THE LATE SAMUEL FERGUS.

New Zealand Illustrated Sporting & Dramatic Review, Volume XIV, Issue 849, 14 June 1906, Page 6

THE LATE SAMUEL FERGUS.

For many years past whenever a cross-country event was to be decided it was fairly certain that the name of S. Fergus would be hoisted as one of the riders. Such was the case on Monday week last in the Remuera Hurdles, but this was destined to be poor Sam’s last ride. When Silica was seen to strike a hurdle and topple over, a glance revealed the fact, that Fergus had been treated to a very bad fall, and it would appear that the gelding afterwards rolled on the prostrate rider. When Fergus was brought in it was realised from the first that the case was hopeless, the spine being injured, and the unfortunate horseman breathed his last at the Hospital on Thursday. The funeral took place on Sunday afternoon, and was perhaps the largest which has ever left Ellerslie. Indeed, as the cortege made its way up Khyber Pass it occupied near the whole length of that thoroughfare, every racing and sporting club being represented, besides an immense number of friends of the deceased. Perhaps there was no better known horseman in the colony than Fergus, and from Dunedin, where he used to ride with the Otago Hunt Club in 1890, to here, there have been universsal expressions of regret at the fatal accident. When Haydn won the New Zealand Grand National Steeplechase and the Great Northern Steeplechase, Fergus had the mount, but he scored innumerable other victories. Of a quiet and unassuming manner, Fergus was exceedingly popular with all who knew him, and it goes without saying he will be much missed. To his widow and family will be extended the deepest sympathy of everyone.