Soult gave a lot of trouble at the post, but when the barrier lifted was first to move. Her leadership was short-lived, Mighty Atom and Peggy Pryde going to the front, the latter being out by herself when they crossed the top stretch, where Miss Stella was lying second with Mighty Atom at the bead of the others. Easily holding her own in the concluding stages, Peggy Pryde finished up a winner by a length and a-bulf from Miss Stella, which was a length in front of Mistime. Cyrona was fourth, and Nora Soult last. Time, I. 23. Mistime was favourite. PONUI HANDICAP of 6Usovs. Five furlongs. J. Hill’s br in Castle Blaney, 4yrs, Salvation —Blairina, 8.0 (Whittaker) . . 1 Waite Brothers’ b g Parawai, 3yrs, 7.2 (Oliver) 2 L. E. Brown’s b in Fuss, 4yrw, 8.0 (Gray) 3 Also started: Madame Soult 9.8, Aristos 8.0, Jill 7.11, Spectre 7.9, Waiotahl 7.9, Flat Fish 7.2, and Pairawaatu 7.2. Castle Blaney was first to break the line, with Parawai and Spectre as her nearest attendants, after which came Aristos. In this order they raced along the back. Crossing the top stretch, Castle Blaney, Parawai, and Spectre were almost in line with Fuss at the head of the others. In the run to the post, the whips were out all round, and a great race resulted, Castle Blaney winning by a head from Parawai, which was a neck in front of Fuss. Spectra was close up ' fourth, with Madame Soult, Aristos, and Waiotahi almost in line. Time, 1.11. Aristos was favourite.

MARINE HANDICAP of lOOsovs. Four furlongs. A. Hanson’s b f Princess Soult, 2yrs, Soult —Princess Alice, 7.3 Whittaker) 1 V. Bolger’s ch e Doughboy, 2yrs, 7.0, (McMillan) 2 F. W. Arnold’s ch g Minstrel, 2yrs, 6.12, (R. W. Brow nJ 3 Also started: Hamadryad 7.9, Bonnie Fishwife 6.12, Master Jack 7.0, Maskewai 6.12, Havilali 6.12, Veitalia 6.12, Lucille 6.12, Miss Ada 6.12, and Domino 6.121. Doughboy and Lucille gave trouble at the post, but when the barrier lifted the former got out with a flying start, while Lucille was also on the move. Doughboy showed the way across the top stretch, with Princess Soult as his nearest attendant, and Lucille at the head of the others. Doughboy still had charge when the distance was reached, but failed to stall off a challenge from Princess Soult, which, finishing strongly, won by a length. Minstrel which came from a long way back, was a neck awy third, and then came Miss Ada, the last to finish being Hamadryad and Bonnie Fishwife. Time, 52 3-ss. Hamadryad and Bonnie Fishwife, bracketed, were favourites. As the field crossed the top stretch, Veitalia fell. Her rider, W. Percival, was taken to the casualty room, where he was found to have escaped with a badly-bruised knee a*nd foot. DEVONPORT HANDICAP, Of 80SOVS. Five furlongs. W. C. Ring’s b g Hohungatahi, 4yrs, Freedom—Blackwatch, 8.8 (Inc. 51b penalty), Gray 1 R. W. Duder’s br g Devonport, aged, 9.2 (Brady) * E. W. Alison's b f Elegance, 3yrs, 72 (McMillan) •* *Dead heat.

