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LOCAL HISTORY

First Anzac Day observance, on April 25

May 13-15 - Visit of Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII) to Ch-Ch.

Credit: Ch-Ch City Libraries

RACING HISTORY

The Gaming Amendment Act of 1920 completely outlawed bookmaking but the bookies continued to thrive because of the lack of doubles and the convenience of telephone betting. Their turnover in NZ in 1946 was estimated at £24 million ($48,000,000).

RACING HISTORY CANTERBURY PARK TROTTING CLUB

CPTC Centennial History

January - The Club's handicapper, Mr F C Thomas, was suspended for alleged misconduct at a race meeting. He was ordered to appear before the committee. Later in the month, after considering statements, the committee reinstated.

July - The Club wrote to the owners of the by-products works at Sockburn complaining about the smell from its operations sweeping across the course on race days.

Credit: CPTC Centennial History

RACING HISTORY HORSES

ROYAL EMPRESS - Mystery Mare

The story of Royal Empress or more particularly her daughters is a vivid example of how a particular sire line cross can completely transform an underperforming racing family.

Royal Empress was from an unregistered mare, who was from an unnamed mare by the galloper Silver King. The next dam was unknown and so was the family. A Christchurch widow, Kitty Bare, then living at Yaldhurst, sent Royal Empress to good sires, notably the ones virtually next door, Frank Worthy and Logan Pointer. She nominated the resulting foals for the classics and watched them fail to measure up on raceday. One early foal, Rare Rey, was a fair performer in Auckland. Mrs Bare leased the next two fillies out for racing for which they were ill suited. Undaunted, when it came time to breed she sent them up the road to U Scott at Roydon Lodge.

Boom! Boom! Boom! The Scotand blood was liquid dynamite and the family just exploded in phenomenal fashion.

One daughter, Queen Ayesha, was only bred to U Scott about 10 times. And why not? Her first foal was Highland Fling, the incomparable. The next one to race was another star, Highland Kilt, who preferred trotting. In an era of giants he held the New Zealand mile record, won the Trotting Derby and an Interdominion heat and placed in the two biggest trot races behind great horses like Dictation , Gold Horizon et cetera. One of her daughters left Nigel Craig. No other mare has matched Queen Ayesha in leaving two horses of such ability at different gaits in the 65 years since.

Another daughter left the Via Veneto tribe and the second foal Bonny Heather left Crimson Star and the Australian champion Mackinlay. Mrs Bare also bred Robyn(U Scott) from these mares, good on the track and especially off it.

Meanwhile, another daughter of Royal Empress, Little Ada, went to U Scott and promptly left Caduceus the unforgettable 'Pocket Hercules' who covered himself in glory in three countries at the highest level. Royal Empress's next filly, Princess Medoro, went to U Scott and left the Auckland Cup winner, Unite, as well as the near Cup class pacer, Admit, to that stallion. It was an incredible record. By the time Australians listed numbered families by their success Royal Empress, 75 in New Zealand, was number 19 there.

As a kid I can remember gazing over the fence in awe at Mrs Bare's little stud next door to the dairy at Halswell, where she had moved. I couldn't recognise any of them but I knew among those mares and foals there had to be something special!

There have been good horses from the family since, the late Dr Harry Crofts persevered most with them. Jester Chance got to Cup class in the late 1970s, but when U Scott passed so did a lot of the magic and nobody has found the rainbow's end anywhere since.





Credit: David McCarthy writing in Harnessed 2016

RACING HISTORY HORSES

CUPS KINGS - JACK POTTS

INTRODUCTION
Bettor's Delight in just about ready to make the list as a "Cups King"- the most influential stallion in the two major all-aged races on out calendar, the Auckland and New Zealand Cups. He already has three winners and given his domination that might grow rapidly.

But topping some of the "old timers" won't be that easy, even if he has gone past many already. Who are the best? My top 10, based on the following statistical model.
- 10 points for each winner of the New Zealand or Auckland Cup.
- 5 point bonus for each individual winner greater than one.
- 5 points for each broodmare sire win.
- 1 point for each winner sired by a stallion son.

JACK POTTS 1920
(Walter Direct-Margaret Steiner-Steiner) Died aged 24
Six WINS, Four WINNERS, Three BROODMARE WINNERS, Zero SIRE SON WINNERS = 90 points

Imported to New Zealand as a yearling by Alec Anderson and trained initially by Ben Jarden (later Ces Donald) Jack Potts was a top racehorse but a sensational sire because of his stamina. "If they had three mile(5000m) races nothing will ever beat him," a writer said of him in his racing days.
One odd aspect of his success was the naming of so many of his offspring after card game (such as Busted Flush the dam of NZ Cup winner, Thunder). Owners assumed that was the source of his name. In fact he had been named after a close friend of the breeder.

TRIVIAL FACT - The enormous popularity of Jack Potts put pressure on his stud duties and in at least one season he is said to have served over 100 mares. But the stud owner was later charged for using Jack Potts' sons for some services. He pleaded guilty.




Credit: David McCarthy writing in Harnessed Nov 2016

RACING HISTORY HORSES

CUPS KINGS - GRATTAN LOYAL

INTRODUCTION
Bettor's Delight in just about ready to make the list as a "Cups King"- the most influential stallion in the two major all-aged races on out calendar, the Auckland and New Zealand Cups. He already has three winners and given his domination that might grow rapidly.

But topping some of the "old timers" won't be that easy, even if he has gone past many already. Who are the best? My top 10, based on the following statistical model.
- 10 points for each winner of the New Zealand or Auckland Cup.
- 5 point bonus for each individual winner greater than one.
- 5 points for each broodmare sire win.
- 1 point for each winner sired by a stallion son.

GRATTAN LOYAL 1920
(Grattan Royal-Gwita-Wildbrino)(Died aged 31)
Four WINS, Two WINNERS, Six BROODMARE WINS, Zero SIRE SON WINNERS = 75 points

Grattan Loyal, a black was imported by Freeman Holmes in 1930 as a moderately performed 10 year old. He was from the tough American/Canadian "Grattan" line yet ironically his best horse was the brilliant speedster Gold Bar. Loyal Nurse was his other big winner here, taking both Cup events. The Grattan Loyals were tough to gait and generally scorned trotting(his sire left only two qualified trotters in a long career in North America) but they were game and durable, winning a lot of trainer's hearts.
His first broodmare Cup credit was with Integrity in 1946 and the last was Stella Frost 24 years later. All the more amazing because his first crop here arrived in 1932. He never won a premiership (he had most winners in 1947) but was leading broodmare sire.

TRIVIA FACT - Grattan Loyal's sire, Grattan Royal, went from Chicago to Canada to Iowa before his first Canadian owner tracked him down only days before he was to be shot because of a serious leg injury and no patronage. On returning to Canada he became a huge success and made the Canadian Hall of Fame in 1981


Credit: David McCarthy writing in Harnessed Nov 2016

RACING HISTORY HORSES

In 1919 Leo Berkett swapped a pacer he used in his gig with a clergyman for an aged grey mare, Wairoa Belle, which had good pacing blood in her on the side of her sire, Dictator. On local roads he found Wairoa Belle showed well against the horses of other gig owners and had a fair turn of speed.

Leo decided to enter her in races at the Nelson Trotting Club's summer meeting. The 1920 programme included both saddle and driven races. On the first day Wairoa Belle did not run well, but, on March 20, with advice on adjusting her hoppples, Leo Berkett rode her to lead the 14 horse field all the way to win by two lengths.

She paid the biggest dividend in NZ trotting history of £1033/5/-... a staggering sum when the average weekly wage was less than £10. Leo Berkett had no money on the race, the one and a half mile Wakefield Handicap, but one person had. He was a Nelson grain and seed merchant, Mr S C (Chummy) Levien, who was so pleased by the win that he gave Berkett the odd £33.

The stake of 55 sovereigns also went to Berkett as owner. The time for the race was 3min 59sec.

