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FEATURE RACE COMMENT

 

YEAR: 1913

Ravenschild & trainer-driver Newton Price
1913 NEW ZEALAND TROTTING CUP

The three-day meeting, scheduled for November 11,13 and 14, 1913, was initially in jeopardy. The club held a special committee meeting on November 5 to consider a postponement because of the national waterside strike that had gripped the country. However, the club decided to keep faith with all the horsemen who had already made the long trip to Addington, and proceeded with the meeting. As it transpired, the strike did not prevent any horse from competing, or, apparently, any person from attending.

Ravenschild won the race in hollow fashion from the Australian pacer Denver Huon, with Calm, the race favourite and unbeaten in three starts, a fair third.

The winner, who had been runner-up the year before, gave his sire Rothschild his third Cup success. Such was the large stake offered that Ravenschild was the season's leading earner with £1130, all but £30 coming from his Cup win. The stake for the 1913 New Zealand Cup reached 2000 sovereigns for the first time, the qualifying time was tightened to 4:38, and for the first time a prize for fourth place was offered. Ravenschild's share of the stake was 1100 sovereigns, Denver Huon 400, Calm 300 and Manderene 200. Total stakes offered by the club over the three days were 8000 sovereigns. The Canterbury Jockey Club, which had been in existence more than 50 years, also had a 2000 sovereign stake for it's traditional November New Zealand Galloping Cup. The Metropolitan Club, in just nine years, had raised the stake of it's prestigious race from 310 socereigns to the equal of its more illustrious provincial companion.

Totalisator turnover on Cup Day was a record £42,558, and the Cup betting of £7257 10s was also a record. For the first time the turnover eclipsed the Canterbury Jockey Club's betting on its Cup Day, held as usual three days before the Trotting Cup. The three-day Addington turnover reached a record £124,362, up £25,185 on the previous year.

The club received 23 nominations for the Cup, and only Bell Metal and Princess Louise were withdrawn, which left an over-capacity field. Twelve horses started from the front line of six seconds and from that mark Ravenschild was quickly into the lead for Newton Price. Passing the stands for the first time, Lord Dillon headed Ravenschild, who was followed by Manderene, Little Tib, Aberfeldy, Stop It and Calm. Well rated by his trainer-driver, Ravenschild regained the lead shortly after and by the time the straight was reached was going too well for the others. He finally won by eight lengths in 4:35.6.

Denver Huon, the Australian champion from Sydney, came to the meeting with a reputation for exceptional speed, and from his handicap of two seconds ran a fine race. He had to make his way through the big field, and was timed at 4:33.4. Denver Huon was under the care of Manny Edwards, who had migrated to New South Wales and set up a stud farm and training establishment. Edwards' horses arrived by sea via Melbourne, Hobart and Bluff. The trip was a rough one and Denver Huon, in particular, lost condition. As a result he had worked poorly before a good final trial on the Sunday before the Cup, which convinced his connections to continue with the race.

As expected with such a big, unwieldy field, the start was unsatisfactory. The horss paraded past the stands and then walked to the starting point. They began racing some lengths before reaching the post, getting off in straggling order. Again, Andy Pringle bore the brunt of the disorder and was tipped from the sulky of Glendalough. King Cole, Medallion and Gold Bell broke hopelessly and took no part in the contest.

The Wildwood Junior-Gertie six-year-old Calm, who started from the front, lost his unbeaten record after a slow start. Passing the stands the first time, Bill Kerr's pacer was six seconds behind the leading division. He gradually moved up and, starting the last lap, had moved into third place. Calm chased Ravenschild into the straight and broke, allowing Denver Huon to pass him.

King Cole (out of retirement) had broken Ribbonwood's mile record in 1911, registering 2:08.6. He shared the scratch mark with his co-Australasian mile record-holder Emmeline, who recorded her mile time in the 1912-13 season.

