CLICK HERE TO GO TO TIME LINE

INTERNATIONAL HISTORY

6 April - America declares war on Germany.

April-May - Battle of Arras is waged.

12 October - NZ's greatest single disaster in history occurs when 640 troops die and 2100 are wounded, in the Battle of Passchendale.

Trotsky leads the Russian October Revolution.

LOCAL HISTORY

May 7 - Canterbury Aviation Company (founded the previous year by Henry (later Sir Henry) Wigram) makes first flights from Sockburn Aerodrome, NZ's first airport. Previously the home of the Plumpton Park Trotting Club.

December 1 - As a contribution to the war effort 6pm closing of hotels was introduced. This legislation was to remain in force until 1967 when the licensing hours were extended to 10pm.

Conscription includes Maori for the first time.

The Sign of the Kiwi opens.

Credit: Ch-Ch City Libraries

RACING HISTORY CANTERBURY PARK TROTTING CLUB

CPTC Centennial History

April - The committee was of the opinion that the Trotting Conference be called together to consider the curtailment of trotting meetings as a war-time measure.

Credit: CPTC Centennial History

RACING HISTORY FIRES & THEIR PREVENTION

FIRE AT B JARDEN'S STABLES: 8 NOV 1917

Last night, at about 8 o'clock, Mr B Jarden's racing stables at Hornby caught fire, and in about half an hour were razed to the ground. All the gear was lost, although very fortunately the horses were saved, largely owing to the prompt and plucky actions of the lads on the premises. The fire was caused by an explosion of benzine in a storeroom. Unfortunately, one of the lads named Ray Gibson, while attempting to lead one of the horses out, got badly burned about the body, arms and face and was subsequently admitted to the Christchurch Hospital.

-o0o-

The fire which destroyed B Jarden's stables on Thursday evening will mean a serious loss to that trainer, for though there was a policy of £250 on the building, and £50 on the gear, the material lost was valued at a very much higher figure. The stable was very completely equipped with everything required in the way of trotting gear, and an inventory of it taken quite recently set the value at about £340.

In addition, sixty sacks of oats and two jogging carts were destroyed. His fellow-trainers were prompt in offering assistance in the way of gear, stabling accommodation and anything nesessary, and to them generally, and to Mr W Kerr in particular, he was very grateful.

There was no benzine stored on the premises, and the fire was most pobably caused by a lighted match or cigarette being dropped in the harness room, which had been used as a sleeping room for two of the boys, since it had been found necessary to take extra precautions to secure the safety of the horses.

Although it was with some difficulty that the horses were got out of their boxes when the fire occurred, and Author Dillon was somewhat singed about the tail, he and other members of Jarden's team were able to fulfil their engagements at Addington, and all showed up prominently, Author Dillon in particular showing a brilliant turn of speed in the Christchurch Handicap.

Credit: "SEACHLIGHT writing in the Press 9 & 10 Nov 1917

RACING HISTORY FAMILY INTERESTS

MANNY EDWARDS

Manvers Burton Edwards(Manny) was a public horse trainer most of his adult life. Manny trained and drove Adelaide Direct to win the 1917 NZ Trotting Cup. Other known good horses he had and won races with were Little Dictator & Ribbonwood.

Manny was married to Nell, the youngest daughter of Alfred and Mary-Ann Berry. Among her brothers were Jim, George and Ern Berry

Manny Edwards had the registered racing colours of: White, Green sleeves and Cap






Credit: Lesley Glassey writing in the Edwards Family History

RACING HISTORY PEOPLE

ALFRED ERNEST BERRY

Ern worked as a public horse trainer most of his adult life, in 1917 he trained and drove Olive L to win the Dominion Handicap.

The same year his Brother-in-Law Manny Edwards (husband of Ern Berry's sister, Nell) trained and drove the winner of the NZ Trotting Cup, Adelaide Direct.

Erin Berry was the youngest son, Alfred and Mary-Ann Berry emigrated from Somerset, England to ChCh in 1862, they had a large family. Alfred and the sons were involved in Trotting in Christchurch from the early days. The eldest son was one of the first stipendiary stewards.

He won several races with Apex, Aid de Compt, Our Lady, Carisbrook and Pirouette.

Ern Berry had the registered colours of French Grey, Brown Sleeves, Grey Cap.

Credit: Lesley Glassey writing in the Berry Family History

RACING HISTORY PEOPLE

JAMES SAMUEL BERRY

Jim only rode and drove trotting horses, never actually training or owning a trotter of his own. There exists a early photo of him driving Thicket to win in the mud at Plumpton Park

Jim Berry was the eldest son of Alfred and Mary-Ann Berry who emigrated from Somerset, England to Ch-Ch in 1862, they had a large family. Alfred and the sons were involved in Trotting in Christchurch from the early days. He was one of the first stipendiary stewards and was involved in the administration of trotting.

In 1941 he was elected an Honorary Life Member of the NZ Metropolitan Trotting Club for his services to trotting.



Credit: Lesley Glassey writing in the Berry Family History

RACING HISTORY HORSES

During last week the American-bred stallion O.Y.M., got cast in his box. At first the injuries were not thought to be serious but on Wednesday of last week things took a turn for the worse and he died.

The loss is a substantial one for his owner,Mr R E Hall, as O.Y.M. had become famous by reason of siring such great horses as Our Thorpe, Agathos, Cappriccio, O.I.C and numerous other high class performers.

Credit: The Toff writing in NZ Truth 6 Oct 1917

RACING HISTORY FEATURE RACE COMMENT

The New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club commenced its Spring meeting on Tuesday last in fine weather. After the second race a high wind sprang up. The track was in excellent order, and there was a very large- attendance. The New Zealand Trotting Cup, which has for some considerable time been the chief topic, reached its zenith when the horses went on to the track.

Of the 14 contestants, Cathedral Chimes, Author Dillon, Adelaide Direct and Agathos looked the best, all stripping fit enough to run the race of their lives. Enthusiasm was high as the horses did their preliminaries. Speculation was keen when the machine closed. Jarden's trio were better backed than Boyes's reps. The start was good, John Dillon broke up badly, and Hardy Wilkes put in a skip and lost ground. At the end of two furlongs Moneymaker was in charge from Soda, Agathos, Evelyn and Adelaide Direct, with the favorites making up their ground in good style. Passing the stand Moneymaker was just in front of Soda and Agathos with Adelaide Direct, Evelyn and Hardy Wilkes next, as they wheeled into the back stretch Moneymaker and Soda were just clear of Agathos, Evelyn, Adelaide Direct and Hardy Wilkes, with the favorites still improving their positions. On reaching the mile post, Moneymaker and Soda drew out a length from Agathos with Adelaide Direct, Evelyn and Hardy Wilkes in close attendance. Passing the stand the field bunched, the favorites being close up, racing down the back Evelyn ran to the front from Moneymaker and Agathos but three furlongs from home Adelaide Direct ran through and opened up a gap of two lengths from Agathos, Evelyn, Cathedral Chimes and Author Dillon. Rounding the top turn. Adelalde Direct increased her advantage, and turned into the straight five lengths clear of Agathos. In the run home Cathedral Chimes and Author Dillon challenged, and the greatest of all trotting Cups ended in a struggle between Cathedral Chimes, Agathos and Author Dillon for placed honors. Adelaide Direct won amidst great applause by five lengths from Cathedral Chimes, who finished a neck in front of Author Dillon, with Agathos a head further away fourth, with Evelyn fifth and Hardy Wilkes sixth.

King William was sent out favorite for the Spring Handicap for unhoppled trotters, two miles, under saddle. He began smartly and soon obtained a big lead which he held to the finish, he was well ridden by "Manny" Edwards, who trains him. King William should win again. Parkfield with his owner aboard trotted well and should be in the money before the meeting is concluded. Mushroom went a very solid race. He is short of work so should annex a stake when ready. Lady Patricia did not go too well. She is more at home in harness. Craibwood showed some of his old form. It will be hard for him to win a race, as the time against him for second money will tighten him up in the handicap. Wood Drift is very erratic. He might fluke a race. Bridgewood is an improved horse. He is very solid and stays well over two miles.

