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PEOPLE

 

YEAR: 1957

MR W L PARKINSON

Mr W L Parkinson, a well-known figure in the light-harness sport in Canterbury over a lengthy period, died in Christchurch last week after a long illness.

Mr Parkinson took an early interest in galloping but changed later in trotting, in which department he met with considerable success. One of the best pacers to carry his colours was Clockwork, who held the mile and a half record for several years. Another outstanding pacer raced by Mr Parkinson was Ferry Post, who was considered by many to be the best horse he owned, but unsoundness cut short Ferry Post's career. In more recent years, Mr Parkinson raced the champion 2-year-old, Vivanti, who took almost everything before her at that age, including the NZ Sapling Stakes. Other pacers and trotters to do good service for Mr Parkinson were Steel King, Good Review, Kapeen and Beehive. On his Kaiapoi property, Mr Parkinson also bred several pacers and trotters.

Apart from his interest in trotting, Mr Parkinson was one of the best known stock dealers in the South Island and started dealing at an early age. Born at Saltwater Creek, Mr Parkinson started buying and selling cattle as a boy. By the time he went to World War I, he was a familiar figure at the Addington Saleyards. He celebrated his eighteenth birthday in Egypt and on his return from overseas he resumed his dealing in stock.

Mr Parkinson was one of the most popular figures on racecourses around Canterbury especially, and his delightful sense of humour endeared him to all who new him. Mr Parkinson was 59 and is survived by his wife.

Credit: NZ Trotting Calendar 6Mar57



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