Andy Pringle gained some compensation for his bad luck in the Cup when he rode and drove three winners - Win Soon, Country Belle and Gianella - on the second day. Albert H returned to form, winning the Canterbury Handicap from Red Mac and the trotter Muricata. His winning time of 4:33 equalled the New Zealand record set by Wildwood Junior in 1910.

The third day blonged to the four-year-old trotter Michael Galindo, from the Cliff Tasker stable. After an early break, he made up ground in grand styleand won the Dominion Handicap from Muricata and Quincey.

The most significant newcomer amongst the trainer-drivers at the meeting was James "Scotty" Bryce. The litle man had landed in Wellington from Scotland with his wife and five children earlier in the year. His rise to fame and fortune was repid. Both his sons - James Junior and Andrew - followed him into harness racing and thr Bryce family won every honout there was to achieve in the sport. Scotty Bryce won the national premiership for trainers eight times and he headed the driver's premiership five times. Despite his poor debut with King Cole in 1913, the big races in later years - the New Zealand and Auckland Cups - were easy prey.

Bryce family members were associated with six New Zealand Cup and 11 Auckland Cup victories. Only the Holmes family, Free and his three sons - F.G., Allan and Maurice - who between them won the New Zealand Cup seven times, can boast a better family achievement at Addington. (F.G. was always known by his initials because his first name was the sae as that of his father).

Cecil Devine equalled Scotty Bryce's six New Zealand Cup training successes when Lord Module annihilated the 1979 field. Later still, Roy Purdon, with his two sons, Barry and Mark, produced their sixth victory between them in 1996 when the brilliant Il Vicolo won his second New Zealand Cup.

Credit: Bernie Wood writing in The Cup

 

YEAR: 1917

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Credit: The Toff writing in NZ Truth 10 Nov 1917

 

YEAR: 1944

Trainer Roy Berry, Owner W J Suttie and Driver George Noble
1944 NEW ZEALAND TROTTING CUP

"Black Sheep" of the last trotting Cup field, and looked upon until he joined R B Berry's stable as a pacer who had missed his mission in life, Bronze Eagle showed his real worth on Saturday by as game a performance as any ever put up by a Cup winner. Trained to the minute by R B Berry, and driven with consumate judgement by G B Noble, Bronze Eagle proved that years and years of near misses and frustrated endeavour had not left him with any inferiority complex.

It takes the great to make history; it takes a horse like Bronze Eagle to bury a mediocre past, toss precedents to the wind, and shine forth as one of the greatest stayers of his time. Here was the horse that went dangerously close to being eliminated from the last Cup. This was the 'ghouri' that broke in that race, caused interference, and led the committee to sigh and express a heartfelt wish that they had included Bronze Eagle among those eliminated. And here also is the horse that has sent one of the writer's long-cherished precedents for a six right out of the paddock! We have been telling you for years that horses that fail signally in the Cup do not win in later attempts. Well, Bronze Eagle has put 'paid' to that pet theory with a vengeance; we promise you it will not rear its ugly head again.

We can only admire Bronze Eagle's delayed-action triumph. His redemption, which began when he won the principal event at a Patriotic Meeting in July, came late, but now that it has come, we are glad to concede this handsome chestnut stallion his rightful place among the champions of his decade; to acknowledge that, after all, he was no Sunday horse when he worked well enough in training years ago to win any race in the land. He was merely hiding his light under a bushel, and waiting for the day when a combination par excellence, such as the Bronze Eagle-Berry-Noble trinity, should eventually come to pass.

