CLICK HERE TO GO BACK

1916 SPRING MEETING: FRIDAY 10 NOVEMBER

The New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club's Spring Meeting was concluded yesterday in fine weather, for after a dull morning the sun shone out before mid-day, and with a cool breeze blowing the conditions were much more pleasant than those experienced on Thursday.

The attendance was very good, though the totalisator investments showed a slight decrease, the figures for the day being £45,247, as compared with £48,278 10s, making the total for the three days £118,790, as against £125,342.

The racing yesterday was exceptionally interesting, and the management was in all respects in keeping with the high standard that has been so long associated with the Metropolitan Club's fixtures.

The most important race on the card yesterday was the Christchurch Handicap, which brought out a field of thirteen starters, Steel Bell being the only scratching. The bracketed pair, Prince Berlin and Admiral Wood, were very solidly backed, but the actual favourite was Erin's King. The race was an interesting one. Capriccio was responsible for the pace in the early stages, but found herself outpaced at the finish. She was passed by Emilius at the turn near the tanks, and after an investigation the stewards, acting on the report of the chief stipendiary steward, Mr T H Davey, came to the conclusion that R McDonnell, the driver of Emilius, had been at fault in crossing Capriccio before having the necessary lead. Emilius was therefore disqualified, and Erin's King was awarded first place with Capriccio second, and Admiral Wood third.

A feature of the day's racing was the form shown in the two-mile saddle races by A Pringle, who won the Governor's Handicap on Treasure Seeker, and the Australasian Handicap on Bellflower. The former event was confined to trotters, and Pringle rode a very well-judged race. In the Australasian Handicap he had to meet a field of very smart pacers, but had the result in safe keeping a good way from home.

Hardy Wilkes, the only trotter engaged in the Victoria Handicap, of two miles and a quarter, put up a very good performance in that event, as he took the lead early and won comfortably from Huon Drift. The form shown by Hardy Wilkes in this event gained him a lot of support for the Dominion Trotting Handicap, but in the latter race he refused to settle to his work properly. Lady Wilminton began well and trotted without a mistake, but Whispering Willie, who was well driven by J Bryce, had too much pace for her at the finish, and won in good style.

The Enfield Handicap, the mile saddle race, produced a very good finish between Mintson, St Ursula and Author Dillon, but in the Recovery Handicap, in harness, Dillon Bell was in front all the way, and stayed long enough to win by two lengths from Eccentric. The following are details of the racing:-

GOVERNOR'S HANDICAP (in saddle) of 200 sovs; second horse 40 sovs and third 20 sovs from stake. 4.55 or better. Two miles.

F Holmes's b g Treasure Seeker by Rothschild, aged, 30yds (A Pringle) 1
J H Power's blk g Wild Tree, aged, 30yds (E McDermott) 2
H A Lloyd's b g King Capitalist, aged, 60yds (M Edwards) 3

Macwood scr, Jessie's Dream 20yds, Mokau 20yds, Imperial Crown 40yds, Eruption 50yds, Commander Bell 110yds also started.

Treasure Seeker was quickly out in front, and at the end of half a mile was followed by Wild Tree, Jessie's Dream and King Capitalist, who were racing in close order. Going out of the straight Jessie's Dream dropped back and King Capitalist went on in third place. Treasure Seeker, Wild Tree and King Capitalist drew away from the rest of the field, and the first-named going without a mistake, while the other two broke, won by a couple of lengths. King Capitalist was a length away third, followed some lengths back by Commander Bell and Jessie's Dream. Time, 4min 47sec.

VICTORIA HANDICAP (in harness) of 350 sovs; second horse 70 sovs and third 35 sovs from stake. 5.24 or better. Two miles and a quarter.

J Fleming's b h Hardy Wilkes by Marvin Wilkes-Doris M, 6yrs 30yds (A Fleming) 1
R J Munro's ch g Huon Drift, aged 80yds (Owner) 2
N Edwards's b h Wallace Wood, aged, 120yds (Owner) 3

Paul Huon scr, Proud Girl 10yds, Galindo Lou 20yds, and The Bronzewing 20yds also started. (Galindo Lou and The Bronzewing were bracketed).

The front division were slow to begin, while Huon Drift got away well. Hardy Wilkes settled down quickly, and before a lap had been covered was in the lead, followed by The Bronzewing. Huon Drift was running third at the end of six fulongs, Hardy Wilkes then being well clear of The Bronzewing. There was no change in the order of this trio over the next lap, but six furlongs from home The Bronzewing was tiring, and a little further on Huon Drift ran into second place. Hardy Wilkes, however, was still going along comfortably in the lead, and Huon Drift could make no impression on him over the final stages, the favourite winning by eight lengths. Wallace Wood was about twenty yards away third, with Paul Huon fourth and The Bronzewing next. Time, 5min 19sec.

CHRISTCHURCH HANDICAP (in harness) of 750 sovs; second horse 150 sovs and third 75 sovs from the stake. 4.38 or better. Two miles.

J D Parker's b h Erin's King by Hal Zolock-BJN, 5yrs, 48yds (A Hendricksen) 1
E McDermott's b m Capriccio, 5yrs, 12yds (Owner) 2
Mrs A Seymour's b h Admiral Wood, 5yrs, 109yds (F Holmes) 3
R McDonnell's b h Emilius, 5yrs, 36yds (Owner) disq

G Booker's ch h Oinako, 5yrs, scr (R W Franks)
I M Thompson's br m Brown Bell, aged, 24yds (L O Thomas)
W H Young's b m St Ursula, 6yrs, 24yds (A Fleming)
J G S Holmes's b g Moneymaker, 6yrs, 36yds (A Pringle)
B Shadbolt's br h Hal Zolock, aged, 36yds (D Nyhan)
J Farrell's b h St Kevin, aged, 36yds (J Brankin)
H W Kitchingham's b h Jingle, aged, (H Gaskell)
Holland Bros' br g Prince Berlin, aged, 48yds (J Bryce)
J Henderson's b g Tommy C, aged, 72yds (R Reay)
(Prince Berlin and Admiral Wood were bracketed)

Oinako refused to leave the mark, and St Kevin and Tommy C also lost their chances at the start. Capriccio went away well and at the end of half a mile she was showing the way to Emilius, Brown Bell, Erin's King, St Ursula and Moneymaker. They raced practically in that order over the next circuit, and with a lap to go Capriccio still held command from Emilius, after whom came Moneymaker, St Ursula, Brown Bell and Erin's King, with Admiral Wood moving up fast on the outside. Going along the back Emilius was closing on Capriccio and at the tanks he headed her and quickly took the inside running. Racing for the straight Erin's King passed Cappriccio, but could not reach Emilius, who beat him home by three lengths. Capriccio was a similiar distance back in third place, followed by Admiral Wood, Moneymaker, and Prince Berlin. Time, 4min 33 2/5th sec.
Subsequently Emilius was disqualified for crossing Capriccio at the turn near the tanks, and first place was awardsed to Erin's King, with Capriccio second and Admiral Wood third.

AUSTRALASIAN HANDICAP (in saddle) of 300 sovs; second 60 sovs and third 30 sovs from stake. 4.45 or better. Two miles.

J Hamilton's br m Bellflower by Bellman, aged, 70yds (A Pringle) 1
J B Thomson's b m Soda, 6yrs, 90yds (F E Jones) 2
Black & Steele's blk g Irvingwood, 10yds (A Butterfield) 3

OIC 20yds, Lindetta 20yds, Young Tohu 30yds, Agathos 30yds, Disappear 30yds, Submarine 70yds, Ariadne 70yds and Stanley's Child 90yds also started.

Irvingwood, Lindetta and Agathos made the early running, but at the end of half a mile Bellflower was in front, with Agathos, Irvingwood, Lindetta and Ariadne next. In the second mile Ariadne made up his ground fast, and at the tanks had taken second place behind Bellflower. With a lap to go Bellflower was leading from Ariadne, Irvingwood and Soda. Ariadne dropped out over the last half mile, and Soda and Irvingwood raced on terms half a dozen lengths behind Bellflower. The favourite was not seriously troubled in the run home, and won by four lengths from Soda, who was a neck in front of Irvingwood. Stanley's Child was a poor fourth, and then came Submarine and Ariadne. Time 4min 38 2/5th sec.

DOMINION TROTTING HANDICAP (in harness) of 600 sovs; second horse 120 sovs and third 60 sovs from the stake. For unhoppled trotters. 4.46 or better. Two miles.

C Allington's b g Whispering Willie by Woodland Whistere-Gossip, 6yrs, scr (J Bryce) 1
F J McCammon's b m Lady Wilmington, aged, scr (M Edwards) 2
E E Cuneen's br g Galician, aged, 10yds (A Hendricksen) 3

Truganini scr, Blackthorn scr, Red Heather 10yds, Hardy Wilkes 10yds & 40yds penalty, Rummy 10yds, Olive L 20yds, Commander Bell 30yds, Quincey 40yds, Master Raymond 50yds and Electrocute 60yds also started.
(Blackthorn and Lady Wilmington were bracketed)

Galician, Lady Wilmington, Whispering Willie, Truganini and Red Heather was the order passing the stand the first time, and there was little change on the next lap. Lady Wilmington was well clear of the others six furlongs from home, and in the back stretch she had a good lead from Galician and Whispering Willie. The last-named broke and lost a good deal of ground, Lady Wilmington apparently having the race in her keeping. Whispering Willie, however, was soon into his stride again, and finishing with a great burst of speed, beat Lady Wilmington by a couple of lengths. Galician was ten lengths away, followed by Red Heather, Truganini an Quincey. Time, 4min 45 2/5th sec.

HORNBY HANDICAP (in harness) of 250 sovs; second horse 50 sovs and third 25 sovs from the stake. 2.55 or better. One mile and a quarter.

J Brankin's b g General Link by General Mac-Imperialwood, 6yrs, scr (Owner) 1
M Edward's b m Adelaide Direct, aged, 84yds (Owner) 2
J Parkinson's b h Sungod, 5yrs, 24yds (E McCann) 3

Sinoda scr, Louie Drift scr, Nance O'Neill scr, Brown's Nuggett 24yds, Sir Fulham 24yds, Bright 24yds, Mountain Rose 36yds, Havoc 36yds, Ben Dillon 36yds, Childsdale 48yds and Succeed 48yds also started. (Brown's Nugget and Sir Fulham were bracketed)

Of the limit division General Link was quickest to begin, and at the end of half a mile he had Sinoda and Sir Fulham as his nearest attendants. General Link was out with a big lead in the back stretch, where Adelaide Direct was improving her position fast. Turning for home Adelaide Direct had run into second place, but could not reach General Link, who won by three lengths. Sungod was six lengths away third followed by Sir Fulham, Nance O'Neill and Succeed. Time, 2min 54 4/5th sec.

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

Mrs A Seymour's b h Mintson by Papanui-Mint, 5yrs, 36yds (H Frost) 1
W H Young's br m St Ursula, 6yrs, 12yds (R W Franks) 2
J Knight's b h Author Dillon, 4yrs, 12yds (B Jarden) 3

Franzalena scr, Little Tib scr, Cromstall 12yds, Dalwhinnie scr, Desdemona scr, Red Mac scr, Frandocia 24yds, St Kevin 48yds, Solo 48yds also started. (Little Tib and Cromstall were bracketed)

Desdemona began smartly, and passing the stand had Author Dillon and Red Mac in close attendance. Going out of the straight St Kevin was closing on the leaders, and in the back stretch had taken fourth place, but soon dropped back beaten. Author Dillon, St Ursula and Desdemona were racing in close order when the straight was reached, but over the last hundred yards Mintson came with a strong run, and won by a bare length from St Ursula, who was three-parts of a length in front of Author Dillon. Desdemona was fourth, Little Tib fifth, Solo sixth and Cronstall next. Time, 2min 15 1/5th sec.

