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W H G NORTON - Owner

The death occurred on Saturday of Mr William Henry Grantley Norton, at his residence, 24 Mansfield Avenue.

The late Mr Norton was very well known in business circles, being a principal in the firm of Tonks, Norton and Co., autioneers. He was born in Wangaratta, Victoria, Australia, in 1864. In 1888 he came to New Zealand, and lived at Nelson for some years before coming to Christchurch. In 1892 he married Miss Amy Hiorns, of Linwood House. He was employed by D Clarkson and Son, and later by Sclanders and Co., prior to entering into partnership with Mr Tonks in 1907. Their business premises were in Colombo Street, on the site at present occupied by Kincaids, Ltd., but two or three years later they purchased land in Hereford Street, on which was built the present building. The firm had wide business dealings, and was one of the City's leading general auctioneering firms. Mr Norton had many business interests, having several farms. He was also one of the main shareholders in a timber-mill in the North Island.

He was very well-known figure in sporting circles in New Zealand. As a steward and member of the committee of the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club and as a prominent owner for very many years he was interested in both galloping and trotting and in the former connexion, racing under the name of Mr Grantley, he owned Ability, Gold Braid, Quickfire and Stroller, amongst others and also imported from Australia the mare Edna May II, who at stud left several useful performers in Town Talk, Chaplin, and Autumn, the last named a well-known Gisborne sire.

It was as a trotting enthusiast that Mr Norton came more prominently before the public, for in partnership with the Riccarton studmaster, Mr Free Holmes, he owned many noted performers, including Florin, Trix Pointer, winner of the National Cup, New Zealand Cup and Free-for-all, Bonny Logan, one of the most consistent performers the Dominion has known, Gay Wilkes, and many others. The partnership also imported a number of mares from America, Trix Pointer, Bonilene (dam of Bonny Logan), and Stella Amos being amongst the number

Mr Norton was decidedly popular with all sporting circles, and he will be sadly missed from Meetings at Addington.

Mr Norton leaves one son and two daughters to mourn their loss.


Credit: The Press - 18 August 1928

FG Holmes pictured with the 1935 Wellington & Auckland Cups won by Graham Direct and Adorian's 53 NZ Cup

FREEMAN (FG) HOLMES

Freeman (FG) Holmes, who died in Christchurch last week aged 88, apart from being one of NZ's most accomplished and successful horsemen, was an enigma. Many of the old school have insisted he was every bit as gifted a reinsman as his famous brother Maurice. His record leaves no doubt that he was not only a top driver but also an outstanding trainer.

'FG' was a loner; an introvert who shunned publicity and well wishers, and was very selective about who he even spoke to. He was harder to get on with when he'd just won a race than when he had been tipped out from a favourite. Yet catch him in the right moment and he would chat the breeze for as long as you would care to listen - and listening to him could at times be very enlightening and rewarding. Besides breeding, racing, training and driving, he had other pet pursuits, high among them hunting and shooting. He was also, in his early days, a fine athlete.

The writer well recalls as a junior in the racing department of "The Press", Christchurch, in November, 1953, calling on 'FG' at home at West Eyreton a few hours after his NZ Cup win with Adorian, in the hope of getting a feature story to phone through in time to make the next morning's paper. People were phoning to congratulate the family. Freeman refused to be called to the phone. "Don't ask them here," he insisted. "We're not having a party." Trying to get the background to Adorian from him was nigh on impossible. He insisted, with that curious humour of his, that I sang a song before he would tell me anything. When I obliged, instead of telling me about Adorian, he played for me, over and over, a record of an Australian race in which, in a skirmish with top Sydney driver Jack Watts, 'FG' had been tipped out over the rail and quite seriously injured. "He's a bloody good driver, that Jack Watts," said Freeman each time we listened to the incident. I finally got some sort of story from him - which took some working out as he spoke of horses, mares, colts and fillies without bothering about their registered racing names.

'FG' was the first son of the famous Free Holmes to come to prominence. Insofar as NZ horse racing is concerned, the Holmes saga began with Freeman Senior. Born on a farm near Ashburton in 1871, he was, as a rising 12-year-old five-stone stripling, pressed into service, because of a shortage of jockeys, to ride, laden with "ballast," in an Ashburton galloping event - which he duly won. "Old Free" as he ultimately became reverently known to the racing and trotting fraternities in NZ, successfully rode gallopers on the flat, and over jumps, and then became a prominent trainer and owner of thoroughbreds.

