ASCOT STUD FARM

New Zealand Illustrated Sporting & Dramatic Review, Issue 1159, 27 June 1912, Page 7

ASCOT STUD FARM

An invitation from Mr H. R. McKenzie to, at any time, run out and inspect the stock at Ascot Stud Farm was accepted, and on Saturday, accompanied by the “Review” photographer, Mr Alf. Jones, I found myself mounting an Onehunga car shortly after eight o’clock in Queen-street. The day was, typical of winter, a bleak cold wind blowing accompanied at intervals by heavy showers. Arriving at the car terminus we were met by our host and soon were seated in a trap behind the trotting horse Mararoa, and heading for the farm which was reached in very short time. Refreshments, kindly provided by Mr McKenzie, were partaken of and after the usual chat about matters important, and racing in particular, a visit was paid to the stables. The first, horse to be led out was the stallion Penury, and the farm is fortunate in possessing such a fine horse. Making all due allowance for the time of year, Penury looks a picture and his condition reflects credit upon Studgroom Kelly, who has had considerable experience in the business. Standing just sixteen hands, Penury is indeed a fine horse, being evenly balanced and full of quality, while his shoulders and quarters cannot but be admired. He carries an intelligent looking head well set and is as docile as a sheep, an item which goes a long way towards success. View him how you will it is difficult to find a fault and if he fails to get some great winners then I shall have to admit being a bad judge. Elysian (Soult — Dreamland) came next and at 150 guineas Mr McKenzie surely purchased a bargain. Since joining Ascot Stud the champion of a couple of seasons ago has grown into a fine horse, and he is now one mass of quality. Last season Elysian’s list of 30 mares was filled, the number including Lady Hester, and the pair should produce something pretty good. Running in a paddock were some ten yearlings, and an inspection showed there was not a bad one amongst the lot. A filly, by Penury— Lady . Hester, stood out by herself and a youngster possessing more quality and substance would be hard to find. She is certainly the gem of the collection and does credit to both her parents. A bay filly by Penury— Cytherea is a likely looking sort and one that should come to hand early. Cytherea is closely related to Our Lady, the dam of Bronze, whose performances this season are top well known to bear repeating. The youngest foal on the farm is a bay colt by Penury—Lady Flora. He is a solid, well-legged little chap with a racy head and good shoulders. The remainder of the collection comprises: Chestnut filly by Penury—Lady Gwen, bay filly by Penury—Lycia, black filly by Penury—Madam Soult, bay colt by Marble Arch—Lady 8., bay filly by Birkenhead —Pearl Necklet, chestnut filly by Obligado—Delania, and a bay filly by Marble Arch—Erry Roe. The brood mares we found grazing in a well grassed paddock and one and all bore a healthy and well-cared for appearance. Lady Hester, whose foals