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

M Edwards's b h Dillon Bell by Harold Dillon-Wild Belle, aged, scr (Owner) 1
R T Reid's gr g Eccentric, aged, 24yds (J Brankin) 2
J D Piper's b h Jewel Chimes, aged, scr (D Nyhan) 3

Steel Bell scr, Author Dillon scr, Frank Tracey 12yds, Rena Pointer 12yds, Sherwood 12yds and Don Caesar 24yds also started.

Dillon Bell jumped away smartly, being followed past the stand by Frank Tracey, Eccentric and Jewel Chimes. Dillon Bell kept the lead, and though he was tiring at the finish, won by two lengths from Eccentric, who was the same distance in front of Jewel Chimes. Sherwood was fourth, and Frank Tracey fifth. Time, 2min 17sec.

Credit: The Press 11 Nov 1916

1916 SPRING MEETING: THURSDAY 9 NOVEMBER

The New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club's Spring Meeting as continued at Addington yesterday in fine but windy weather. A strong nor'-west wind was blowing during the early part of the afternoon, raising an unpleasant amount of dust and though towards the close the breeze was veering towards the south-west and the atmosphere was somewhat cooler, the afternoon was not a particularly pleasant one.

Those who saw the wreckage of the steward's stand after Tuesday's fire were amazed to see what had been done in the brief interval to make the ground floor and balcony available for the officials and their guests, riders and drivers, and members of the Press. All the debris had been cleared away, temporary door and fittings erected, and screens of tarpaulin and canvas were used in place of walls and ceilings. The officers were enabled to proceed with their work with comparatively little inconvenience and as the balcony itself was prectically uninjured those entitled to use it had their customary good view of the racing. The transformation effected by the big gang of men who set to work on Wednesday at daylight, under the direction of Messrs Luttrell Bros, was little short of marvellous.

The attendance was very good, and the track was in capital order though naturally somewhat dusty. The totalisator investments were £36,109 10s. as compared with £36,813 on the second day last year. There was some very interesting racing, the Free For Allbeing an especially attractive feature of the programme.

The Whiteleigh Handicap which opened the proceedings, found backers somewhat at fault as the bracketed pair - Albertoria and Huia - who were made favourites, were never dangerous. Rummy was early in a good position and a lap from home had a useful lead, but he was tiring at the finish, and in the hands of a less capable horseman than A Pringle would probably have been beaten.

The November Handicap was responsible for a fine performance on the part of Capriccio, who had run into third place with a lap to go, and, finishing very well won nicely in the fast time of 4min 37 3/5sec. Irvingwood, whom as second, gave his best performance to date.

Oinako and Jewel Chimes were withdrawn from the Courtenay Handicap, for which the Australian-owned Black Eric was made favourite, with Hal Zolock and Moneymaker next in demand. Moneymaker led practically all the way, and won without any great difficulty from Hal Zolock and Frandocia. Black Eric was going exceedingly well when he broke down and had to be pulled up coming into the straight the second time. Emilius was showing a good turn of speed when he left his feet and dropped back into the ruck.

J Bryce's bracketed pair - Raeburn and Colmena - carried most money in the Metropolitan Handicap. Nordica was responsible for most of the pace but she was tiring at the finish, and Colmena, putting in a strong run over the last two furlongs caught her at the top of the straight and won rather comfortably, while in a punishing finish Sinoda beat Nordica for second place.

J Bryce supplied the favourites in the Free For All also, Admiral Wood and Cathedral Chimes being very solidly supported. Eccentric beginning very smartly, piloted the field in the early stages, but then dropped back and the finish was fought out between Admiral Wood and Cathedral Chimes, the former winning by three-parts of a length.

In a useful field of trotters that contested the Sockburn Handicap, Lord Roanchild was made favourite, but shaped disappointingly. Norval King settled to his work well and though he had had enough at the finish he beat El Carbine by a good three lengths. The latter showed a lot of pace, but a couple of breaks caused him to lose a good deal of ground, and probably cost him the race.

Law Chimes was one of the smartest to begin in the Railway Handicap, and she won comfortably from Quincey Maid, who was putting in good work at the finish. John Dillon owed his victory in the Royal Handicap to the fact that he began so well and had such a good lead in the early stages of the race, for he was stopping badly at the finish, while Mintson was running on well. The following are details of the racing:-

WHITELEIGH HANDICAP (in saddle) of 200 sovs; second 40 sovs and third 20 sovs from stake. For unhoppled trotters. 5.58 or better. Two miles.

A Redcliff's b g Rummy by General Pet-Kentucky mare, aged, 70yds (A Pringle) 1
A Gallagher's b m Jessie's Dream, aged, scr (Owner) 2
W T Lowe's ch m Commander Bell, aged, 100yds, scr (T Annett) 3

Havana scr, Maungatui scr, Albertoria scr and Huia 70yds(coupled), Parkfield 20yds, Macwood 20yds, Bow Bell 20yds, Mokau 50yds, Miss Salisbury 60yds and Chub 60yds also started.

The front division were rather slow to begin and the back-markers soon closed on them. Passing the stand the first time, Jessie's Dream was leading from Macwood, Rummy, and Miss Salisbury, with Albertoria and Commander Bell at the head of the rest. Going along the back, Rummy and Jessie's Dream were together, with Commander Bell next. A lap from home Rummy had a good lead from Jessie's Dream and Commander Bell, the latter losing ground by breaking. These three had the race to themselves, and though Rummy was tiring at the finish, he lasted long enough to win by a length from Jessie's Dream, who beat Commander Bell by half a length. Macwood was some distance back fourth, with Bow Bell and Maungatui next. Time, 4min 45sec.

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

E McDermott's b m Capriccio by OYM-Cappadocia, 5yrs, 50yds (Owner) 1.
Black & Steele's blk g Irvingwood, aged, scr (A Butterfield) 2.
G Hunter's b g Moorland, 6yrs, 10yds (E Redmond) 3.

Galindo Lou scr and The Bronzewing 10yds(coupled), Waitchie 30yds(coupled with Moorland), Hannah M 10yds, Granger 20yds, Yarraville 30yds and Submarine 90yds also started.

Irvingwood, The Bronzewing and Moorland were the leaders passing the stand, with Galindo Lou next. There was not much change during the next circuit, and six furlongs from home, Moorland and Irvingwood were on terms, but Capricco had moved up into third place. The Bronzewing and Yarraville following. Along the back Moorland and Irvingwood were racing together about four lengths clear of Capriccio, but turning towards the straight, Capriccio closed on the leaders, and in a good race home drew away, and won by three lengths. Irvingwood was three-parts of a length in front of Moorland with The Bronzewing twelve lengths back fourth, and Yarraville and Granger next. Time, 4min 37 3/5th sec.

COURTENAY HANDICAP (in harness) of 600 sovs; second 120 sovs and third 60 sovs from stake. 4.39 or better. Two miles.

J G S Holmes's b g Moneymaker by Rothschild-Cocoanut, 6yrs, 12yds (A Pringle) 1
B Shadbolt's br h Hal Zolock, aged, 36yds (A Hendricksen) 2
Hall & Black's b g Frandocia, aged, 36yds (N L Price) 3

R Tasker's ch g Gearge Hard, aged, scr (Owner)
R J Munro's ch g Huon Drift, aged, scr (Owner)
R Byer's b g Black Eric, aged, 36yds (Owner)
R G C Munro's b m Stanley's Child, aged, 36yds (Owner)
W H Young's b m St Ursula, 6yrs, 36yds (Owner)
W D Lemon's blk g Sherwood, 6yrs, 48yds (J Brankin)
J Lecky's blk h Manderene, aged, 48yds (Owner)
R McDonnell's b h Emilius, 5yrs, 48yds (Owner)
T Roe's gr m Steel Bell, aged, 60yds (H Kinnimont)

Huon Drift stood on the mark till his chance was hopeless, while Moneymaker, Black Eric, Hal Zolock and Emilius went away smartly. Passing the stand the first time Moneymaker was followed by Black Eric, Emilius and Manderene, with Frandocia and Sherwood next. In the back stretch Emilius headed Black Eric, who broke down, and had to be pulled up in the straight, where Stanley's Child fell. With a lap to go Moneymaker, Hal Zolock, Frandocia, Manderene and Sherwood was the order, Emilius having broken and lost his place. Over the final circuit Moneymaker held his advantage and won comfortably by six lengths from Hal Zolock, Frandocia was four lengths away, followed by St Ursula, Sherwood ans Emilius. Time, 4min 37sec.

METROPOLITAN HANDICAP of 250 sovs; second horse 50 sovs and third 25 sovs from the stake. 3.33 or better. One mile and a half.

F Johnston's ch g Colmena by Dictator, aged, 50yds (R Dunn) 1
J C Whiteman's b m Sinoda, 5yrs, scr (F Holmes) 2
W B Masham's br m Nordica, 6yrs, scr (N L Price) 3

Nance O'Neil scr, Lucille scr, The Whip scr, Raeburn 10yds(coupled with Colmena), Irvar 10yds, General Link 10yds, Lindetta 20yds, Seychelles 20yds, Agathos 30yds and Ariadne 60yds also started.

Nordica and Irvar cut out the running for six furlongs, and entering the last lap Nordica was followed by Nance O'Neil, Irvar and Sinoda, with Raeburn moving up on the outside. Nordica led along the back and rounding the turn to the straight, but there the field closed up. Colmena, who put in a fast run from the tanks, drew out in the straight and won by four lengths, Sinoda beating Nordica by half a length for second place. Ariadne was fourth and Raeburn fifth. Time, 3min 28 2/5th sec.

FREE-FOR-ALL of 500 sovs; second horse 100 sovs and third 50 sovs from the stake. One mile and a quarter.

Mrs A Seymour's b h Admiral Wood by Wildwood Jnr-DIC, 6yrs (J Bryce) 1
J B Thomson's b h Cathedral Chimes, 5yrs (P Dunn) 2
J Henderson's b g Tommy C, aged (R Reay) 3

Eccentric, Don Caesar and Adelaide Direct also started.
(Admiral Wood and Cathedral Chimes were bracketed).

At the third attempt, the six starters were got away in a very fair line, but Adelaide Direct skipped almost at once and dropped back. Eccentric, as usual, began smartly, and over the first two furlongs was closely followed by Don Caesar and Cathedral Chimes. Eccentric still lead six furlongs from home, but Cathedral Chimes had run into second place, while Admiral Wood was moving up on the outside, and Don Caesar was in a rather awkward postion next to the rails. Eccentric showed the way round the turn to the back stretch, but there Cathedral Chimes ran to the front, and Admiral Wood took second place. This pair had the race to themselves. Admiral Wood outpacing Cathedral Chimes in the run home, and winning by three-parts of a length. Tommy C was three lengths away third, with Don Caesar fourth, Adelaide Direct next and Eccentric last. Time, 2min 45sec.

SOCKBURN HANDICAP (in harness) of 350 sovs; second horse 70 sovs and third 35 sovs from stake. 4.48 of better. Two miles.

A Quigley's b h Norval King by Norval-Golden Mary, 6yrs, 10yds (E McDermott) 1
J Porter's br h El Carbine, aged, 30yds (A Pringle) 2
N L Price's b h Imperial Crown, aged, scr (Owner) 3

Paul Huon scr, Lord Roanchild scr, Flamingo scr Blackthorn 20yds, Truganini 20yds, Quincey 60yds, and Electrocute 80yds also started.