Bronze Eagle's share of the Cup stake is £3250, and in addition, his owner, Mr W J Suttie, receives the handsome gold cup valued at £100. Bronze Eagle's total winnings now exceed £8000. He was bred by Mrs M A Tasker, Christchurch, and is an eight-year-old chestnut stallion by Wrack 2:02¾, from Lady Bridget, by Guy Parrish (imp) from Bridget Galindo, a full sister to Michael Galindo, one of the best trotters of his day and winner of the Dominion Handicap. Bridget Galindo was by Galindo (imp) from Mavoureen, by Prince Imperial from Moino, by General Tracey. This is a stout pedigree, and should give Bronze Eagle a stud value later on. Wrack was the leading sire of the Dominion for three seasons and is still prominent on the list. Wrack has now sired the winners of five NZ Cups, namely Wrackler (1930), Indianapolis(1934-35-36) and Bronze Eagle. Guy Parrish sired some good winners and trotters, notably Wild Guy (National Cup), Great Parrish (Auckland Cup) and Biddy Parrish, 2:08 trotter. He was a full-brother to Arion Guy, 1:59¾, sire of the dam of Certissimus. Galindo sired some good horses of both gaits. Prince Imperial was one of the most potent breeding forces of his time, and his blood is prominent in the pedigrees of Haughty, Gold Bar and other great ones. General Tracey, by Berlin (imp) from Jeanie Tracey (imp) was one of the best-bred horses of the early days.

Phenomenal is the only way to describe Integrity's effort to run second after losing, at a conservative estimate, 84 yards at the start. He did not settle down until Haughty, the backmarker, was well clear of him, and he could actually be counted out with half a mile covered. He certainly made up most of his lost ground by the time the last quarter was entered upon, but with Haughty now in the lead, and Pacing Power, Bronze Eagle and Countless among the others also in front of him, few were prepared for his spectacular dash down the outside of the track which took him momentarily to the front. He had disposed of Haughty, Pacing Power and Countless, and for a split second he looked like the winner, but then Bronze Eagle flashed through on the inside, where the going was not so good, and he outstayed Integrity by a length and a half.

Bronze Eagle has found a warm spot in the hearts of horselovers who know all about his struggle to reach the top, and enthusiasm knew no bounds when the horses were returned to the birdcage. Thousands literally broke the barriers and crowded onto the track to give Bronze Eagle and George Noble a memorable reception. Again, when Mr A L Matson, president of the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club, and Mr Forde, Deputy-Prime Minister of Australia, spoke to the presentation of the Cup, the crowd showed approval in whole-hearted fashion.

It was a magnificent race, a popular victory, and the largest crowd ever to attend Addington watched it with bated breath. The totalisator investments on the race, £31,758, are a record, and the £154,064/10/- put through the totalisator for the day is a record for the South Island.

It was another red-letter day in a chain of red-letter days that bedeck the history of the NZ Metropolitan Trotting Club.

Full Result

1st: W J Suttie's BRONZE EAGLE. Trained by R B Berry, Yaldhurst and driven by G B Noble, started off 24yds.

2nd: V Leeming's INTEGRITY. Driven by D C Watts, started off scratch.

3rd: G Lancaster's PACING POWER. Driven by R B Berry, started off 36yds. Bracketed with the winner.

4th: F McKendry's COUNTLESS. Driven by G McKendry, started off 24yds.

The winner won by a length and a half, with three lengths to third and a further four lengths to fourth.

Times: 4:24 4-5, 4:30 1-5, 4:28 2-5, 4:30 2-5.

Also started: Clockwork scr, Hardy Oak 12 and Haughty 60 bracketed; Parshall scr; Shadow Maid scr; Burt Scott 12; Gold Bar 12; Horsepower 12; Indian Clipper 12; Loyal Friend 12.

Credit: 'Ribbonwood' writing in NZ Trotting Calendar

 

YEAR: 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

 

YEAR: 1917

1917 SPRING MEETING: THURSDAY 8 NOVEMBER

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Credit: The Press 9 Nov 1917

 

YEAR: 1915

1915 SPRING MEETING: TUESDAY 9 NOVEMBER

The rain that set in on Monday caused many misgivings in regard to the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club's Spring Meeting which opened yesterday at Addington. The weather had cleared up beautifully yesterday morning and the track at the opening of the day's programme was in much better order than might have been expected after the soaking it had received, and it was improving with each race, though it was still heavy when the most important event of the year, the New Zealand Cup, was decided.