Turning his hand to the sister sport of trotting, Free became a leading saddle exponent, driver, trainer, importer and breeder. Race driving until he was 73, Free continued to train, and when well into his 80s was training - and riding to and from Riccarton racecourse from his property nearby - the thoroughbred Tarantella, owned by his then teenage grandson Graham (son of FG), and a winner for them.

Of Free's four sons, first Freeman, then Maurice, then Allan became actively involved as drivers and branched out to become trainers in their own right. Walter stayed at home, assisting with the stud side of Free's activities. 'FG' was a proficient jockey. He was 13 when he won the Apprentice's Plate at Wingatui in February, 1913, and subsequently won several hurdles and flat events. He first drew attention to himself riding saddle winner Law Chimes at the 1916 NZ Cup carnival. Two years later he finished third with Sungod in Author Dillon's NZ Cup.

Freeman's first classic win came in the fourth edition of the Auckland Trotting Club's Great Northern Derby in 1919, driving Lady Swithin for successful Ashburton owner and administrator H F Nicoll, later to become long-time president of the NZ Trotting Conference. In 1921, then aged 22, Freeman drove Sherwood to win the NZ Cup for owner S G Lemon. After a protest alleging interference by Holmes to the previous year's winner, straight-out trotter Reta Peter (whom he beat by two lengths), Sherwood was relegated to second and Holmes was fined £25. The incident was hotly debated for years by many who saw the race. And, when, 32 years later, 'FG' trained and drove his own good horse Adorian to win the 1953 NZ Cup, he seized the opportunity at the presentation to insist again that he should not have been disqualified with Sherwood. "It was unjust," he said.

'FG' drove NZ Sapling Stakes winners Richore (1926), Sonoma Child (1928), Captain Morant (1942)and Forward (1951). He won the NZ-GN Derbies double in 1927 with J Washington's Daphne de Oro, drove J Duffy's Native Chief to win the NZ Free-For-All that year and was the nation's leading reinsman of 1927/28 with 33 wins. He trained Graham Direct to win the 1935 Auckland Trotting Cup for J Westerman (driven by his father, Free) and drove him himself to win the 1938 NZ Trotting Gold Cup at Wellington. He won two further NZ Derbies with Bonny Bridge (1943) and Blue (1958).

Much of the credit for tough NZ-bred gelding Captain Sandy becoming the first two-time Inter-Dominion Grand Champion must go to 'FG'. At the 1950 series in Melbourne, with regular pilot James Bryce junior suspended, FG Holmes filled the breach and from the awkward 24yd mark got him into the final by gaining a fourth and a third in the heats. But Holmes himself was suspended on the third night for alleged interference to swift Melbourne Claude Derby. Jack Watts replaced 'FG' and Captain Sandy won the Grand Final by a head from Globe Direct, trained and driven by Freeman's brother, Maurice. At the same carnival, brother Allan won a Consolation with Congo Song.

At the 1953 Inter-Dominions in Perth, Freeman again did most to get Captain Sandy in the Grand Final, finishing fourth with him the first night and second in fastest time the second night. Committed to drive good NZ mare Blue Mist (with whom he won on the first two nights) in the Grand Final, Freeman had a rocky run with her on the way to finishing fifth. His replacement behind Captain Sandy, West Australian Bob Pollock junior, emerged triumphant.

'FG's 1953 NZ Cup winner Adorian was one of four good winners he and Miss P Norton bred from a very good mare for them, Coquette. Miss Norton and 'Old Free' bred Coquette by Free's importation Grattan Loyal from Bonny Logan, daughter of Free's importations Logan Pointer and Bonilene. Racing from three to ten years, Bonny Logan won 14 races for Free and his principal stable patron W H Norton, then produced nine live foals, eight of them winners. 'FG' raced and trained Coquette for eight wins including the 1942 National Cup. Apart from Adorian, Coquette's only other three foals were top winners for 'FG' in the shape of Vigilant, Morano and Forward.

In a memorable contest for the 1951 Canterbury Park Juvenile Stakes at Addington, 'FG' was skittled and tipped from Forward's sulky at the start, ran with the colt holding on to his reins for some fifty yards, climbed back into the cart, wheeled the field in the last half-mile and won. In 1953, 'FG' drove Brahman, son of the first two NZ-bred 2:00 pacers Gold Bar and Haughty, to an Australasian record 2:02.2 time trial as a two-year-old. In 1957 he drove Blue, trained and part-owned by his brother Allan, to a world yearling record of 2:09.2. Both marks lasted for more than 20 years.

