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INTERNATIONAL HISTORY

The Nobel prize is first awarded.

Gugliemo Marconi sends the first transatlantic radio message.

LOCAL HISTORY

NZ declined invitation to join Australian Federation

Nov 16 - Earthquake (most severe at Cheviot) damages the Cathedral Spire. After this third incident, the top of the spire was rebuilt in timber and metal instead of stone.

The Duke & Duchess of York visit. The will become King George V and Queen Mary.

Robert Falcon Scott's first Antartic expedition arrives.

Credit: Ch-ChCity Libraries

RACING HISTORY THE BEGINNINGS

1901 NZMTC SPRING MEETING: FIRST DAY

Handicapper, Mr H Brinkman; Starter, Mr C O'Connor.

The Spring Meeting of the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club was begun today, in fine weather. At starting time the weather was threatening, and this no doubt affected the attandance, which, though not large, increased considerably as the afternoon wore on.

The many improvements effected of late were greatly appreciated, and the track was in first-rate order. Amongst the many visitors present was the Hon J Carroll, who was the guest of the stewards.

The new teahouse proved itself to be a great convenience, as did the alterations to the totalisator-house, which has now been placed just at the back of the stand.

During the afternoon, General Lincoln, winner of the Juvenile Stakes at the May Meeting, was led onto the lawn and decorated with the club's ribbon by Mrs Stevens. Cheers were given for the horse, his owner and trainer.

Considering the attendance, speculation was good, no less than £3119 being passed through the totalisator. The system of paying dividends on the first and second horses met with great favour, and was no doubt responsible for the heavy betting. An excellent luncheon was provided br Mr A Rattray.

The following were the results:-

MAIDEN HANDICAP (in saddle) of 50 sovs; second horse 10 sovs and third horse 5 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mr W C Douglas's br m Queen Bee, by Imperious, 6yrs, 15sec, (A Pringle) 1.
Mr M Edwards's br m Nellie D, 5yrs, 14sec (M Edwards) 2.
Mr E R Roberts's b g Kilroth, 5yrs, 12sec (W Taggart) 3.

Miss Victor II, 6sec, Vanity 9sec, Nonsense 9sec, Galway 10sec, Federation 10sec, Young Kentucky 11sec, Fair Boy 11sec, Te Hau 12sec, Whisper 18sec, Little Albert 13sec, Blue Bell 13sec, The Master 15sec and Gingernut 15sec also started.

Queen Bee left the mark smartly and with half a mile gone was showing the way to Whisper and Kilroth. With half the distance covered Kilroth has got on terms with the leader, Whisper losing her place by breaking. Starting the last round Queen Bee had drawn away from Kilroth , and going on won easily by fifty yards. Kilroth tired to nothing in the last quarter, and Nellie D beat him for second place Time 5min 24sec. Dividends - On Queen Bee £69, on Nellie D 14s.

PONY HANDICAP (in harness) of 35 sovs; second horse 7 sovs and third horse 3 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mr J McQuilkin's ch m Edna, by Black Prince, 4 or 5yrs, 30sec (N Price) 1.
Mr G Bush's br g Rushlight, 5yrs, 16sec (-) 2.
Mr G St Clair's b g Jingo, 6yrs, 28sec (C Piper) 3.

Agnes 28sec, Gipsy 30sec and Mary 30sec also started.

Edna quickly put a long gap between herself and Jingo, Rushlight following in third place. All through the first round Edna had an advantage of over fifty yards, and going very steadily won as she pleased by that distance. In the last round Rushlight passed Jingo, and beat him home by forty yards. Time 5min 41sec. Dividends - On Edna £2, on Rushlight £2 2s.

HIGH-CLASS HANDICAP (in saddle) of 110 sovs; second horse 22 sovs and third horse 11 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mr J A Buckland's b g The Heir, by Vancleve-Fraulein, 4yrs, 15sec (C Piper) 1.
Mr W Kerr's br m Thelma, by Kentucky, aged, 9sec (Owner) 2.
Mr T Yarr's br g Monte Carlo, by Lincoln Yet, aged, 7sec (B Edwards) 3.

Mr J Smithers's b m Vickery, 6yrs, 3sec (M Edwards)
Mr W McFarlane's b g J.H. 12sec (R Day)
Mr L Robertson's ch h Bellman, aged, 15sec (Owner)

The Heir got very quickly under way, and at the stand was six lengths in front of Bellman, who was followed by JH and Thelma. All through the second round the leader held his own and Thelma closed on Bellman, Monte Carlo and Vickery gradually making up their leeway. Entering the second mile there was little alteration, except that Thelma had deposed Bellman. When the last round was entered The Heir was still going strongly in front, fully holding his own with Thelma. Monte Carlo improved his position, and gradually gained on Thelma, but neither could catch Fritz's brother, who won by quite thirty yards. Two lengths separated Thelma from Monte Carlo, who was followed at a considerable interval by Bellman. Time 4min 54 4/5sec. Dividends - On The Heir £3 4s, on Thelma £1 2s.

LADIES BRACELET (in saddle) valued 25 sovs, with 30 sovs added; second horse 6 sovs and third horse 3 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mrs J S Heighway's b g Dexter, by Mambrino Mac, aged, 36sec (Mr J S Heighway) 1.
Mrs J Carleton's g g Strathconan, aged, 27sec (Mr J Carleton) 2.
Mrs J Messervey's b m Nita, aged, 40sec. (Mr J Messervey) 3.

Daisy 16sec, Queen Bee 16sec (pen 24sec), Protest 20sec, Eltee More 20sec, Heather Dew 20sec, Vanity Fair 23sec, Royal Tar 24sec, Maid of Ohoka 25sec, Rosetta 27sec, Paddyfeldt 27sec, Balmoral II 27sec, Tim 29sec, Miss Victor II 30sec, Annie Rooney 32sec, Bob M 35sec, Auchmethie 35sec, Florence 35sec, The Duke 35sec, Duchess of York 35sec, Vancliffe 36sec, Wild Girl 36sec, Young Kentucky 36sec, Te Hau 37sec, Bushman 37sec, Kilroth 37sec, Burwood Bess 38sec, Roller 38sec, Dart 38sec, Blue Bell 39sec, First and Last 40sec, Mungo Park 40sec, Nil Desperandum 40sec, Kruger 40sec, Telegram 40sec and Gingernut 40sec also started.

Nita led the field all through the first mile, Te Hau, Kilroth and Dexter being at the head of the rest. When well into the second half Dexter caught Nita, and Kilroth improved his position. In the last quarter Strath conan took third position, but could not catch the leader, Dexter eventually winning by eight lengths; half that distance between second and third. Time 5min 43sec. Dividends - On Dexter £4 18s, on Strathconan £6 16s.

AUGUST HANDICAP (saddle) of 80 sovs; second 16 sovs and third 8 sovs from stake. Two miles.

A J Keith's b m Millionaire by Vandebilt, aged, 19sec (A Pringle) 1.
J Milne's Principal, 18sec (Owner) 2.
N Price's Michael Malone,12sec (Owner) 3.

Nantes 8sec, Spider 13sec, Big Jim 14sec, Pansy B 17sec, Maniac 19sec and Day Break 29sec also started.

Daybreak broke after going a few yards, and Maniac, getting smartly away, soon established a big lead of Millionaire and Principal. Passing the stand the second time Maniac was twelve lengths to the good, while Millionaire was four lengths in front of Principal, the other a long way off. Entering the last lap Maniac tired badly, and Millionaire, getting on terms along the back, came on and won easily from Principal, who just beat Michael Malone for second place. Time 5min 11 3/5sec. Dividends - On Millionaire £20 4s, on Principal £2 4s

ADVANCE HANDICAP (harness) of 50 sovs; second 10 sovs and third 5sovs from stake. Two miles.

L Robertson's b m Felony by Treason, aged, 19sec (Owner) 1.
W F Whitaker's Viotta, 15sec (Owner) 2.
J Vallance's Cincinnatti, 20sec (M Edwards) 3.

Veto 9sec, Necklace 18sec, Mesmerist 19sec, Rupee 20sec and Roseleaf 20sec also started.

Rupee was just showing in front of Cincinnatti and Felony when the stand was reached. A little further on Felony had got to the front, but, breaking, allowed Cincinnatti and Rupee to close on him. On getting under way again Felony soon established a good lead, which he maintained to the finish. In the last half-mile Viotta came very fast, and cutting down Rupee and Cincinnatti, got to within a length of the leader, when the post was reached. Cincinnatti finished in third place, fifty yards off, followed by Rupee. Time, 5min 25sec. Dividends - On Felony £4 2s; on Viotta £1 10s.

ELECTRIC HANDICAP (saddle) of 60 sovs; second 12 sovs and third 6 sovs from stake. One mile.