Stormy Way broke badly and lost all chance m the Empire Handicap. She did the same thing at Oamaru. Zara cost the public further money. She is not worth following. Rorke's Drift went a solid race but could not muster up enough pace over the concluding stages of the Empire Handicap. He finished fourth. Pita Roa is inclined to loaf. Had Jarden taken a whip out with him he would have been closer to the leaders. A mile and a half is more to his liking. Harold Direct broke at the start of the Empire Handicap, and lost a lot of ground. He showed a phenomenal burst of speed. Had he gone away kindly he would have walked in.

Brown Bell had every chance in the Riccarton Handicap, but broke up badly and finished fifth. Karryrie has a great burst of speed. At the end of a furlong in the Riccarton Handicap she broke and nearly stood on her head. Bryce got her going again with the result that she soon gathered up the field, and going to the front three furlongs from home, she won easily from Lady Rothsoon, who tired badly over the concluding stages. Frandocia ran his best race for some time past. He does not put any vim into his work. Lady Rothsoon has always been troublesome. At the start her tactics cost her a good deal of ground. At the start of the Riccarton Handicap had she began kindly she must have won. She is nothing more or less than a bundle of nerves.

Truganini has been very sore in her work. She trotted a surprisingly good race when she won the Middleton Handicap. Gay Wilkes broke up badly in the Middleton Handicap and lost all his handicap. Louie Drift refused to go away in the Middleton Handicap. Norval King still fades out badly at the end of two miles. Michael Galindo broke badly in the Middleton Handicap. He came very fast over the last half mile and finished fourth. Eruption was backed by his connections in the Middleton Handicap, but he broke up badly at the start, and refused to trot. At the end of two furlongs Franks pulled him up and joined the spectators. Kaikanui is hitting out freely in his work. He has always raced best under saddle. Red Bell is on the improve, and is one that should soon land a stake.

Imperial Crown goes good in saddle and stays well. King- Lear would try the patience of Job. It's a shame to waste good time with him. Miss Audrey is now trained by H. Gasken at Anerley. Marietta is still going with a hop behind. She is a nice trotter when right. Reter Peter is striding along very pleasingly at Addington. Ringleader is none too sound, and cannot be regarded as a great stake earner. Lady Linwood is one of the best maiden trotters seen out this year. She is worth owning. J. H. Wilson, the trainer of Admiral Wood, is slightly amiss and will not be at his best for November engagements. Moneymaker will be a winner at the Carnival fixture. The Christchurch Handicap perhaps.

Wallace Wood is coming back to his best form. On Thursday of last week he ran out a couple of miles m approved style. Emilius sustained a slight injury to his knee and in consequence was scratched for all engagaments at the Metrop. flxture. Michael Galindo is training on very satisfactorily. Commander Bell is m great buckle, and must soon replenish the oatbin. Antonio is under a cloud. His old legs are showing the worse for wear. Hardy Wilkes ought to deliver the goods in the Dominion Trotters Cup. Harold Direct does not look ready. The much inbred son of Harold Rothschild is a good horse when right. Denver Huon refuses to do his best in a race, and must be regarded as a past number. Winn All is showing glimpses of his best form. He still breaks badly.

Macwood is back with Pat De Largey for whom the erratic trotter went good. Gemma will catch a race before Spring Carnival is concluded. Sherwood is certain to collect a stake at the Spring Carnival. Steel Bell is at her best just now, and will be hard to keep out of the money.

The champion pacing mare, Emmeline has produced a colt foal to Wildwood Junr. and her full-sister, Aileen, a colt to Logan Pointer. Both mares are this season to be mated with Brent Locanda.

Willie Lincoln is very fast over a mile and a quarter. Lord Roanchild is in great buckle, and should be one of the hardest to beat in the two mile trotters events at the Metrop. Law Chimes has been doing attractive work. She takes a lot of heading over a mile in saddle.

Credit: The Toff writing in NZ Truth 10 Nov 1917

RACING HISTORY FEATURE RACE COMMENT

1917 SPRING MEETING: TUESDAY 6 NOVEMBER

Quite the most important trotting fixture of the year in New Zealand, the Spring Meeting of the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club, is eagerly looked forward to by all who take an interest in the light harness sport, and the very large attendance at Addington yesterday gave ample evidence of the popularity of the gathering.

The day turned out beautifully fine, and though during the afternoon the strong wind raised a good deal of dust, this was not sufficient to cause the spectators any serious discomfort, and the club is to be congratulated on opening its Carnival Week fixture so successfully. The club's grounds, with their spacious lawns and well-kept gardens, bright with flowers of various hues, have never looked better, and the track itself was in capital order, as was shown by the times registered in the majority of the events.

The sport generally well maintained the high standard that is characteristic of meetings at Addington, and the management was efficient in all its details. A good deal on interest was manifested in the starting, in view of the regulations recently adopted by the club, but the experiment of stretching worsted across the track to mark the various divisions, proved quite effective,and Mr Black's starting throughout the day was successful, the fields giving very little trouble at the post.

The star attraction of the programme was the New Zealand Trotting Cup, which produced a much more satisfactory contest than has been the case in recent years, when mishaps of various kinds have robbed the event of much of its interest. Yesterday the race was truly run and was unaffected by accident. Adelaide Direct was not one of the best-backed candidates in the field, but her victory was greeted with hearty applause by the spectators. There was evidently no shortage of cash among those present, for the totalisator investments amounted to £47,335, as compared with £37,433 10s on the opening day last year.

The Spring Handicap, with which the day's programme opened, found The Sprinter, King William and Lady Patricia carrying most money. It was not a very exciting event, for King William led from start to finish and won easily from Craibwood, who was in second place practically all the way. The Sprinter was going well over the final stages, but his effort came too late.

The Empire Handicap produced a capital finish between Bridgewood and Harold Direct, the former having a slight advantage when the post was reached. Harold Direct put up a good performance to finish where he did, for he did not get away at all well, but made up his ground very quickly. The pony Pitaron paced a good race, but Zara, who was sent out favourite, gave a very poor display.

This left the way clear for the big event of the year, the New Zealand Cup, for which a field of fourteen went to the post, Matchlight being the eleventh hour withdrawal. Six of the fourteen starters represented two stables, B Jarden's trio, Author Dillon, Agathos and John Dillon, being slightly better backed than Cathedral Chimes, Win Soon and Soda, from J Bryce's stable, with Moneymaker third favourite. There was little delay at the post, and when they were sent away the only trotter in the field, Hardy Wilkes, was actually quickest to begin. However, he did not hold the lead long, and Moneymaker took charge, piloting the field at a solid pace for over a mile. He was then beginning to tire, and half a mile from home he was well beaten. At that stage any one of half a dozen horses appeared to have a winning chance, but a little further on Adelaide Direct put in a brilliant run, which carried her to the head of the field; and drawing away from her opponents, she won very decisively by four lengths, Cathedral Chimes, Author Dillon and Agathos had a great battle down the straight, and they finished in that order serarated by necks only.

Adelaide Direct scored a meritorious victory, and her win was very heartily received. She has shown high-class form in a number of important events, but has not been particularly lucky. She had evidently done a very solid preparation, for she was not in the least distressed when she returned to the enclosure. As the table of winners shows, her time is much the fastest on record for the race, the previous best being Win Soon's 4min 31sec in 1914. Last year's winner, Cathedral Chimes put up a fine performance in finishing second, for he improved considerably on his handicap time and went a good deal faster than he had to go last year.