In the 1960's, 'FG' became associated with champion trotter Ordeal. Seven before she won a race, she was handed to him after five wins for Reefton trainer Charlis Murcott. She won two more as a seven-year-old under Holmes. After having a season off to have a mystery foal that was destroyed because the sire was unknown, she returned to racing as a nine-year-old. Her next victories under Freeman were the Worthy Queen-Dominion Handicap double at Addington. She went on to win the 1961 Rowe Cup (driven by Maurice Holmes from 78yds in a national record 4:14), and wound up winning in America.

In later years, Holmes dabbled as an amateur trainer of gallopers, winning with good chaser Hogan. His last racing win came with Delargey at Wingatui in October,1980.

'FGs' sons Freeman ('FL') and the late Graham Holmes followed in the footstep of their father, uncles and grandfather as prominent horsemen, and 'FL' has been associated as part-owner, trainer, driver and now studmaster of a modern-day champion, Noodlum.

-o0o-

'Ribbonwood' writing in NZ Trotting Calendar 30May51

If you read about it in a Nat Could or Edgar Wallace racing thriller you wouldn't believe it, which only goes to prove that fiction, after all, is not such a complete stranger to the truth!

It happened at Addington on Saturday (May 26): the race, the Juvenile Handicap, the horse, Forward, and the hero of the piece F G Holmes, trainer-driver of Forward.

When the barriers were released, Centennial Hall swung across and tipped up Forward's sulky on its side, throwing Holmes on to the ground. With the field well on the way, Forward instinctively went after them. Holmes, holding firmly on the reins, was smartly on his feet, and he secured a tenuous hold on Forward's sulky with one hand while holding the reins in the other.

For upwards of 50yds, Holmes was forced to put in some giant strides to keep up with Forward, and he eventually managed to get one foot in the sulky, followed immediately by the other; by the time he was seated safely again the leaders must have been 60yds in front of him; it was a wonder he retrieved the situation with no greater loss of ground.

The majority of the public had not been unaware of the incident, and Holmes was warmly applauded on passing the stands the first time round. Excitement mounted as Forward improved his position and hotly challenged the leaders with two furlongs to go. Wide out, he strode to the front at the distance and won full of running.

It was an astonishing recovery, to say the least. Most of the people who made him hot favourite must have been persuaded that all chance had vanished when Holmes was deposited on the ground at the outset. Presence of mind, a full measure of grit and determination, and an ounce of luck were the main ingredients in perhaps the most dramatic spill and its sequel ever seen at Addington; it at least ranks equal to Indianapolis's win in the Christchurch Handicap at Addington in 1934 with a broken hopple.


Credit: Ron Bisman writing in HRWeekly 4Jun87

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

1920 SPRING MEETING: THURSDAY 11 NOVEMBER

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Credit: The Press 12 November 1920

1920 SPRING MEETING: FRIDAY 12 NOVEMBER

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Credit: The Press 13 November 1920

BONNY LOGAN

BONNY LOGAN(1919 Logan Pointer/Bonilene) USA family of Black Betty; 2:09.8; $14,514; 14 wins; nine live foals, eight winners. Breeders: F Holmes and W H Norton, Christchurch and breeders of all foals except Captain Morant, Bonny Bridge, Admiration, Bashful - Miss P Norton.

Bonny Logan's sire like Belle Logan was Logan Pointer, her dam Bonilene was also imported and the founding mare of a very successful family. From relatively obscure sire and broodmare sires, Bonilene's pedigree included infusions of leading American stallions: Baron Wilkes, Nutwood and Charles Derby, Steinway leading back to Hambletonian 10 through George Wilkes and Strathmore. The family of Black Betty faded out in North America but prospered in New Zealand through a number of her daughters(Bon Rey, Bonny Drusus, Bonny Norval, St Helena) led by Bonny Logan.

Notable descendants tracing back to Bonilene include her greatest performer in double millionaire and three time Australian Harness Horse of the Year/ Grand Circuit Pacing champion Westburn Grant(NZ/VIC/NSW Derbies, Golden Nugget, two Miracle Miles, Truer Memorial, QLD C/S, 2 SA Cups, Harold Park Cup, Aust Pacing C/S, Two WA Cups, ID Ht/Final), NZ Cup winners Adorian & Lookaway, top race mares Hyperstat(VSS-3f/4m) and Gina Rosa(NZ Oaks, Nevele R Fillies, NZ Breeders Stakes, dam of Allstar Blue Jean), Shattering Class($810k) plus fastest performers in Allstar Blue Jean(1:48.4US), Georgetown(1:50.0US) and Hillside Joe(1:52.0Aus).