T Yarr's br m Naughty Girl, aged, 18sec (B Edwards) 1.
R Carr's Maniac, 11sec (W J Taggart) 2.
J A Buckland's Valour, scr (C Piper) 3.

Moana 2sec, Principal 6sec, Wild Bill 8sec, Gertie 10sec, Linda 11sec, Sweet Marie 12sec and Topsy Irvington 14sec also started.

When they had settled into their places Naughty Girl was showing the way to Sweet Marie, Maniac and Gertie following. At the stand there was little between Naughty Girl and Sweet Marie who had Gertie in immediate attendance. Going down the back stretch Gertie was on terms with Naughty Girl, Maniac being third and Valour, who had travelled at a great pace, fourth. At the home bend Gertie retired, and Maniac, coming strongly, finished within a length and a half of Naughty Girl, Valour, the same distance off, third. Time, 2min 35sec. Dividends - On Naughty Girl £3 10s; on Maniac £1 8s.

DASH HANDICAP (harness) of 60 sovs; second 12 sovs and third 6 sovs from stake. One mile

E Bowe's br g Albert by Boston, aged, 21sec (R Day) 1.
G G Holmes's Lady Spec, 19sec, (J Wright) 2.
Wilson & Mangin's Sacramento, 18sec (F Holmes) 3.

Val scr, Utah 5sec, St Kilda 13sec, General Lincoln 14sec, Huon Prince 15sec, The Gossoon 16sec, Wild Wave 21sec and The Orphan 21sec also started.

Wild Wave momentarily showed in front, but soon gave way to Albert, who at the half-mile post had established a commanding lead. Lady Spec was now in second place, followed by Sacramento and Orphan, the others strung out. Easily holding his own, Albert went on and won by seven lengths, a like distance separating second and third. Time, 2min 34 4/5sec. Dividends - On Albert £2 4s; on Lady Spec £1 12s.

Credit: Star 10 Aug 1901 & The Press 12 Aug 1901

RACING HISTORY THE BEGINNINGS

NZMTC SPRING MEETING: Second Day

The New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club's Spring Meeting was continued at the grounds, Lincoln Road, this afternoon. A stiff nor'-wester blew during the early stages of the proceedings, raising considerable dust, and inconveniencing the riders and drivers. Later, a change took place, and a south-westerly wind brought with it steady rain. Though not sufficiently heavy to greatly affect the track, it made matters far from comfortable for spectators, the outside public in particular being in an uncomfortable position.

The attendance showed a considerable increase on that of the opening day, many visiting sportsmen, both north and south, being interested spectators. That the system of paying out two dividends has become popular was evinced by the spirited speculation that took place. No less a sum than £7762 was invested on the totalisators.

Amongst the many visitors present were Hon Geo McLean, Messrs H McIlwraith, S Myers and W Rutherford.

Results:-

TRIAL HANDICAP TROT (in harness) of 50 sovs; second horse 10 sovs and third horse 5sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mr G W Drapper's b g Merrimac, by General Tracey, 6yrs, 6sec (D J Price) 1.
Mr J S Heighway's b g Dexter, aged, 8sec (W Orange) 2.
Mr J Vallance's b g Oswego, 5yrs, 16sec (A Binnie) 3.

Veto scr, The Workman 2sec, Nellie D 3sec, Prince Charming 12sec, Vanguard 13sec, Te Hau 14sec, Rupee 14sec, Hamlin 16sec and The Banker 16sec also started.

At the end of half a mile Oswego went to the front, but was immediately passed by Merimac, Dexter, and Prince Charming, and in the order named, with Dexter fourth, the next half mile was travelled. Merrimac, with Dexter on his wheel, then drew away, and the former, on the inside, holding command for the remainder of the journey, won by two lengths from Dexter. Oswego, nearly one hundred yards away, beating the tiring Prince Charming for third place; Veto was fifth. Time 5min 17sec. Dividends - On Merrimac £1 16s, on Dexter £1 6s.

PONY HANDICAP TROT (in saddle) of 35 sovs; second horse 7 sovs and third horse 3 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mr R Whittaker's b m Streamlet, by Kentucky, 5yrs, 27sec (R Hill) 1.
Mr G St Clair's b g Jingo, 6yrs, 19sec (C Piper) 2.
Mr W Price's b m Monkey Brand, 3yrs, 27sec (Owner) 3.

Vanity Fair scr, Rushlight 3sec, Evelyn 13sec, Nita 18sec, Agnes 21sec, Mary 21sec, Pansy Irvington 21sec, Dawn 25sec, Invicta 27sec and Bluefire 27sec also started.

Monkey Brand led for the first half-mile, at the end of which Streamlet went to the front, and never afterwards being headed, won very comfortably by eighty yards from Jingo, who displaced Monkey Brand a quarter of a mile from home, the latter finishing six lengths behind Jingo. Time 5min 41sec. Dividends - On Streamlet £10 12s; on Jingo £3 14s.

METROPOLITAN HANDICAP TROT (in harness) of 150 sovs; second horse 30 sovs and third horse 15 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mr D J Price's Victory II, by General Tracey, aged, 9sec (Owner) 1.
Mr L Robertson's ch h Bellman, aged, 15sec (Owner) 2.
Mr W Kerr's b m Thelma, aged, 8sec (Owner) 3.

Vickery 4sec, The Heir 9sec, Bell Boy 9sec and Sam Slick 10sec also started.

Bell Boy broke badly in the first quarter of a mile, and Bellman went on in front of Victory II, Sam Slick and Thelma. As the stand was passed the second time Victory II took the lead, and The Heir moved into fourth place, and a little later passed Thelma. Entering the last circuit Victory II was just clear of Bellman, who was five lengths in advance of The Heir, and going along the back stretch the leader improved his advantage, and The Heir lost ground. Victory II held his position to the end, winning pretty comfortably by four lengths from Bellman, while Thelma, who finished strongly, was seven lengths further away third, and The Heir a similar distance behind, fourth. Time 4min 54sec. Dividends - On Victory II £3 8s; on Bellman £2 8s.

HALSWELL HANDICAP TROT (harness) of 55 sovs; second 11 sovs, and third 5 sovs from stake. Two miles.

W Lenhart's b m Necklace by Rothschild, 6yrs, 18sec (Owner) 1.
G McClatchie's Velox, 3sec, (Albaugh) 2.
C W Howard's Milroy, 10sec (T Frost) 3.

Rickety scr, Viotta 1sec, Linwood 6sec, Mermaid 12sec, Pioneer 14sec, Strathconan 15sec, Cincinnatti 16sec also started.

Cincinnatti quickly deposed Necklace and, with Pioneer in attendance, showed the way through the first round, Velox and Milroy gradually improving their positions. Repeated breaks by Pioneer and Cincinnatti put them both out of court, which left Necklace in front, Velox and Milroy taking second and third places. All through the last round Velox was struggling to get in front, but Necklace, well driven, resisted the pony's efforts, and finally won by a bare length, Milroy, who had gone rather unsteadily, third, followed by Rickety and Viotta in order. Time 5min 25sec. Dividends - On Necklace £14 12s; on Velox £5 2s.
The stewards held an inquiry into Necklace's running, but after hearing the owner's explanation, were satisfied.

SPRING HANDICAP TROT (Saddle) of 80 sovs; second 16 sovs, and third 8 sovs from stake. Two miles.

E Bowes's br g Whitecroft by Victor, aged, 18sec (R Day) 1.
J Vivian's Tonic, 15sec (T Price) 2.
J Jeff's Cockey, 9sec (A Pringle) 3.

Daybreak scr, Sweet Marie 4sec, Gleniti 11sec, Miss Wilkin 12sec, Ebony 12sec, Miss Childe 13sec, Vanity Fair 17sec and Impudence 18sec also started.

After going two furlongs Whitecroft got to the front, followed by Vanity Fair and Tonic. With a round gone Cockey had taken second place, but here some of his gear broke, which caused him to go very unsteadily, and Whitecroft drew right away from him. Tonic also passed Cockey, but could not get near Whitecroft, who won very comfortably by half a dozen lengths; more than that distance separating Tonic and Cockey. Time, 5min 26sec. Dividends - On Whitecroft £5 12s; on Tonic £11 10s.

MIDDLETON HANDICAP (harness) of 80 sovs; second 14 sovs and third 7 sovs from stake. Two miles.

W Potter's b g Boldrewood by General Tracey-Mermaid, 4yrs, 13sec (C Harold) 1.
M Friedlander's Lancewood II, 3sec (W Kerr) 2.
M Edwards's General Grigg, scr (Owner) 3.

Faithful 12sec, Huon Prince 9sec, Bob ET 12sec, Rickety 15sec, Mambrino King 15sec and Ebony 17sec also started.