Flamingo, Norval King and Imperial Crown made the early running with Lord Roanchild and El Carbine next. At the end of a mile El Carbine had run into third place, and six furlongs from home he was in second place behind Norval King, but broke and lost ground. Norval King and El Carbine drew clear of the rest of the field over the last half-mile, and they were on terms turning for home, but El Carbine broke again, and Norval King beat him home by three lengths. Imperial Crown was six lengths away, followed by Flamingo, Quincey and Truganini. Time, 4min 49sec.

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

W E Simes's b m Law Chimes by Abbey Bells-Jewel's Heiress, aged, scr (F Holmes jun) 1
W D Lemon's b m Quincey Maid, 6yrs, 24yds (H Frost) 2
J Parkinson's b h Sungod, 5yrs, scr (E McCann) 3

Lady Theckla scr, Ben Dillon 12yds, Bellis 24yds, Soda 48yds, Red Mac 24yds, Yarraville 24yds, Glendalough 24yds, Stanley's Child 24yds, Cromstall 36yds and Frandocia 48yds also started. (Quincey Maid and Soda were bracketed)

Lady Theckla stood on the mark, and Law Chimes and Sungod went away very smartly, this pair, with Quincey Maid next, being well clear of the others. Going along the back Quincey Maid ran into second place, but she could not reach Law Chimes, who won by three lengths. Sungod was a similar distance away third, with Soda fourth and Red Mac fifth. Time, 2min 17 4/5th sec.

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

A W Gordon's b h John Dillon by Harold Dillon-Lincoln Yet mare, 6yrs 12 yds (M Edwards) 1
Mrs A Seymour's b h Mintson, 5yrs, 36yds (J Bryce) 2
R Allan's br g Don Caesar, aged, 48yds (Owner) 3

Mountain Rose scr, Gold Bell scr, Havoc scr, Desdemona 12yds, Franzalena 12yds and Rena Pointer 36yds also started.(Mintson and Rena Pointer were bracketed)

John Dillon was quickly into his stride, and at the end of two furlongs was well clear of Havoc, Mintson, Rena Pointer and Don Caesar, who were racing in that order. Havoc dropped out before turning into the back stretch, and John Dillon went on with a commanding lead. He was tiring in the straight, but stayed on to win by three lengths from Mintson, who was a length in front of Don Caesar; Rena pointer ourth and Havoc fifth. Time, 2min 17 2/5th sec.




Credit: The Press 10 Nov 1916

1916 SPRING MEETING: TUESDAY 7 NOVEMBER

The opening of the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club's Spring Meeting of 1916, the most important trotting fixture of the season in the Dominion, will long be remembered by those who were present at Addington yesterday.

The Club's position as the premier organisation of its kind in New Zealand is unquestioned, and the Spring Meeting, which forms one of the strong attractions of Carnival week in Christchurch, helps to bring visitors from all parts of the Dominion. The attendance yesterday was thoroughly representative of both Islands, and though the weather was somewhat sultry at the start of proceedings, and a good deal of dust was flying, the enjoyment of the large crowd present did not seem to be materially affected. Everything promised well for a great day's sport. The appearance of the grounds spoke volumes for the care which had been bestowed upon them; the track was in capital order, and the fields engaged represented the best horses in commission.

Everything was going along swimmingly until after the second race, when it was discovered that the stewards' stand, the finest builing of its kind in the Dominion, was on fire, and as the services of the Fire Brigade could not be obtained until the position was hopeless, the stand was quite destroyed. The fire is referred to at length in another portion of this issue, and need not be dealt with here, but there were many expressions of regret at the destruction of a building which could easily have been saved had the Fire Board's regulations permitted the Brigade to be sent out earlier.

The building was still burning fiercely when the horses went out on the track for the big event of the year, the New Zealand Cup, but after consideration the stewards decided to postpone that event, which was set down to start at 1:50pm until 3:15pm by which time the fire had largely burnt itself out. The delay in the proceedings kept the last race back until just on 6:45pm, but the majority of the crowd stayed until the end, having had with their racing more excitement than they anticipated. Naturally, the business of the Meeting became somewhat disorganised, but the best possible was done under the circumstances, though the officials were at a disadvantage in having to carry out their duties in the weighing enclosure.

It was not surprising to find that the totalisator investments had been seriously affected, and the total at the end of the day was £37,433 10s, as compared with £48,278 10s on the first day last year. The racing generaly was full of interest, though once again the Cup race was largely spoilt by mishap. The distance system of starting came through the day's trial successfully.

****
...The totalisator investments at Addington on Tuesday did not show such a large falling-off as was at first thought. The total was £37,433 10s as compared with £40,251 10s on the first day last year, not £48,278 10s, the figure supplied to the Press representatives and published yesterday. The latter sum was the amount invested on the third day last year. The investments on the New Zealand Cup on Tuesday amounted to £10,529 10s, a record sum for that race.

The Press 9 Nov 1916

****

The Spring Handicap, which opened the proceedings, brought out a field of ten unhoppled trotters, Parkfield, Eruption and Albertoria being best backed. Parkfield was never dangerous, and though Eruption showed a lot of pace at different stages of the race, he could not reach the leading division. Albertoria began well, but found the distance a little beyond her, and Miss Salisbury, who went steadily throughout, won comfortably from Jessie's Dream, who, as usual, put in one or two breaks in the course of the race.

Hannah M was made favourite forthe Empire Handicap, a two-mile saddle race with Young Tohu and QuennnTracey next in demand. Young Tohu was quickly in a good position, and won with something to spare from Hannah M, who was ridden out to beat Irvingwood.

At this stage the racing was interrupted by the fire, and when the New Zealand Cup candidates took the field it was found that the back-marker, Our Thorpe, had been withdrawn. J Bryce's coupled pair, Cathedral Chimes and Admiral Wood, were made just a little better favourites than R McDonnell's bracket, Emilius and Evelyn, with Erin's King also solidly supported. St Ursula was fourth and Tommy C fifth in request, but there was a very big drop in the investments as compared with those on the three favourite selections. The field got away fairly well, though Frandocia did not begin kindly, and Emilius early spoilt his chance by breaking. Eccentric, always a qick beginner, made the most of the early running, and he was still in the leading division with a lap to go when he became concerned in the mishap that brought Succeed, Brown Bell and Erin's King to grief. The accident left Manderene momentarily in the lead, but he was soon overhauled by Cathedral Chimes, who, running out wide, had been lucky enough to escape the smash.

The Southland-owned horse quickly established a good lead and, after passing the half-mile post, had the result safe, winning comfortably in the fast time of 4min 31 1/5th sec. Evelyn left the mark well, and soon secured a good position but she was doing her best work at the finish to beat Admiral Wood, who was putting in solid work over the final stages, while Manderene ran a good race in fourth place. The accident robbed the race of a lot of it's interest, for just before he came to grief Erin's King was showing a fine turn of speed, and he would probably have kept the winner extended.

Cathedral Chimes scored a popular victory, and there was a good deal of cheering when the cup, given by the president of the club, Mr C Louisson, was presented to his driver, J Bryce. Cathedral Chimes, who was purchased at quite a moderate price by his present owner, Mr J B Thomson of Invercargill has proved a remarkably good investment for among his victories last season was the Auckland Cup, worth 700 sovs to the winner. He did not qualify for nomination for the New Zealand Cup until August last, whe he won the August Handicap at Addington in 4min 34sec. He was turned out in splendid condition by his trainer and driver, J Bryce, and the time registered for the two miles was only a fifth of a second outside the record for the race.

****

The extensive brick premises of Thompson and Co, wholesale merchants, were gutted by fire this morning. The bulk of the stock was destroyed, and only the walls remain. The insurance are £29,000, in the Guardian office. The loss is almost total.

Mr J B Thompson, owner of Cathedral Chimes, the winner of the New Zealand Cup, hurried through to Invercargill today, on account, on account of the fire which destroyed his firm's large premises.

The Press 9 Nov 1916

****

With the big race out of the way the Middleton Handicap, a two mile harness race for unhoppled trotters, claimed attention. Syrie and Eruption were withdrawn, and the coupled pair, Woodchild and Commander Bell received most support with El Carbine a good second favourite. The race was not a very exciting one for Olive L was quickly in front, and trotting very steadily throughout, she won nicely from El Carbine, who showed some great bursts of speed but lost ground by breaking at a critical time.

The Lyttelton Handicap furnished another victory for Mr J B Thomson, whose mare, Soda, paced solidly throughout, and beat Capriccio without much difficulty. Irvar ran a good race for over a mile and a half, but failed over the final stages and was beaten for third place by Oinako, who might have been closer up had he not broken in the straight. A protest entered by E McDermott, driver of Capriccio, against J Bryce, driver of Soda on the ground of interference was dimissed.

The smallest field of the day was that in th Riccarton Handicap, for which Author Dillon and Sir Fulham carried more than half the money invested. Sir Fulham quickly put himself out of court by breaking, and though Author Dillon, after beginning slowly, displayed a lot of speed over the last half-mile, he could not reach Sherwood, who had taken charge at the end of the first lap.

The mile races, which brought the programme to a close, were not particularly exciting events. In the saddle race, the St Albans Handicap, Ariadne was quickly out in front, and was never caught, winning easily from Quincey Maid. The Hagley Handicap, in harness, produced a similar result, for Rose Dillon led from the start, and lasted long enough to win by a couple of lengths from Colmena, who finished very well. The following are details of the racing:-

SPRING HANDICAP (in saddle) of 200 sovs; second horse 40 sovs and third 20 sovs from the stake. For unhoppled trotters only. 5.0 or better. Two miles.

Geo Paul's b m Miss Salisbury by Young Salisbury-Queenie, aged, 40yds (W Orange) 1
A Gallagher's b m Jessie's Dream, aged, scr (Owner) 2
Wickham Sister's b m Albertoria, 6yrs, 10yds (M Edwards)3

James Madison scr, Havana 10yds, Craibwood 30yds, Parkfield 40yds, Bow Bell 40yds, Mokau 70yds and Eruption 100yds also started

Havana would not leave the mark, but the others got away well. Jessie's Dream began smartly, and led for three furlongs, but at the stand Albertoria had taken charge, with Jessie's Dream, Miss Salisbury and James Madison next in order. Going along the back, Jessie's Dream and Miss Salisbury ran past Albertoria, and with a lap to go Miss Salisbury was in front, while Albertoria took second place from Jessie's Dream, who was not going very steadily. Over the final lap Miss Salisbury held her advantage, and won by six lengths from Jessie's Dream, who was four lengths in front of Albertoria. Bow Bell was fourth and James Madison fifth. Time, 4min 53 3/5th sec.

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

E Thompson's b g Young Tohu by Tohu-Colema, aged, 20yds (E McDermott) 1
M Moran's ch m Hannah M, scr (C Tasker) 2
Black & Steele's blk g Irvingwood, 5yrs, scr (A Butterfield) 3

Irvwin scr, Huia scr, Gold Drift scr, Queen Tracey 10yds, Sceptre 30yds, Galindo Lou 30yds, Moorland 40yds, Granger 50yds, Submarine 120yds & Bellflower 120yds also started.

Irvwin and Irvingwood were quickest to begin, and at the end of half a mile they were followed by Young Tohu and Sceptre, with Queen Tracey at the head of the rest. Going along the back, Irvwin broke, and Young Tohu took charge. A lap from home he has Sceptre and Irvingwood as his nearest attendants. Over the last half-mile Young Tohu drew away from the field. Hannah M and Huia being second and third as they passed the tanks. In the run home Young Tohu held his lead, and won comfortably by three lengths from Hannah M, who was two lengths in front of Irvingwood. Bellflower was fourth and Huia fifth. Time, 4min 43 2/5th sec.