-o0o-

NZ Trotting Calendar 6Jun45

The following was taken from a NZ paper of about 25 years ago in reference to the huge dividend paid at the Nelson Trotting meeting:-"Quite the outstanding feature of the meeting was the huge dividend paid by Wairoa Belle in the Wakefield Handicap. Earlier in the afternoon the mare did a preliminary for the Ladies' Bracelet, but before going to the post the stipendiary steward noticed blood running from the hopple marks on both her hind legs. The officials refused to let her start until the driver agreed to race without hopples, which were blood-smeared. In the race she cut a poor figure, being one of the last to finish.

Later in the afternoon she was produced for the Wakefield Handicap, but again the stewards raised objection to her competing. The difficulty was got over by the rider removing the bloomers and lowering the hopples so that they would not chafe the sore places. There were 14 competitors, and out of the £1,500 invested only one ticket was taken out on Wairoa Belle's chance, this being held by a well-known Nelson merchant."

Credit: HRWeekly 23Jan91

RACING HISTORY FEATURE RACE COMMENT

1920 NEW ZEALAND CUP

By the time the big event came on for decision the whole of the stands and enclosures were packed with, a gaily dressed throng. Speculation was very heavy, over £20,000 being invested on the race. Albert Cling was the actual favorite, then came Bryce's bracket, Author Dillon, and Holme's bracket, in that order.

The start was a perfect one and all went off well but the scratch horse,- who lost a second at the start. Minston took charge followed by Erln's Queen and Willie Lincoln. Going down the back stretch Erin's Queen went to the front and General Link, Dean Dillon and Reta Peter had improved their positions. At the six furlongs Willie Lincoln was still in front with the field close up.

When the last lap started Willie Lincoln was still in charge, whilst General Link had taken second place followed by Erin's Queen. Six lengths away came Trlx Pointer, Reta Peter, Sherwood and Author Dillon. In the back stretch General Link headed Willie Lincoln with the scratch horse moving up fast on the outside.

Rounding the turn for home General Link was still in charge, while Willie Lincoln had retired beaten. Author Dillon challenged General Link with Reta Peter coming fast. In a great struggle the trio crossed the line together, Reta Peter winning by half a length from General Link, who was a neck in front of Author Dilion. Four lengths away came Sherwood followed by Erin's Queen with the rest of the field strung out.

Then followed a scene of excitement, the crowd mobbed the winner and accorded her a reception the likes of which has never been seen on a racecourse. Neither were the placed horses forgotten. Author Dillon was cheered to the echo. The honors of the race were undoubtedly with him, as he was checked once through Steel Bell breaking, and in addition, he had the wind and dust to contend with.

His effort produced a world's record and still it could not win. He went the first quarter mile in 32sec, the half mile in lmin. 5sec, six furlongs in lmin. 38sec, mile in 2min. lOsec, twelve furlongs in 3min. 15sec, and the full distance in 4min. 21 4-5sec. His achievement is all the more meritorious by reason of the fact of giving away 10 l-5sec, instead of 9sec., and thus his actual time was 4min. 20 2-5sec.

Reta Peter is an aged mare by the imported Petereta from Tot Huon. She was bred by her owner, Mr. F. R. Robson, and has been trained and driven by A. G. Wilson for a long time past. She was the only trotter in the field and her success marked the first occasion on which a trotter has won the valuable stake for a number of years. Reta Peter, by compassing two miles in 4.30 4-5 established a fresh world's record for trotting over that distance. Matchlight's chance was ruined through Steel Bell breaking and interfering with him at the end of two furlongs. Albert Cling, the favorite, failed to begin correctly and was in the rear the way.


Credit: 'Spearmint' writing in NZ Truth 13 Nov 1920

RACING HISTORY FEATURE RACE COMMENT

1920 SPRING MEETING: TUESDAY 9 NOVEMBER

Addington has never been seen to better advantage than it was yesterday, when the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club's Spring Meeting was commenced under almost ideal conditions. The weather was fine and warm all day, and though a nor'-west breeze raised some dust towards the close of the afternoon, this was but a minor discomfort that did not seriously affect the pleasure of the thousands of people who were present.

Judging by appearances, the attendance must have been a record one. Not only were both the inside and outside enclosures densely crowded, but there were some hundreds of people in the centre of the course, and it is quite evident that the growing popularity of the light harness sport has made even the extensive stand accommodation at Addington quite unable to cope with the crowds.

The attendance was representative of all parts of the Dominion, and those who were for the first time witnessing a high class trotting meeting could not fail to be impressed by the attractiveness of the sport, while the club's regular patrons were agreed that the racing provided was of an exceptionally high standard. The horses engaged included the best pacers and trotters in commission in the Dominion, and there were several high class performers fron Australia as well. The track was at its best, and except for the Riccarton Handicap, which was spoilt by a series of accidents, the majority of the placed horses improved considerably on their handicap times.

With such a big attendance, it was only natural to find the totalisator investments showing a large increase, the total for the day being £90,296 10s as compared with £76,291 on the first day last year. The total invested on the New Zealand Trotting Cup was £20,506, the largest sum yet registered on any event in the South Island. There were one or two matters during the day that called for the attention of the stewards, but in all respects the management of the meeting was up to the efficient standard that is characteristic of gatherings at Addington.

The Spring Handicap, a harness event for unhoppled trotters over a mile and five furlongs, gave backers a good start, for Effie Bingen, who was made a solid favourite, scored in nice sytle from Overrate, who finished well. Corwar quickly opened up a useful lead, but he was unable to see the distance out, and was stopping badly over the last two furlongs. Waiwera played up at the start, and interfered with some of the other competitors. Succory, the second favourite, showed a good deal of pace, but went unsteadily.

Hayseed, who was well backed for the St Albans Handicap, endeavoured to win all the way, but he was never able to shake off Greta, and when she had him beaten, Xavier came along and cut him out of second place.

This cleared the way for the big event of the year, the New Zealand Cup, which with its stake of 2500 sovs, in addition to a silver cup, is easily the most valuable light harness race in Australasia. Of the sixteen horses that made the final payment, Cello Sydney Wilkes, Moneymaker, John Dillon and Hal Junior were withdrawn. Albert Cling was made favourite, with J Bryce's bracket, Matchlight and Erin's Queen, almost as well backed, and Author Dillon, Trix Pointer and Sherwood bracketed, Willie Lincoln and General Link supported in that order, there being a considerable difference between them and the rest of the field.

The start was a good one, but the supporters of Albert Cling were soon out of their trouble, for the favourite would not leave the mark properly, and meeting with some interference in the first half mile was never afterwards dangerous. Steel Bell broke soon after the start, and again before they had gone six furlongs, and she never got near the firing line. Author Dillon lost a little ground at the start, but settled to his work in determined style, and when he had reached his field before they entered the last lap, he looked to have a royal chance. Willie Lincoln showed a fine turn of speed, as long as his condition lasted and when he was done with General Link went on in the lead.

Author Dillon was in hot pursuit over the last half mile, and entering the straight it looked as if the issue would be between this pair, but in the run home Reta Peter, the only unhoppled trotter in the race, came with a brilliant finish and staying on in fine style, while the other two were tiring, won a great race by half a length from Generl Link with Author Dillon close up third and Sherwood next. Trix Pointer, last year's winner, went well for over a mile and a half, but after putting in a good run in the back stretch was blocked and could not get clear again. Mintson was prominent in the early stages, and though Erin's Queen went well for a good part of the journey, she showed no dash at the finish.

Although Reta Peter was one of the outsiders of the field, and paid a handsome dividend, her victory was greeted with round after round of applause, for the public were quick to recognise the merit of her performance in defeating such a strong field of pacers. The daughter of Petereta may be classed as the most brilliant trotter the Dominion has seen, one whose performances have made her deservedly popular. General Link paced his best race to date, while Author Dillon was unlucky in being beaten after establishing an Australasian race record of 4m 21 4/5th sec for the two miles. The Trotting Cup of 1920 will long be remembered as one of the most exciting in the club's history.