Before going a furlong Boldrewood had run to the front, and Faithful refusing to trot soon lost his place to Bob ET. With half the journey gone, Boldrewood was out by himself, Bob ET being some twenty lengths away, followed at a good interval by Lancewood II. All through the last round the leader easily held his own, and ran home the easiest of winners by forty yards. Half a mile from home Lancewood II deposed Bob ET, but could not make much impression on the leader, finishing thirty yards in front of General Grigg, who trotted steadily throughout. Time, 5min 8sec. Dividends - On Boldrewood £1 18s; on Lancewood II £1 8s.

TELEGRAPH HANDICAP (saddle) of 65 sovs; second 13 sovs and third 6 sovs from stake. One mile.

V Samuels's b g The Member by Electioneer, aged, 5sec (B Edwards) 1.
W A Scott's Bell Boy, 3sec (Owner) 2.
R Rutherford's The Baron, 6sec (W J Taggart) 3.

Valour scr, Honour 1sec, Moana 3sec, Principal 7sec, Wild Bill 8sec, Michael Malone 9sec and Pansy B 10sec also started.

Wild Bill had quickly deposed Michael Malone, and at the stand the first time round he was two lengths clear of The Baron, The Member well up. A little further on The Baron deposed Wild Bill, and went on in advance. Half way down the back stretch The Member put in a brilliant run, which quickly got him first position, and from this out he had the race at his mercy, winning easily by half a dozen lengths. At the home bend Bell Boy passed The Baron, and beat him home by five lengths. Time, 2min 30sec. Dividends - On The Member £3 18s; on Bell Boy £2 4s

SPEEDWELL HANDICAP (harness) of 65 sovs; second 13 sovs and third 6 sovs from stake. One mile.

E Bowe's b g Albert by Boston, aged, 9sec (R Day) 1.
M Friedlander's Lancewood II, 7sec (W Kerr) 2.
J Cooper's Utah, scr (J Milne) 3.

Flora S 4sec, St Simon 5sec, Bessie B 6sec, Robin D 11sec and Amelia 11sec also started.

Amelia momentarily showed in front, but before going far Albert was on terms with her, and Lancewood was on the pair's wheels. At the stand Lancewood headed Albert, Amelia having fallen away beaten. This pair then went right away from the field, having the issue to themselves. Down the back stretch Lancewood was leading by a length, but at the home turn Albert had closed up, and after a great set-to got home by the shortest of heads. A dozen lengths further back came Utah, followed by Flora G. Bessie B refused to leave the mark, and did not take part in the race. Time, 2min 30 3/5sec. Dividends - On Albert £3 8s; on Lancewood II £2.

The stewards inquired into the alleged boring of Lancewood by Albert in the straight but decided not to disturb the judge's verdict.


Credit: Star 14 Aug & Press 15 Aug 1901

RACING HISTORY THE BEGINNINGS

NZMTC SPRING MEETING: THIRD DAY

The New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club's Spring meeting was continued at the grounds, Lincoln Road, to-day, the beautiful weather attracting a capital attendance. By starting time the attendance was good, and improved as the afternoon wore on. The rain and frost left the track in a very sloppy condition, which greatly interfered with the competitors. This accounted for the slow time made in all the events, but, nevertheless the racing was interesting.

During the afternoon the sum of £7485 was put through the totalisator, making a total of £20,519 10s for the three days.

Results:-

INNOVATION HANDICAP TROT (in saddle) of 50 sovs; second horse 10 sovs and third horse 5 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mr J Coop's b g Te Hau, by Imperious, 4yrs, 28sec (A Pringle) 1.
Mr A Quigley's br h Vanity, 3yrs, 19sec (R Day) 2.
Mr R Ward's b m Gracie M, aged, 22sec, (R Post) 3.

Kilroth 11sec, Miss Victor II 19sec, Fair Boy 22sec, Vanguard 22sec, The Duke 23sec, Bob M 23sec, Lincoln Lass 24sec, Young Kentucky 25sec, Bushman 25sec, Dart 27sec, Avenal 28sec, Gingernut 28sec and The Master 28sec also started.

Te Hau took command in the first quarter-mile, and though pressed in the first part of the race ny Avenal and afterwards by Vanity, both broke, and he won comfortably by fifty yards, six lengths separating second and third with Avenal close up fourth. Time 5min 49 1/2sec. Dividends - On Te Hau £2; on Vanity £4 4s.

LADIES' BRACELET HANDICAP TROT (in harness) of 25 sovs, with 35 sovs added; second horse 7 sovs and third horse 3 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mrs W Lenhart's br g The Manager by Albert Victor, 4yrs, 35sec (Mr W Lenhart) 1.
Mr D Barns b g Nil Desperandum, 4yrs, 35sec (coupled with The Manager) (Mr D Barns) 2.
Mr J Morris's ch g Chief, aged, 27sec (Mr G Munro) 3.

Rickety 1sec, Daisy 10sec, Mermaid 14sec, Strathconan 17sec, Balmoral II 21sec, Mesmerist 22sec, Wonbobbie 25sec, Foxhall 27sec, Lord Rue 27sec, Dandy Dick 27sec, Not Yet 28sec, Wild Girl 29sec and Jingo 38sec also started.
The Manager and Nil Desperandum were coupled.

Nil Desperandum led for more than a mile, closely attended by The Manager. The latter, then went to the front and going on won easily by thirty yards. Chief was third, forty yards away, just in front of a large group. Time 6min 37 1/2sec. Dividend - £2 12s.

NEW ZEALAND HANDICAP TROT (in harness) of 150 sovs; second horse 30 sovs and third horse 15 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mr C Kerr's b g All Day, by Ha Ha, 4yrs 12sec (Owner) 1.
Mr D J Price's b g Victory II, by General Tracy, 6yrs, 4sec (Owner) 2.
Mr J Smithers's b m Vickery, 6yrs, 4sec (M Edwards) 3.

Almont scr, Monte Carlo 4sec, Candidate 5sec, Thelma 6sec and Bellman 12sec also started.

All Day was quickly off the mark, and at the stand had a ten lengths lead of Bellman, Thelma and Vickery. Along the back stretch Thelma took second place, and Vickery, who had started very well, third. No change took place till half the distance had been covered, when Vickery ran past Thelma, and Victory II improved his position. Candidate, Monte Carlo and Bellman did not act well in the mud, and were already beaten. Soon after entering the last round Victory II passed the tiring Vickery and went on after All Day. Although he came well all round the back Victory II could not get to All Day, who wom by eight lengths; a similar distance separating second and third. Then came Monte Carlo, followed by Thelma. Time 5min 36sec. Dividends - On All Day £3 18s; on Victory II £2 10s.

PROGRESSIVE HANDICAP TROT (in harness) of 60sovs; second horse 12 sovs and third horse 6 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mr R Campbell's br h Mambrino King, by Mambrino Mac, aged, 19sec (N Price) 1.
Mr A Muir's ch g Wairuna, aged, 17 sec (M Edwards) 2.
Mr M Friedlander's cr m Wild Poole, 5yrs, 13sec (C Kerr) 3.

Bob ET 13sec, Velox 13sec, Merrimac 14sec, Daybreak 15sec, Faithful 15sec, The Gossoon 17sec, Rickety 19sec, Ebony 20sec, Secrecy 20sec and Dormin 20sec also started.

Mambrino King was out by himself when the stand was reached, and quite ten lengths separating him from Rickety all round the back, where Wairuna started to go up. At the half distance Wild Poole had taken second place, and a little further on Wairuna got into third position. All through the last round Mambrino King easily held his own, and at the finish won by fifty yards. A quarter of a mile from home Wairuna passed Wild Poole; while Daybreak, who came with a late run, was fourth. Time 5min 42sec. Dividends - On Mambrino King £3 18s; on Wairuna £1 18s.

SYDENHAM HANDICAP TROT (in saddle) of 80 sovs; second horse 16 sovs and third horse 8 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mrs J S Hathaway's b g Dexter, by Mambrino King, aged, 20sec (W Orange) 1.
Mr R Carr's b g Maniac, aged, 16sec (W J Taggart) 2.
Mr A J Keith's b m Millionaire, aged, 15sec (R Day) 3.

Dictator scr, Occidental 10sec, Michael Malone 12sec, Principal 12sec, Vanguish 13sec, Spider 13sec, Big Jim 16sec, Pansy B 18sec and Lady Criterion 20sec also started.

Before going a furlong Dexter had got to the front, and Lady Criterion, going unkindly, lost her place to Maniac and Millionaire. So they ran all through the first mile, Dexter going comfortably ten lengths in advance of Maniac. Half a mile from home Millionaire improved her position, her nearest attendants being Pansy B, Lady Criterion and Michael Malone. All through the last round Dexter easily held his own from Maniac, and at the finish won by ten lengths, a similar distance dividing Maniac and Millionaire Time 5min 29sec. Dividends - On Dexter £3 14s; on Maniac £2,

INTERMEDIATE HANDICAP TROT (in harness) of 55 sovs; second horse 10 sovs and third horse 5 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mr W Halley's b g Trafalgar by Honesty, aged, 13sec (L Robertson) 1.
Mr J A Buckland's b g Veto, 5yrs, 17sec (C Piper) 2.
Mr W G Wooton's b h Ebony, aged, 12sec (R McMillan) 3.