NEW ZEALAND CUP HANDICAP (in harness) of 2500 sovs and silver cup; second horse 500 sovs, third 300 sovs and fourth 200 sovs from the stake. For horses that have done 4.36 or better. Two miles.

J B Thomson's b h Cathedral Chimes by Four Chimes-Jean Armour, 5yrs, 36yds (J Bryce) 1
R McDonnell's b m Evelyn by Rothschild-Imperialism, 6yrs, 24yds (A Pringle) 2
Mrs A M Seymour's b h Admiral Wood, 6yrs, 72yds (F Holmes) 3
J G Lecky's b h Manderene by Norval-Eland, scr (J Clarke) 4

I M Thompson's br m Brown Bell, aged, scr (W R Thomas)
S Chambers's ch m Succeed, aged, scr (L O Thomas)
R T Reid's gr g Eccentric, aged, scr (J Brankin)
Hall & Black's br g Frandocia, aged, scr (N L Price)
J D Piper's b h Jewel Chimes, aged, scr (D Nyhan)
W H Young's b m St Ursula, 6yrs, scr (A Fleming)
R McDonnell's b h Emilius, 5yrs, 12yds (Owner)
M Edwards's b h Wallace Wood, aged, 12yds (Owner)
H W Kitchingham's b h Jingle, aged, 24yds (H Gaskill)
T Roe's br m Steel Bell, aged, 24yds (H Kinnimont)
J D Parker's b h Erin's King, 5yrs, 24yds (A Hendricksen)
J Henderson's b g Tommy C, aged, 48yds (R Reay)
R Allen's br g Don Caesar, 6yrs, 84yds (Owner)
Manderene and Wallace Wood, Brown Bell and Succeed, Emilius and Evelyn, Catherdal Chimes and Admiral Wood were bracketed.

Frandocia did not begin well, and Eccentric, leaving the mark smartly, showed the way over the first two furlongs to Manderene, Succeed and Evelyn. Passing the stand the first time, Eccentric had a three lengths lead from Evelyn, after whom came Manderene, Succeed, St Ursula and Steel Bell, with Cathedral Chimes next, while Emilius broke badly and dropped to the rear. Turning to the back stretch, Eccentric was followed by Manderene, Evelyn, St Ursula, Steel Bell and then after a gap of three lengths came Catherdral Chimes, with Brown Bell and Erin's King next. Rounding the turn to the straight, there was not much change in positions, and entering the last lap Eccentric, Manderene, Cathedral Chimes, succeed, Evelyn and St Ursula were racing in close order, while Erin's King was putting in a good run on the rails. Just after passing the judge's box, Eccentric made a slight skip. Succeed ran into him, and Brown Bell and Erin's King also came down. This accident left Manderene in the lead, followed by Cathedral Chimes, Evelyn, and St Ursula, the quartette being well clear of the rest of the field. Half a mile from home Cathedral Chimes went to the front and won easily by six lengths from Evelyn who was two lengths in front of the fast-finishing Admiral Wood. Manderene was another two lengths away followed by Jewel Chimes, Frandocia, Wallace Wood and St Ursula. Time, 4min 31 1/5th sec

MIDDLETON HANDICAP (in harness) of 250 sovs; second horse 50 sovs and third 25 sovs from the stake. 4.52 or better. for unhoppled trotters. Two miles.

Mrs J Lawrence's br m Olive L, by Wallace L-Cissie Wood, 6yrs, 10yds (E Berry) 1
J Porter's br h El Carbine, aged, 20yds (A Pringle) 2
A Quigley's b h Norval King, 6yrs, 20yds (E McDermott) 3

Paul Huon scr, Miss Vivian 10yds, Treasure Seeker 10yds, Wild Tree 10yds, Flamingo 20yds, Imperial Crown 20yds, Woodchild 30yds, Commander Bell 50yds, Auckland Girl 40yds, Truganini 60yds, Galician 70yds, Quincey 100yds and Electrocute 120 yds also started.
Woodchild & Commander Bell were bracketed.

Olive L, Wild Tree and Flamingo were the leaders over the early stages, and with half a mile gone Olive L was three lenghts clear of Flamingo and Norval King, with Wild Tree and Miss Vivian next. Along the back, Norval King took second place behind Olive L who was still in charge six furlongs from home, while El Carbine was making up his ground fast. A break in the back stretch lost El Carbine a lot of ground, and though he finished well he broke again near the post, and Olive L won by four lengths. Norval King was eight lengths back, and then came Miss Vivian and Imperial Crown. Time, 4min 44 3/5th sec.

LYTTELTON HANDICAP (in harness) of 300 sovs; second horse 60 sovs and third 30 sovs from the stake. 4.45 or better. Two miles.

J B Thomson's b m Soda by Harold Dillon-Franca, 6yrs, 10yds (J Bryce) 1
E McDermott's b m Capriccio, 5yrs, 20yds (Owner) 2
G Booker's ch h Oinako, 5yrs, 60yds (R W Franks) 3

Waitchie 10yds, The Bronzewing scr, The Whip scr, Gold Crest scr, Irvar scr, Lindetta 10yds, Reggie Huon 20yds, Red Mac 40yds, Sir Fulham 50yds and Huon Drift 50yds also started.

Irvar and Lindetta showed the way past the stand where Sir Fulham had run into third place, but broke, and lost a lot of ground. Soda was closing on the leaders fast, and in the second circuit was just behind Irvar, who was still in front six furlongs from home. Irvar led along the back stretch, but before reaching the tanks Soda and Capriccio had run past him and a little further on Oinako took third place. Soda was first into the straight, and won by six lengths from Capriccio, who was eight lengths in front of Oinako, the latter breaking at the finish. Irvar was fourth, Lindetta fifth and The Whip next. Time, 4min 37 3/5th sec.

RICCARTON HANDICAP (in harness)of 350 sovs; second horse 70 sovs and third 35 sovs from the stake. 3.27 or better. One mile and a half.

W D Lemon's blk g Sherwood, by Kerrwood-Jessie B, 6yrs, 36yds (A Bright) 1
J Knight's b h Author Dillon, 4yrs, 30yds (B Jarden) 2
H Herrick's b g Persuader, aged, 48yds (J Bryce) 3

Sungod scr, Little Tib scr, Sir Fulham scr, Franzalena 12yds and Stanley's Child 36yds also started.

Sungod and Little Tib made the early running with Sir Fulham next, but the last-named, though showing a lot of pace, broke, and dropped right back. With half the distance covered, Sherwood had taken charge from Sungod, who was followed by Little Tib, Persuader and Author Dillon. Going along the back, Author Dillon put in a fast run, but though he cut down the others, he could not reach Sherwood, who won easily by six lengths. Persuader, who was eased up, was eight lengths back, just in front of Stanley's Child, with Sungod next. Time, 3min 26 1/5th sec.

ST ALBANS HANDICAP (in saddle) of 200 sovs; second horse 40 sovs and third 20 sovs from the stake. 2.20 or better. One mile.

Dalton & Forbes's b g Ariadne by Lord Althorpe-Sweedy, aged, scr (E Redman) 1
W D Lemon's b m Quincey Maid, 6yrs, scr (H Frost) 2
W E Simes's b m Law Chimes, aged, 24yds (F Holmes) 3

Quinaldine scr, Blackness scr, Rothanic scr, General Link scr, OIC 12yds, Dalwhinnie 48yds, Nance O'Neill scr, Bacchus 36yds, First Alarm scr, Seychelles 12yds, Promotion 12yds, Ottawa 12yds, Flora Tracey 12yds, Bellis 48yds also started.

Ariadne had a good lead before the field had gone a couple of furlongs, and he held his advantage throughout, winning by eight lengths from Quincey Maid, who was ten lengths in front of Law Chimes. Bellis was fourth and Ottawa fifth. Time 2min 14 3/5th sec

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

A Rice's ch m Rose Dillon by Harold Dillon, aged, scr (Owner) 1
F Johnston's ch g Colmena, aged, 12yds (R Dunn) 2
J Parkinson's b h Sungod, 5yrs, 12yds (E McCann) 3

Lady Theckla scr, The Whip scr, Seychelles scr, Louie Drift scr, Bright 12yds, Brown's Nugget 12yds, Mountain Rose 24yds, Ben Dillon 24yds and John Dillon 36yds also started.

Rose Dillon, beginning smartly, was four lengths clear of Seychelles as they passed the stand, Colmena being at the head of the others. Going along the back, Colmena moved up into second place, but Rose Dillon kept the lead, and won by a couple of lengths. Sungod was six lengths away third, just in front of Seychelles, with Mountain Rose next. Time, 2min 16 4/5th sec.

Credit: The Press 8 Nov 1916

Mushroom trotted very evenly right through the Spring Handicap, the opening event, of the Metropolitan meeting, and with Miss Salisbury breaking 100 yards from home, he won by a length.

Granger went before his bell in the Empire and was called off, and Frost, his rider, fined a tenner. He only wanted to go two seconds before his time, which was a bit over the odds.

Ouimet, when out in front in the Empire, broke badly, and settled what looked like a fair chance of success.

Schnapps trotted very solidly and beat Dillon Eddy by over a length in the Empire Handicap. The little fellow
was beatifully handled by E. McDermott.

Moneymaker began very quickly in the Trotting Cup, and always had a good break on his field till the last furlong, when Trix Pointer ran past him and won very easy.

John Dillon broke up at the start, and took no part in the Cup. Author Dillon seemed as if Jarden had got to the bottom of him, as at no part of the Cup did he ever flatter his large army of supporters, and was well beaten a mile from home. It should be mentioned he left 1 2-5s after his time. Matchlight appeared very sore in his preliminary, but it wore off, and he gave a real good showing, finishing third.


'Cello Sydney Wilkes and Dean Dillon showed a lot of pace in the last round of the Riccarton Handicap, and cleared out from the field, finishing in that order.
Admiral Wood plugged away, and passing a lot of tired horses, got the 40sovs for third in the Riccarton Handicap.

Beeswing, who went off at a great bat, put a big break on the field in the Middleton Handicap, but broke up badly at the five furlong post and was not prominent again. Imperial Crown stayed on well and beat Lady Patricia over the concluding stages of the Middleton Handicap.

Norah Creina and Capriccio stood on the mark, and took no part in the Victoria Handicap. Brown's Nugget showed a lot of pace in the middle stages of the Victoria Handicap, but failed to see it out. Dandy Chimes finished fast, and won the Victoria Handicap in good style. Gleaming trotted solidly all through the Victoria Handicap.

Birdwood dashed away, quickly at the start of the St. Alban's Handicap, and had the race won at the first quarter. He failed badly in his next essay.

Ivan Huon and Craibwood cleared out from the field over the last six furlongs of the Whiteleigh Handicap, and Orange, riding a very confident race on the former, won nicely. The judge could have had his lunch before Grattan Chimes arrived to gather the £25 for third m the Whiteleigh Handicap.

Granger was a hot order for the November, but never looked like assisting the punters to get their money back, as he could not get near the front at any part of the race. Harold Child, when looked to have the November Handicap won, stopped to a walk over the last few yards, and Acushla Machree just grabbed the big end of the purse. Rumor says the win was not anticipated by Owner John Farrell.

'Cello Sydney Wilkes had the Courtenay' Handicap well won a long way from home, and his driver took things leisurely in the straight. Emilius was very sore, and never had a winning show in the Courtenay Handicap.

Asturlo did not leave to his bell. He went a little way with the back markers, but then turned it up altogether. Cappricio just beat Gleaming over the last bit In the Metropolitan Handicap. Rorke's Drift trotted a fair race in the Metropolitan, and easing up Norah Creina, beat him for fourth place.