Racing for 10 seasons from two till 11 years old, Bonny Logan was a very good class race mare. At two(1921/2), she won at New Brighton and was placed fourth in Sapling Stakes. Her three-year-old career included five victories(New Brighton, Alexandra Park, Addington, Forbury Park & Canterbury Park) and second placings in both NZ and GN Derbies(stakes of £1,608). Just the one solitary win as a four-year-old at Addington(Craven Hcp) and as a five-year-old in 1924/25 season in the New Brighton club's Telegraph Hcp. Bonny Logan's three six-year-old successes all came at Addington beginning with an early season feature, Lightning, Royal and Telegraph Hcps. Victories as a seven-year-old came in the High Class and Hagley Hcps, both at Addington. Bonny Logan's sole win as an eight-year-old was in the Henry Mace Memorial at Addington. She raced for a further three seasons(nine- to eleven-year-old) but recorded no further wins, just several placings before moving to the breeding paddock.

Bonny Logan's progeny included many top performers on the track and in the breeding barn. Admiration's deeds will be more fully reviewed in a future article where she is one of our classic-producing mares. She was a winner of Timaru Nursery as a two-year-old(three wins). Bashful(Grattan Loyal) was unraced but proved a prolific and successful breeder. Included amongst her progeny were Cup class performers:

1. Damian - AK Cup, ID heat and his full brother
2. Diamond Hanover - ID heat, Ashburton Flying Stakes
3. Guiseppe - GN Derby, ID heat; minor sire, dam sire of Rundale(SA Trotters Derby).
Note: Damian, Diamond Hanover, Guiseppe all started in 1961 ID Grand Final at Addington. (Bashful only mare to achieve this feat).
4. Torrent - Easter Cup, ID Consolation; dam of Amaze(NZ Derby), Elite Del(dam of Cavaliere Servente, Sossy - Hannon Memorial, Ch-Ch Airport Travelodge FFA), Our Flawless(descendants include Step Outside, NSWSS 3f), Prima Vance(grand-dam of Grenadier - Junior FFA), Nursemaid - (Southland Oaks), Surge(grand-dam of Misjudge-Sapling, Woodlea Life - Delightful Lady Classic - 2f) as well as Bashful Hanover, unraced sire of 88 winners in Australia including Run Joe Run(NSW/Qld/Aus Derbies), dam-sire of Executioner(NSWSS - 3c) and Shy Songster, winner and sire of 63 winners in Australia. Other progeny included Firth(unplaced in eight two to three-year-old starts) who bred on with descendants including One Way Traffic(NZ C/S-2); and Kai Tere, non winning mare whose descendants include Hashed World(several provincial Cups).

Another filly in Coquette(Grattan Loyal), a winner of eight races including National Cup Hcp, left the very good winners and sires in:

1. Adorian - from Springfield Globe's first crop, was the winner of 12 races including NZ Cup, National and Louisson Hcps, 2nd in NZFFA, sire of 50 winners and dam-sire of New Law(NZ Derby), Swift Princess(NZ Oaks).
2. Forward - leading juvenile pacer, winner of eight races including Welcome/Sapling Stakes; sire of 83 winners including Avante(Ashburton Cup), Bambi, Le Char, Max Brydon, Pancho Boy and dam-sire of Ascot Arrow(Rosso Antico Stakes), Bad Luck(Kaikoura Cup, Ashburton Flying Stakes), Cinimod Junior(TVNZ Mile), Precious Sally(GN Oaks), Watbro(Hannon Memorial).
3. Morano - winner of nine races including Timaru Nursery and Metropolitan Challenge Stakes; sire of 102 winners including Courtier(Welcome Stakes, Timaru Nursery), Diarac(Hannon Memorial, Ashburton Flying stakes), Have Care(NZ Oaks), Humphrey(NZ/Kaikoura Cups), Manaroa(Kaikoura Cup, six ID heats, 2nd ID G/F, Marius (BPTC/Ordeal Cups, Trotting C/S),Martinigue(Kaikoura Cup), Sam Carter(Sapling stakes), Semioh(Welcome Stakes) and dam-sire of Barbara Del(Welcome Stakes), Captain Harcourt(GN Derby, AK/Easter Cups,ID Consolation), Michele Bromac(Kaikoura Cup, Junior FFA), Micron(Kaikora Cup), Morano Magic(Golden Nugget, Palestine(two Hannon Memorials, Kaikoura Cup, ID Consolation, Matson FFA), Royal Lopez(Sapling Stakes), Saucy Star(ID Consolation), Shalimar(NZ Oaks, Tonton Macoute(Messenger).
4. Vigilant(gelding)- Welcome Stakes.