Velox scr, Queen Bee 10sec, Wild Wave 12sec, General Power 13sec, Daisy 15sec, Dormin 15sec, Mermaid 19sec and Allen 20sec also started.

Allen took the lead at the start, but before a lap had been covered was passed by Trafalgar, who had no difficulty in maintaining his advantage throughout, winning by thirty yards from Veto, a similar distance separating the latter from Ebony. Time 5min 39 3/5sec. Dividends - On Trafalar £2; on Veto £1 2s.

SWIFT HANDICAP TROT (in harness) of 75 sovs; second horse to receive 15 sovs and third 7 sovs from the stake. One mile.

C J Coombs's blk c Ribbonwood by Wildwood, 3yrs, 9sec (N Price) 1.
W A Scott's Bell Boy, 7sec (R McMillan) 2.
J A Buckland's St Simon, 8sec (C Piper) 3.

Val scr, Utah 3sec, Victory II 3sec, Albert 4sec, JH 7sec, Flora G 7sec and Bessie B 9sec also started.

Bessie B was first to show out, and with a furlong gone she was leading Ribbonwood and JH. At the stand JH was running second to Ribbonwood, Bessie B having lost her place by repeatedly breaking. All round the back Ribbonwood held his own, and though Bell Boy deposed JH and St Simon, he could not get to Ribbonwood, who won comfortably by four lengths. St Simon headed Victory II and JH in the last hundred yards and got third place. Time 2min 35sec. Dividends - On Ribbonwood £2; on Bell Boy £2 8s.

FINAL HANDICAP (saddle) of 65 sovs; second 13 sovs and third 6 sovs from stake. One mile.

H Mace's br m Pansy B by Berlin, aged, 13sec (J Wright) 1.
V Samuel's The Member, 2sec (B Edwards) 2.
M Edwards's Collector, 6sec (Owner) 3.

Valour scr, Moana 4sec, Occidental 7sec, Dexter 7sec(inc 7sec pen), Principal 8sec, Gertie 10sec, Linda 12sec, Nafferton 12sec, Sacramento 12sec, Sweet Marie 12sec and Robex 15sec also started.

Robex showed the way for two furlongs, when Pansy B caught and passed him. Then came Gertie and Collector, who were within three lengths of the leader. At the stand Pansy B was well clear of Collector, The Member and Occidental following. At the half distance Pansy B was going comfortably in front, and Collector breaking, allowed The Member to get second, but though he came well in the last furlong, he could not get to Pansy B, who won very easily by six lengths. Then came Principal, five lengths away, followed by Occidental and Valour. Time, 2min 41sec. Dividends - On Pansy B £15 18s; on The Member £2 2s.

Credit: Star 16 Aug & The Press 17 Aug1901

RACING HISTORY THE BEGINNINGS

1901 NZMTC SPRING MEETING: Thursday 31 October

Handicapper: Mr H Brinkmam. Starter: Mr C O'Connor.

The spring meeting of the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club was begun today, in fine weather, the attendance being small. The following are the results up to the time of our going to press:-

MAIDEN HANDICAP (in saddle) of 50 sovs; second horse 10 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mr J Whelan's b g Vanguard, by Vancleve, 5yrs, scr (R Day) 1.

Mr A Curragh's br g Millington, 6yrs, 9sec (J Milne) 2.

Mr A Aitkinson's b g King James, aged, 5sec (P Keith) 3.

Little Jimmy scr, Miss Victor II 2sec, Little Dick 5sec and Reg 5sec also started.

Vanguard overhauled Millington over the last lap, and going on, won comfortably by four lengths. King James eighty yards away third. Time 5min 19 2/5sec. Dividends - On Vanguard £1 10s, on Millington 18s.

PONY HANDICAP (in harness) of 40 sovs; second horse 8 sovs and third horse 4 sovs from stake. Two miles.

Mr J Cooper's blk c Phoenix, by Imperious-Rita, 3yrs, 23sec (J Milne) 1.

Mr G St Clair's br g Jingo, 5yrs 16sec (C Piper) 2.

Mr A Reid's b m Evelyn, 5yrs, 5sec (H Shepherd) 3.

Rushlight scr and Whirlwind II 23sec also started.

Phoenix led all the way, and won easily by eighty yards from Jingo, who was three lengths in front of Evelyn. Time 5min 40sec. Dividends - On Phoenix £1 12s, on Jingo £1 10s

HIGH-CLASS HANDICAP of 115 sovs. Two miles.

Ribbonwood, 12sec 1; What, 12sec 2; General Grigg, 12sec 3. Time 4min 54 4/5sec. Dividends - On Ribbonwood £1 12s, on What £1 2s.



Credit: Star 31 Oct 1901

RACING HISTORY THE BEGINNINGS

1901 PLUMPTON PARK SPRING MEETING: FIRST DAY

Handicapper: Mr H Brinkman. Starter: Mr C O'Connor.

A stron south-westerly wind made matters rather unpleasant for visitors to Plumpton Park today, when the Plumpton Park Trotting Club's Spring Meeting was inaugurated. There was a fair attendance. The following are the results up to the time of our going to press:-

TRIAL HANDICAP (in saddle) of 45 sovs; second horse 5 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mr C W Bourne's br m Flirtation, by Specification, 6yrs, 9sec (N Price) 1.

Mr J Deyell's b m Miss Banks, 5yrs, 1sec (A Deyell) 2.

Mr T Champ's br m Vancliffe, aged, 9sec (C Davidson) 3.

Miss Victor II 6sec, Dolly II 8sec, Childroth 9sec and Broncho Bill 9sec also started.

Flirtation soon established a big lead, Vancliffe being second and Miss Victor II third. The leader continued to increase her advantage right through the race, and won, pulling up, by sixty yards. Miss Banks, who broke badly in the early part of the race, ran into second place a quarter of a mile from home, and beat Vancliffe by forty yards. Time 5min 30sec. Dividends - On Flirtation £1 18s, on Miss Banks £1 2s.

PONY HANDICAP (in harness) of 35 sovs; second horse 5 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mr J Cooper's blk c Phoenix, by Imperious-Rita, 3yrs, 18sec (J Milne) 1.

Mr G B Murfitt's cr m Pansy Irvington, aged, 27sec (Owner) 2.

Mr S Wooton's r g Dusk, 5yrs, scr (McMillan) 3.

Evelyn 14sec, The Boss 32sec and Hettie M 32sec also started.

Pansy Irvington went to the front in the first quarter of a mile, but at the end of a mile Phoenix and Evelyn were within half a dozen lengths of her. Pansy Irvington broke going round the top turn, and was passed by Phoenix, who won comfortably by ten lengths. A capital struggle for second place resulted in Pansy Irvington beating Dusk by a couple of lengths, with Evelyn a similar distance away. Time 5min 33 4/5sec. Dividends - On Phoenix £1 18s, on Pansy Irvington 10s.

SOCKBURN HANDICAP (in saddle) of 120 sovs; second horse 12 sovs and third horse 8 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mr A Quigley's br g Vanity, by Imperious, 4yrs, 12sec (R Day) 1.

Mr N Price's ch g Michael Malone, aged, 5sec (Owner) 2.

Mr J Challis's br g Kerryall, scr (Owner) 3.

Maniac scr, Occidental 1sec, Victory 3sec, DIC 5sec, Gleniti 6sec, Millionaire 7sec, Big Jim 8sec, Sydney 10sec, Bushman 15sec and Robex 16sec also started.

At the end of a quarter of a mile, Vanity assumed command, Robex being second, Bushman third, and Maniac (who started at a great pace) fourth. When a mile had been covered, Vanity had a long lead from Bushman, after whom came Michael Malone, Robex, Maniac and Kerryall. A quarter of a mile further on Michael Malone was second and Kerryall third. The two latter broke in the latter part of the journey, and Vanity won easily by a dozen lengths. A fine finish for second place ended in Michael Malone beating Kerryall by a length. Time 5min 7 2/5sec. Dividend - On Vanity £2 14s, on Michael Malone £1 18s.

Credit: Star 1 Nov 1901

RACING HISTORY THE BEGINNINGS

1901 NZMTC SPRING MEETING SECOND DAY

The New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club was favoured with lovely weather today, when it's spring meeting was continued. There was a large attendance. The following are the results up to the time of our going to press:-

TRIAL HANDICAP (in harness) of 50 sovs; second horse 10 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mr M Edwards's b g The Needle, by Toronto, 4yrs, 20sec (Owner) 1.