They went fairly fast in the Free for All — first quarter 32 2-5s, 1/2 mile 1.55, 3/4 mile 1.38 3-5s, mile 2.11 2-5s, 1 1/4 mile 2.44 4-5s. Author Dillon got a great reception on returning to the bird-cage after just outing Cathedral Chimes.

Paul Huon trotted a good race in the Sockburn, but Reta Peter was all too good, and beat him very comfortably over all the concluding stages.

Xavier, who did not leave the mark in the November Handicap, left smartly in the Railway Handicap, and
was in the picture till the last stride, heads only separating Cappricio, Pitaroa and him. Had Pitaroa not got knocked back near the tanks, there would have been no doubt about the result. Bob Reid, the Dunedin jockey who rode Pitaroa, got right through on the fence, and 'thought he' had won.

Miss Salisbury made a one-horse race of the Governor's Handicap, and carved a decent bit off her time. Billy Parole made a bad skip when he appeared to be going very well in the Governor's Handicap. Brown's Nugget had the Lyttelton Handicap well won when they had gone half-a-mile, and he never looked like being beaten.

'Cello Sydney Wilkes won the Christchurch Handicap (his fourth win at the meeting) just as easily as he did his other races. Handicapper Brinkman assessed him as the equal of Author Dillon in the last race. Emilius was very sore behind after the Christchurch Handicap, and did well to get third, just touching Erin's Queen off. The latter did not shape as well as she did in the Cup.

Granger was heavily supported for the Australasian Saddle Handicap, but he never got near the front division. Pitaroa, well-ridden by young Bob Reid, headed Silver Nut six furlongs from home in the Australasian Trot, and never putting a foot wrong, won nicely. His rider has a good idea of the game, and should get plenty of mounts.

Whist trotted solidly right through the Dominion Trotting Handicap, and won well over the last furlong. His success would get his owner square over a bad meeting. Gleaming had the Hornby Handicap won three furlongs from home. There was big money on the course to say he would win. General Link won the Enfield Handicap very easily. Like a lot of other winners he had J. McLellan on the bridge.

John Dillon showed a great burst of speed in the Recovery Handicap, but just failed to stall off a strong late run from Don Caesar. When Pitaroa got second place in the Enfield he put up 2.11 3-5s. This will be the end of the smallest horse m the Dominion for some time.

Xavier (A. Pringle) began very smartly in the Enfield Handicap, but he broke up badly in the straight. The big "skulls" thought Trix Pointer unbeatable in the concluding event, but she could not get up to John Dillon and Don Caesar, both of whom trotted well.

The conditions at Addington last week were well nigh unbearable, and it is high time the management studied the comfort of totalisator investors and put some sand and tar down to lay the dust. This should be done both inside and out. The cost would be a mere trifle to the comfort it would give the investing public.


Credit: 'Silenus' writing in NZ Truth 22 Nov 1919

1919 SPRING MEETING: FRIDAY 14 NOVEMBER

The New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club was favoured with fine weather throughout this week for its Spring Meeting, and although th early morning indications did not promise too well yeaterday for the final days racing, the Meeting was brought to a conclusion under excellent conditions.

There was a very strong easterly wind blowing during the early part of the afternoon, and the dust that it was raising made matters somewhat unpleasant, but later on the wind died down, and, with an improving track, some first-class performances were registered.

The attendance was admittedly the largest ever seen at Addington, and, big as was the crowd on Tuesday, the numbers yesterday were far greater, especially in the outside enclosure. The sport has indeed grown in popularity to an amazing degree, and the problem of finding accommodation for the crowds is one that will cause the authorities some serious thought.

With such a large attendance, it was not surprising to find the totalisator investments reaching record dimensions, and the figures registered, amounting to £83,684 10s are the highest yet reached at any Meeting in the Dominion, whether racing or trotting. The total on the corresponding day last year was £46,604 10s. This year the investments for the three days totalled £218,723 10s as compared with £136,643 10s twelve months ago.

From every point of view, the Meeting may be regarded as the most successful ever held at Addington, and the club's experienced secretary, Mr A I Rattray, was, together with the other responsible officials, deservedly congratulated on the results achieved.

Among yesterday's races the Governor's Handicap and the Australasian Handicap were won easily, but the other events produced really good contests, and the Dominion Trotting Handicap was an especially fine race. One of the features of the Meeting was the form shown by 'Cello Sydney Wilkes, and he demonstrated his capabilities in no uncertain fashion yesterday, when he won the Christchurch Handicap without the least difficulty, registering his fourth win during the three days. 'Cello Sydney Wilkes was driven by J McLennan, who scored another win later on during the afternoon on General Link, this horseman's record for the Meeting being six wins. It was a high-class field that 'Cello Sydney Wilkes beat, seven New Zealand Cup candidates being included, but the majority of them shaped disappointingly. Vice Admiral led most of the way, but, when it came to the final run he had no chance with the winner.

The Dominion Trotting Handicap, the most valuable race of the year for unhoppled trotters, brought out a field of thirteen, and in a fine race Whisht defeated King Capitalist, who would probably have won but for a break three furlongs from home. Gleaming won the Hornby Handicap in good style. Pax finished second, but he had started before his time, and his driver, F Holmes, was fined £5 for his offence. The Recovery Handicap, in which the Cup winner, Trix Pointer, made her appearance, aroused much interest. It was a fast-run race. After John Dillon appeared to have the result safe he stopped badly, and Don Caesar beat him home, Trix Pointer finishing third. Details of the racing are:-

GOVERNOR'S HANDICAP (in saddle) of 250 sovs; second 50 sovs, third 25 sovs. For unhoppled trotters. 4.54 class. Two miles.

W Orange's b m Miss Salisbury by Ypung Salisbury, aged, 6sec, Owner 1.
C Davey's ch g Colonel Havelock, aged, 7sec, H Gaskill 2.
S Cox's b g Te Kuiti, aged, 8sec, J Armstrong 3.

Gay Wilkes scr and Billy Parole 6sec bracketed, Mushroom 1sec, Haroldlander 2sec, Balnamoan 3sec, Grattan Chimes 4sec, Treasure Seeker 5sec, Craibwood 5sec, Ben Bell 7sec, Chub 8sec and Marvin Jun 9sec also started.

Balnamoan lost his chance by refusing to begin, whilst Chub went away smartest of the front division, and at the end of four furlongs was showing the way to Te Kuiti, Miss Salisbury and Colonel Havelock. Chub led throughout the second circuit, and though Miss Salisbury broke at the tanks, she was quickly into her stride again. Six furlongs from home Miss Salisbury had headed Chub, and a little further on Colonel Havelock ran into second place. He had no chance with Miss Salisbury who won by fifty yards. Colonel Havelock, who was eased up, was a dozen lengths in front of Te Kuiti, with Craibwood fourth and Mushroom fifth. Times; 4m 44s, 4m 51 3/5s, 4m 53s.

LYTTELTON HANDICAP (in harness) of 400 sovs; second 80 sovs, third 40 sovs. 4.40 class. Two miles.

Hall & Smith's b g Brown's Nugget by Harold Dillon-Woodthorpe Maid, aged, 5sec, W Smith 1.
A R Farrell's b m Cora Dillon, aged, 2sec, E McDermott 2.
L M Gregory's b m Sympathy, 6yrs, 3sec, M Edwards 3.

Nancy Stair 2sec, Hannah M 2sec, Jack Arrah 4sec, Norah Creina 4sec, Rorke's Drift 5sec, Joan of Arc 5sec and Legacy 6sec also started.

Norah Creina broke and was pulled up soon after ther start. Rorke's drift, Brown's Nugget, and Jack Arrah carried on the running past the stand and down the back. There was no change for a circuit excepting that Cora Dillon considerably improved her position, an Sympathy and Nancy Stair ran nearer the leaders. At the tanks Cora Dillon took scond place, but Brown's Nuggettled into the straight, and, continuing his run won very nicely by two lengths, with Sympathy four lengths away in third place, followed by Nancy Stair and Jack Arrah. Times; 4m 37 1/5s, 4m 35 1/5s, 4m 37 1/5s.

CHRISTCHURCH HANDICAP (in harness) of 750 sovs; second 150 sovs, third 75 sovs. 4.35 class. Two miles.

Mrs T L Morrison's b h Cello Sydney Wilkes by Harold Dillon-Cremona Wilkes, 6yrs, 6sec, J McLennan.
Edwards & Humphreys's blk g Vice-Admiral, 6yrs, 11sec, M Edwards 2.
W B Masham's br h Emilius, aged, 9sec, J Bryce 3.

N Green's b g Albert Cling, 4yrs, 5sec, A Hendricksen.
C Channing's br g Agathos, aged, 6sec, J Cockerill.
J Jarden's b h John Dillon, aged, 6sec, B Jarden.
S Lemon's blk g Sherwood, aged, 6sec, N L Price.
J D Parker's ch m Erin's Queen, aged, 8sec, A Fleming.
J G S Holmes's b g Moneymaker, aged, 8sec, A Pringle.
J Parkinson's b h Sungod, aged, 9sec F Holmes jun.
F H Robson's b h Mintson, aged, 9sec, A G Wilson.

Albert Cling was slow to move, and Vice-Admiral went off in front from Sungod, Mintson, Emilius and John Dillon. The order was the same for a curcuit, but then Cello Sydney Wilkes improved his position, and Albert Cling also made a forward move. Going down the back Vice-Admiral was still in front, with Erin's Queen next, and Emilius and Sungod following. At this stage Cello Sydney Wilkes, though well forward appeared to be in a bad position on the rails. McLennan found an opening, and taking full advantage of the horse's speed, shot to the front and led to the straight. Pacing in good style he passed the post an easy winner by three lengths from Vice-Admiral, who was five lengths ahead of Emilius. Erin's Queen was fourth, Mintson fifth and Albert Cling sixth. Times, 4m 29s; 4m 35 1/5s; 4m 34s.

AUSTRALASIAN HANDICAP (in saddle) of 350 sovs; second 70 sovs, third 35 sovs. 4.44 class. Two miles.

S Wootton's b g Pitaroa by Petereta-Aotea-Roa, 5yrs, 3sec, R C N Reed 1.
W R L Pascoe's ch g Silver Nut, 5yrs, 8sec, A Butterfield 2.
H Wedmore's b g Granger, aged, 3sec, H Frost 3.

Dandy Chimes 4sec, Sir Fulham 5sec, Schnapps 5sec, George Hard 6sec, Acushla Machree 7sec and Dillon Eddy 7sec also started.

Silver Nut went off very smartly, and soon had a lead of one hundred yards. Pitaroa also commenced well, and before reaching the straight was in second place. Pitaroa's rider indulged Silver Nut with the lead for a circuit, when he took his mount to the front, and from then on had the race in safe keeping. Pitaroa won very easily by six lengths, with the third horse ten lengths away. Dandy Chimes was fourth. Times, 4m 36 1/5s; 4m 44 4/5s; 4m 41 4/5s.

DOMINION TROTTING HANDICAP (in harness) of 600 sovs; second 120 sovs, third 60 sovs. For unhoppled trotters only. 4.45 class. Two miles.

J R Corrigan's b g Whisht by California-Hush, aged, 5sec, J Bryce 1.
A Smith's b g King Capitalist, aged, 6sec, H Barraclough 2.
J Leslie's b g Electrocute, aged, 9sec, J Wright 3.