The weather then had become very threatening but fortunately the rain held off until after the big race had been contested. Then there was a very heavy downpour, and the track was soon at its worst, the muddy going being altogether against good racing. The rain did not last long, but though the track was drying a little before the end of the day, it was still very heavy, and the times registered will give some idea of the state of the track.

The Metropolitan Club's Spring Meeting is recognised as quite the most important fixture of its kind in Australasia, and the large attendance at Addington yesterday included representatives from all parts of the Dominion. The fields engaged were of a very good class, and although the state of the going did not tend to improve the racing, the sport was generally of an interesting character.

The management of the Meeting was quite in keeping with the high standard that has been set at Addington. Considering the unsettled weather speculation on the totalisator was brisk, the total for the day being £40,254 10s as compared with £42,869 10s last year. The sum invested on the New Zealand Cup was £9319 which was only £2 less than the total on that race last year. The war tax on dividends gave a return of £905 15s 6d.

The Spring Handicap, the opening event, drew a field of eighteen unhoppled trotters. Tika and Huia, who were almost evenly backed, carrying much more money than any of the others engaged. Tika did not give his backers any encouragement, but Huia was always in a handy position, and was never further back than third. Albertoria began very smartly, and in the early part of the race looked to have a good chance but a break put her out of court, and six furlongs from home Huia had taken charge. Rummy challenged Huia rounding the turn into the straight, but the latter drew away, and won comfortably, while Rummy, who was all out at the finish, had to do his best to beat Mushroom for second place. The latter broke in the straight, otherwise he might have been closer up. The winner was trained in Auckland, and was ridden by his trainer, so that the first score of the Meeting went to the North Island.

The Empire Handicap was anything but an exciting event. Gold Crest, whose previous form had not been at all impressive left the mark in good style, and leading all the way won very easily from Vermont, with Carretta in third place. Carretta was prominent for most of the journey, but Vermont did not appear on the scene until the last half-mile was begun. She then showed a lot of pace, but was stopping badly at the finish. George Hard, who was the first favourite, was never prominent and The Bronzewing, who was second favourite, lost her chance by breaking early in the race.

The New Zealand Cup next claimed the attention of the public, and the fifteen horses for whom the final payment had been made all went to the post. Admiral Wood, who was coupled on the totalisator with his stable companion, Manderene, was made favourite, but Our Thorpe received almost as much support, while Adonis and Frandocia were also very solidly backed. Frandocia's track work had been done in most convincing style, while both he and Adonis have shown themselves useful performers in heavy going. There was no actual mishap at the start, but several of the competitors were quickly out of court. Manderene collided with Adonis before they had gone a chain: St Ursula, Frandocia and Wallace Wood would not settle down to their work properly, and Our Thorpe lost a lot of ground by beginning slowly, leaving the mark after the scratch horses. Eccentric, always a good beginner, at once set out to make the pace with Don Caesar next. Eccentric led for a little over a mile and a quarter but then retired beaten, and Don Caesar was left in charge. Country Belle, who had begun in brilliant style, went in pursuit of the leader, and quickly had his measure. She was in front two furlongs from home, and though Our Thorpe and Jingle finished well, they had no chance with the scratch mare, who won very decisively. Our Thorpe stayed on very well, but he was beaten by a pacer of exceptionally good class and Jingle, although finishing well, had no chance with either of those in front of him. Don Caesar ran a very good race for a mile and three quarters, but evidently found the distance just a little beyond him. Admiral Wood, who finished fifth, showed a lot of pace in patches, but she did not settle kindly to his work, and a race such as the New Zealand Cup, is not one in which a horse can afford to make mistakes. Country Belle, who was bred by her owner, finished second in last year's New Zealand Cup, and her performance a month later in the New Brighton Cup, a free-for-all race, which she won in 4min 32 2/5th sec stamped her as one of the best mares the Dominion has produced. She was driven a capital race by A Hendricksen, who was behind Albert H the winner of the race in 1912.