Mr C W Hammond's br g Silverwood, 3yrs, 22sec (Owner) 2.

Mr J Vallance's ch g Little Albert, 6yrs, 22sec (A Binnie) 3.

Viotta scr, Frederick 11sec, The Manager 21sec and Rewena 21sec also started.

The Needle was in front passing the post the first time round, followed by Little Albert and Silverwood, and easily maintaining his position won pulling up by ten lengths. Silverwood took second place in the last round, and beat Little Albert for second place by five lengths. Time 5min 24sec. Dividends - The Needle £2 8s, Silverwood £1 8s.

PONY HANDICAP (in saddle) of 40 sovs; second horse 8 sovs and third horse 4 sovs from the stake. Two Miles.

Mr T Yarr's gr g Ruggles, 6yrs, 17sec (Wilson) 1.

Mr E Bowes's br g Dawn, aged, 17sec (R Day) 2.

Mr G B Murfitt's cr m Pansy Irvington, aged, 10sec (M Edwards) 3.

Evelyn scr, Jingo 10sec, Nita 17sec and Bluefire 18sec also started.

Ruggles soon established a commanding lead from Dawn and Nita. When half the distance had been covered Pansy Irvington ran into third place. Nothing, however, had any chance with Ruggles, who won easily by fifty yards, with Pansy Irvington a similar distance away third. Time 5min 26 2/5sec. Dividends - Ruggles £1 16s, Dawn 18s.

NEW ZEALAND HANDICAP (in harness) of 150 sovs; second horse 30 sovs and third horse 15 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mr T Yarr's br g Monte Carlo, by Lincoln Yet, aged, 3sec, (B Edwards) 1.

Mr E Bowes's b g Albert, aged, 11sec (R Day) 2.

Mr V Harris's b g Victory II, aged, scr (D J Price) 3.

Vickery 2sec, The Heir 7sec, What 7sec and All Day 9sec also started.

Albert started off well, the order of the first time past the post being Albert, All Day, The Heir, What and Vickery. With another round completed Albert and All Day were together. Vickery being third abd What fourth. Monte Carlo put in a big run at the back of the course, and ran into second place behind Albert. With a round to go Monte Carlo went to the front, and won easily by ten lengths, Albert beating Victory II by twice that distance for second place. All Day was fourth and The Heir fifth. Time 4min 50 4/5sec. Dividends - Monte Carlo £10, Albert £1 2sec.

Credit: Star 5 Nov 1901

RACING HISTORY THE BEGINNINGS

1901 PLUMPTON PARK SPRING MEETING

The Plumpton Park Trotting Club was favoured with splendid weather today, when the spring meeting was brought to a conclusion. There was a large attendance. The following are details of the racing up to the time of our going to press:-

INNOVATION HANDICAP (in harness) of 50 sovs; second horse 5 sovs from the stake. One mile.

Mr R McDonnell's br c Hamlin, by Prince Imperial, 3yrs, 12sec (D J Price) 1.

Mr A Kerr's b g Inglewood, 4yrs, 10sec (W Kerr) 2.

Mr D Barns's b g Nil Desperandum, 4yrs, 9sec (Owner) 3.

Flirtation scr, Phoenix 5sec, Honest Bob 10sec and Sunbeam 12sec also started.

Hamlin and Inglewood drew right away from the others in the first half mile, which they covered in good time. They slowed down, however, in the second part of the journey, and Hamlin won, pulling up, by three lengths, Inglewood beating Nil Desperandum by twice that distance for second place. Time 2min 48 4/5sec. Dividends - Hamlin £1 2s, Inglewood £2 6s.

PONY HANDICAP (in saddle) of 35 sovs; second horse 5 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

Mr E Bowes's br g Dawn, by Young Irvington, aged, 7sec (R Day) 1.

Mr J Messervey's b m Nita, aged, 7sec (Owner) 2.

Mr F Gallagher's b g Little Frank, 4yrs, 7sec. (F Johnson) 3.

Jingo scr also started.

Dawn immediately went to the front, but was passed by Nita after going a quarter of a mile. Half a mile further on Dawn took the lead again and was never troubled, winning easliy by forty yards, with Little Frank sixty yards away third. Time 5min 45sec. Dividend - £1 6s.

HORNBY HANDICAP (in saddle) of 120 sovs. Two miles.

Dexter 1; Michael Malone 2; Kerryall 3. Time 5min 8 1/2sec. Dividends - £2 2s and £3 2s.

Credit: Star 7 Nov 1901

RACING HISTORY FEATURE RACE COMMENT

1901 NZMTC SPRING MEETING: FIRST DAY

The great racing carnival of Canterbury was started yesterday with the opening of the NZ Metropolitan Trotting Club's Spring Meeting.

Although throughout the forenoon a strong nor'-westerly wind made matters very uncomfortable in town, by the time the first race was run it had lulled. This induced a fair number of spectators to visit the Club's grounds, which are just now looking at their very best. On all sides signs of recently-effected improvements were noticeable, and added considerably to the comfort of Club's patrons.

The racing was fairly interesting, but hardly up to expectations, for, though several of the finishes were close, in most of the events the fields were well strung out a long way from home. Favourites were successful in all the events except one, and the dividends were very small.

At the conclusion of the Dash Handicap several riders were requested to appear before the stewards to answer a complaint in regard to conversing with people on the course. The President and other stewards pointed out that if any rider required assistance on the course the services of one person would be allowed on application to the stewards. The riders of Utah, JH and Topsy Irvington were cautioned. H Shepherd, the driver of Amelia, who was fined £1 for driving the wrong way of the track, and then persisted in doing it, was called before the stewards and the fine was increased to £5. An enquiry into the alleged unfair use of the whip by M Edwards, the driver of Wild Wave, was adjourned until Tuesday.

The sum of £3699 10s was passed through the totalisator.

The following are the results:-

MAIDEN HANDICAP (in saddle) of 50 sovs; second 10 sovs and third 5 sovs from the stake. Two miles.

J Whelan's b g Vanguard by Vancleve, 5yrs, scr (R Day) 1.
A Curragh's Millington, 9sec (J Milne) 2.
A Atkinson's King James, 5sec (P Keith) 3.

Little Jimmie scr, Miss Victor 2sec, Little Dick 5sec and Reg 5sec also started.

Millington on settling down soon put a considerable gap between himself and the rest of the field, of whom King James and Little Jimmie were most prominent. Little Jimmie and Miss Victor went very unsteadily, and with a round gone, Vanguard had taken second place. With half the distance covered, Vanguard started to draw on the leader, and, catching him half a mile from home, went on and won comfortably by four lengths. King James finished over fifty yards away third, Reg being the only other one to complete the course. Time, 5min 19 2/5th sec. Dividends - On Vanguard £1 10s; on Milligton 18s.

PONY HANDICAP (in harness) of 40 sovs; second 8 sovs and third 4 sovs from stake. Two miles.

J Cooper's blk c Phoenix by Imperious-Rita, 3yrs, 23sec (J Milne) 1.
G St Clair's Jingo, 16sec (C Piper) 2.
A Reid's Evelyn, 5sec (H Sheppard) 3.

Rushlight scr and Whirlwind II 23sec also started.

Phoenix went off at a fine gait, and was never approached, winning very comfortably by sixty yards. A good set-to between Jingo, Evelyn and Rushlight ended in them finishing in that order, two lengths separating second and third. Time, 5min 40sec. Dividends - On Phoenix £1 12s; on Jingo £1 10s.

HIGH CLASS HANDICAP (in harness) of 115 sovs; second 22 sovs and third 11 sovs from stake. Two miles.

C J Coombes blk c Ribbonwood by Wildwood, 3yrs, 12sec (D J Price) 1.
G McClatchie's What, 12sec (Albaugh) 2.
M Edwards's General Grigg, 12sec (Owner) 3.

The Heir 6sec, Sam Slick 8sec and Rothschild Boy 12sec also started.

Ribbonwood was quickest off the mark, and before going a furlong was leading What by thirty yards, General Grigg and Rothschild Boy following in order. After passing the stand What left his feet, allowing General Grigg to take second place, but a little further on the Australian colt was again in second place. At a mile Ribbonwood was still six lengths to the good of What, who was followed at a greater interval by General Grigg, Rothschild Boy and Sam Slick, in order, The Heir having given up. No change took place through the third round, for though What showed great pace, and on several occasions looked like troubling the leader, he spoilt his chances by breaking. Passing the stand for the last time, five lengths separated Ribbonwood from What, and the last named, breaking again, just at a crucial moment, suffered defeat by four lengths, six lengths separating What from General Grigg, who was just heading Rothschild Boy. Time, 4min 54 4/5th sec. Dividends - On Ribbonwood £1 12s; on What £1 2s.