F H Robson's b m Reta Peter, 6yrs, scr, A G Wilson.
Mrs F C Allington's b g Whispering Willie, aged, 1sec, J H Wilson.
G W Watkins & A Cox's b g Red Heather, aged, 5sec, A Cox.
N L Price's b h Imperial Crown, aged, 7sec, Owner.
A R Edgerton's ch g Lord Roanchild, aged, 8sec, A Butterfield.
Mrs J Lawrence's br m Olive L, aged, 8sec, E McDermott
J A Sligo's b g Gay Wilkes, aged, 9sec, F Holmes.
Houston & Wilson's b g Galician, aged, 9sec J Bryce jun.
C James's b h Paul Huon, aged, 10sec, Owner.
W J Moir's br m Lady Patricia, aged, 10sec, A Fleming.
Whisht and Galician were bracketed.

Olive L started unsteadily, and Lady Patricia took up the running from Galician, Gay Wilkes, Lord Roanchild and Whisht. This order was maintained for a round, but at the stand the second time Whisht was in front of Olive L, with Electrocute and Imperial Crown following. King Capitalist put in some great work in the last round, but mixed his gait at the turn into the straight, where Whisht led by several lengths. Whisht held his own in the run home, and won by a length. A great race for second place ended in King Capitalist beating Electrocute by a long neck. Olive L was fourth. Times, 4m 39s; 4m 40 2/5s; 4m 43 3/5s

HORNBY HANDICAP (in harness) of 300 sovs; second 60 sovs, third 30 sovs. 3.52 class. One mile and a quarter.

R J Stone's ch g Gleaming by Galindo-Arc Light, 6yrs 3sec, W Warren 1.
G Iles's ch m Perfect Day, aged, 5sec, A Fleming 2.
F Smith's b m Bundura, aged, 4sec, W Smith 3.
W E Simes's b g Pax, aged, 3sec, F Holmes, disq.

Frank Tracey 3sec, Mako Mako 3sec, Proudspring 4sec, Star Queen 4sec, Our Chum 5sec and Miss Rolfe bracketed 5sec also started.

Bundura, Perfect Day, Our Chum and Gleaming formed the leading division at the commencement of the race, while Proudspring broke and dropped back last. Bundura carried on the running for a mile, when Gleaming and Perfect Day ran past him. Gleaming assumed the lead in the straight, and eventually won by three lengths and a half, with Pax a long neck in front of Perfect Day and Our Chum. It subsequently transpired that Pax had started before his time and in consequence second money was awarded to Perfect Day. Bundura being placed third. Times, 2m 48 2/5s; 2m 51 1/5s.

ENFIELD HANDICAP (in saddle) of 275 sovs; second 54 sovs, third 27 sovs. 2.16 class. One mile.

Miss N Gunn's b g General Link by General Mac-Imperialwood, aged, 5sec, J McLennan 1.
S Wootton's b g Pitaroa, 5yrs, 3sec incl 2sec pen, R C N Reed 2.
H Anderson's b g Ariadne, aged, 4sec, H Frost 3.

Lord Minto scr, Huon Patch 1sec and Birdwood 4sec bracketed, Chid 3sec and Xavier 5sec bracketed, Tamarisk 4sec, Rorke's Drift 4sec and Bundong 4sec also started.

Xavier went off in the lead, followed by Bundong, Ariadne and Rorke's Drift. Xavier broke after going half a mile, and Ariadne led from Pitaroa. At the tanks General Link drew level with the leader, and led into the straight from Ariadne, Pitaroa and Bundong. Pitaroa threw out a strong challenge in the straight, but General Link held his own and won by a couple of lengths from Pitaroa, who was three lengths in front of Ariadne. Bundong was fourth. Times, 2m 13 1/5s, 2m 11 3/5s, 2m 14s.

RECOVERY HANDICAP (in harness) of 500 sovs; second 100 sovs, third 50 sovs. 2.48 class. One mile and a quarter.

A R Edgerton's b g Don Caesar by Prince Imperial-Maritana, aged, 5sec, A Butterfield 1.
J Jarden's b h John Dillon, aged, 4sec, B Jarden 2.
W H Norton's b m Trix Pointer, 6yrs, 4sec, F Holmes 3.

Admiral Wood 4sec bracketed with Trix Pointer, Capriccio 5sec, Moneymaker 6sec, Sashwood 6sec and Dean Dillon 7sec also started.

After a false start Dean Dillon went off in the lead, but Moneymaker immediately rushed to the front, and piloted the field round the top turn and down the straight, with Capriccio in second place, followed by Don Caesar and Sashwood. Going down the back John Dillon went to the front, and led into the straight. Half-way down the running Don Caesar came with a fast run, and beat John Dillon by a length, Trix Pointer finishing a couple of lengths away in third place, followed by Capriccio and Moneymaker. Times, 2m 42 2/5s; 2m 42s; 2m 43s.

Credit: The Press 15 November 1919

1919 SPRING MEETING: THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER

Delightful weather favoured the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club for the continuation of its Spring Meeting at Addington, yesterday, and a good day's sport was enjoyed. The attendance of the general public was highly satisfactory, and though the crowd was not nearly so dense as on the opening day, it represented a big increase on the numbers present on the second day in previous years. The track was in excellent order, and the liberal use of the water-carts minimised to a large extent the dust nuisance.

Although backers of favourites did not enjoy a great deal of success, there was evidently plenty of money for speculative purposes, the sum of £58,748 being put through the totalisator. Though this sum falls short of the first day's total, it is a big increase on the investments on the second day last year, when £37,947 10s was put through the machines. The management was all that could be desired, and the arrangements, which were in the hands of Mr A I Rattray, went with a swing from start to finish.

The Stipendiary Stewards had a cpmparatively easy day, and nothing of importance happened to occupy their attention. W Smith, driver of Rearguard was fined £5 for starting before his time in the Metropolitan Handicap, and for a similar breach on Xavier, in the November Handicap, J Bryce junr was fined £10.

The Free-For-All, though contested by a small field, provided a very interesting race, and when Author Dillon flashed past the post a length in front of Cathedral Chimes, he received a great ovation, and the cheering was renewed when the champion returned to the birdcage. Although the Harold Dillon horse had been a bit off colour since running in the New Zealand Cup on Tuesday, he finished in such a manner as to leave little doubt as to his superiority over the other competitors. He was well handled by B Jarden, and throughout the race had a length's advantage of J Bryce's horse. At the entrance to th straight Cathedral Chimes was pacing in a manner that left his admirers quite confident of the result, but, under pressure, Author Dillon showed plenty of pluck, which carried him to victory.

'Cello Sydney Wilkes put up two sterling performances in winning the Courtenay Handicap, of two miles, in 4min 34 1/5th sec, and the Royal Handicap, of one mile and a quarter, in 2min 44sec. In both races the son of Harold Dillon showed speed and stamina, and his exhibitions prove him to be one of the best horses in training at the present time. This marked the third win attained by 'Cello Sydney Wilkes at the meeting, and on each occasion he returned his supporters a sustantial dividend.

Another double winner was the OYM mare Capriccio, who finished first in the Hagley Handicap, of one mile and a quarter, on the opening day, but who was disqualified for galloping. Yesterday she made amends by winning the Metropolitan Handicap in harness, over one mile and five furlongs, and later in the afternoon annexed the Railway Handicap, in saddle. On each occasion E McDermott handled his charge in the most finished manner. Both J McLennan, who drove 'Cello Sydney Wilkes in each of his engagements, and also won on Acushla Machree, and E McDermott, received ovations from the crowd on returning to scale, McDermott's victories in particular being well received.

The Sockburn Handicap provided one of the best races for unhoppled trotters seen at Addington for some time. The different competitors went very steadily, and half a mile from home the race was very open. Reta Peter from scratch registered a very fine performance in winning in the good time of 4min 35 2/5th sec. The Petereta mare made up her ground very steadily and staying on well, she beat Paul Huon, who led for most of the journey. Following are details of the racing:-

WHITELEIGH HANDICAP (in saddle) of 250 sovs; second 50, third 25. For unhoppled trooers only. 4.55 class. Two miles.

H McNaughton's b g Ivan Huon by Black Huon-Nettie, aged, 6sec, W Orange 1.
W C Angus's br Craibwood, aged, 7sec, M Edwards 2.
J D Piper's b m Grattan Chimes, aged, 3sec A Fleming 3.

Balnamoan 2sec, Treasure Seeker 4sec, Billy Parole 5sec, Ben Bell 6sec, Chub 7sec, te Kuiti 7sec, and Marvin Junr 8sec also started.

Craibwood broke soon after the start, and Balnamoan refused to leave the mark. At the stand Ivan Huon was leading, closely followed by Chub, who broke turning into the back stretch. Ivan Huon, Te Kuiti and Grattan Chimes led for a circuit, but going down the back the last time, Craibwood joined Ivan Huon, and the pair went right away from the rest of the field. In the straight Ivan Huon easily held his own, and won by two lengths from Craibwood, with Grattan Chimes twenty lengths away in third place, followed by Chub. Times, 4m 48 2/5s; 4m 49 3/5s; 4m 52 1/5s

NOVEMBER HANDICAP (in saddle) of 275 sovs; second 54 sovs, third 27 sovs. 4.46 class. Two miles.

J Farrell's ch m Acushla Machree by Prince Imperial-Ferns, 6yrs, 6sec, J McLennan 1
J Payne's ch g Harold Child, 6yrs, 6sec, E McDermott 2.
W Eddy's b g Dillon Eddy, 6yrs, 5sec D Bennett 3

Granger scr, Captain Stanley 1sec, Xavier 3sec, Silver Nut 5sec, Mahinga 6sec, Will o' the Wisp 8sec, Irvingwood 8sec and The Whip 8sec also started.

Will o' the Wisp, Silver Nut and Mahinga carried on the running over the first circuit, with Acushla Machree in a handy position. Xavier was called off for anticipating his bell. Will o' the Wisp, Silver Nut, Mahinga and Harold Child comprised the leading division for the next half-mile, but approaching the tanks Acushla Machree improved her position. Harold Child appeared to be winning one hundred yards from the post, but Acushla Machree stayed the better and won by a length, with Dillon Eddy, who finished fast, six lengths away. Will o'the Wisp and Silver Nut were next. Times, 4m 44 1/5s;4m 44 3/5s;4m 44 1/5s.

COURTENAY HANDICAP (in harness) of 600 sovs; second 120 sovs, third 60sovs. 4.36 class. Two miles.

Mrs T L Morrison's b h Cello Sydney Wilkes by Harold Dillon-Cremona Wilkes, aged, 8sec, J McLennan 1
P McNeill's blk g Lord Minto, aged, 9sec, A Butterfield 2.
Edwards & Humphrey's blk g Vice Admiral, 6yrs, 11sec, M Edwards 3.

W H Norton's br h Admiral Wood, aged, 2sec, F Holmes.
C Channing's br g Agathos, aged, 6sec J Cockerill.
J Jarden's b h John Dillon, aged, 6sec, B Jarden.
S Lemon's blk g Sherwood, aged, 6sec, N L Price.
F H Robson's b h Mintson, aged, 9sec, A G Wilson.
W B Masham's br h Emilius, aged, 9sec, coupled with Admiral Wood, J Bryce.
R Reay's b g Asturio, aged, 10sec, W Warren.
L M Gregory's b m Sympathy, 6yrs, 11sec, coupled with Vice-Admiral, J Clarke

Sympathy broke up at the start, and Vice-Admiral went off at a smart pace from Lord Minto, Cello Sydney Wilkes, and Emilius, with John Dillon in a good position. Passing the stand the order was the same, and when a circuit had been covered Vice-Admiral still led from Lord Minto, while Sherwood had made a forward move, on commencing the final round John Dillon and Sherwood moved up to just behind the leading trio. Going down the back the last time Cello Sydney Wilkes tackled Vice-Admiral, and with Lord Minto led into the straight. In the run home Cello Sydney Wilkes held his own, and won by two lengths from Lord Minto, with Vice-Admiral three lengths away third, followed by the fast finishing Mintson. Emilius was fifth, and Sherwood sixth. Times; 4m 34 1/5s; 4m 35 3/5s; 4m 37 4/5s.