Coil, who was made favourite for the Empire Handicap, gave a disappointing display, but the race itself was very interesting. Mara was quickly out in front, but could not see the journey out, and Rewanui, staying on well, beat Silver Shoe, with Prince Burlington close up in third place. After the race an enquiry was held regarding alleged interference by the winner with Prince Burlington, but the stewards decided to take no action.

The Riccarton Handicap was marked by an extraordinary series of mishaps. Going out of the straight the first time, Maoriland and Mako Mako collided and came down, and Irvar ran into them, and his driver, W Warren, was shot out of his sulky, but quickly regained his seat and continued in the race, though his chance was hopeless. The two fallen horses had not been got off the track when the remaining competitors came round again, and Emperor, who was then leading, failed to get clear, and his driver, F Holmes, was thrown out on the track in front of Capriccio, who went over him. Luckily, all the horses and drivers escaped uninjured. The second mishap left Bundong well out in front, but Legacy outstayed him and beat him home, with All Bell third.

The Middleton Handicap brought out a good field of sixteen unhoppled trotters, the bracketed pair, Whisht and Paul Huon, being best backed. Bon Patch was earliy out in front and never lost his place, though he had to be driven out to stall off Red Heather, who put in a fine run over the last half-mile.

The Victoria Handicap was another fast run race. Jack Arrah was always prominent, and, finishing strongly, won in good style from G M Dillon, with Man o' War close up third. The last-named, who is one of the Australian horses in J Bryce's stable, showed a great turn of speed, as his time of 4min 27 3/5th sec proves, but he was boring badly all through the race, and his driver had a difficult task in trying to keep him straight. J Bryce's stable supplied the favourites for the concluding event, the Hagley Handicap, in the bracketed pair, Emilius and Chid, but the Australian-bred Dillonwood was in front from the start, and, pacing well, held off Gleaming in the home run. The following are details of the racing:-

SPRING HANDICAP (in harness) of 300 sovs; second 60, third 40. For unhoppled trotters only. 4.40 class. 1m 5m.

J Hardy's b m Effie Bingen by Nelson Bingen-Effiewood, 5yrs, 8sec J McLennan 1.
J R Corrigan's b g Overrate, aged, 4sec, J Bryce 2.
N L Price's b g Corwar, 6yrs, 8sec, Owner 3.

Eruption scr, Marvin Junr 2sec, Parkfield 3sec, Rosalie 3sec, Rothmoor 4sec, Patard 5sec, Succory 5sec, Pieter Timmerman 6sec, Lady Linwood 7sec, To-night 8sec, Wahinepai 8sec, Waiwera 8sec, and Blazer Wilson 8sec also started.

Waiwera broke at the start and interfered with several of the competitors. Corwar commenced very quickly, and at the stand he had a lead of several lengths, an advantage he increased to one hundred yards down the back stretch. At this stage his nearest attendants were Effie Bingen, Blazer Wilson, Wahinepai and Saccory. Going down the back the second time Corwar tired, and Effie Bingen went to the front. The latter easily held the lead, and won comfortably by three lengths. Overrate finishing fast, beat Corwar by half a length. Petard and Eruption were the next to finish. Times - 4m 0 3/5s, 3m 57 1/5s, 3m 1 2/5s.

ST ALBANS HANDICAP (in saddle) of 300 sovs; second 60, third 40. 2.18 class. 1m.

W H Norton's br m Greta by Wildwood junr-Prince Imperial mare, aged, 5sec, F Holmes jun. 1.
J R Corrigan's b g Xavier, aged, 2sec, J Bryce, jun 2.
J Cheeseman's b g Hayseed, 6yrs, 3sec, E McDermott 3.

Captain Stanley 2sec, Birdwood 2sec, Lord Dillon 3sec, Granger 3sec, Idris 3sec coupled with Xavier, Bill Brown 4sec, King Kari 4sec, Proudspring 4sec, Pleasant Mount 4sec and Pax 4sec also started.

Pax did not leave the mark, and Greta and Hayseed, beginning very smartly, soon had a good lead. The pair led past the tankstand into the straight, where Xavier put in a great run. He passed Hayseed, but could not reach Greta, who won by two lengths, Hayseed being a similar distance away third. Times - 2m 15 4/5s, 2m 13 3/5s, 2m 17 1/5s.

NEW ZEALAND CUP (in harness) of 2500 sovs, and silver cup presented by Hon C Louisson; second 500, third 300, fourth 200. 4.33 class. 2m.

F H Robson's b m Reta Peter by Petereta-Tot Huon, aged, 9sec, A G Wilson 1.
Miss N Gunn's b g General Link by General Mac-Imperialwood, aged, 6sec, A Butterfield 2.
Exors J Knight's b h Author Dillon by Harold Dillon-Authoress, aged, scr, B Jarden 3.
S G Lemon,s blk g Sherwood by Kerwood-Jessie B, aged, 7sec, F Holmes Jun 4.

Cross Bros and J Bryce's br h Matchlight, aged, 4sec, J Bryce.
W H Norton's b m Trix Pointer, aged, 5sec coupled with Sherwood, F Holmes.
Fleming & Wootton's b g Dean Dillon, aged, 7sec, A Fleming.
Iles & Young's b g Willie Lincoln, aged, 8sec, A Hendricksen.
M J Hanna's br g Albert Cling, 6yrs, 8sec, J McLennan
A Finlayson's b h Mintson, aged, 9sec, N L Price.
T Roe's gr m Steel Bell, aged, 9sec, S J Roe.
J D Parker's ch m Erin's Queen, aged, 9sec coupled with Matchlight, J Bryce jun.

Dean Dillon failed to strike a gait as quickly as he might have done, and Albert Cling broke badly. The remainder went off to their correct bells. Erin's Queen and Mintson hit out in a rare race, and the trotter Reta Peter began surprisingly well. Willie Lincoln followed the trio over the first furlong, but then improved his position, racing to the head of affairs entering the straight, and carrying on the running past the stand, with Erin's Queen. At this stage Mintson and General Link were running third and fourth respectively, and Sherwood, Dean Dillon and Reta Peter were close handy, while Author Dillon pacing faultlessly, had not been asked for an effort. Willie Lincoln went off by himself going down the back stretch and General Link passed Erin's Queen.

The order was the same to the stand, but Willie Lincoln appeared to be feeling the effects of the fast pace. General Link made a forward move, and Author Dillon considerably improved his position. When General Link drew clear there was great excitement, and when Author Dillon was seen coming at a great rate the excitement became intense. Author Dillon came into the straight a length behind General Link, and Jarden and Butterfield commenced a vigorous battle. The great effort appeared to have taken a lot out of Author Dillon, and General Link travelled with him. Fifty yards from the post Reta Peter appeared on the scene, and with a brilliant finishing effort she got up in time to beat General Link by half a length. Author Dillon being a neck away third, two lengths in front of Sherwood. Erin's Queen, Willie Lincoln and Matchlight were next to finish. Times - 4m 30 2/5s, 4m 27 3/5s, 4m 21 4/5s, 4m 32 2/5s.

EMPIRE HANDICAP (in saddle) of 300 sovs; second 60, third 40. 4.48 class. 2m.

J Crowe's blk m Rewanui by Lord Chancellor-Princess Minnie, aged, 9sec, D Withers 1.
G Reed's b g Silver Shoe, aged, 7sec, Owner 2.
J C Wallace's br g Prince Burlington, aged, 9sec, A Butterfield 3.

Dandy Chimes scr, Goldstream 3sec and Bridgewood 5sec coupled, Marie Lloyd 5sec, Wild Pedo 6sec, Watchman 6sec, Marie Tempest 7sec, The Dingo 8sec, Maud Wilkes 8sec, Coil 8sec, Guy Dillon 9sec, Energy 9sec, Mara 9sec, Lindetta 9sec also started.