LADIES' BRACELET HANDICAP (in saddle) of 25 sovs, and a bracelet valued 30 sovs; second 6 sovs and third 3 sovs from stake. Two miles.

Mrs W A Scott's br g Xerxes by Dal Paso, 6yrs, 27sec (W Scott) 1.
Mrs Green's George L, 16sec (R Hill) 2.
Mrs Atkinson's King James, 27sec (P Keith) 3.

Lady May scr, Viotta 2sec, Queen Bee 7sec, Rarus 9sec, Gambler 10sec, Gracie M 14sec, Royal Tar 16sec, Miss Bank 19sec, Club Member 27sec and Roulette 27sec(coupled), Imperious jun. 27sec and Guy 27sec(coupled), Silvery 27sec and Miss Viking 27sec, Minus 28sec, Young Kentucky 28sec and Old Jack 30sec(coupled), Nita 30sec and Millington 32sec, Imperieuse 32sec and Dawn 35sec also started.

Before going half a mile Xerxes had passed those in front of him, and at the half distance he was well clear of George L who was followed by King James, Miss Bank and Royal Tar. George L then closed on the leader, but stopping at the stand entering the last round allowed Xerxes to again take charge, with King James a dozen lengths away. George L was now well beaten and Xerxes eventually won comfortably b six lengths, a length between second and third. Time, 5min 23sec. Dividends - On Xerxes £18s; on George L £4. King James was coupled with the winner.

NOVEMBER HANDICAP (in saddle) of 80 sovs; second 16 sovs and third 8 sovs from stake. Two miles.

R Carr's b g Maniac by Young Diomedes, aged, 4sec (W J Taggart) 1.
G O'Grady's Galway, 12sec (R Day) 2.
A Muir's Bushman, 11sec (M Edwards) 3.

Millionaire 2sec, Daybeak 7sec, Whisper 12sec and Queen Bee 12sec also started.

Passing the stand Whisper was well clear of Galway and Queen Bee, Bushman following in fourth place. The leader maintained her advantage all through the first round, Bushman taking second place and Maniac third. Nearing the mile post Whisper compounded, leaving Bushman and Maniac in command. A little further on Maniac got to the front leading Bushman by three lengths, with Galway in third place. In the last round Galway passed Bushman, and, coming very well in the straight, just suffered defeat by a length. Then came Bushman, six lengths off, and Millionaire fourth. Time, 5min 2sec. Dividends - On Maniac £1 6s; on Galway £5 14s.

ADVANCE HANDICAP (in harness) of 60 sovs; second 12 sovs and third 6 sovs from stake. Two miles.

G McClatchie's b g Vaunt by Vancleve, 3yrs, 14sec (M Albaugh) 1.
P Devane's Harold C, 18sec (M Edwards) 2.
D Kennedy's Ocean Wave, 15sec (J Wright) 3.

Viotta scr, Strathconan 5sec, The Workman 13sec, Rushlight 13sec, Oswego 15sec, Streamlet 16sec and Ivywood 18sec also started.

Harold C refused to settle down, and lost his place to Oswego and Ivywood, with Vaunt third. At the back Vaunt had got to the front, and Harold C soon afterwards got into second position. With a mile gone Harold C had caught the leader, The Workman and Ocean Wave following, and the others strung out. After leading Vaunt for a furlong the favourite again gave place to Vaunt, and the latter, drawing away, won easily by fifty yards. Ocean Wave passed The Workman in the last half mile, and beat him home by two lengths, finishing a similar distance behind Harold C. Time, 5min 14sec. Dividends - On Vaunt £3 4s; on Harold C 8s.

ELECTRIC HANDICAP (in saddle) of 75 sovs; second 15 sovs and third 7 sovs from stake. One mile.

J West's br g The Boatman by Wilkin, aged, 18sec (Owner) 1.
J Moule's Te Kunie, 16sec (M Edwards) 2.
M J Doyle's Robex, 16sec (F Holmes) 3.

Valour 38sec and Whisper 17sec also started.

The Boatman and Te Kunie quickly singled themselves out and soon got right away from Robex and Whisper, with Valour making up his ground in great style. There was little to choose between the leaders all through the last round, and The Boatman, always having a little the best of it, won by two lengths. Valour took third place in the last quarter but breaking, gave way to Robex,who finished ten lengths behind Te Kunie. Time, 2min 33 2/5th sec. Dividends - On The Boatman £1 18s; on Te Kunie 14s.

DASH HANDICAP (in harness) of 75 sovs; second 15 sovs and third 7 sovs from stake. One mile.

M Edwards's br f Wild Wave by Viking, 4yrs (Owner) 1.
J Jarden's JH, 8sec (J Wright) 2.
J A Buckland's St Simon, 8sec (C Piper) 3.

Utah 4sec, Bessie B 10sec, Amelia 15sec and Topsy Irvington 20sec also started.

Wild Wave quickly passed Topsy Irvington, Amelia following in third place. At the half distance the leader was well clear of JH and St Simon, but going down the back they drew on her. At the home turn Wild Wave was leading JH by four lengths, and just managed to last long enough to win by a length. St Simon who tired in the last two furlongs, finished six lengths off third. Then came Amelia and Utah. Time 2min 33sec. Dividends - On Wild Wave £1 6s; on JH £4 2s.

Credit: The Press 1 Nov1901

RACING HISTORY FEATURE RACE COMMENT

NZMTC SPRING MEETING: SECOND DAY

The Spring Meeting of the NZ Metropolitan Trotting Club advanced anotherstage yesterday. The attendace showed a decided improvement on that of Thursday last, the perfect weather no doubt being the means of inducing many of the visiting sportsmen who are at present in Christchurch to put in an appearance.

As on the opening day the track was in excellent order for time-making. Great interest was taken in Val's effort to secure the purse offered for any horse doing better than 2:18 for a mile, and regret was expressed when it was announced that his attempt had been unsuccessful. The racing was of a very high standard in most of th events, the principal race in particular providing an excellent contest. Monte Carlo's win in it was received with much enthusiasm, both horse and rider coming in for a great ovation.

Speculation was represeted by the substantial sum of £6912 being passed through the totalisator.

The following are the results:-

TRIAL HANDICAP (in harness) of 50 sovs; second 10 sovs and third 5 sovs from stake. Two miles.

M Edwards's b g The Needle by Toromto, 4yrs, 20sec (Owner) 1.
C W Hammond's Silverwood, 22sec (Owner) 2.
J Vallance's Little Albert, 22sec (A Binnie) 3.

Viotta scr, Frederick 11sec, The Manager 21sec, Rowena 21sec also started.

Before reaching the stand for the first time The Needle had worked his way to the front, and, going along the back stretch, was leading Little Albert by half a dozen lengths. Then came Silverwood, a similar distance off with Frederick, who had been going very unsteadily nearly last. So they ran till well into the last round, half way through which Silverwood deposed Little Albert. He could not get near the leader, however, for Edwards was enabled to ease his mount in the straight and win by ten lengths. Half that distance behind Silvwerwood came Little Albert, with Frederick last. Time, 5min 24sec. Dividends - On The Needle £2 8s; on Silverwood £1 8s.

PONY HANDICAP (in saddle) of 40 sovs; second 8 sovs and third 4 sovs from stake. Two miles.

T Yarr's g g Ruggles, 6yrs, 17sec (Wilson) 1.
E Bowes's Dawn, 17sec (R Day) 2.
G B Murfitt's Pansy Irvington, 10sec (M Edwards) 3.

Evelyn scr, Jingo 10sec, Nita 17sec, Bluefire 18sec also started.

Ruggles quickly got away from Bluefire and Dawn being fully ten lengths to the good when half a mile had been covered. All through the second and third rounds the leader more than held his own, and at the finish won very comfortably by 60yds from Dawn. Pansy Irvington took third place a mile from home but could make no impression on either Ruggles or Dawn, finishing 50yds behind Dawn. Time, 5min 26 2/5th sec. Dividends - On Ruggles £1 16s; on Dawn 18s.

NEW ZEALAND HANDICAP (in harness) of 150 sovs; second 30 sovs and third 15 sovs from stake. Two miles.

T Yarr's br g Monte Carlo by Lincoln Yet, aged, 3sec (B Edwards) 1.
E Bowes's Albert, 11sec (R Day) 2.
V Harris's Victory II, scr (D Price) 3.

Vickery 2sec, The Heir 7sec, What 7sec and All Day 9sec also started.

Getting well away Albert was four lengths clear of All Day on passing the stand, and going to the back stretch What lost ground by breaking. Coming to the lawn for the second time Albert was just clear of All Day, with Vickery, who had travelled at a great rate, in third place, followed by What, Victory II and Monte Carlo. With a mile gone Albert had drawn away a little fron All Day and Vickery, who were attended by Victory II, The Heir and Monte Carlo. Entering the last round Vickery started to tire, and gave place to Monte Carlo, who a little further on got on terms with All Day, Albert still two lengths to the good. Once into the back stretch Monte Carlo shot away from All Day, and a little further on had taken charge. From this out he had matters all his own way, and eventually won comfortably by ten lengths. Twenty lengths further back came Victory II, who passed All Day in the last quarter. The Heir finished in fifth place, and Vickery was sixth. Time, 4min 50 4/5th sec. Dividends - On Monte Carlo £10; on Albert £1 2s.