Safety Pin(Rey De Oro) was a winner eight times including the Armstrong Memorial at Trentham in 1944(Hutt Park was requisitioned by military during WWII: Sept 1942 - February 1946 meetings). She bred on leaving a number of winners including Secure(Otahuhu Cup, sire of Safe Return, Kaikoura Cup, ID Consolation) and was grand-dam of good trotter Forward March.

Captain Morant(Rey De Oro) proved a good youngster winning Sapling and Champion Stakes amongst five age group races as a two-, three- and four-year-old.

Bonny Logan also left a number of good sires in:

1. Bayard(Frank Worthy) - good winner of 11 races(placed2nd/4th AK Cup and 3rd NZ Cup) and sire exported to Australia in 1945, he stood mainly in SA but had his last season in NSW. He sired 57 winners, being dam-sire of Mercedes(good class Perth pacer), Simpsonic(VIC Sapling), Weezy Anna(SA Oaks)
2. Gaillard(Rey de Oro) - winner of five races and sire of 63(five Aust), dam-sire of Great Adios(NZ Cu/FFA, Easter Cup), Petite Yvonne(ID heat), Portree(WA Cup), Sibelia(Hunter Cup), Smoko(VIC Derby).
3. Bonny Bridge(Grattan Loyal) - winner of NZ Derby and two other races, sire of winners in Tasmania including Young Noddy(Tas Derby) and dam-sire of Wendy Dawn(NZ Oaks).

Prosecutor(Rey de Oro), a 2:50.0 pacer also won three races for his dam Bonny Logan.


Credit: Peter Craig writing in Harnessed Dec 2014

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

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: 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

Trix Pointer & Free Holmes in the winner's circle

1919 NEW ZEALAND TROTTING CUP

Trix Pointer, selected and imported from America in 1915 by legendary horseman Free Holmes along with Bonilene and Logan Pointer, furthered the fine record of mares when she outstayed the pacemaking Moneymaker.

Not very big and not particularly pretty either, Trix Pointer is the only mare to win the Cup and leave a Cup winner (Wrackler,1930), and in fact established one of the best families in the Stud Book. She was a grandaughter of Charles Derby, the sire of Norice.

It completed a unique double for Holmes, who had ridden Manton to win the Cup at Riccarton in 1888, and who established a famous family all of his own.

**Credit: NZ HRWeekly 1Oct2003**

On a beautiful day and before a record crowd, the small six-year-old American-bred mare Trix Pointer, in the hands of Free Holmes, won the 1919 Cup in convincing style, by three lengths from Moneymaker (Andy Pringle), with four lengths back to Matchlight (James Bryce). Then followed Sherwood, Erin's Queen and Mintson. The winner, who was fifth favourite, paced 4:30 for the two miles.

Holmes bought Trix Pointer from her Californian breeder for a client of his Upper Riccarton stable, W H Norton, during one of his trips to the United States, and she proved to be a most consistent mare. With her Cup victory, Trix Pointer advanced her New Zealand earnings to £4399 15s from 11 wins, 11 seconds and seven thirds.

Trix Pointer was by Demonio from Bally Pointer. Demonio was by Charles Derby, the sire of Norice, who ran second to Monte Carlo in the inaugural NZ Cup.

After he retired from race driving in 1944, Free Holmes named Trix Pointer the best horse he trained and drove. After her racing days, Trix Pointer made a unique contribution at stud. To the imported Wrack she produced Wrackler, who won the 1930 NZ Cup and the 1932 Dominion Handicap. Of all the fine mares who have won Addington's big race, Trix Pointer is the only one to have later produced a Cup winner. Among the stallions, only Cathedral Chimes (Ahuriri and Kohara), Johnny Globe (Lordship, Spry and Globe Bay) and Lordship (Lord Module and Inky Lord) have produced Cup-winning offspring.

Holmes had Trix Pointer, off her handicap of six seconds, in fourth place from the start and never far away from the tearaway pacemaker Moneymaker, who started from nine seconds. Moneymaker and Erin's Queen were first into the straight followed by Trix Pointer, and under the whip she quickly gathered in the leaders.