Also started: Tarina 8.3, Turbine 7.9, Hyperion 7.8, Jena 7.8, All’s Well 7.2. Hohungatahi was first to show out from a fairly even start, followed by All’s Well and Elegance. Hohungatahi made the running along the back, with Elegance ass his nearest attendant, and then came All’s Wei? and Devonport. Hohungatahi was still in the lead as they turned for home, and easily holding his own in the run to the post, won by a length and a-half from Devonport and E-leganco, which deadheated for second honours. All’s Welt was fourth. Time, 1.9 2-5. Hohungatahi was favourite. WELTER HANDICAP, of lOOsovs. Distance, one mile. A. H. Tapper’s br m Zinnia, by Explosion—Pansy, 4yrs, 7.8 (C. Brown)—» 1 C. W. Coleman’s ch g Prince Leo, 6yrs, 7.8 (Whittaker) 2 W. Cook’s br m Azoff, 6yrs, 8.4 (Brady) 3 ,Also started. Malora 9.3, Rauparaba 8.8, Rlmlock* 8.8, Miss Advance 8-0, Mistime 7.10, Waipa 7.7, and Spectre 7.7. When the barrier lifted Maiora and Spectre were badly left, losing about 100yds. Prince Leo was first to move, and showed the way past the stand, with Zinnia, Waipa and Rirnlcck- racing in that order. Going along the back Zinnia ran up to Prince Leo, and the pair crossed the top stretch on terms, with Rimlock and Azoff following. At the distance Zinnia got In front, and drawing out in the run to the post won by a length and a-half fruin Prince Leo, which was a length in front of Azoff, Rimlock was foul th. Time, 1.45 2-5. Azof! was favourite. i 4: dt GISBORNE SUMMER MEETING. GISBORNE, Thursday. The opening of the Gisborne Racing Club’s summer meeting was favoured with a goixl attendance and beairtifn! weather. The sum ot £4362 was put through the totallsator, against £3346 last year. Ten bookmakers operated. The results are:— Handicap Hurdles,-—Rawh it I, 9.0, 1; To Kalnut, 9.0, 2; Tyrannic, 11.5, 3. Also started: Reservoir. Won by several lengths. Time, 2.40 3 5. Maiden Bcurry. —Btourton, 8.0, 1; Pazs-

ling, 8.0, 2; Fort William, 8.3, 3. Also started: Search. Manupar, Lord Possible, Ngarul, and Special. I’he winner got a flying start, and led all the way and won by half-a-length. Time, 49 3-ss. Flying Handicap.—Auldearn, 8.4, 1; Rarata, 8.2, 2; Erin, 6.7, 3. Also started: Mundic, Lainsdorff, Mayflower, Pluck. Auldearn led ail the way, and won by a length. Two lengths separated second and third. Time, 1.14 4-5. Hack Flat Handicap.—Ardfert. 7.5. 1; Master Stead, 7.0, 2: Captain Jingle. 7.6, 3. Also started: Continuance, The Squatter, Kaumoana, and Magnets. Won easily by three lengths, four lengths between second and third. Time, 1.29. Gisborne Racing Club Handicap. Irauui, 8.9, 1; Dardanus, 7.0, 2; Bally heigh, 8.3, 3. The only starters. Won by a neck. Time, 2.10. „ First County Stakes. —Hirini, 4.9, 1; Fort William. 7.8, 2; ’rhe Chef, 7.2, 3. Also started: Elya. Won by two lengths. Time, 1.16. Welter Handicap.—Swnrthmoor, 8.5, 1; Roseletbe, 8.3, 2; Amato, 8.0, 3. Also started: Illustrious, Dan Leno, Millenial, Waimani, Merrie Lftwn. Won easily by four lengths. Time, 1.44. Park Stakes Handicap.—Trugauini, 8.9, 1; Dazzling, 6.13, 2; Baidos, 7.2, 3. Also started: Spate, 8.3. Won by a length amt a half. Time, 1.29.