HALSWELL HANDICAP (in harness) of 65 sovs; second 13 sovs and third 6 sovs from stake. Two miles.

C W Hammond's gr g Pioneer by Hazeldean, 5yrs, 12 sec (Owner) 1.
M E Albaugh's Prince Charming, 20sec (Owner) 2.
D Kennedy's Ocean Wave, 14sec (J Wright) 3.

Balmoral 12sec, Viotta 12sec, Dormin 17sec, The Workman 18sec, Zinska 20sec, Little Jim 30sec, Cincinnatti 20sec also started.

Prince Charming, followed by Little Jim and Zinska, led at the start, but the latter breaking was soon left behind by The Workman, Ocean Wave and Dormin. The leader held his own until well into the second round when Ocean Wave and Pioneer drew very near. The latter was enabled to take second place through Ocean Wave breaking, and catching Prince Charming as the last lap was entered, he went on alone, finally winning easily by eight lengths. Ocean Wave was third, four lengths away, with Viotta fourth. Time, 5min 7sec. Dividends - On Pioneer £3 12s; on Prince Charming 14s.

PURSE of 75 sovs, for any horse breaking 2min 18sec (in harness). One mile.

M Edwards's b g Val by Vancleve, aged (Owner)

Val went off the mark at a great bat, and though unpaced, got to the half mile post in 1min 5sec. Here he was joined by a galloper, and from the way he was sticking to his task it was thought he would be successful. In the last half he started to tire however, and though under pressure, the watch registered 2min 20 1/5th sec when he reached the post. Val thus failed to secure the stake by two seconds and a fifth.

SPRING HANDICAP (in saddle) of 90 sovs; second 18 sovs and third 9 sovs from stake. Two miles.

J Newman's ch m Moana by Era, aged, 8sec (M Edwards) 1.
W Rogers's Spider, 9sec (R Day) 2.
N Price's Michael Malone, 5sec (Owner) 3.

Kerryall scr, Maniac 3sec, Victory 9sec and Millionaire 11sec also started.

At the end of the first furlong Moana was on terms with Millionaire, the pair being well clear of Victory and Spider. In the back stretch Moana drew right away from Millionaire, and Victory followed in third place. So they ran until the mile post was reached, where Millionaire had given place to Michael Malone and Spider who had been slow at starting. Moana continued to more than hold her own, and half a mile from home was quite twenty lengths to the good. From this she decreased her pace, while Spider, on the other hand, improved his, and at length got on terms with Michael Malone. Neither could get near Moana, however,and she was fully thirty yards to the good when the post was reached. Michael Malone finished half that distance behind Spider, being followed at lengthy intervals by Kerryall and Victory. Time, 4min 59 1/5th sec. Dividends - On Moana £2 2s; on Spider 16s.

LINCOLN HANDICAP (in harness) of 80 sovs; second 16 sovs and third 8 sovs from stake. Two miles.

G McClatchie's b g Velox by Vancleve, 4yrs, 8sec (M Albaugh) 1.
E Thomas's Boldrewood, scr ( R McConochie) 2.
J A Buckland's Daybreak, 18sec (C Piper) 3.

Merrimac 11sec, Harold C 15sec, Dusk 17sec and Ilam 17sec also started.

Neither Harold C nor Ilam started well, and Dusk had an advantage of a dozen lengths before the back straight was reached. The leader continued to show the way, and passing the stand for the second time was six lengths to the good of Velox, who was followed by Harold C, Merrimac and Boldrewood. No change took place until more than a mile had been covered when Velox took charge, and Dusk soon afterwards gave place to Harold C. Entering the last round Boldrewood passed Harold C and, making up his leeway in fine style, got to within a length of Velox when the line was crossed. Then came Daybreak, fifty yards off, followed by Dusk. Time, 5min 5 2/5 sec. Dividends - On Velox £6 4s; on Boldrewood £2 4s.

TELEGRAPH HANDICAP (in saddle) of 75 sovs; second 15 sovs and third 7 sovs from stake. One mile.

F Holmes's b g Vascoe by Vancleve, aged, 11sec (Owner) 1.
T Yarr's Jessie Palm, scr (B Edwards) 2.
W Kerr's Gertie, 8sec (C Kerr) 3.

JH 3sec, Valour 5sec, Sweet Marie 10sec, Vanity 10sec and Spider 13sec also started.

Before going a couple of furlongs Vascoe had passed Spider and went on with a good lead from Vanity and Valour. At the half distance the leader was out by himself, JH now being in second place, with Jessie Palm a few lengths back third. Along the back stretch Jessie Palm was second forty yards behind Vascoe, and though he got to within a length of him when the post was reached, it was on sufferance, for Vascoe won easily. Gertie got third place, finishing some distance off. Then came Sweet Marie and Spider. Time, 2min 27sec. Dividends - On Vascoe £2 8s; on Jessie Palm £1 2s.

SPEEDWELL HANDICAP (in harness) of 75 sovs; second 15 sovs and third 7 sovs from stake. One mile.

A Gardiner's b g Wild Bill by General Tracey, aged, 8sec (M Edwards) 1.
C Fisher's Flora G, 5sec (McMillan) 2.
C J Coombes's Ribbonwood, 1sec (D Price) 3.

Utah 1sec, St Simon 3sec and Honest Jack 9sec also started.

Honest Jack showed the way for two furlongs, when Wild Bill got to the front, and at the stand he was well clear of Flora G, Honest Jack and Utah. From this out the leader had matters all his own way, and won by two lengths. A quarter of a mile from home Ribbonwood was almost on terms with Flora G and Utah, but broke. On getting going again he passed Utah, but could not quite get to Flora G. Then came Honest Jack and St Simon. Time, 2min 25sec. Dividends - On Wild Bill £1 8s; on Flora G £2 8s.

Credit: The Press 6Nov1901

RACING HISTORY FEATURE RACE COMMENT

1901 NZMTC SPRING MEETING: THIRD DAY

The Spring Meeting of the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club was brought to a successful conclusion yesterday. The weather was more favourable than that previously experienced, though at times the strong easterly wind made its presence felt, and raised considerable dust.

Long before the first race started a very large number of spectators had put in an appearance, and as the afternoon wore on the crowd increased enormously. It is estimated that close on 9000 people were present, many of whom had not previously patronised the club's ground.

With the exception of the opening event, all the contests produced exciting finishes. Monte Carlo's win in the principal harness race was the signal for a great demonstration, the horse and driver, B Edwards, being applauded on all sides for their fine performance. Great interest was evinced in the attempts of Ribbonwood, Jessie Palm and JH to secure the purse offered by the club for the best performance over a mile better than 2:18. Unfortunately, their attempts were all futile, the strong wind hampering them greatly.

That speculation was brisk the totalisator receipts showed, for no less than £7016 was invested, making a total of £17,627 for the three days operations.

The following are the results:-

INNOVATION HANDICAP (in harness) of 50 sovs; second 10 sovs and third 5 sovs from stake. Two miles.

E Bowes's b m Miss Warbeck by Mambrino Abdallah, 5yrs, 14sec (R Day) 1.
F H Ridder's Miss Victor II, 10sec (Hamilton) 2.
M Edwards's Hercules, 10sec (Owner) 3.

The Workman scr, Miss Bank 4sec,Gracie M 5sec, Reg 12sec, Federation 14sec, Plain Billy 15sec also started.

Before going half a mile Miss Warbeck had passed Federation, who was followed by Plain Billy and Hercules. Passing the stand for the first time Miss Warbeck had a six lengths' lead of Federation, Miss Victor, who had passed Plain Billy and Hercules in third place. At the half distance Miss Victor took second place, but she could not get near the leader, who won very easily by forty yards. Then at a greater interval, came Hercules, who passed Federation and Plain Billy in the last round. Time, 5min 20sec. Dividends - On Miss Warbeck £1 16s; on Miss Victor II £7 18s.

LADIES' BRACELET HANDICAP (in harness) of 25 sovs, with 35 sovs added; second 7 sovs and third 3 sovs from stake. Two miles.

Mrs Barns's b g Nil Desperandum by Wildwood, 4yrs, 20sec (Mr D Barns) 1.
Mrs F Johnston's McKinley, 6sec (15sec pen) (Mr W Gallagher) 2.
Mrs T W Ponsonby's Viotta, 3sec (Mr W T Whittaker) 3.