Mara commenced very smartly and led from Prince Burlington, Marie Tempest, and Silver Shoe. Mara carried on the running for a mile when she tired, and Rewanui went on in front. The latter held her own to the finish and won easily by two lengths from Silver Shoe, who, in spite of a bad break in the straight, got up in time to beat Prince Burlington by half a length. Marie Lloyd was fourth and Maud Wilkes fifth. Times - 4m 42 1/5s,4m 41 3/5s, 4m 43 4/5s

RICCARTON HANDICAP (in harness) of 500 sovs; second 125, third 75. 3.44 class. 1m5f.

R McLeod's b g Legacy by Rothschild-The Gift, aged, 5sec, J McLennan 1.
E L McKeon's br g Bundong, aged, 6sec, R E Mills 2.
Paton & Flemings blk g All Bell, aged, 5sec, A Fleming 3.

Capriccio 2sec, Rangitata Lass 4sec, Emperor 5sec, Paul Dufault 9sec, Maoriland 5sec, Makomako 6sec and Irvar 6sec also started.

Emperor was quickest to begin, and passing the stand was racing just in front of Maoriland, who was travelling fast, and Makomako. Going out of the straight Maoriland came down and Makomako fell over him, interfering with practically the whole field except Emperor, who went away with a long lead, Bundong caught Emperor in the back stretch and the pair came past the stand together, a large crowd having in the meantime gathered at the point where Makomako lay prostrate. Holmes behind Emperor, did not notice the fact, and the wheel of his sulky struck Makomako, and he received a nasty spill. This left Bundong in charge, bu in the straight Legacy came fast and won by two lengths, with the third horse three lengths away. Times - 3m 49 3/5s, 3m 50 4/5s, 3m 51s.

MIDDLETON HANDICAP (in harness) of 500 sovs; second 125, third 75. For unhoppled trotters only. 2m.

J Porter's blk m Bon Patch by Bon Voyage-Floradon, aged, 15sec, J McLennan 1.
Watkins & Cox's b g Red Heather, aged, 8sec, A Cox 2.
J C Whiteman's Billy Parole, aged, 14sec, F Holmes 3.

Whispering Willie scr, Whisht 6sec and Paul Huon 14sec coupled, Theseus 8sec coupled with Red Heather, Olive L 9sec, Gold Boy 11sec, Michael Galindo 11sec, Wild Pedo 12sec, Harold Child 12sec, Electrocute 12sec, Koraki 13sec, Winn All 14sec and Eruption 15sec also started.

Bon Patch was quickest away, and led from Eruption, Harold Child, Michael Galindo and Winn All. Electrocute stumbled and fell at the tanks. Bon Patch led over the next curcuit, and in the final round Red Heather put in a good run and was almost on terms at the straight entrance. A good race to the post ended in Bon Patch winning by half a length from Red Heather, Billy Parole being four lengths away just in front of Winn All and Gold Boy. Times - 4m 43 2/5s, 4m 36 3/5s, 4m 45 2/5s.

VICTORIA HANDICAP (in harness) of 500 sovs; second 125, third 75. 4.40 class. 2m.

J Richardson's b g Jack Arrah by Starchild-Mambrino Girl, aged, 6sec, N L Price 1.
R J Crossan's ch h G M Dillon, aged, 7sec R Robinson 2.
W J Carter's blk h Man o'War, aged, scr J Bryce 3.

Silver Nut 1sec, Sympathy 2sec, Nancy Stair 2sec and Asturio 2sec coupled, Partner 2sec, Royal Step 4sec, Brown's nugget 5sec, Ouimet 5sec and Rorke's Drift 7sec also started.

Rorke's Drift went off in the lead, followed by Jack Arrah, G M Dillon, Ouimet, Partner and Brown's Nugget. This was the order going past the stand and down the back stretch, where Rorke's Drift gave way to Jack Arrah. Going past the stand the last time Man o' War was within striking distance, and down the back stretch he put in a good run. Jack Arrah led into the straight with G M Dillon in second place. A good race to the post ended with Jack Arrah winning by two lengths from G M Dillon, who was half a length in front of Man o' War. Partner was fourth and Brown's Nugget next. Times - 4m 33s, 4m 34 2/5s, 4m 27 2/5s

HAGLEY HANDICAP (in harness) of 500 sovs; second 125, third 75. 2.49 class. 1 1/4m.

J C Whiteman's b g Dillonwood by Ribbonwood Junr-Kitty Dillon, aged, 5sec, F Holmes Jun 1.
R J Stone's ch g Gleaming, 6yrs, 3sec, W Warren 2.
J Jarden's blk h Birdwood, 6yrs, 5sec, B Jarden 3.

Lord Minto 1sec, Sengod 2sec, Emilius 2sec snd Chid 2sec coupled, Our Girl 3sec, Gold Girl 4sec and All Bell 4sec also started.

Dillonwood started very smartly and led by several lengths from Gleaming, Birdwood, Gold Girl and Sungod. Passing the stand the field closed on the leader, and going down the back Gleaming took second place. In the straight Gleaming was almost on terms with Dillonwood, but in a great finish the latter won by a length, the third horse being four lengths away. Lord Minto was fourth. Times - 2m 46, 2m 44 1/5s, 2m 47 4/5s

Credit: The Press 10 November 1920

RACING HISTORY FEATURE RACE COMMENT

1920 SPRING MEETING: THURSDAY 11 NOVEMBER

After the rain of the previous day the weather cleared yesterday for the second day of the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club's Spring Meeting at Addington.

The day proved exceedingly enjoyable, the bright sunshine being tempered by a pleasant breeze, and for what may be considered an off day there was a very large attendance. Lady Jellicoe was present for a good portion of the afternoon.

The track was heavy at the start of the day's racing, and though ir was improving all the time, it was slow in comparison with the conditions experienced on the first day. The sport was again of a very high standard, and some very meritorious performances were registered. The totalisator investments showed a big increase, the figures for the day being £76,986, as compared with £58,748 on the second day last year.

A feature of the day was the success achieved by the well-known reinsman, J McLennan, who followed up his three wins on the first day by scoring three more victories, and with Legacy's win in the Metropolitan Handicap he returned the biggest dividend of the Meeting.

The Whiteleigh Handicap, with which the programme opened, brought out a field of eleven trotters, Ben Bell, Patard and Parkfield being the best backed. Parkfield began well, but a bad break settled his chance a long way from home. Ben Bell, with J McLennan in the saddle, trotted a solid race, and though Marvin Junr threatened danger, he broke under pressure, and the favourite won comfortably.

King Karri and Bill Brown were prominent in the early stages of the Railway Handicap, and at the end of two furlongs they were joined by Our Chum. Birdwood put in a strong run along the back stretch, had the measure of the leaders before reaching the straight and won in good style.

The bracketed pair, Emilius and Erin's Queen, were made favourites for the Courtenay Handicap, with Lord Minto and Albert Cling next in demand. Erin's Queen caused some delay at the start by rearing up and falling, but suffered no injuries. Rangitata Lass broke at the start and took practically no part in the race. Vice-Admiral and Lord Minto were rsponsible for the pace for the greater part of the journey, but the latter stopped badly in the final stages.

Reta Peter was going well until she broke in the last lap and lost a lot of ground. Half a mile from home Albert Cling showed a brilliant turn of speed, that quickly carried him past the field and he won with something in hand. The trotter Whispering Willie put up a good performance and Sherwood, as on the first day, stayed on well, but lacked dash at the finish. It was a fine performance on the part of Albert Cling, indicating that had he got away well he would have been hard to beat in the New Zealand Cup.

The November Handicap brought out a field of fourteen, but the real bisiness of the race was confined to four or five of the competitors. Guy Dillon was always one of the leaders and staying on well he beat The Gunner, who showed a lot of pace but broke in the straight. Guynemer was made a strong favourite for the Metropolitan Handicap, and paced solidly throughout, but in a hard finish was defeated by Legacy, whose final effort was well sustained. Legacy won the Riccarton Handicap on the first day after the majority of the field in that event had met with mishaps, and the public had evidently disregarded that performance for yesterday he paid a very high price.