Karyrie, one of J Bryce's team, was made a solid favourite for the Riccarton Handicap, with the bracketed pair St Ursula and Jewel Chimes, next in demand, and Lady Rothsoon third selection. The favourite did not go very kindly in the early part of the race but over the last circuit showed a fine turn of speed, and had no difficullty in holding Lady Rothsoon at the finish. Frandocia showed a glimpse of his old time form in running third, but St Ursula, after being well placed in the early stages, faded out at the finish, her stable mate, Jewel Chimes, being fourth.

The Middleton Handicap, for unhoppled trotters, was practically a duel between Norval King and Truganini, who were in the lead most of the way. Norval King found the journey a little too far for him, but Truganini stayed on well, and won nicely. Treasure Seeker trotted a solid race in third place, and Michael Galindo also went well.

Backers were rather astray in their calculations regarding the Victoria Handicap, Trix Pointer and Cora Dillon, who were first and second favourites, failing to finish in the money. Willie Lincoln showed capital form in winning as decisively as he did, for he did not have a clear passage all the way, but when he got out he displayed both speed and stamina. Dillon Eddy finished strongly in second place, beating the tiring Sir Fulham on the post.

In the St Albans Handicap Miss Audrey made most of the running, but tired badly in the straight, and Disappear and Whixall, neither of whom had much left in reserve, beat her home. The final event, the Hagley Handicap, gave A Pringle, his first win, for Queen's Drive led all the way and won comfortably, though her task might have been a little more difficult had Irvar got away better. Details of the racing are:-

SPRING HANDICAP (in saddle) of 200 sovs; second 40 sovs and third 20 sovs from the stake. For unhoppled trotters only. 5min or better. Two miles.

K H Smith's b g King William by King George-Apology, aged, 12sec (M Edwards) 1
W C Angus's br g Craibwood, aged, 10sec (Owner) 2
Wilson & Thompson's b g The Sprinter, aged, scr (T Annett) 3

Havana 4sec, Mushroom 4sec, Billy Parole 5sec, Lady Patricia 6sec, Armamenter 7sec, Whispering Lad 9sec, Dudosc 9sec, Parkfield 10sec, Fairy Whispers 10sec, Albertoria 12sec and James Madison 12sec also started.

King William began quickly and soon had a good lead from Craibwood, with Fairy Whispers and Parkfield next after they had gone half a mile. King William kept his lead, and six furlongs from home was a long way clear of Craibwood, who was followed by Parkfield, with The Sprinter improving his position. The Sprinter had taken third place before turning into the back stretch, but was unable to do any better, and King William, who was never headed, won easing up by six lengths, with Craibwood a similar distance in front of The Sprinter; James Madison was fourth, and Parkfield fifth in a strung out field. Time 4min 51 4/5th sec.

EMPIRE HANDICAP (in saddle) of 200 sovs; second 40 sovs and third 20 sovs from stake. 4.50 or better. Two miles.

C W Hammond's ch h Bridgewood by Broadleaf-Miss Rothschild, 6yrs, 12sec (S Phipps) 1.
J F Grant's b h Harold Direct, aged, 11sec (W R Jones) 2
S Wootton's b c Pitaroa, 4yrs, 7sec (B Jarden) 3

Bellflower scr, Commander Bell 5sec, Rorke's Drift 10sec, Gemma 11sec, Blackford 12sec, Stormy Way 12sec, Neigh 12sec, Zara 12sec, Schnapps 12sec, Wood Drift 12sec, Queen Tracey 12sec and Silver Quick 12sec also started.

Neigh, Stormy Way and Bridgewood moved off best of the limit division, while Harold Direct, an the next mark, lost some ground. He however made it up quickly, and at the end of half a mile was with the leaders, Stormy Way then losing her place. With six furlongs to go Bridgewood and Harold Direct were racing practically on terms, followed by Rorke's Drift, Pitaroa, and Blackford. Before turning for home Rorke's Drift was beaten and Pitaroa took third place. He was, however, unable to reach Bridgewood and Harold Direct, who fought out a good finish, Bridgewood winning by a neck. Pitaroa was three lengths away third, followed by Rorke's Drift, Blackford and Zara. Time, 4min 44 4/5th sec.

NEW ZEALAND CUP HANDICAP (in harness) of 2500 sovs and silver cup presented by the president, Mr C Louisson; second 500 sovs, third 300 sovs and fourth 200 sovs from stake. 4.34 or better. Two miles.

M Edwards's b m Adelaide Direct by Directaway-Honest Harry mare, aged, 7sec (Owner) 1
J Bryce's b h Cathedral Chimes, 6yrs, 4sec (Owner) 2
J Knight's b h Author Dillon, 5yrs, 3sec (B Jarden) 3
C Channing's b g Agathos, 6yrs, 7sec (A Hendricksen) 4

Mrs A M Seymour's b h Admiral Wood, aged, scr (J H Wilson)
Stevenson & McMath's ch m Win Soon, aged, 6sec (F Holmes)
J D Parker's b h Erin's King, 6yrs, 6sec (R Dunn)
T Roe's gr m Steel Bell, aged, 8sec (J Lynch)
R McDonnell's b m Evelyn, aged, 8sec (Owner)
G Booker's ch h Oinako, 6yrs, 8sec (R W Franks)
G Edgar's b h John Dillon, 6yrs, 9sec (J Jarden)
J G S Holmes's b g Moneymaker, aged, 9sec (A Pringle)
Allen & Fleming's b h Hardy Wilkes, aged, 9sec (A Fleming)
G Borgfeldt's b m Soda, aged, 9sec (F E Jones)
Author Dillon, Agathos and John Dillon and Catherdal Chimes, Win Soon and Soda were bracketed.

John Dillon, Oinako and Win Soon lost their chances at the start, but the others got away well. Hardy Wilkes went off smartly and showed the way for a furlong to Moneymaker and Soda, but at the tanks he skipped and lost his place, and at the end of half a mile the order was Moneymaker, Soda, Agathos, Evelyn, Adelaide Direct, Hardy Wilkes, Author Dillon and Cathedral Chimes, with Oinako some lengths away. Racing along the back stretch Moneymaker and Soda were on terms, with Agathos, Adelaide Direct and Evelyn as their closest attendants. Before entering the last lap Moneymaker was tiring, and six furlongs from home Evelyn headed him, Soda, Adelaide Direct, Agathos and Hardy Wilkes following in close order. Evelyn was in charge as they turned into the back stretch, but did not hold her position long, for Adelaide Direct raced to the front and opened up a useful lead. Turning for home Cathedral Chimes, Agathos and Author Dillon were racing in close order behind Adelaide Direct, but Edwards's mare was not seriously troubled, and won nicely by four lengths from Cathedral Chimes, who was a neck in front of Author Dillon, with Agathos, a neck away fourth. Then in order came Evelyn, Hardy Wilkes, Soda, Moneymaker, Oinako, Admiral Wood and Steel Bell. Time, 4min 27 4/5th sec.

-o0o-

Yesterday afternoon, at Addington, Mrs C Louisson, wife of the president of the NZ Metropolitan Trotting Club, presented the silver cup, given by Mr Louisson, to M Edwards, the winner of the New Zealand Trotting Cup on Tuesday, and in doing so comgratulated the winner on his success. Mr Edwards, in replying, said tha he had been racing now for thirty years, and this was the first time he had managed to annex this important prize. A number of people had an idea that he was a "has been" but he had now proved to them that he was a stayer.

The Press, 9 Nov 1917

-o0o-

RICCARTON HANDICAP (in harness) of 350 sovs; second 70 sovs and third 35 sovs from stake. 3.45 or better. One mile and five furlongs.

F Johnston's cg g Karryrie by Uncas, aged, 6sec (J Bryce) 1
Stevenson & McMath b m Lady Rothsoon, 6yrs, 5sec (A Pringle) 2
Hall & Docherty's b g Frandocia, aged, 3sec (B Jarden) 3

Denver Huon scr, Mintson scr, St Kevin scr, General Link 2sec, Wallace Wood 3sec, St Ursula 3sec and JewelChimes 3sec (Bracketed), Brown Bell 3sec and Tamarisk 5sec also started.