Ricketty scr, Perseverance II 20sec, Black Child 22sec, Burwood Bess 23sec, Foxhall 23sec, Satanella 23sec, Club Member 25sec and The Banker 25sec also started.

After going half a round Perseverance II had deposed The Banker, and going down the back stretch Nil Desperandum took second place, with McKinley most prominent of the back markers. In the last round Nil Desperandum was out by himself, and McKinley had taken second place. The latter made up his leeway in fine style all through the last half mile, but could not reach Nil Desperandum, who won by six lengths. Then, twelve lengths off, came Viotta, just in front of Burwood Bess. Time, 5min 30sec. Dividends - On Nil Desperandum £2 14s; on McKinley £1 4s.

METROPOLITAN HANDICAP (in harness), of 150 sovs; second 30 sovs and third 15 sovs from stake. Two miles.

T Yarr's br g Monte Carlo by Lincoln Yet, aged, scr (B Edwards) 1.
M Friedlander's Lancewood II, 12sec (W Kerr) 2.
M Edwards's General Grigg, 12sec (Owner) 3.

Victory II 1sec, What 8sec, The Heir 9sec, Albert 10sec, All Day 11sec also started.

Lancewood was a little slow at leaving the mark, but once under way he quickly passed General Grigg, and at the back he was a length to the good. The pair continued to show the way to Albert and All Day, while of the others What showed great speed, but went unsteadily. Passing the stand for the second time Lancewood had a two lengths lead of General Grigg, Albert following on the latter's wheel with All Day, What and Victory II next in order. The same positions were maintained all through the second round, Lancewood, going at a great bat in front, gradually drawing away from General Grigg and Albert. With a mile gone Monte Carlo had got on terms with What and Victory II the trio being quite fifty yards behind the leading division, All Day and The Heir by this time being beaten. A little further on Monte Carlo took fourth place, and at the stand for the last round he was almost on terms with General Grigg and Albert, some eight lengths behind Lancewood. Once clear of his immediate attendants, the scratch horse set sail after Lancewood in ernest and, gradually closing on him, got up in the last fifty yards, and, amidst great excitement, won by half a length. Then came General Grigg, twelve lengths off, followed Albert, What and Victory II. Time, 4min 46sec.Dividends - On Monte Carlo £5 10s; on Lancewood II £1.

PROGRESSIVE HANDICAP (in harness) of 60sovs; second 12 sovs and third 6 sovs from stake. Two miles.

M Edwards's b g The Needle by Toronto, 4yrs, 16sec (Owner) 1.
S Wotton's Dusk, 19sec (R McMillan) 2.
W T Whittaker's Viotta, 19sec (Owner) 3.

Pioneer scr, Vaunt 6sec, Wild Poole 8sec, Merrimac 11sec, Ricketty 16sec, Little Princess 16sec and Edna 20sec also started.

Getting smartly away, Dusk had a two length's advantage of The Needle and Viotta when the stand was reached, and going along the back Edna and Wild Poole were running in fourth place. The leader contined to hold his own all through the first mile, at the end of which The Needle was still third, followed at an interval of several lengths by Wild Poole, Vaunt and Little Princess. Dusk was still two lengths in front of The Needle when half a mile from home, while close on them came Viotta, followed by Wild Poole and Vaunt, the latter of whom lost considerable ground by skipping. Within the last quarter The Needle deposed Dusk, and, going on, won comfortably by thirty yards from the pony. Two lengths off came Viotta, a similar distance in front of Vaunt. Then followed Wild Poole, Edna and Ricketty. Time, 5min 14sec. Dividends - On The Needle £3 12s; on Dusk £3 14s

THREE-YEAR-OLD HANDICAP (in harness) of 60 sovs; second 12 sovs and third 6 sovs from stake. One mile.

C J Coombe's blk c Ribbonwood by Wildwood, scr (D J Price)

Ribbonwood walked over. Time 2min 51sec.

PURSE of 75 sovs (in harness) for any horse doing the best time under 2:18. One mile.

C J Coombe's blk c Ribbonwood by Wildwood, 3yrs (D J Price) 2:20.
T Yarr's ch m Jessie Palm by Rothschild-Messenger Maid, aged (B Edwards) 2:20.
J Jardin's b g JH, aged (J Wright) 2:25

Ribbonwood was the first to make his attempt, but after getting to the end of his first half mile in 1min 9sec, he wound up the distance in 2sec over the limit.
Jessie Palm went unsteadily in her first essay, and after putting in several breaks was pulled up. On starting again she exactly equalled Ribbonwood's performance, covering her first half in 1min 9sec, and her second in 1min 11sec.
JH Showed great speed in his first half, which was left behind in 1min 6sec. Then he tired badly, and completed the mile in 2min 25sec.
There was £1 invested on the totalisator on Jessie Palm and 2 1/2 on time, the dividend on time being £1 4s.

ADDINGTON HANDICAP (in saddle) of 100 sovs; second 20 sovs and third 10 sovs from stake. Two miles.

C Kerr's b g Gleniti by General Tracey, aged, 18sec (Owner) 1.
J Pettie's Vanquish, 12sec (B Edwards) 2.
A J Keith's Millionaire, 13sec (Owner) 3.

Moana scr, Vascoe 1sec, Kerryall 4sec, Dexter 7sec(5sec pen) also started.

Gleniti was slow to get going, and at the stand both Millionaire and Vanquish were showing in front of him. Millionaire continued to show the way round the back, attended at an interval of four lengths by Vanquish, Gleniti some distance off third, followed by Dexter and Vascoe. So they ran all through the second round, and it was not till well into the final mile that Vanquish had passed Millionaire, Gleniti, Vascoe, Dexter and Moana having greatly improved their positions. Three furlongs from home Gleniti was running second, Vascoe having fallen away beaten. At the home turn Gleniti had Vanquish's measure, and after a good finish won by two lengths. Twice that distance off came Millionaire, followed by Dexter, Vascoe and Moana in order. Time, 5min 5sec. Dividends - On Gleniti £3 16s; on Vanquish 18s.

SWIFT HANDICAP (in harness) of 75 sovs; second 15 sovs and third 7 sovs from stake. One mile.

W Kerr's br g Lancewood II by Wildwood, 5yrs, 7sec (W Kerr) 1.
C E Fisher's Flora G, 3sec (R McMillan) 2.
J Smither's Vickery, 3sec (M Edwards) 3.

Ribbonwood scr, Utah 2sec, JH 2sec, Albert 6sec and What 6sec also started.

Lancewood got away with a flying start, and Flora G had deposed Albert at the end of the second furlong. At the lawn Flora G had drawn to within two lengths of the leader, running on terms with Albert, Vickery in fourth place. Going along the back both Flora G and Albert made great efforts to catch the leader, and after a good finish Lancewood won by four lengths. Vickery passed Albert in the home stretch, and finished third three lengths behind Flora G. Time, 2min 23 3/5 sec. Dividends - On Lancewood II £2 14s; on Flora G £5 8s.

FINAL HANDICAP (in saddle) of 75sovs; second 15 sovs and third 7 sovs fron stake. One mile.

V Samuel's b g The Member by Electioneer, aged, 10sec (B Edwards) 1.
G Moule's b m Te Kunie, 16sec (M Edwards) 2.
A J Keith's Millionaire, 18sec (Owner) 3.

The Boatman 10sec, Sweet Marie 14sec, DIC 16sec, Linda 19sec, Whisper 20sec, Nafferton 16sec(4sec pen), Robex 21sec, George L 21sec and Vanguard 21sec also started.

Vanguard and Robex showed the way for a furlong, at the end of which the latter went on by himself. At the stand Te Kunie had taken second place, following Robex at an interval of six lengths. A quarter of a mile from home The Member had worked his way into third position, while Te Kunie had deposed Robex. A great finish up the straight resulted in a half length victory for The Member. Millionaire also passed Robex a few yards fron the post, finishing two lengths behind Te Kunie. Time, 2min 28sec. Dividends - On The Member £3; on Te Kunie £7 18s.

Credit: The Press 9Nov1901

RACING HISTORY FEATURE RACE COMMENT

1901 NEW ZEALAND HANDICAP

In 1901 the New Zealand Handicap, the forerunner of the Cup, was confined to horses that could do 5 min or better for two miles and according to "The Referee", "an excellent field of seven went to the post." Mr T Yarr's Monte Carlo, the outsider, won comfortably in 4:50 4-5 beating Albert and Victory.

The unplaced horses were Vickery, The Heir, What and All Day.

Monte Carlo by Lincoln Yet was trained and driven by B Edwards.

Credit: 'Ribbonwood' writing in NZ Trotting Calendar 25Oct44

CLUB HISTORY CANTERBURY PARK TROTTING CLUB

CPTC
The Club ran into difficult times and reduced the stakes for the main races from £120 to £60.

Credit: CPTC: Centennial History