The Middleton Handicap, a two mile race in harness for unhoppled trotters brought about the defeat of a solid favourite in Galician, who was going well in the first mile, but spoilt his chance by breaking. Chub made the early running, but Olive L had taken charge at the end of a mile, and she stayed on well and beat Wild Tree by a length and a half. Michael Galindo was going well six furlongs from home, but his condition failed him over the final stages. Olive L, scored her first victory in the Dominion in this race. Last season she raced very consistently, but very unluckily, as in twelve starts she was second six times and third twice.

There was not a large field for the Lyttelton Handicap for which Bright Alice, Emilius and Waitchie were backed in that order. Emilius was in front at the end of half a mile, and won easily by six lengths from Succeed, with Bright Alice a dozen lengths away third. The winner, who is a four-year-old full-brother to Emmeline, gave a much better showing than he has done in his recent races, in several of which he has refused to leave the mark. Waitchie, who was fourth, was never dangerous.

The St Albans Handicap, a mile race in saddle, gave Rawene a very easy victory, for she led from start to finish, and won easing up from Dot Robbins, with Mountain Rose and Ludski next.

Childsdale was made a very strong favourite for the Riccarton Handicap, but The King's General, who has previously shown himself partial to soft going made the most of his handicap and led all the way. He seemed to be in trouble when he skipped just before reaching the straight, but soon got into his stride again, and won comfortably.

The Hagley Handicap, the last race of the day, brought out a field of eleven, and OIC who has proved herself a particularly good "mud-lark" was a little better backed than John Dillon. The latter began very smartly and appeared to have the race safe when he broke going along the back. OIC finished well, and won by two lengths from Disappear, who was a similar distance in front of John Dillon. The latter was running on again at the finish, but his effort came too late. The following are details of the racing:-

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

A W Gordon's ch h Huia, by King George, aged, 15sec (W Orange) 1
A Redcliffe's b g Rummy, aged, 16sec (A Smith) 2
R J Munro's b g Mushroom, aged, 17sec (Owner) 3

Gladsome scr, Parkfield 11sec, Whisht 12sec, Tika 13sec, Havana 14sec, Parole Bells 15sec, Verawood 16sec, Bellwind 16sec and Te Kuiti 17sec(coupled), Imperial Victor 17sec, Matilda 17sec, Albertoria 17sec, Able Boy 17sec, Arcadian 17sec and General Grant 17sec also started.

Albertoria began better than any of the other limit horses, and passing the stand was showing the way to Able Boy, Huia and Mushroom. In the back stretch Albertoria broke, and Huia took charge. Albertoria was got going again, but broke once more in the straight, and six furlongs from home the order of the leaders was - Huia, Mushroom, and Rummy. Going along the back stretch Rummy displaced Mushroom, and turning into the straight closed on Huia, but the latter drew away again and won comfortably by six lengths. Rummy, Mushroom and Albertoria were stopping in the final stages, and they were separated by about a length in each case. Whisht was fifth and Gladsome sixth. Time, 5min 4 2/5th sec.

EMPIRE HANDICAP (in saddle) of 200 sovs; second 40 sovs and third 20 sovs from stake. 4.52 or better. Two miles.

W R Thomas's b c Gold Crest, by Rothschild-Gold Dust, 4yrs, 8sec (Owner) 1
C T Langdon's b m Vermont, aged, 3sec (J McLannan) 2
T Bryant's b m Carretta, aged, 8sec (Owner) 3

Yarraville scr, The Bronzewing 2sec, Treasure Seeker 4sec, Bermaline 6sec and Gee Whizz 8sec(coupled), Young Tohu 7sec, George Hard 8sec and General Wylie 8sec also started.

Gold Crest at once took charge, and at the end of half a mile was well clear of General Wylie, Bermaline and Carretta, with Treasure Seeker next. The last-named broke turning into the back stretch, and a little further on Bermaline did the same. Gold Crest was still out by himself when the last lap was entered and though Vermont put in a good run along the back stretch that took her into second place, she could make no impression on Gold Crest, who won easily by a dozen lengths. Carretta was six lengths away third, and then came Treasure Seeker, Yarraville and General Wylie. Time, 4min 55 2/5th sec.