METROPOLITAN HANDICAP (in harness) of 300 sovs; second 60 sovs, third 30 sovs. 3.47 class. One mile & five furlongs.

E G McCullough's b m Capriccio by OYM-Cappadocia, aged, scr E McDermott 1
R J Stone's ch g Gleaming, 5yrs 3sec W Warren 2
J Richardson's b g Jack Arrah, 6yrs, 2sec N L Price.

Pitarua 2sec, Norah Creina 2sec, Rorke's Drift 2sec, Pax 3sec, Proudspring 3sec, Legacy 3sec, Joan of Arc 3sec and Miss Rolfe 4sec bracketed, Rearguard 4sec, Pleasant Mount 4sec and The Whip 4sec also started.

Rearguard was the quickest to begin, and going past the stand led Gleaming, Proudspring, Norah Creina and Miss Rolfe. The order was the same for the first circuit, at the end of which Rearguard was called off. Gleaming went on in front from Jack Arrah and Rorke's Drift, with Capricco improving her position. Gleaming and Jack Arrah were the first into the straight, but Capriccio came fast and won by a length and a quarter, with Jack Arrah four lengths away in third place, followed by Norah Creina and Rorke's Drift. Times, 3m 41 2/5s, 3m 44 3/5s, 3m 43 4/5s.

FREE-FOR-ALL (in harness) of 500 sovs; second 100 sovs, third 50 sovs. Flying start. One mile and a quarter.

Exors J Knight's b h Author Dillon by Harold Dillon-Authoress, aged, B Jarden 1.
J Bryce's b h Cathedral Chimes by Four Chimes-Jean Armour, aged, Owner 2.
W H Norton's br h Admiral Wood b Wildwood Jun-DIC, aged bracketed with Cathedral Chimes, F Holmes 3.

N Green's b g Albert Cling by Young McKinney-Embrace, 5yrs, A Hendricksen

After two false starts, caused through Albert Cling failing to come up to scratch, the bracketed pair and Author Dillon went away together, but almost immediately Admiral Wood and Author Dillon went out in front, while Bryce dropped in behind the pair. Albert Cling was several lengths away. Admiral Wood and Author Dillon carried on the running down the back stretch, but at the tanks Admiral Wood faded out, allowing Author Dillon to lead into the straight a length ahead of Cathedral Chimes. The latter appeared to have the measure of the Harold Dillon horse, who responded gamely to the call of Jarden and at the finish had a length the better of the tussle, and won amidst the wildest enthusiasm. Admiral Wood was about twelve lengths away in third place, and Albert Cling a similar distance away last. Times, 2m 44 2/5s, 2m 44 3/5s, 2m 47 4/5s.

SOCKBURN HANDICAP (in harness) of 400 sovs; second 80 sovs, third 40 sovs. For unhoppled trotters only. 4.46 class. Two miles.

F H Robson's b m Reta Peter by Petereta-Toto Huon, 6yrs, scr, A G Wilson 1.
C James's b h Paul Huon, aged, 9sec, Owner 2.
J R Corrigan's b g Whisht, aged, 4sec, J Bryce 3.

Red Heather 3sec, Galician 7sec coupled with Whisht, Olive L 6sec, Electrocute 7sec, Gay Wilkes 7sec and Lady Patricia 9sec also started.

Paul Huon at once went to the front, while Lady Patricia left her feet early in the race. Paul Huon carried on the running for the greater part of the journey, with Gay Wilkes, Galician and Olive L as his nearest attendants, and Reta Peter improving her position. The last-named came with a good run over the final bit and won by three-quarters of a length; the third horse three lengths away. Electrocute was fourth and Olive L fifth. Times - 4m 35 2/5s, 4m 44 3/5s, 4m 40 2/5s.

RAILWAY HANDICAP (in saddle) of 250 sovs; second 50 sovs, third 25 sovs. 2.17 class. One mile.

E G McCullough's b m Capriccio by OYM-Cappadocia, aged, 2sec includes 1sec penalty, E McDermott 1.
S Wootton's b g Pitaroa, 5yrs, 4sec, R C N Reed 2.
J R Corrigan's b g Xavier, aged, 5sec, J Bryce jun 3.

Huon Patch scr, Asturio 2sec, Nancy Stair 3sec, Lord Dillon 3sec, Sir Fulham 4sec, Frank Tracey 4sec, All Bell 5sec coupled with Pitaroa, and King Karri 5sec also started.

Xavier was quickest away and led Frank Tracey, All Bell and Pitaroa past the stand, with Capriccio in a handy position. Going down the back Capriccio still further improved her position, and at the tanks Pitaroa lost ground through breaking. Capriccio and Xavier were in front in the straight, where Pitaroa came fast. The first-named, however, lasted long enough to win by a head; Xavier being a similar distance away third. Times, 2m 13 2/5s; 2m 15 3/5s; 2m 16 4/5s.

ROYAL HANDICAP (in harness) of 350 sovs; second 70 sovs; third 35 sovs. 2.49 class. One mile and a quarter.

Mrs T L Morrison's b h Cello Sydney Wilkes by Harold Dillon-Cremona Wilkes, aged, 1sec includes 1 sec panalty, J McLennan 1.
A R Edgerton's b g Don Caesar, aged, 2sec, A Butterfield 2.
A R Farrell's b m Cora Dillon, aged, 1sec, E McDermott 3.

Chid 1sec, Sashwood 2sec, Dean Dillon 3sec, Bundong 4sec and Birdwood 4sec also started.

After a false start Birdwood jumped out smartly and carried the field past the stand with Bundong, Dean Dillon, Sashwood and Don Caesar following in that order. The field closed up in the back stretch, and at the tanks Don Caesar drew level with Birdwood and led into the straight, with Cello Sydney Wilkes in third place. In a good finish the last-named got up in time to win by a length, with Cora Dillon two lengths away, just in front of Birdwood. Times, 2m 44s; 2m 45 1/5s; 2m 46s.

Credit: The Press 14 November 1919

1919 SPRING MEETING: 11 NOVEMBER

The popularity of trotting has never been more strikingly illustrated in Canterbury than it was yesterday, when the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club's Spring Meeting opened at Addington.

This fixtiure, at which £11,000 will be distributed in stakes during the three days, is easily the most important trotting Meeting of the year in Australasia, and the attendance yesterday must have been of record dimensions. There were visitors present from all parts of the Dominion, among them being his Excellency the Governor-General and the Countess of Liverpool, who took a very keen interest in the racing.

The weather was beautifully fine, but an easterly breeze made itself felt during the afternoon, and it was largely responsible for the dust that was flying on the track during the running of the earlier races. The racing track was in good order, but not quite so fast as it has been on other occasions, and there is nothing very striking about the times registered during the day.

There is no better equipped trotting ground in the Dominion than that at Addington, but large as are the stands there, they were quite inadequate to cope with the huge attendance, and if the crowds increase as they have done in recent years, the officers of the club will find it a very difficult task to provide sufficient accommodation for them. The grounds generally have never looked better, the well-kept lawns and bright flower-beds giving evidence of careful attention.

With such a large attendance, it was not surprising to find a record sum put through the totalisator, the investments for the day amounting to £76,291, the largest yet recorded at a trotting Meeting in New Zealand, as compared with £52,091 10s on the corresponding day last year. The investments on the New Zealand Trotting Cup were £16,147 10s which is a record for any single event, either trotting or racing in the Dominion. The management of the Meeting was of the usual high standard characteristic of gatherings at Addington, and it was unfortunate that an enquiry after the last race, resulting in the disqualification of the first horse, should have prolonged the proceedings.

The opening event, the Spring Handicap, a saddle race, over a mile and five furlongs, for unhoppled trotters, found Succory made a solid favourite, with Lord Roanchild next in demand. Succory began well, but did not go kindly, and a bad break lost him his place, and he could do no better than finish fourth. Miss Salisbury, who was third favourite, was always in a good position, but at the finish she was outstayed by Mushroom, one of the outsiders of the field, who paid a very substantial dividend. Colonel Havelock, as usual, was running on well at the finish, and finished third.

Schnapps was very solidly backed for the Empire Handicap, a two-mile event, in saddle, and he proved that his supporters' confidence was justified, for he paced solidly throughout, and, staying on well, won nicely from Dillon Eddy, with Will o' the Wisp close up third. Ouimet showed a lot of speed for over a mile and a half, but then left his feet, and was beaten into fifth place.

With these events decided, attention was centred on the New Zealand Trotting Cup, which with its stake of 2500 sovs, in addition to the silver cup presented by the president of the Club, the Hon C Louisson, is the most valuable trotting race of the year in Australasia. Practically ever since the nominations were taken Author Dillon had been favourite, and he retained his position in the betting right up to the start of the race, though Moneymaker was nearly as well backed on the machine. Matchlight, whose form last season was very consistent, was third in demand, and then came Albert Cling, Trix Pointer and Sherwood. They were a very well trained lot, and their prelininaries were closely watched.

The start was a very good one, but John Dillon, who was bracketed with Author Dillon, lost his chance immediately by failing to strike a gait, and took no part in the race. Moneymaker, always a good beginner, was quickly into his stride, and soon established a useful lead, but, as he has so often done at Addington, tired over the final stages and could not respond to the strong challenge thrown out by Trix Pointer, who won in convincing style. The winner, who is an American-bred mare, has been a very consistent performer since she first appeared on the track in New Zealand. She is on the small side, but thoughly genuine, and was driven a very well judged race by her trainer, F Holmes, who, it may be mentioned, purchased her on his last visit to America.

Erin's Queen rather surprised the public by her excellent showing, and it was not until she broke a furlong from home that she lost her chance of a place. Matchlight paced a good race, but Author Dillon's performance was very disappointing. He showed no dash at any stage of the race, and though he raced up to Matchlight he could not pass Bryce's representative and finished a good way back. Albert Cling was never really dangerous, and Agathos broke badly.

After the race the handsome silver cup attached to it was presented to Mr W H Norton by Lady Liverpool. In returning thanks Mr Norton said that it was one of the proudest moments of his life to be the owner of the winner of the New Zealand Trotting Cup. He did not deserve that position altogether, as his trainer, F Holmes, was really responsible for the win. He simply occupied the limelight as the owner, but Mr Holmes was the man who brought the horse to the condition to enable her to win. He thanked the president of the club for presenting the cup to the winner of the biggest trotting race in New Zealand.

The Riccarton Handicap was an interesting race between the placed horses, but in the final stages Cello Sydney Wilkes had no trouble in stalling off Dean Dillon's challenge, Admiral Wood finished strongly and took third place from Rorke's Drift, who had been responsible for much of the early running.

Olive L who was made favourite for the Middleton Handicap, a two-mile harness race for unhoppled trotters, did not go very kindly, and made three bad mistakes which probably cost her the race. Lady Patricia trotted very steadily, but Imperial Crown outstayed her at the finish, registering a very good performance. Beeswing, on the limit, went off with a big lead, but broke badly before going half a mile.

The Victoria Handicap was a very interesting race. Legacy led most of the way, but failed to see the journey out, and Dandy Chimes, well driven by J Bryce, beat him home. Jack Arrah did not get a good run, but showed a lot of speed. Capriccio and Nora Creina were left at the post.