Brown Bell, Jewel Chimes, St Ursula, Lady Rothsoon and Frandocia made the early running. Karryrie went rather unsteadily over the first half-mile, but with six furlongs to go had run into second place behind Brown Bell, with Lady Rothsoon and St Ursula following him. In the back stretch Brown Bell was beaten, and Karryrie and Lady Rothsoon ran past her, the favourite winning by two lengths from Lady Rothsoon, who was six lengths in fron of Frandocia. Jewel Chimes was fourth, Brown Bell fifth and Mintson sixth. Time, 3min 44sec.

MIDDLETON HANDICAP (in harness) of 250 sovs; second 50 sovs and third 25 sovs from stake. For unhoppled trotters only. 4.50 or better. Two miles.

T G Fox's b m Truganini by Del Paso, aged, 9sec (Owner) 1
A Quigley's b h Norval King, aged, 9sec (E McDermott) 2
F Holmes's b g Treasure Seeker, aged, 7sec (Owner) 3

Redchild scr, Paul Huon 2sec, Red Heather 3sec, Michael Galindo 4sec, Gay Wilkes 4sec, Olive L 6sec, Eruption 7sec, Imperial Crown 7sec, Louie Drift 8sec and Madam Shaw 9sec also started.

Eruption and Louie Drift stood on the mark. Norval King was quickly out in front, and at the end of half a mile was showing the way to Imperial Crown. Treasure Seeker, Olive L, and Red Heather. There was not much change over the next lap, except that Treasure Seeker ran into third place behind Norval King and Truganini. This pair raced on terms to the straight, but there Norval King had had enough, and Truganini beat him by four lengths. Treasure Seeker was two lengths away third, only half a length in front of Michael Galindo, after whom came Olive L and Red Heather. Time, 4min 46sec.

VICTORIA HANDICAP (in harness) of 300 sovs; second 60 sovs and third 30 sovs from stake. 4.44 or better. Two miles.

A Allen's blk g Willie Lncoln by Lord Elmo-Mary Lincoln, aged, 7sec (A Fleming) 1
W Eddy's b h Dillon Eddy, 5yrs, 8sec (D Mahoney) 2
Mrs J R Blackie's b h Sir Fulham, aged, 5sec (A Hendricksen) 3

Cora Dillon scr, Lady Haldane 4sec, Huon Drift 4sec, Huia Gray 5sec, Acushla Machree 6sec, Pax 6sec and Trix Pointer 8sec(bracketed), St Michael 7sec, Specification Jun 8sec and Gold Crest 8sec also started.

Pax and Huon Drift would not leave the mark properly. Trix Pointer, Sir Fulham, Willie Lincoln, Dillon Eddy, Specification Jun, Cora Dillon was the order after they had gone half a mile, and this bunch cut out the running over the next circuit. Six furlongs from home Trix Pointer was still in front, followed by Sir Fulham, Willie Lincoln, Cora Dillon and Dillon Eddy. In the back stretch Cora Dillon and Sir Fulham ran past Trix Pointer, but almost at once Willie Lincoln cut them down, and, drawing away round the turn to the straight, won by four lengths. In the straight Dillon Eddy came with a strong run and beat Sir Fulham for second place by four lengths. Cora Dillon was close up fourth, and Specification Jun fifth, the rest strung out. Time, 4min 37 4/5th sec.

ST ALBANS HANDICAP (in saddle) of 200 sovs; second 40 sovs and third 20 sovs from stake. 2.19 or better. One mile.

J J Kavanagh's b h Disappear by Willowood-Mambrino Girl, aged, 6sec (D Withers) 1
C Bellingham's ch g Whixall, 5yrs, 6sec (R Humphreys) 2
H W Kitchingham's b m Miss Audrey, 6yrs, 8sec (J McLennan) 3

Master Park 3sec, Playboy 6sec, Lady Wayward 6sec, Prince Akwood 7sec and Winson M also started.

Miss Audrey was showing the way to Disappear, Prince Akwood and Whixall as they passed the stand where Playboy broke up badly. Miss Audrey led to the straight, but then tired badly and Disappear won by a length from Whixall, with Miss Audrey a length back third. Prince Akwood was a poor fourth and Master Park was the only other to finish. Time, 2min 15sec.

HAGLEY HANDICAP (in harness) of 250 sovs; second 50 sovs and third 25 sovs from stake. 2.19 or better. One mile.

Stevenson & McMath's b m Queen's Drive by General Pet-Harold's Rest, aged, 5sec (A Pringle) 1
W Rankin's blk g Irvar, 6yrs, 4sec (A Bright) 2
J F Frederick's b m Bundura, 5yrs, 5sec (R Allan) 3

Sir Fulham 4sec, Lady Teddington 5sec, Icicle 5sec and Ngaiora 5sc also started.

Bundura and Irvar did not begin too well, and Queen's Drive, leaving the mark smartly, led all the way and won comfortably by two lengths from Irvar, who finished strongly and beat Bundura by a neck for second place. Sir Fulham was fourth, followed by Lady Teddington and Icicle. Time, 2min 17 1/5th sec.

Credit: The Press 7 Nov 1917

RACING HISTORY FEATURE RACE COMMENT

1917 SPRING MEETING: THURSDAY 8 NOVEMBER

The weather was beautifully fine yesterday for the second day of the NZ Metropolitan Trotting Club's Spring Meeting, and the attendance at Addington, though not quite so large as on the opening day, wa still very good and representative of all parts of the Dominion.
The fields engaged were of good all-round quality, and the sportfully maintained the high standard that has been set at the club's fixtures.

The track, though somewhat dusty, was otherwise in capital order, and the times registered during the day showed how fast it was. The management of the meeting was as efficient as ever, and though one or two matters accupied the attention of stewards during the day, there was nothing of really serious moment. Speculation was again brisk, the figures for the day being £38,473, as against £36,109 10s on the second day last year.

The most important of the handicap events was the Courtenay Handicap, of two miles, 4.38 class, and of the seventeen acceptors, Frandocia was the only one withdrawn. The field gave a little trouble at the post, and Antonio lost his chance at the start, while some of the others did not begin particularly well. Tamarisk, as usual, got smartly into his stride, but found the journey too far, and faded out at the finish. Lady Rothsoon was always in a good position, but in the final stages was unable to withstand the strong challenge thrown out by John Dillon, and indeed had very little to spare from Agathos, who was running on very well under pressure. Evelyn, Steel Bell and Jewel Chimes finished in that order behind the placed horses, but the others were badly strung out. John Dillon's performance suggested that he might have been hard to beat in the New Zealand Cup on Tuesday had he gone off well, for, in yesterday's race, he showed a fine turn of speed over the last mile, and his time was considerably faster than he was handicapped to do. General Link fell in the last lap, but his driver J Brankin, escaped with some cuts on the face, and was able to take part in the later events.

Although there were only four starters in the Free-for-All, the event aroused the keenest interest. After one false start the field was sent off, Adelaide Direct at once taking charge. The Cup winner hit out a very solid pace, and led until the straight was reached, but there Cathedral Chimes put in a brilliant run, with Author Dillon in hot pursuit. Well driven by his trainer, Cathedral Chimes won in good style from Author Dillon, with Adelaide Direct stopping at the finish. Admiral Wood began well, but he is by no means at his best, and was outpaced at the finish. The merit of Cathedral Chimes's performance was recognised by the crowd, who applauded him heartily when he returned to the enclosure.

The other events on the card were all well contested, the Royal Handicap producing a very exciting finish. The following are details of the racing:-

WHITELEIGH HANDICAP (in saddle) of 225 sovs; second 45 sovs and third 22 sovs from stake. For unhoppled trotters only. 4.58 or better. Two miles.