SECOND DAY. GISBORNE, Friday. Beautiful weather prevailed for the second day of the Gisborne Racing Club’s Summer Meeting. The racing was good, and the attendance moderately large. The sum of £4272 was put through the totallsator, making a total of £8634 for the year, an increase of £2198 over last year. The results are:—■ Electric Handicap, five furlongs.—Mundic, 9.0, 1; Erin, 7.3, 2; Pluck, 6.13. 3. Also started: Terakato, 7.12; Hirini, 7.9; Mayflower, 7.8; Magncta, 7.0. Won easily by two lengths. Time, Im. 2 3-ss. Ladies’ Bracelet Handicap, one mile.—Baldlos, 12.3, 1; Captain Jingle, 11.5, 2; Local Option, 10.7, 3. Also started: Tyrannic 12.5, Amato 10.9, Haurangi 10.7. Won by a length and a-half. Time, Im. 46 2-ss. Harding Memorial Handicap, one mile and a distance.—Truganini, 9.'2, 1; LarnsdorflT. 7.0, 2; Ballyheigh, 8.0, 3. Also started: Dardanus 6.13. A splendid finish. Won by half-a-head. Time, Im. 58s. Second County Stakes, seven furlongs.— Swarthmore, 7.13, 1: Auldearn, 9.4, 2; Continuance, 8.10, 3. Also started: Rapate 8.10, Master Stead 7.0. Won easily by two lengths. Time, Im. 29 3-ss. Second Hack Flat Handicap, six furlongs. --Dazzling, 8.7, 1; The Chef, 7.9. 2; Ardfert, 8.11, 3. Also ran: Kaumoana 8.5, TJktria 8.3, Ngarui 7.7. Won comfortably by two lengths. Time, Im. 30 l-ss. Final Handicap, seven furlongs.—Rarata, 7.11, 1; Dan Leno, 7.0, 2. The only starters. Won very easily. Time Im. 30 l-ss. 4? 4? MATAMATA RACES.

The following acceptances have been received for the Matamata Racing Club’s annual race meeting, which takes place on February 10: — Handicap Hurdles.—Royal Shot 10.5, Calm 10.0, Hinuera 9.7. Maiden Plate.—Mark 8.6, Alicia 8.6, Arawa 8.6, Selwyn 8.5, Gay Bird 8.3, Koroirangi 8.0, Eleetrakoff 8.0, Winchester 8.0, Grasshopper 7.12, Ricochet 7.12. Matamata Handicap.—Seldom 9.6, Liberty 8.12, Noteorini 8.7, Taiaha 8.4, Livonia 7.6, Ricochet 6.12. Maiden Welter.—Westward Ho 10.10, Hokomai 10.5, Romantic 10.5, Royal Shot 9.13, Tere 9.8, Calm 9.8, Hinuera 9.6, Mark 9.6, Alicia 9.6, Arawa 9.6, Winchester 9.4, Selwyn 9.3, Vladivostok 9.3. Flying Handicap.—Seldom 9.8, Liberty 9.0, Hardrock 8.7, Positive 8.2, Effulgence 7.13, Ele-.trakoff 7.3. Open Welter.—Noteorini 10.7, Taiaha 10.2, Westward Ho 9.13, Romantic 9.9, Livonia 9.7, Tere 9.2, Hinuera 9.0, Koroirangi 9.0, Electrakoff 9.0.

AUCKLAND R.C. AUTtiMTN MEETING. After the doc 1 4 rat iot> of seixind foifcit% the following horses rvimhi iu THE GREAT NORTHERN OAKS. Ono utile and a-half. Mr. E. W. AHroh’s b f Elegance, by Srntou Delaval — Antelope. Mr. S. Bradley’s br f Avoca, by Wairik!— Voice. Mr. J. J. Craig’s b f Sea Elf, by Seatou Delavai- St. Evelyn. Mr. Dona’d McLeod’s hr f Kakama, by Soult — Winsome. Hon. J. D. Ormond’s b f Dreadless, by Birkenhead—Moirtjread. Hon. J. D. Ormond s b f Ortygia, by Birkenhead - -Aietliuxa Mr. F. Preston's ch f Ambrosiau, by St. Ambrose —Neva. Mr. F. E. Ross’ br f Snlutc, by Soult — Lady Musket. Mr E. J. Watt's br f J£illindini. by Kilrlierln — Moiisqueterie. Mr. G. Hunter's br or blk f Bliss, by Stepn Ink — Faraway. Mr. T. H. Lowry’s br f Ambala, by Slepntak — Ranee Nuna.