Chid was withdrawn from the Free-For-All, for which Author Dillon was naturally made an odds on favorite. Although he was last away the favourite ran past his field at the end of two furlongs, and after that the issue was never in doubt. His victory was greeted with hearty cheers and applause.

J Bryce had three representatives - Whisht, Bluewood and Paul Huon in the Sockburn Handicap for unhoppled trotters, and they carried a lot of money, but the only one to secure a place was Paul Huon, who finished third. The Aucklander, Gold Boy, drew clear in the last lap and won in very convincing style from Billy Parole.

The Royal Handicap, which concluded the day's card produced a capital finish. Sungod took charge a couple of furlongs from home, but failed to see the distance out, and General Link, finishing very strongly, scored by a length from Dillonwood, who beat Sungod on the post for second place. The following are details of the racing:-

WHITELEIGH HANDICAP (in saddle) of 300 sovs; second 60, third 40. For unhoppled trotters. 4.55 class. 3m.

A Pettigrew's b g Ben Bell by Bellman-Miss Collingwood, aged, 7sec, J McLennan 1.
D Sutherland's br h Marvin Junr, aged, 6sec, A Pringle 2.
C R Hadfield's br g, Koraki, aged, scr, Owner 3.

Mushroom 2sec, Rita Rose 4sec, Treasure Seeker 6sec, Marama Girl 7sec, Parkfield 7sec, Rothmoor 8sec, Arcadian 9sec and Patard 9sec also started.

Parkfield, Treasure Seeker, Patard and Marvin Junr formed the leading division over the first mile, with Ben Bell handy. In the concluding curcuit Ben Bell and Marvin Junr drew out, and entered the home stretch on terms. Marvin Junr broke two furlongs from home, and Ben Bell won easily by three lengths. Marvin Junr quickly settled down and got up in time to beat Koraki by two lengths for second place. Patard was fourth. Times - 4m 59s, 4m 58 2/5s, 4m 52 4/5s.

RAILWAY HANDICAP (in saddle) of 800 sovs; second 60, third 40. 2.17 class. 1m.

J Jarden's blk h Birdwood by Wildwood Jnr-Wattle, 6yrs, 2sec, B Jarden 1.
F Watt's b g Bill Brown, aged, 4sec, D Withers 2.
A C Watson's b g Our Chum, aged, 2sec, R Humphreys 3.

Huon Patch scr coupled with Birdwood, Zavier 1sec, Frank Tracey 2sec, Lord Dillon 3sec, Locanda Dillon 3sec, Granger 3sec, Joyful 3sec, Bundong 3sec and King Karri 4sec also started.

Our Chum was quickest to begin, but was soon replaced by King Karri, who, with Bill Brown, led past the stand and out of the straight, with Locanda Dillon and King Karri following. Going down the back Birdwood put in a fast run, and coming into the straight was on terms with Bill Brown. Birdwood held his own to the finish, and won by two lengths from Bill Brown, who was a similar distance in front of Our Chum. Locanda Dillon was fourth and Frank Tracey fifth. Times - 2m 16 3/5s, 2m 18 4/5s, 2m 18 1/5s.

COURTENAY HANDICAP (in harness) of 1000 sovs; second 200, third 125, fourth 75. 4.35 class. 2m.

M J Hannon's br g Albert Cling by Young McKinney-Embrace, 6yrs, 9sec, J McLennan 1.
Mrs F C Allington's b g Whispering Willie, aged, 12sec, R E Mills 2.
S G Lemon's blk g Sherwood, aged, 8sec, F Holmes Jnr 3.

Edwards & Humphrey's blk g Vice-Admiral, aged, 11sec M Edwards
F H Robson's b m Reta Peter, aged, 8sec, A G Wilson
W B Masham's br h Emilius, aged, 9sec J Bryce
J D Parker's ch m Erin's Queen, aged 10sec coupled with Emilius, J Bryce Junr
T Roe's gr m Steel Bell, aged, 10sec, S J Roe
A Finlayson's b h Mintson, aged, 10sec, N L Price
P McNeill's blk g Lord Minto, aged, 11sec, A Butterfield
T H Ivey's b m Rangitata Lass, 6yrs, 12sec, F E Jones

Lord Minto struck his gait very smartly, and at once led from Vice-Admiral, Whispering Willie and Erin's Queen, while Rangitata Lass stopped on the mark. Lord Minto carried on the running for the next circuit with Vice-Admiral, Steel Bell, Whispering Willie and Emilius following in that order, Reta Peter and Sherwood running just in front of Albert Cling, who was last. Reta Peter broke going out of the straight, and Albert Cling gradually improved his position. Going down the back the last time he put in a great run, which brought him on terms with the leaders before entering the straight. Once in front he easily held his position, and won by a clear length from Whispering Willie, who was a similar distance in front of Sherwood. Vice-Admiral was fourth and Steel Beel fifth. Times - 4m 36s, 4m 39 2/5s, 4m 35 3/5

NOVEMBER HANDICAP (in saddle) of 400 sovs; second 100, third 50. Class 4.46, 2m.

C E Lindsay's b g Guy Dillon by Harold Dillon-Coin, aged, 9sec, F Holmes jun 1.
W D Cowie's br g The Gunner, aged, 6sec, R Humphries 2.
G Reed's b g Silver Shoe, aged, 5sec, O Reed 3.

Rewanui 4sec, Peter Mac 5sec, Acushla Machree 5sec, Goldstream 5sec and Bridgewood 7sec coupled, Albert Wallace 6sec, Marie Lloyd 7sec, Wild Pedo 8sec, Prince Burlington 8sec, Lindetta 9sec and Voter 9sec also started.

Lindetta made the early running, but broke, and Guy Dillon went out in front with Prince Burlington. In thi final round The Gunner put in a good run, and took the lead, but Guy Dillon came again in the straight, and won by a length and a half, Silver Shoe being four lengths away third. Times - 4m 40 1/5s, 4m 37 3/5s, 4m 40s.

METROPOLITAN HANDICAP (in harness) of 500 sovs; second 125, third 75. Class 3.47. 1m 5f.

R McLeod's b g Legacy by Rothsshild-The Gift, aged, scr, J McLennan 1.
J Farrell's b g Guynemer, 6yrs, 5sec, E McDermott 2.
W D McLeod b g Royal Stepp, aged, 1sec, F E Jones 3.

Sympathy scr, All Bell 2sec and Hayseed 5sec coupled, Mako Mako 2sec, Rorke's Drift 2sec, Ouimet 2sec, Nabob 3sec, Lochnagar 3sec, Greta 3sec, The Whip 4sec, Marie Tempest 5sec and Pleasant Mount 5sec also started.

Guynemer was in front going past the stand, Pleasant Mount, Marie Tempest and Greta following in that order. The leaders were the same for the whole of the first round, but in the second lap Royal Step and Legacy put in good work, and came into the straight on terms with Guynemer. A great race to the post ended in Legacy winning by a neck from Guynemer, Royal Step being a neck away in third place. All Bell was a long way back in fourth place. Times - 3m 40 3/5s, 3m 45 4/5s, 3m 42s.

FREE-FOR-ALL (in harness) of 500 sovs; second 125,third 75. Flying start. 1m.

Executors J Knight's b h Author Dillon by Harold Dillon-Authoress, aged, B Jarden 1.
W H Norton's b m Trix Pointer by Demonio-Bally Pointer, aged, F Holmes 2.
Cross Bros & J Bryce's br h Matchlight by Four Chimes-Bay Belle, aged, J Bryce 3.

Mrs T L Morrison's b h Cello Sydney Wilkes by Harold Dillon-Cremona Wilkes, aged, A Pringle
Fleming & Wootton's b g Dean Dillon by Harold Dillon-Ivy Dean, aged, A Fleming

Author Dillon lost a couple of lengths at the start, while Trix Pointer commenced smartly and led the field over the first furlong, with Cello Sydney Wilkes second, and Matchlight next. Before the stand was reached Author Dillon had made up his leeway, and was on terms with Trix Pointer going out of the straight, assuming the lead going down the back stretch. He entered the straight a length in front of Trix Pointer, and held his advantage to the finish, Matchlight being a length further away third, with Dean Dillon next. Times - 2m 11 3/5s, 2m 11 4/5s, 2m 12s.