J Smith's b g Winn All by Winn Alto-Florabel, 6yrs, 10sec (S August) 1
Wickham Sisters' b m Albertoria, aged, 13sec (H Gaskill) 2
W J Moir's blk m Lady Patricia, 6yrs, 9sec (A Fleming) 3

Imperial Crown 3sec, Gemma 4sec, Sol 6sec, Havana 7sec, Mushroom 7sec, Mokau 9sec, Kaikanui 10sec, Red Bell 13sec, Parkfield 13sec and Fairy Whispers 13sec also started.

Albertoria began best of the limit division and at the end of half a mile was showing the way to Fairy Whispers and Red Bell. Going along the back Lady Patricia ran into third place and with a lap to go Albertoria was still leading, while Fairy Whispers broke and lost her place, and Lady Patricia and Winn All were second and third. In the back stretch Lady Patricia ran to the front, but broke at the tanks, and Winn All took charge from Albertoria. Lady Patricia was got going again, but broke in the straight, and Winn All won by four lengths from Albertoria, who was two lengths in front of Lady Patricia. Red Bell was an indifferent fourth, Fairy Whispers fifth and Sol sixth. Time, 4min 47 2/5th sec.

-o0o-
After the Whiteleigh Handicap at Addington yesterday A Fleming, the rider of Lady Patricia, was called before the stewards to answer a charge of interference with Parkfield. After the evidence had been heard, Fleming was severely censured for his riding in that event.
-o0o-

NOVEMBER HANDICAP (in saddle) of 250 sovs; second 50 sovs and third 25 sovs from stake. 4.48 or better. Two miles.

J F Grant's b h Harold Direct by Harold Rothschild-King Harold mare, aged, 6sec (W Jones) 1
R Logan's blk g Captain Stanley, 6yrs, 5sec (A Pringle) 2
R J Munro's ch g Rorke's Drift, 5yrs, 9sec (A Butterfield) 3

J Bryce's br m Zara, 5yrs, 10sec (J Bryce, jun) disq.
Pax 4sec, St Michael 5sec, Lindetta 8sec, Goldstream 10sec and Blackford 10sec also started.

Zara lost ground at the start, and Blackford led for a couple of furlongs, but at the end of half a mile had given place to Harold Direct, with Rorke's Drift and Captain Stanley next. Going along the back Zara put in a strong run and closed on the leading division and with a lap to go Harold Direct was just clear of Captain Sandy and Zara, who were almost on terms. The effort told on Zara, and over the last half-mile Captain Stanley drew away from her, but he could not head Harold Direct, who won comfortably by six lengths. Zara was eight lengths away third with Rorke's Drift fourth and the rest a long way back. Time, 4min 37 3/5th sec. Zara's rider failed to weigh in and she was disqualified. Rorke's Drift was placed third.

-o0o-
Zara, who finished third in the November Handicap at Addington yesterday, was disqualified because her rider, J Bryce jun, failed to weigh in. Zara, who was a strong favourite, lost a lot of ground at the start, and though she made it up quickly, the effort proved too much for her, and she was tiring at the finish.
-o0o-

COURTENAY HANDICAP (in harness) of 600 sovs; second 120 sovs and third 60 sovs from stake. 4.38 or better. Two miles.

G Edgar's b h John Dillon by Harold Dillon, 6yrs, 2sec (B Jarden) 1
Stevenson & McMath's b m Lady Rothsoon, 6yrs, 5sec (A Pringle) 2
C Channing's b g Agathos, 6yrs, scr (A Hendricksen) 3

T Roe's gr m Steel Bell, aged, 1sec (J Lynch)
R McDonnell's b m Evelyn, aged, 1sec (Owner)
Allen & Fleming's b h Hardy Wilkes, aged, 2sec (A Fleming)
A R Farrell's b m Cora Dillon, 6yrs, 3sec (J Bryce)
J D Piper's b h Jewel Chimes, aged, 4sec (H McNae)
Mrs E Blair's b h Childsdale, aged, 4sec (A Butterfield)
M Edwards's rn h Reggie Huon, 5yrs, 4sec (Owner)
S Chambers's ch m Succeed, aged, 4sec (W R Thomas)
J Farrell's b h St Kevin, aged, 4sec (E McDermott)
J Brankin's b g General Link, aged, 4sec (Owner)
J M Thompson's b m Brown Bell, aged, 4sec (F Holmes)
Mrs A M Seymour's b h Antonio, aged, 5sec (J H Wilson)
A W Morse's blk h Tamarisk, 5yrs, 5sec (J Henderson)
(Agathos and John Dillon, Hardy Wilkes and Jewel Chimes and Cora Dillon and Childsdale were bracketed)

Antonio would not leave the mark, and when the field settled down Tamarisk had taken charge, being followed at the end of half a mile, by Lady Rothsoon, Succeed, Jewel Chimes and General Link. Going along the back Cora Dillon moved up, and Evelyn also put in a good run. Entering the last lap Lady Rothsoon was leading from Tamarisk, John Dillon and Cora Dillon. Rounding the turn out of the straight Succeed broke, and General Link collided with her and fell. Running along the back stretch John Dillon took charge from Lady Rothsoon, while Agathos was going well just behind them. John Dillon was first into the straight, and holding his advantage won by three lengths from Lady Rothsoon, who had to be driven out to beat the fast finishing Agathos by a neck. Evelyn was five lengths away fourth and Steel Bell fifth, the rest easing up. Time, 4min 29 4/5th sec.

METROPOLITAN HANDICAP (in harness) of 250 sovs; second 50 sovs and third 25 sovs from the stake. 3.47 or better. One mile and five furlongs.

J Gemmell's b g Specification Junr by Specification, aged, 4sec (J Messervey) 1
W H Norton's b f Trix Pointer, 4yrs, 4sec (F Holmes) 2
J T Frederick's b m Bundura, 5yrs, 4sec (R Allan) 3

Jolly Girl 2sec and Joan of Arc 3sec(bracketed), Huia Gray 3sec, Dillon Eddy 3sec, Prince Akwood 3sec, Huon Drift 3sec and Pitaroa 4sec also started.

Trix Pointer went away smartly, and passing the stand was followed by Specification Junr, Pitaroa and Bundura. Going along the back Pitaroa took second place, and six furlongs from home the order was Trix Pointer, Pitaroa, Specification Junr and Bundura. With half a mile to go Huia Gray closed on the leaders, while at the far turn Dillon Eddy ran to the front, but broke immediately and lost his place. In the home run Specification Junr drew away and won by two lengths from Trix Pointer, who was a length in front of Bundura. Huia Gray was fourth and Prince Akwood fifth.Time, 3min 48sec.

-o0o-
While making his run at the finish of the Metropolitan Handicap at Addington yesterday Specification Junr bored in on Trix Pointer, who finished second. The stewards held an enquiry into the occurrence, but accepted the explanation given by the driver of Specification Junr and decided not to alter the judge's placings.
-o0o-

FREE FOR ALL (in harness) of 500 sovs; second 100 sovs and third 50 sovs from stake. One mile and a quarter.

J Bryce's b h Cathedral Chimes by Four Chimes-Jean Armour, 6yrs (Owner) 1
J Knight's b h Author Dillon, 5yrs (B Jarden) 2
M Edwards's b m Adelaide Direct, aged (Owner) 3

Mrs A M Seymour's b h Admiral Wood, aged (R Dunn) also started.

After one false start the four competitors were sent away, though Cathedral Chimes was a good length behind the others. Adelaide Direct, on the rails, at once took the lead from Admiral Wood and Author Dillon, but before reaching the tanks the last-named dropped back, and passing the stand the order was Adelaide Direct, Admiral Wood, Cathedral Chimes and Author Dillon. Going along the back Cathedral Chimes moved up into second place, and rounding the turn to the straight Author Dillon made his run. Adelaide Direct was first into the straight, but in the run home both Cathedral Chimes and Author Dillon cut her down. Cathedral Chimes, pacing brilliantly, won by a length from Author Dillon, who was four lengths in front of Adelaide Direct. Admiral Wood was some distance back. The first half-mile was run in 1min ? 4/5th sec, the mile in 2min 10 1/5th sec, and the full distance in 2min 42 3/5th sec.