Andy Pringle had Moneymaker in front by six lengths passing the stands for the first time and still had that advantage starting the last lap. However, as in so many of his distance races at Addington, Moneymaker failed at the business end. Matchlight, from two seconds, ran the best of the back contingent, finishing well for third. Sherwood ran a solid race for fourth, while Erin's Queen, always well up, ruined her chance for a place by losing her stride at the furlong post.

The disappointment of the race was the favourite, Author Dillon, who finished well back. In a field of 11, Author Dillon was asked to give a nine-second start to those in front. He did not get away well and was never near the leaders. In the back straight the last time he momentarily left his feet as he tried to improve. Before the race his trackwork had been excellent and, in September, when the club held a meeting to honour the visit of Viscount Jellicoe, he paced a record 2:41.4 for the mile-and-a-quarter.

Author Dillon made amends for his weak Cup performance by winning the Free-For-All on the second day. After two false starts in the race, Albert Cling, who failed to get up to the mark, was left when Author Dillon and the only two other starters, Cathedral Chimes and Admiral Wood, moved away from their flying start. Author Dillon, always in front, won by a length from Cathedral Chimes, with the other two coming in at 12-length intervals.

Trix Pointer was the season's top earner with £2635 and her owner, Bill Norton, was the season's leading owner, with £3135. Free Holmes finished the season with 16 winning drives and in fifth place. He had 22 training successes to be runner-up behind James Bryce. Only once in his long career did Free Holmes finish on top of these lists, when he trained 19 winners during the 1922-23 season.

His victory with Trix Pointer created a unique record for Holmes. In 1888, as a successful jockey, he had ridden Manton to victory in the New Zealand Galloping Cup at Riccarton. Before becoming interested in trotting, Holmes had been first a jockey, and then a trainer of thoroughbreds, and he was without doubt one of the great personalities of the racing scene in the last decades of the 19th century and the early decades of the 20th century. His other successes as a jockey included the Canterbury Cup, Grand National Hurdles and Great Northern Steeplechase. As a trainer, his successes included the New Zealand St Leger and Auckland Cup. Holmes' achievement of winning both New Zealand Cups was later equalled by Roy Berry, who rode Sinapis to victory in the 1913 New Zealand Cup at Riccarton, then trained and drove double winner Lucky Jack (1937 and 1939) and trained Bronze Eagle (1944) to NZ Cup victories.

In 1915 Holmes made his first trip to the United States, seeking new strains of blood, and bought Logan Pointer, Bonilene and Trix Pointer. In 1922 he made another trip and bought Rey de Oro, and in 1930 he returned with Grattan Loyal and Frank Worthy. The impact on these imports on the New Zealand breeding scene has been immeasurable.

Holmes had few peers as a trainer, owner and studmaster. His ability and expertise was obviously passed down to his three sons - F G, Allan and Maurice - all of whom were associated with NZ Cup victories. The family enjoyed seven Cup victories, with Trix Pointer(1919), Wrackler(1930), Harold Logan(1932), Gold Bar(1945), Chamfer(1950), Adorian(1953) and Lookaway(1957). Quite an achievement.

The Metropolitan Club offered record stakes of 11,000 sovereigns for the 1919 meeting. The big crowd on Cup Day wagered a record £76,291, and the amount invested on the Cup race itself, of £16,147 was a record amount for either a harness or galloping race in New Zealand. The 1919 meeting was a staggering success, with Show Day betting reaching £83,684 10s and an unsurpassed £218,723 for the three days.

The meeting had other highlights, with slow class pacer Cappricio and Cello Sydney Wilkes winning half the second-day programme between them. Cappricio won the Metropolitan Handicap over one-mile-and-five-furlongs in harness, and then later in the day won the Railway Handicap in saddle. Eugene McDermott handled him both times.

Cello Sydney Wilkes won the main event, the Courtenay Handicap, and then the Royal Handicap. On the first day he had also won, and on each occasion the Harold Dillon stallion paid generous dividends. When he won the Christchurch Handicap on the third day, Cello Sydney Wilkes and his trainer-driver John McLennan carved their place in Addington's history, the horse becoming the first of only five to win four races at the November carnival. The feat has been equalled since by Red Shadow(1933), Cardigan Bay(1963), trotter Tutira(1969) and Gentle George(1978). John McLennan had an outstanding meeting, driving six winners.

**Credit: Bernie Wood writing in The Cup 2003**

Credit: NZ HRWeekly 1Oct03