SOCKBURN HANDICAP (in harness) of 500 sovs; second 125, third 75. For unhoppled trotters. 4.46 class. 2m.

T Roe's b g Gold Boy by Gold Bell-Berlin Maid, aged, 15sec, Owner 1.
J C Whiteman's b g Billy Parole, aged, 17sec, F Holmes 2.
J C Clarkson's b h Paul Huon, aged, 17sec, A Pringle 3.

Whisht 10sec and Bluewood 10sec coupled with Paul Huon, Theseus 12sec, Olive L 13sec, Bon Patch 14sec, Michael Galindo 15sec, Electrocute 16sec, and Harold Child 16sec also started.

Michael Galindo and Harold Child were the early leaders, but the latter broke, and Michael Galindo and Billy Parole carried on the running from Olive L and Gold Boy. The last named took the lead at the tanks, and never gave anything else a chance, winning easily by six lengths from Billy Parole, who was a length in front of the fast finishing Paul Huon. Times - 4m 38 2/5s, 4m 42 3/5s, 4m 42 4/5s.

ROYAL HANDICAP (in harness) of 500 sovs; second 125, third 75. 2.48 class. 1 1/4m.

Miss N Gunn's b g General Link by General Mac-Imperialwood, aged, scr, A Butterfield 1.
J C Whiteman's b g Dillonwood, aged, 1sec, F Holmes jun 2.
F H Robson's b h Sungod, aged, 2sec, A G Wilson 3.

Emperor 2sec coupled with Dillonwood, Willie Lincoln 2sec, Maoriland 3sec, Nancy Stair 3sec, Paul Dufault 3sec, Our Girl 3sec, and All Bell 4sec also started.

All Bell led in the early stages from Our Girl and Sungod. In the back stretch Sungod raced to the front, but General Link put in a good run, and assuming command in the straight, won by a length and a half. Dillonwood was half a length in front of Sungod. Willie Lincoln was fourth, and Paul Dufault fifth. Times - 2m 45 2/5s,2m 46 4/5s, 2m 48s.

Credit: The Press 12 November 1920

RACING HISTORY FEATURE RACE COMMENT

1920 SPRING MEETING: FRIDAY 12 NOVEMBER

It was unfortunate that the weather should have proved so unfavourable for the concluding day of the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club's Spring Meeting at Addington. When the day's racing began, a cold southerly win was blowing, and before the Christchurch Handicap was decided a steady rain had set in which quickly made the track very heavy. The weather afterwards cleared for a while, but before the close of the afternoon more rain fell, and the conditions generally were anything but enjoyable.

In spite of all drawbacks there was a large attendance, and the totalisator investments showed an increase, the total for the day being £91,813 10s, as compared with £83,684 10s on the third day last year, the total for the Meeting being £259,076, as against £218,723 10s last November.

The sport was again of a very high standard, and some of the performances registered were so meritorious as to make it plain that under favourable conditions previous records would have gone by the board. The reinsmen's honours yesterday went to F Holmes jun, who scored three wins, and with three victories during the previous days equalled J McLennan's total of six for the Meeting.

The Christchurch Handicap, the fastest class two mile race of the afternoon, was run while the weather and track conditions were at their worst, but it produced one of the best finishes seen on the course. Author Dillon unfortunately anticipated his bell, and his driver pulled him up. Two furlongs from home eight of the twelve starters were racing in close order, and Sherwood, finishing in very determined style, won by a neck from Matchlight, who was only a head in front of Steel Bell, with Albert Cling another neck away fourth. Albert Cling showed a brilliant turn of speed going out of the straight for the last time, but he had to cover a lot of extra ground, and the effort proved too much for him in the final stages. One of the surprises of the race was the excellent showing of Steel Bell, who was running on in great style at the finish.

The Dominion Trotting Handicap, the most valuable race of the year for unhoppled trotters, brought out a good field of fourteen free-legged horses, but as a contest it was rather disappointing. The Auckland owned and trained Gold Boy, who had won the Sockburn Handicap the previous day, quickly gathered up his field and won in very decisive fashion. Belmont Chimes, one of the Australian horses in J Bryce's stable, showed a lot of pace, but did not go at all steadily. The New Zealand Cup winner, Reta Peter, began badly and had no chance of making up her handicap.

The Hornby Handicap was notable for the collapse of Hayseed, who entered the straight with such a lead that it seemed almost impossible for him to be beaten. However, he broke badly and refused to settle down again, and Locanda Dillon won comfortably, while Greta, who was bracketed with the winner, finished strongly and secured second place, the result being that only one dividend was paid.

The concluding event of the Meeting was responsible for a great display of enthusiasm, aroused by the brilliant performance of Author Dillon. Although he had a field of twelve horses in front of him, and in spite of a rather slow beginning, the scatch horse paced in such faultless style that he had the race practically won when the straight was reached. The margin in his favour was not a very big one, but his victory was nevertheless very decisive, and on a slow track, compelled to cover so much ground to pass his field, Author Dillon's performance in registering 2min 11 1/5th sec for the mile amply justifies his claim to be regarded as the most brilliant horse New Zealand has seen. Details of the racing are :-

GOVERNOR'S HANDICAP (in harness) of 300 sovs; second 60, third 40. For unhoppled trotters. 4.2 class. 1m 5f.

R T Day's blk m Wahinepai by Proudchild-Pride of Burwood, 5yrs, 8sec, J Wright 1.
K H Smith's br m Lady Linwood, aged, 8sec, C Smith 2.
R S Borland'd ch g Eruption, aged, 2sec, R W Franks 3.

Marvin Jnr 2sec, Effie Bingen 4sec, Parkfield 5sec, Overrate 5sec, Patard 7sec, Succory 7sec, Pieter Timmerman 8sec, Waiwera 8sec and Agnes W 8sec also started.

Lady Linwood refused to settle down at the start, and galloped for half a mile, losing little ground, and Waiwera, Succory, and Wahinepai carried on the running. Wahinepai assumed command in the second circuit, and Lady Linwood, Eruption and Effie Bingen made up ground. Succory broke badly, and Wahinepai led into the straight from Lady Linwood. A good race to the post ended in a win for Wahinepai by half a length, with Eruption four lengths away third. Waiwera was fourth. Times - 3m 52 1/5s, 3m 52 2/5s, 3m 49 3/5s.

ENFIELD HANDICAP (in saddle) of 350 sovs; second 75, third 50. 2.16 class. 1m.

J R Corrigan's b g Xavier by Albert Chevalier, aged, 2sec, J Bryce jun 1.
T E Tarbotton's b g Joyful, aged, 5sec, E McDermott 2.
R Logan's blk g Captain Stanley, aged, 3sec, J McLennan 3.

Lord Minto 1sec, Dillonwood 1sec, Huon Patch 2sec, Rorke's Drift 3sec, Mintson 3sec, Nancy Stair 3sec, Trooper Dillon 5sec coupled with Xavier, Our Chum 4sec, Lord Dillon 5sec, and Bill Brown 5sec also started.

Bill Brown, Our Chum and Lord Dillon broke up at the start, and Joyful went away with a six length lead of Xavier, Nancy Stair and Stanley. Joyful still held command at the tanks, but gave way in the straight to Xavier, who went on to win by two lengths, Captain Stanley being three lengths away in third place. Times - 2m 12 4/5s, 2m 15 1/5s, 2m 13 3/5s

CHRISTCHURCH HANDICAP (in harness) of 1000 sovs; second 200, third 125, fourth 75. 4.34 class. 2m.