-o0o-
J Bryce, driver of Cathedral Chimes in the Free-for-All at Addington yesterday, was fined £2 by the starter for failing to move up with the other competitors when they were called on.
-o0o-

SOCKBURN HANDICAP (in harness) of 350 sovs; second 70 sovs and third 35 sovs from stake. For unhoppled trotters only. 4.47 or better. Two miles.

Mrs J Lawrence's b m Olive L by Wallace L-Cissie Wood, aged, 6sec (E Berry) 1
R & C Tasker's br h Michael Galindo, aged, 4sec (J Brankin) 2
W F McNarn's br g Red Heather, 6yrs, 3sec (A Cox) 3

Rummy 5sec, Truganini 5sec, Eruption 6sec, Norval King 6sec and Teasure Seeker 6sec also started.

Eruption would not leave the mark properly, and Olive L at once took the lead, being followed at the end of half a mile by Norval King, Red Heather and Michael Galindo. With a lap to go Olive L was still in front with Red Heather and Michael Galindo as her nearest attendants. Going along the back Michael Galindo headed Red Heather, but he could make no impression on Olive L who won by four lengths. Red Heather was six lengths away third, followed by Treasure Seeker and Truganini. Time, 4min 46 3/5th sec.

RAILWAY HANDICAP (in saddle) of 250 sovs; second 50 sovs and third 25 sovs from stake. 2.18 or better. One mile.

F Johnston's blk g Beckom by Peri Huon-Pearl, aged, 7sec (J Bryce jun) 1
C Bellingham's ch g Whixall, 5yrs, 5sec (R Humphreys) 2
J J Kavanagh's b h Disappear, aged, 4sec (D Withers) 3

Master Park 3sec, Ariadne 4sec, Law Chimes 4sec, Winston M 7sec, Huon Drift 7sec and Miss Audrey 7sec also started

Winston M, Huon Drift and Miss Audrey refused to begin, and took no part in the race. Beckom and Whixall were in front all the way, and in the straight the former drew away and won easily by six lengths; Disappear was three lengths away third, followed by Ariadne and Law Chimes. Time, 2min 16 2/5th sec.

ROYAL HANDICAP (in harness) of 300 sovs; second 60 sovs and third 30 sovs from stake. 2.17 or better. One mile.

J Parkinson's br h Sungod by Harold Dillon-My Mistake, 6yrs, 2sec (F Holmes) 1
A Redcliff's br g Dunspey, aged, 3sec (J McLennan) 2
Hall & Doherty's b g Frandocia, aged, 1sec (B Jarden) 3

Soda scr, Glendalough 1sec, Frank Tracey 1sec, Eccentric 1sec, Queen's Drive 2sec, Nancy Patch 3sec, Mountain Rose 4sec and Rose Dillon 4sec also started.

Eccentric, Nancy Patch, Mountain Rose and Rose Dillin would not strike a gait at the start. Sungod was in front when they passed the stand, with Dunspey, Frank Tracey and Frandocia following in that order. These positions were not altered until they reached the turn towards the staight, where Frandocia ran into third place. In the straight Dunspey put in a strong challenge, but Sungod lasted long enough to win by half a length. Frandocia was eight lengths away third, with Frank Tracey fourth and Soda fifth. Time, 2min 13 2/5th sec.

Credit: The Press 9 Nov 1917

RACING HISTORY FEATURE RACE COMMENT

1917 SPRING MEETING: FRIDAY 9 NOVEMBER

The New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club's Spring Meeting was concluded at Addington yesterday in beautiful weather: indeed the club has been exceedingly fortunate in the weather experienced at this year's carnivalv fixture, which has been carried out under very favourable conditions.

With the observance of a general holiday, the crowd that thronged the enclosures was enormous, and the extensive accommodation provided in the various stands was taxed to the utmost, while there were large numbers of people in the middle of the course. Some of the events were won with comparative ease, but as was the case on the previous days, the sport generally reached a very high grade, and visitors from other parts of the Dominion could not fail to be impressed with the standard that has been reached by trotting in Canterbury. The course has rarely been faster, and in practically every event the placed horses improved considerably on their best previous times.

The management of the gathering under the supervision of the club's experienced secretary, Mr A I Rattray, was as efficient as ever; Mr H Brinkman's handicapping produced some really fine racing, and Mr W Black, the starter, sent the fields away in very satisfactory manner. Financially, the Meeting should turn out very well, as on each day the totalisator investments showed an increase over the figures for the corresponding day last year. the amounts for each day of this week's fixtures were :-

First Day 1917 £47,335: 1916 £37,433 10s
Second Day 1917 £38,473: 1916 £36,109 10s
Third Day 1917 £50,531: 1916 £45,247
TOTALS 1917 £136,339: 1916 £118,790
Increase £17,549

The most important event on the programme was the Christchurch Handicap, of 750 sovs, two miles, for horses that have done 4.36 or had been handicapped on that time. All the twelve acceptors went to the post, and they were responsible for a splendid race. J Bryce's pair, Sherwood and Solo, were backed down to a very short price, while Author Dillon, Evelyn and Moneymaker were supported in that order. Reggie Huon failed to show any pace in the early stages, and Author Dillon also lost some ground at the start. General link was the principal agent in setting a very solid pace, but when the real pressure was applied was unable to respond. Sherwood was always in a good position, and though the field was bunched as they turned into the straight, the favourite drew away in the run home, and won in capital style. Oinako, Soda and Moneymaker were almost in line behind the winner, and the judge placed them in that order. Author Dillon put in some brilliant work over the last mile, and eventually finished close up in fifth place. As the winner cut out the distance in 4min 29sec, and was in receipt of 7sec from Author Dillon, the latter would have had to put up a phenomenal performance to have been successful, but his finishing run suggested that the task might not have been beyond him had he been better placed in the early stages.

The Dominion Trotting Handicap, the most valuable event of the year for unhoppled trotters, attracted a field of nine, but it did not produce a very exciting contest, for Olive L was in front all the way, and won decisively from Red Heather. The winner, who was successful the previous day, showed a great improvement on anything she has previouly accomplished. Hardy Wilkes displayed his brilliant speed, but only in patches, and breaking up badly on more than one occasion lost his chance.

A fine performance on the part of an unhoppled trotter was that registered by Bellflower, who beat the pacers badly in the Australasian Handicap, and won very decisively in the fast time of 4min 25 3/5th sec.

The Hornby Handicap was a very interesting event, and, as on the previous day, the concluding event brought about a splendid finish between Sungod and Dunspey, the former again outstaying his opponent. Details of the racing are:-

GOVERNOR'S HANDICAP (in saddle) of 225 sovs; second 45 sovs and third 22 sovs from stake. For unhoppled trotters only. 4.56 or better. Two miles.

Wilson & Thompson's b g The Sprinter by Del Paso-Miss Ladybird, aged, scr (T Annett) 1
A Donaldson's b m Fairy Whispers,aged, 11sec (R Allen) 2
F Holmes's b g Treasure Seeker, aged, 3sec (F Holmes, jun) 3

Gay Wilkes scr, Winn All 1sec, Truganini 1sec, King William 4sec, Gemma 4sec and Sol 6sec also started.

Fairy Whispers went away well, and at the end of half a mile had a good lead from Sol, after whom came Treasure Seeker and The Sprinter. Before completing a round Sol was called off for starting before his time, and Fairy Whispers went on in front from The Sprinter and Winn All. With a lap to go Fairy Whispers was tiring, and The Sprinter and Winn All closed on her. Winn All broke half a mile from home, and The Sprinter was in charge entering the straight. Fairy Whispers finished well under pressure and was only a length and a half behind The Sprinter at the post. Winn All broke in the straight, and Treasure Seeker who was four lengths behind Fairy Whispers beat him for third place. King William was fifth. Time, 4min 39 3/5th sec.
-o0o-
R W Franks, the rider of Sol in the Governor's Handicap at Addington, yesterday, was fined £2 for starting before his time. J McLennan, the rider of Gemma, was fined £10 for starting before his time, and for giving misleading evidence at th enquiry held by the stewards.
-o0o-

LYTTELTON HANDICAP (in harness) of 300 sovs; second 60 sovs and third 30 sovs from stake. 4.42 or better. Two miles.