The St Albans Handicap was not a very exciting affair, for Birdwood, who has so often disappointed his connections, was on this occasion on his best behaviour, and beginning smartly led throughout, and won easily from All Bell.

The Hagley Handicap, which brought the day's racing to a close, was a very solid betting race. Capriccio was a pronounced favourite with Pitaroa, Child and Sashwood well backed. Capriccio left the mark smartly, and though she broke six furlongs from home, she lost no ground and maintained her lead. In the straight she broke again, and galloped past the post, followed by Chid, Makomako and Pitaroa. The stewards were immediately called together, and after consideration disqualified Capriccio under Rule 293, which reads: "When any horse breaks from his gait, the rider or driver shall immediately pull him to the gait at which he was to go the race, and if any rider or driver shall fail to comply with this requirement the horse he is riding or driving, if it is placed, shall be disqualified for the race, and the rider or driver may be fined any sum not exceeding £20, or be suspended or disqualified for any term." The race was consequently awarded to Chid, with Makomako second and Pitaroa third. Details of the races are:-

SPRING HANDICAP (in saddle) of 250 sovs; second 50, third 25. For unhoppled trotters only. 4.2 class. One mile and five furlongs.

E Berry's b g Mushroom by Young Governor colt, aged, 5sec, Owner 1.
W Orange's b m Miss Salisbury, aged, 8sec, Owner 2
C Davey's ch g Colonel Havelock, aged, 7sec, H Gaskill 3

Lord Roanchild scr, Balnamoan 3sec, Treasure Seeker 5sec, Ben Bell 6sec, Chub 7sec, Te Kuiti 7sec, Marvin Junr 8sec, Miss Lorna 9sec, Tonight 10sec, Succory 10sec, Jessie's Dream 10sec, Pieter Timmerman 10sec, Rita Rose 10sec and Dragoon Junr 10sec also started.

Dragoon Junr failed to get away at the start, and Succory led from Jessie's Dream, Rita Rose and Miss Salisbury. Passing the stand the second time Te Kuiti and Succory led and Lord Roanchild improved his position. Going down the back Mushroom went to the front and with Miss Salisbury led into the straight. The latter broke one hundred yards from the post, and Mushroom won by half a length. Colonel Havelock was six lengths away third, followed by Succory and Lord Roanchild. Times - 3m 52 1/5s; 3m 55 2/5s; 3m 57 3/5s.

EMPIRE HANDICAP (in saddle) of 250 sovs; second 50, third 25. 4.48 class. Two miles.

E G McCullough's b g Schnapps by Tom Sayers, aged, 5sec, E McDermott 1.
W Eddy's b g Dillon Eddy, 6yrs, 6sec D Bennett 2.
Mr Meorut's b g Will o' the Wisp, 6yrs, 8sec, A Butterfield 3.

Granger scr, Silver Nut 5sec, Mahinga 6sec, The Whip 8sec, Blue Chimes 8sec, Lady Wayward 8sec, Ouimet 8sec, Irvingwood 9sec and Calton 9sec also started.

Ouimet and Will o' the Wisp were quickest to strike a gait and the pair led round the top turn and going past the stand the order was Ouimet, Will o' the Wisp, Calton and Silver Nut, while Granger was called off for starting before his time. The second round was run in the same order, excepting that Schnapps considerably improved his position and Dillon Eddy was pacing seadily in fifth place. At the tanks Ouimet broke and lost his position, and by the time the straight was reached Schnapps had drawn level with Calton, who at once went to a break. Dillon Eddy finished fast, but Schnapps held his own and won by a length with Will o' the Wisp half a dozen lengths away. Calton was fourth and Ouimet fifth. Times - 4m 42s;4m 43 2/5s; 4m 49s.

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

W H Norton's b m Trix Pointer by Demonio-Bally Pointer, 6yrs, 6sec, F Holmes 1.
J G S Holmes's b g Moneymaker, aged, 9sec, A Pringle 2.
Cross Bros & J Bryce's b h Matchlight, aged, 2sec, J Bryce 3.
S G Lemon's br g Sherwood, aged, 6sec, N L Price 4.

Exors J Knight's b h Author Dillon, aged, scr, B Jarden
N Green's br g Albert Cling, 6yrs, 5sec, A Hendricksen
A R Edgerton's br g Don Caesar, aged, 6sec, A Butterfield
C Channing's br g Agathos, aged, 6sec, J Cockerill
J D Parker's ch m Erin's Queen, aged, 8sec, A Fleming
F H Robson's b h Mintson,aged, 9sec, A G Wilson

John Dillon broke up at the start and was pulled up; his stable mate, Author Dillon, was travelling fast, but did not get away quite up to his bell, and Agathos skipped at the tanks. Moneymaker went off at a very solid pace and quickly established a considerable break on Mintson and Erin's Queen, and a six lengths gap separated this pair from Trix Pointer and Sherwood. Passing the stand the first time Moneymaker had a six lengths lead on Erin's Queen and Mintson, with Trix Pointer following. At this stage Author Dillon had closed on several of the field, but had made no impression on the leaders. Going down the back stretch the order was the same, but at this stage Albert Cling was pacing very solidly, and Author Dillon appeared to be picking up ground. Agathos again broke, and was not persevered with.
On commencing the final round Moneymaker led Erin's Queen by six lengths while Trix Pointer was in third position, followed by Don Caesar and Sherwood, who were pacing well and Mintson. Going down the back Erin's Queen raced up to Moneymaker, and Author Dillon, who was well beaten, left his feet momentarity. Erin's Queen and Moneymaker led into the straight, followed by Trix Pointer, who was hitting out in great style. Half-way down the running both the leaders were under the whip and Trix Pointer, staying on beautifully and pacing fautlessly, gathered them both and won a well-judged race by close on three lengths from Moneymaker, while Matchlight, staying on well defeated Sherwood by four lengths. Erin's Queen who broke in the straight was fifth, Mintson sixth and the rest pulling up. Times - 4m 30s; 4m 33 4/5s; 4m 27 3/5s.

RICCARTON HANDICAP (in harness) of 400 sovs; second 80, third 40. 3.44 class. One mile and five furlongs.

Mrs T L Morrison's b h Cello Sydney Wilkes by Harold Dillon-Cremona Wilkes, aged, 7sec, J McLennan 1.
Wootton & Fleming's b g Dean Dillon, aged, 8sec, A Fleming 2.
W H Norton's br h Admiral Wood, aged, 2sec, J Bryce 3.

Tommy C 4sec, Cora Dillon 5sec, Huon Patch 6sec, Hannah M 7sec, Nancy Stair 7sec, Bundura 8sec, Star Queen 9sec, Rorke's Drift 9sec and Captain Stanley 9sec also started.

Captain Stanley and Huon Patch refused to go, and Rorke's Drift at once went away with several lengths lead of Star Queen, Dean Dillon, Bundura and Cello Sydney Wilkes. This order was maintained all through the first round, but going down the back Cello Sydney Wilkes and Dean Dillon went away from the others. In the straight Cello Sydney Wilkes easily held his own, and won nicely by two lengths, with the third horse six lengths away. Rorke's Drift was fourth and Bundura fifth. Times - 3m 42 1/5s; 3m 43 4/5s: 3m 39s.

MIDDLETON HANDICAP (in harness) of 300 sovs; second 60, third 30. 4.48 class. For unhoppled trotters only. Two miles.

N L Price's b h Imperial Crown by Rothschild-Imperious mare, aged, 7sec, Owner 1.
W L Moir's br m Lady Patricia, aged, 10sec, A Fleming 2.
A Smith's b g King Capitalist, aged, 4sec, H Barraclough 3.

Red Heather 3sec, Whisht 4sec, Olive L 6sec, Gay Wilkes 7sec, Electrocute 7sec, Paul Huon 9sec and Beeswing 11sec also started.

Beeswing went off at a great pace, and soon had a big lead from Lady Patricia. The leader broke in the straight and lost all chances of winning, and Olive L also went very unsteadily. Imperial Crown and Lady Patricia carried on the running practically all the way, with Beeswing in third place. Imperial Crown stayed the better, and beat Lady Patricia by three lengths, while King Capitalist finished fast and beat Olive L by a length. Paul Huon was fifth. Times - 4m 42 3/5s; 4m 46 1/5s; 4m 41s.

VICTORIA HANDICAP (in harness) of 400 sovs; second 80, third 40. 4,41 class. Two miles.

W B Masham's br g Dandy Chimes by Four Chimes-Kentucky mare, aged, 4sec, J Bryce 1.
R McLeod's b g Legacy, 6yrs, 4sec, R Logan 2.
R J Stone's ch g Gleaming, 5yrs, 4sec W Warren, 3.

Sympathy scr, Capriccio scr, Jack Arrah 1sec, Norah Creina 1sec, Reta Peter 1sec, Brown's Nugget 2sec, Sir Fulham 3sec and George Hard 4sec also started.

Norah Creina and Capriccio stopped on the mark and took no part in the race. Legacy and Sir Fulham at once went off in the lead, with Gleaming, George Hard and Jack Arrah following in that order. These positions were maintained for a circuit when Brown's Nugget, with Legacy drew out from the rest. The latter broke, and Dandy Chimes improved his position. Legacy led into the straight, but Dandy Chimes came with a good run and won by two lengths, Gleaming, six lengths away, just beating Reta Peter. Jack Arrah was fifth. Times - 4m 41 2/5s; 4m 41 4/5s; 4m 42s.

ST ALBANS HANDICAP (in saddle) of 250 sovs; second 50, third 25. 2.18 class. One mile.

J Jarden's blk h Birdwood by Wildwood Jun-Wattle, 6yrs, 5sec, B Jarden 1.
Paton & Fleming's blk g All Bell, 4yrs, 5sec, A Fleming 2.
C North's b m Pleasant Mount, 6yrs, 5sec, J Armstrong 3.

Cora Dillon scr, Ariadne 2sec and King Karri 4sec coupled, Lord Dillon 2sec, Captain Stanley 3sec, Frank Tracey 3sec, Xavier 4sec and Proudspring 4sec also started.

Birdwood hopped out smartly, and leading all the way, won very easily by four lengths. All Bell looked at one stage like beating the winner, but failed to sustain his effort. Pleasant Mount was six lengths further away, followed by Ariadne and King Karri. Times - 2m 15 1/5s; 2m 16 3/5s; 2m 18 4/5s.

HAGLET HANDICAP (in harness) of 300 sovs; second 60, third 30. 2.50 class. One mile and a quarter.

W B Masham's blk g Chid by St Elmo-Lady Brentwood, aged, 4sec, J Bryce 1.
H W Kitchingham's b g Mako Mako, aged, 7sec, W Brown 2.
S Wootton's b g Pitaroa, 5yrs, 7sec, A Fleming 3.
E G McCullough's b m Capriccio, aged, 7sec, E McDermott disq.

Sashwood 4sec, Sungod 4sec, Vice-Admiral 5sec, Tamarisk 6sec, Bundong 6sec and Pax 7sec also started.

Capriccio commenced very smartly and led past the stand from Pitaroa and Tamarisk, with Chid handy. Along the back Capriccio was still in front with Pitaroa, Bundong following and Chid making a fast run. Capriccio led into the straight and appeared to be winning easily. She broke thirty yards from the post and galloped past six lengths in front of Chid. Maka Mako was three lengths away, followed by Pitaroa, Sashwood and Sungod. Times - Chid 2m 45 4/5s; Mako Mako 2m 50s.

After the race the stewards held an enquiry and disqualified Capticcio under Rule293, the race being awarded to Chid, with Mako Mako second and Pitaroa third..

Credit: The Press 12 Nov 1919

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