S G Lemon's blk g Sherwood by Kerrwood-Jessie B, aged, 8sec, F Holmes jun 1.
Cross Bros and J Bryce's br h Matchlight, aged, 5sec, J Bryce 2.
T Roe's gr m Steel Bell, aged, 10sec, S G Roe 3.
M J Hannon's br g Albert Cling, 6yrs, 6sec, J McLennan 4.
Exors J Knight's b h Author Dillon, aged, scr, B Jarden.
W H Norton's b m Trix Pointer, aged, 6sec coupled with Sherwood, F Holmes.
Miss N Gunn's b g General Link, aged, 6sec, A Butterfield.
Fleming & Wootton's b g Dean Dillon, aged, 8sec, A Fleming.
W B Masham's br h Emilius, aged, 9sec coupled with Matchlight, J Bryce jun.
Iles & Young's b g Willie Lincoln, aged, 9sec, J Clark
Edwards & Humphrey's blk g Vice-Admiral, aged, 11sec, M Edwards.
T H Ivey's b m Rangitata Lass, 6yrs, 11sec, F E Jones

Author Dillon went before his bell and was called off. Vice-Admiral commenced smartly, and going past the tanks was showing out in front, with Rangitata Lass, the next being Steel Bell, Willie Lincoln, Dean Dillon, Sherwood and General Link. Albert Cling ran to the leaders in the next circuit, with Sherwood following. General Link then made a forward move, closely attended by Trix Pointer. As the stand was reached a second time Albert Cling held command, closely attended by Rangitata Lass, Dean Dillon and Sherwood, while Matchlight had run into a good position. At the tanks Albert Cling led, and came into the straight a length ahead of Sherwood, with Matchlight travelling fast. Once in the straight a great race ensued. Sherwood and Matchlight, in the centre of the field, drew level with Albert Cling, and fifty yards from the post Steel Bell joined issue. All were being hard driven, and as the judge's box was reached Sherwood had a neck advantage of Matchlight, Steel Bell being a head away third and Albert Cling a neck further away in fourth place. Times - 4m 39 3/5s, 4m 36 4/5s, 4m 42s.

AUSTRALASIAN HANDICAP (in saddle) of 500 sovs; second 125, third 75. 4.44 class. 2m.

G Reed's b g Silver Shoe by Silver Ribbon-Coolgardie, aged, 11sec, O Reed 1.
J W Lewis's b h Peter Mac, aged, 12sec A Butterfield 2.
J Norris's b g Gladeye, aged, 14sec, J Messervey jun 3.

Captain Stanley 7sec, Granger 8 sec and Coldstream 12 sec coupled, The Gunner 9sec, Dandy Chimes 9sec, Rorke's Drift 10sec, Rewanui 11sec, Acushla Machree 12sec and Albert Wallace 12sec also started.

Peter Mac lost ground at the start, and Gladeye and Albert Wallace led the field, with Acushla Machree, Silver Shoe, Coldstream, and Peter Mac following in that order. In the second round Peter Mac took command, and piloted the field into the back stretch, and past the tanks, where Silver Shoe moved up. A good race in the straight between Silver Shoe, Peter Mac, and Gladeye saw the first-named win by two lengths with Gladeye a similar distance away third. Rorke's Drift was fourth. Times - 4m 49s, 4m 50 2/5s, 4m 52 4/5s.

DOMINION TROTTING HANDICAP (in harness) of 1000 sovs; second 200, third 100, fourth 75. For unhoppled trotters. 4.45 class. 2m.

T Roe's b g Gold Boy by Gold Bell-Berlin Maid, aged 7sec Owner 1.
F Johnston's br h Belmont Chimes, aged, 15sec, J Bryce 2.
Watkins & Cox's b g Red Heather, aged, 9sec A Cox 3.

J R Corrigan's b g Whisht, aged 10sec coupled with Belmont Chimes and Paul Huon, J Bryce jun 4.
F H Robson's b m Reta Peter, aged, scr, A G Wilson.
Mrs F C Allington's b g Whispering Willie, aged, 4sec, R E Mills.
Edwards & Humphrey's b h Homeleigh Dick, aged 7sec M Edwards.
W G Ives's b g Theseus, aged, 12sec coupled with Red Heather, G Gaskill.
J C Clarkson b h Paul Huon, aged, 5sec coupled with Whisht and Belmont Chimes, A Pringle.
Mrs J Lawrence's br m Olive L, aged, 13sec, E McDermott.
E Bowes's ch g Master Raymond, aged, 18sec, A Butterfield.
J Porters b h Bon Patch, aged, 14sec J McLennan.
R J Tasker's b h Michael Galindo, aged, 15sec, C Tasker.
J C Whiteman's b g Billy Parole, aged, 15sec F Holmes.
J Leslie's b g Electrocute, aged, 16sec J Wright.

Whispering Willie and Reta Peter lost ground at the start, and Michael Galindo led by twenty lengths from Belmont Chimes and Theseus, with the rest strung out. Michael Galindo went on in the lead for a circuit, with Gold Boy in a good position, and Belmont Chimes, Theseus and Red Heather following in that order. Gold Boy assumed command before commencing the final round, and retained it for the rest of the journey, winning by six lengths from Belmont Chimes, who was two lengths in front of Red Heather. Whisht being close up fourth. Times- 4m 39s, 4m 48 4/5s, 4m 40 4/5s.

HORNBY HANDICAP (in harness) of 500 sovs; second 125, third 75. 2.52 class. 1 1/4m.

H Allen's b g Locanda Dillon by Brent Locanda-Ivy Dillon, 5yrs, 4sec, F Holmes jnr 1.
W H Norton's b m Greta 6yrs, 4sec coupled with Locanda Dillon, F Holmes 2.
F Johnston's br g Duke Whips, aged, 4sec, J Bryce 3.

Letitia 4sec, Mako Mako 4sec, Grange 4sec, Irvar 4sec, Bundong 4sec, Nabob 5sec, Hayseed 6sec and The Whip 6sec also started.

After a false start Hayseed went off in front, and led until entering the straight, with Locanda Dillon in second position. In the home run Hayseed appeared to be winning easily, but he broke a hundred yards from the post, and Locanda Dillon went on to win easily by three lengths. Up to the time Hayseed broke the race appeared to have little interest for the rest of the competitors, but then a wild scramble ensued for second place. F Holmes sen was handy with Greta, and landed her past the post, a length in front of Duke Whips. Times - 2m 53 2/5s,2m 55s, 2m 55 1/5s.

LYTTELTON HANDICAP (in harness) of 600 sovs; second 150, third 75. 4.38 class. 2m.

G Steele's br g Asturio by Harold Dillon-Archangel, aged, 5sec, F Holmes jun 1.
Yates & McTaggart's b g Paul Dufault, aged, 6sec, A Butterfield 2.
W R L Pascoe's ch g Silver Nut, aged, 4sec E McDermott 3.

Man o' War scr and Maoriland 6sec coupled, Gleaming 5sec coupled with Asturio, Sympathy 5sec, Partner 6sec, G M Dillon 6sec, and Brown's Nugget 8sec also started.

Paul Dufault was quickest away, and soon had a good lead of the field, of which Maoriland was at the lead. Paul Dufault carried on the running for a round, with Maoriland at the head of the others. Partner went off in front in the next circuit, and looked a certain winner, but he broke badly, and Asturio went on to win nicely by three lengths, with Silver Nut six lengths away. Partner was fourth. Times - 4m 39 3/5s,4m 41 3/5s, 4m 21 2/5s.
RECOVERY HANDICAP (in harness) of 600 sovs; second 150, third 75. 2.14 class. 1m.

Executors J Knight's b h Author Dillon by Harold Dillon-Authoress, aged, scr, B Jarden 1.
Iles & Young's b g Willie Lincoln, aged, 4sec J Clarke 2.
Paton & Fleming's blk g All Bell, 5yrs, 5sec, A Fleming 3.

Trix Pointer 2sec, General Link 2sec, Albert Cling 2sec, Lord Minto 3sec, Capriccio 3sec, Chid 4sec and Maoriland 5sec coupled, Sungod 4sec, Birdwood 4sec coupled with Author Dillon, and Our Girl 5sec also started.