A Allen's blk g Willie Lincoln by Lord Elmo-Mary Lincoln, aged, 2sec (A Fleming) 1
W E Simes's b g Pax, aged, 6sec (F Holmes) 2
J Smith's ch f Dillon Maid, 4yrs, 4sec (A Hendricksen) 3

Karyrie 2sec, Lady Haldane 4sec, Huon Drift 4sec, Dillon Eddy 4sec, and Bundura 6sec also started.

Huon Drift refused to leave the mark, and took no part in the race, while Lady Haldane lost a lot of ground by beginning badly. Pax, beginning smartly, was well clear of Bundura and Dillon Maid at the end of half a mile, but going out of the straight Dillon Maid ran past Bundura, after whom came Willie Lincoln. With a lap to go Pax was still out in front, while Willie Lincoln ran into second place as they turned into the back stretch. Pax broke just before reaching the straight, and Willie Lincoln caught him and beat him home by four lengths. Dillon Maid was six lengths away third, with Bundura fourth, Karyrie fifth and Lady Haldane sixth. Time, 4min 37sec

CHRISTCHURCH HANDICAP (in harness) of 750 sovs; second 150 sovs and third 75 sovs from stake. 4.36 or better. Two miles.

S G Lemon's blk g Sherwood by Kerrwood-Jessie B, aged, 9sec (J Bryce) 1
G Booker's ch h Oinako, 6yrs, 8sec (R W Franks) 2
G Borgfeldt's b m Soda, aged, 9sec (A Butterfielf) 3

Mrs A M Seymour's b h Admiral Wood, aged, scr (J H Wilson)
J Knight's b h Author Dillon, 5yrs, 2sec (B Jarden)
R McDonnell's b m Evelyn, aged, 8sec (Owner)
F Roe's gr m Steel Bell, aged, 8sec (J Lynch)
J G S Holmes's b g Moneymaker, aged, 9sec (A Pringle)
S Chambers's ch m Succeed, aged, 11sec (W R Thomas)
M Edwards's rn h Reggie Huon, 5yrs 11sec (Owner)
J Brankin's b g General Link, aged, 11sec (Owner)
J M Tompson's b m Brown Bell, aged, 11sec (F Holmes)
(Sherwood and Soda were bracketed).

Reggie Huon was slow to begin, and Author Dillon also lost ground at the start. General Link was quickest away, and at the end of half a mile was showing the way to Succeed, Moneymaker, Sherwood, Soda and Brown Bell with Admiral Wood bringing up the rear. Going along the back Sherwood moved up into third place, and with a lap to go he was on terms with General Link with Succeed. Moneymaker, Evelyn, Brown Bell and Steel Bell following in close order. Racing to the back Evelyn, Brown Bell improved her position; a little further on Evelyn put in a good run, while at the far turn Oinako joined the leading division. Turning towards the straight, the field was well bunched, and a great race resulted. Sherwood drew clearin the run home, and won by two lengths from Oinako, who was almost in line with Soda and Moneymaker, heads only separating them. Author Dillon, who put in brilliant work over the last half-mile, was close up fifth, and General Link next. Time, 4min 29sec.

AUSTRALASIAN HANDICAP (in saddle) of 300 sovs; second 60 sovs and third 30 sovs from stake. 4.44 or better. Two miles.

J Hamilton's b m Bellflower by Bellman, aged, 2sec (A Pringle) 1
R Logan's blk g Captain Stanley, 6yrs, 4sec (J McLennan) 2
W E Simes's b g Pax, aged, 6sec (F Holmes, jun) 3

Cora Dillon scr and Jolly Girl 4sec(bracketed), St Ursula 2sec, Red Mac 6sec, Commander Bell 7sec, St Michael 7sec, Bridgewood 7sec and Rorke's Drift 8sec also started.

Rorke's Drift was quickly into his stride, having St Michael, Pax, and Bridgewood in close attendance over the first half-mile. Commander Bell, who was then with the leading division, broke badly and lost a lot of ground. In the second round, Bridgewood took charge, but with a lap to go the order of the leaders was Cora Dillon, St Michael, Pax, Bridgewood, St Ursula, and Bellflower, while Commander Bell, who had gathered up her field in good style, made another bad break in the straight. Bellflower put in a strong run along the back stretch, and taking charge at the tanks, won very easily by ten lengths from Captain Stanley, who came with a late run and beat Pax for second place by half a length. St Ursula was close up fourth, St Michael fifth and Bridgewood next. Time, 4min 35 3/5th sec

DOMINION TROTTING HANDICAP (in harness) of 600 sovs; second 120 sovs and third 60 sovs from stake. For unhoppled trotters only. 4.45 or better. Two miles.

Mrs J Lawrence's b m Olive L by Wallace L-Cissie Wood, aged, 10sec (E Berry) 1
W R McNarn's b g Red Heather, 6yrs, 10sec (A Cox) 2
Allen & Fleming's b h Hardy Wilkes, aged, scr (A Fleming) 3

C Allington's b g Whispering Willie, aged, 6sec (J Shaw)
W B Masham's b g Redchild, aged, 7sec (M Edwards)
A R Edgerton's ch g Lord Roanchild, aged, 9sec (J Bryce)
J Smith's b h Paul Huon, aged, 9sec (Owner)
W J Moir's blk m Lady Patricia, 6yrs, 11sec (N L Price)
F Holmes's b g Treasure Seeker, aged, 11sec (Owner)
(Hardy Wilkes and Lady Patricia were bracketed)

Lady Patricia was slow to begin, and Olive L quickly established a good lead from Treasure Seeker, Lord Roanchild and Red Heather. At the end of half a mile Lord Roanchild was on terms with Treasure Seeker, while Olive L was still going along freely in front. Going along the back, Hardy Wilkes began to improve his position, but broke under pressure, while Red Heather moved up into third place. With a lap to go Olive L was followed by Lord Roanchild, Red Heather, Treasure Seeker, Redchild and Hardy Wilkes. Red Heather displaced Lord Roanchild before they turned into the straight, but could make no impression on Olive L who won easily by six lengths. Hardy Wilkes who showed a lot of pace over the last half-mile, but did not go very steadily, was four lengths away third, and then came Lord Roanchild, Redchild and Whispering Willie. Time, 4min 39 3/5th sec.

HORNBY HANDICAP (in harness) of 250 sovs; second 50 sovs and third 25 sovs from stake. 2.53 or better. One mile and a quarter.

R Logan's blk g Captain Sandy by Stanley, 6yrs, 4sec (Owner) 1
A Allen's b g Willie Lincoln, 5yrs, scr(2sec pen)(A Fleming) 2
F Johnston's blk g Beckom, aged, 2sec (J Bryce) 3

Denver Huon scr, Antonio 2sec, Queen's Drive 2sec, Sir Fulham 3sec, Rose Dillon 3sec and Irvar 3sec also started.

Sir Fulham was quickest away, but at the end of half a mile Irvar was on terms with him. Beckom and Captain Stanley being close behind him. Sir Fulham was beaten half a mile from home, and Irvar went on in front, but was passed by Beckom before they reached the turn to the straight. Beckom was first into the home stretch, but tired in the last bit, and Captain Stanley and Willie Lincoln caught him, Captain Stanley winning by half a length. Beckom was half a length away third, with Irvar two lengths back. Queen's Drive fifth and Sir Fulham sixth. Time, 2min 52sec

ENFIELD HANDICAP (in saddle) of 300 sovs; second 60 sovs and third 30 sovs from stake. 2.16 or better. One mile.