All Bell went off in front with Our Girl and Sungod in close attendance. All Bell was in command in the straight, but failed to withstand the strong challenges thrown out by Author Dillon and Willie Lincoln, the former winning by a head, while All Bell was a neck away in third place. Times - 2m 11 1/5s, 2m 15 2/5s, 2m 16 3/5s.

Credit: The Press 13 November 1920

RACING HISTORY FEATURE RACE COMMENT

1920 NEW ZEALAND TROTTING CUP

Reta Peter achieved a remarkable feat when she beat 11 pacers, even allowing for the fact that she received a head start of nine seconds over Author Dillon and beat him by less than a length.

Confirming her status as the best trotter bred in New Zealand up to that time, Reta Peter outfinished most of the rest off almost level marks.

She was one of the outsiders to achieve this, but returned to a rousing reception from the appreciative crowd. Reta Peter then attempted to add the 1000 sovereign Dominion at the meeting, but a 16 second handicap proved a little too much to overcome.

**Credit: NZ HRWeekly 1Oct2003**

Seventh favourite Reta Peter, the only trotter in the field, finished brilliantly to edge out General Link and Author Dillon to win the 1920 New Zealand Cup.

Reta Peter, regarded as the best trotter bred in New Zealand to that time, was the second of her gait to win the Cup. Monte Carlo was the other. Although one of the outsiders in the 12-horse field, and paying a dividend of £20 11s, Reta Peter and driver Alf Wilson were given a great reception from the big crowd when they returned to the birdcage after covering the two miles in 4:30.4. Patrons were quick to recognise the merit of the mare's performance in beating such a strong field. In the previous 12 months, five horses - Reta Peter (who had achieved a record 4:31.6 for trotters), Cello Sydney Wilkes, Dean Dillon, General Link and Hal Junior - had qualified for Cup class. It became evident, however, that several of the 18 nominated would not make the starting post. Oinako and Agathos were early withdrawals, then John Dillon broke down, Cello Sydney Wilkes fell on the road while training and cut a knee, Hal Junior went amiss, and Moneymaker was pulled out on the eve of the race. John McLennan's Albert Cling was race favourite, with the James Bryce pair of Matchlight and Erin's Queen also strongly supported, but neither trainer had any joy. Albert Cling lost his chance when he broke badly at the start and the Bryce pair were outclassed.

Reta Peter's assignment against the top pacers was always considered difficult, even though Author Dillon was asked to give a nine-second start to the front four and, indeed, a huge start to all his rivals. The confidence of owner Frank Robson and trainer-driver Alf Wilson, who had his stables at New Brighton, was never misplaced in Petereta's seven-year-old daughter. Dean Dillon failed to begin smartly and Albert Cling broke, but the remainder of the field went away at their correct bells. Wilson had Reta Peter close up all the way, following the early leader Willie Lincoln and just in behind Erin's Queen, Mintson, General Link, Sherwood and Dean Dillon. General Link raced into the lead in the back straight the last time, pursued by Author Dillon, and the pair entered the home straight, waging a vigorous battle. Reta Peter then appeared and got up to win by a half-length from General Link, with Author Dillon a neck away third. Then came Sherwood, Erin's Queen, Willie Lincoln and Mintson.

Robson bred Reta Peter from his own mare, Tot Huon. The imported Petereta stood at Robert McMillan's Santa Rosa stud at Halswell for a fee of £10 10s. Reta Peter had her early education from Addington trainer Arthur Cox. She had several trainers before Robson asked Alf Wilson, who had just returned from the war, to take her in. She immediately impressed Wilson, whose association with harness racing went back to Addington's early days. He had driven Factory Boy in the inaugural NZ Cup in 1904 and Reta Peter was his sixth Cup drive. Reta Peter won three races for Wilson at two miles against the trotters in the 1919-1920 season, prompting Robson and Wilson to set their sights on the NZ Cup.

Runner-up General Link improved his time considerably, while Author Dillon, who came into the straight only a length behind him looked the winner, felt the strain in the last furlong. He had to run an Australasian record of 4:21.8 for his placing, beating Admiral Wood's record. Author Dillon's run deserved a better fate. Earlier in the season, he had won a treble at the August meeting, taking the International and King George Handicaps and the prestigious National Cup.

Reta Peter was made a warm favourite for the Dominion Handicap on the third day, a race that offered the trotters their first 1000 sovereign stake. However, she disappointed her connectioms, and army of supporters, by beginning badly from the back mark and had no chance of making up her handicap. The Auckland-owned and trained gelding Gold Boy, from 16 seconds, ran out an easy winner. The previous day Gold Boy had won the Sockburn Handicap.

Author Dillon made it a hat-trick of wins in the Free-For-All, taking this race without difficulty from four rivals, Trix Pointer, Matchlight, Cello Sydney Wilkes and Dean Dillon. Author Dillon started in the Christchurch Handicap on the third day, but Ben Jarden anticipated his bell and had to pull Author Dillon out of the race. The combination made amends later in the day, winning the aptly-titled Recovery Handicap, raced over a mile.

Albert Cling, the beaten favourite in the Cup, and the youngest horse in the race at six years, won the Courtney Handicap, also raced on the third day. His driver, John McLennan, and 18-year-old James Bryce junior(Erin's Queen) had first NZ Cup experiences. Bryce remains the youngest to drive in a NZ Cup. McLennan never won the NZ Cup, but he had a memorable meeting at Addington in 1920, driving three winners on both the second and third days, F G Holmes also drove six winners at the meeting, so between them they won half the three-day programme.

The totalisator handled £90,296 on Cup Day and betting on the big race rose almost as dramatically, to £20,506. Show Day reached a new peak for Addington of £91,814, and the three-day total was a record £259,076. the 1920 Show Day record turnover remained intact for 22 years and the record total turnover was not exceeded until 1943.

The outstanding driving feat of the season was achieved by Harry Gaskill who drove an unprecedented six winners on the same day at Greymouth in April 1920. It was 16 years before this feat was equalled.

Ben Jarden and John McLennan, with 25 wins each, shared the season's driving honours and for the sixth consecutive season, James Bryce was the top trainer, with 21 wins.

**Credit: Bernie Wood writing in The Cup**

RACING HISTORY FEATURE RACE COMMENT

ALF WILSON - RETA PETER 1920

We usually rate great drives on the final stages of a race but now and again it is won at the other end. Such was the case with the last trotter to win the Cup, the dual winner Reta Peter(by Petereta) in the 1920's.

She had been around the traps before breeder/owner Frank Robson persuaded First World War survivor Alf Wilson to take her over. She often went better against the pacers than trotters, and in 1919 after such a win, they decided to go for the Cup.

It helped that the handicapper had crucified the champion, Author Dillon, who had to concede the equivalent of 100m. Not everyone was convinced. "If Reta Peter could begin properly she could place in the New Zealand Cup," wrote one scribe. "But she won't. Don't waste your money." Brave words.

She went out 7th favourite though the crowd gave the little trotting mare a great reception. True, Reta Peter was always vulnerable in the first 100m while she got balanced. Wilson's velvet hands, getting her into third early, was the winning of the race. From there she did it quite easily.

She was awarded first place the following year on owner Robson's protest after his mare was checked near the finish by Sherwood who was first past the post. Controversial that.

TRIVIA FACT: Robson went from Linwood to a farm in Lincoln with his Cup winnings. Wilson found a 'freak' young trotter called Kawhaki, who won the Trotting Stakes by a country mile. Taken to Auckland he dropped dead on the training track. Wilson rated him the best trotter he trained. Some call, considering he had had one which won two NZ Cups!

Credit: David McCarthy writing in Harnessed Oct 2016

CLUB HISTORY

CPTC.
The Club wrote to the owners of the by-products works at Sockburn complaining about the smell from its operations sweeping across the course on race days.

Credit: CPTC: Centennial History