A H Forbes's b g Ariadne by Lord Althorpe-Sweedy, aged, 4sec (E Redmond) 1
J F Grant's b h Harold Direct, aged, 4sec (W R Jones) 2
W E Simes's b m Law Chimes, aged, 4sec (F Holmes, jun)3

St Kevin scr, Mintsom scr, Soda 2sec and General Wilkes 2sec(bracketed), Master Park 3sec, St Ursula 3sec and Nancy Patch 5sec(bracketed), Frandocia 3sec and Huia Gray 5sec(bracketed), Dunspey 4sec, Whixall 5sec and Tamarisk 5sec also started.

Ariadne, Huia Grey, Law Chimes, Harold Direct, Nancy Patch was the order of the leading division at the end of half a mile. Harold Direct took second place in the backstretch, but he could not reach Ariadne, who won by two lengths. Law Chimes was two lengths away third, followed by Frandocia, St Ursula and Soda. Time, 2min 14 4/5th sec.

RECOVERY HANDICAP (in harness) of 300 sovs; second 60 sovs and third 30 sovs from stake. 2.15 or better. One mile.

J Parkinson's br h Sungod by Harold Dillon-My Mistake, 6yrs, 3sec (F Holmes) 1
A Redcliffe's br g Dunspey, aged, 5sec (J McLennan) 2
G Edgar's b h John Dillon, 6yrs, 1sec (B Jarden) 3

Adelaide Direct scr, Admiral Wood scr, Sherwood 2sec(2sec pen), Eccentric 4sec, Glendalough 4sec, Jewel Chimes 4sec, Frank Tracey 4sec, Disappear 5sec and Queen's Drive 5sec also started.

Queen's Drive was showing the way to Dunspey, Sungod, Frank Tracey and Eccentric at the end of half a mile, but in the back stretch Queen's Drive gave place to Sungod, while John Dillon was moving up fast. Sungod was first into the straight, and stalling off Dunspey's challenge, won by half a length. John Dillon was a length away third, and then came Sherwood, Jewel Chimes and Adelaide Direct. Time, 2min 12sec.
-o0o-
Sungod and Dunspey, who finished first and second inthe Royal at Addington on Thursday, were in the same positions in the Recovery Handicap yesterday
-o0o-

The Southland-owned pacer, Harold Direct, showed very consistent form in the saddle races at Addington this week, finishing second in the Empire Handicap on the first day, winning the November Handicap on Thursday, and finishing second in the Enfield Handicap yesterday.

Olive L, Willie Lincoln and Sungod were double winners at Addington this week. Willie Lincoln just missed landing a treble, for after winning the Lyttelton Handicap yesterday, he was penalised 2sec in the Hornby Handicap, and then was beaten by only half a length by Captain Stanley in the latter event.

Credit: The Press 10 Nov 1917

RACING HISTORY FEATURE RACE COMMENT

Adelaide Direct (Manny Edwards) after the 1917 Cup

1917 NEW ZEALAND TROTTING CUP

Australian-bred mare Adelaide Direct added another one for the fairer sex when she outstayed what was considered the finest field yet assembled, with those down the track including Cathedral Chimes, Author Dillon, Win Soon, Agathos, Steel Bell and Admiral Wood.

The latter gave up to nine seconds start to some and not surprisingly made little impression when Adelaide Direct paced a race record of 4:27 4/5.

More excitement at the meeting was caused by an explosion of benzine in a store, causing a fire which destroyed the stables of Ben Jarden at Islington.

**NZ HR Weekly 1Oct 2003**

The Australian-bred mare Adelaide Direct made it three New Zealand Cups in four years for her sex when she outstayed what was considered a field of the fastest pacers assembled for a race in New Zealand. Adelaide Direct had shown form in a number of important races since making her first excursion to New Zealand in 1915, as a member of Manny Edwards' team. She was a 10-year-old by Directway (an American stallion at stud in Australia), from an Honest Harry mare.

From her seven-second handicap, Edwards had her well-positioned all the way. She settled in fifth place behind Moneymaker, Soda, Agathos and Evelyn at the end of half-a-mile. Edwards sent her to the front in the back straight on the last lap and she turned into the home straight ahead of Cathedral Chimes, Agathos and Author Dillon. She was not tested to win by four lengths from Cathedral Chimes, with a neck to Author Dillon and a similar margin to Agathos. Then followed Evelyn, Hardy Wilkes, Soda, Moneymaker, Oinako and Admiral Wood.

This success was the second in the New Zealand Cup for the Edwards family, and its last, despite several further attempts by subsequent generations. Adelaide Direct's winning time of 4:27.8 was a New Zealand race-winning record and gave her a great double, because at this time she also held the New Zealand mile record of 2:06.4, made against time at Auckland on December 29, 1916. Admiral Wood, who started from the back, conceding the front-runners nine seconds, had the fastest two-mile mark of 4:23.6, made against time. He was always a fair way from the leaders and found his long handicap too tough.

The 1917 event was an excellent spectacle, unaffected by the accidents that had dogged recent Cups. The Metropolitan Club, determined to eliminate the poor starts and performances of the recent contests, tightened the acceptance class by two seconds to 4:34, and was rewarded with a compact field of 14.

Some new and exciting horses had emerged during the previous 12 months. The one who captured most of the attention was a Harold Dillon five-year-old named Author Dillon, soon to earn the title of champion. Authoress, his dam, was by Wildwood from Thelma, thus a sister to Wildwood Junior. Author Dillon was trained at Islington by Ben Jarden, who had two others from his stable, John Dillon and Agathos, in the race.

Author Dillon won the pre-Cup Trial and covered the mile-and-a-half in 3:15.8, a New Zealand record. Having caught the imagination of the public with some wonderful performances, he was made race favourite. Handicapped on three seconds, he had only Admiral Wood behind him, but third was the best he could do in a fast-run race.

Cathedral Chimes, again a contender for James Bryce, formed a strong bracket with Win Soon and Soda. The latter raced prominently for most of the race but tired badly over the final three furlongs, while Win Soon lost her chance with a wretched beginning. Andy Pringle's Moneymaker, off the front line, led almost from the outset, but six furlongs from the finish he surrendered his lead and gradually dropped back, while Erin's King, the National Cup winner in August, was always well back. Hardy Wilkes, the only trotter entered, and well supported, ran a fair sixth, while the sole North Islander, Steel Bell, was outclassed.

The excitement between the first and second days of the meeting came fron Ben Jarden's Islington stables. An explosion of Benzene in a store caused a blaze that razed his stables. The fire started at 8pm on the Wednesday and within an hour his building had disappeared in flames. Jarden lost all his gear, but fortunately boys on the premises saved his horses. It was a narrow escape, so narrow, in fact, that Author Dillon had his tail singed. However, he contested his first New Zealand Free-For-All in gear that Jarden borrowed, finishing second behind Cathedral Chimes, with Adelaide Direct, who attempted to lead all the way, a creditable third.

Author Dillon continued to amaze harness racing followers and paced an outstanding race on the final day, finishing fifth in the Christchurch Handicap, won by Sherwood (James Bryce). Sherwood, who enjoyed a nine-second advantage, covered the two miles in 4:29, so Author Dillon's run showed that the 4:20 goal was within reach, although not eventually bettered until 1926.

Olive L, in front all the way, won the Dominion Handicap decisively in 4:39.6, from Red Heather and the Cup contender Hardy Wilkes.

Cathedral Chimes, with £2130, was the season's leading earner and James Bryce, with £2185, was the leading owner (for the only time) and also the top trainer, with 22 wins. Once again Andy Pringle headed him off for the title of top reinsman, with 20 wins, while Bryce finished with 18.

With such outstanding horses at the meeting, the club achieved record totalisator turnover. Show Day betting reached a single-day record of £50,531 and the three-day total was £136,339.

**Bernie Wood writing in The Cup**