NEW ZEALAND CUP HANDICAP (in harness) of 2500 sovs and silver cup presented by Mr C Louisson; second 500 sovs, third 300 sovs and fourth 200 sovs from stake. For horses that have done 4.37 or better. Two miles.

W J Morland's br m Country Belle, by Wild Moor-Bonnie Bell, aged, scr (A Hendricksen) 1
J Fleming's b h Our Thorpe, 5yrs, 2sec (A Fleming) 2
H W Kitchingham's b h Jingle, aged, 3sec (H Gaskill) 3
R Allan's b g Don Caesar, 6yrs, 4sec (Owner) 4

Stevenson & McMath's ch m Win Soon, aged, scr (A Pringle)
R McDonnell's b m Emmeline, aged, 1sec (Owner)
T Sheen's b h Admiral Wood, 5yrs 1sec (J Bryce)
J G Lecky's blk h Manderene, aged, 5sec (R Dunn)
W G Abbott's br m St Ursula, 5yrs, 3sec (Owner)
J Henderson's b g Tommy C, 6yrs, 3sec (R Reay)
Hall & Black's b g Frandocia, aged, 3sec (A Butterfield)
M Edwards's b m Adelaide Direct, aged, 3sec (Owner)
M edwards's b h Wallace Wood, aged, 4sec (N L Price)
R T Reid's gr g Eccentric, aged, 4sec (J Brankin)
J C Whiteman's b h Adonis, aged, 5sec (F Holmes)
(Winner bred and trained by Owner)
Manderene and Admiral Wood and Adelaide Direct and Wallace Wood were coupled on the totalisator.

Adonis and Manderene collided before they had gone a chain and St Ursula, Frandocia and Wallace Wood would not begin properly, while Our Thorpe was slow to find his feet and left behind the scratch horses. Eccentric at once rushed to the front and at the end of half a mile was showing the way to Don Caesar, Country Belle, Tommy C, Admiral Wood and Emmiline. There was little change in the order as they turned out of the straight and ran down the back, but Our Thorpe was beginning to improve his position, and six furlongs from home Eccentric was still leading from Don Caesar with Tommy C and Country Belle almost on terms, Our Thorpe, Admiral Wood and Emmeline next. A little further on Eccentric retired beaten and Country Belle ran into second place behind Don Caesar. Along the back stretch Country Belle was on terms with Don Caesar, while Our Thorpe and Jingle were moving up fast. Rounding the turn to the straight Country Belle drew away from Don Caesar and a little further on Our Thorpe ran past him. Country Belle landed into the straight with a comfortable lead and won in good style by three lengths from Our Thorpe. Jingle, who was two lengths back, just beat Don Caesar for third place, and then came Admiral Wood, Tommy C and some distance back, Emmeline, Win Soon, Frandocia ans Manderene. Time 4min 35 3/5th sec.

MIDDLETON HANDICAP (in harness) of 250 sovs; second 50 sovs and third 25 sovs from stake. For unhoppled trotters only. 4.54 or better. Two miles.

Mrs J Lawrence's br m Olive L, by Wallace L-Cissie Wood, 5yrs, 8sec (M Edwards) 1
J H Power's blk g Wild Tree, aged, 9sec (Owner) 2
Houston & Wilson's br g Galician, aged, 5sec (A Butterfield) 3

Electrocute scr, Michael Galindo 5sec, Annie K 6sec, Auckland Girl 8sec, Truganini 8sec, Hardy Wilkes 9sec, Rosalie 10sec, Chub 10sec, Syrie 11sec and Kelso 11sec also started.

A heavy shower fell just after the Cup had been run and the track was very muddy and greasy for this race. Chub and Olive L were on terms at the end of half a mile with Wild Tree, Annie K and Galician next. The last named broke turning into the back stretch, and Michael Galindo closed on the leaders. With a lap to go, Chub was beaten and Olive L had taken charge from Wild Tree, while Michael Galindo was going well in third place. Michael Galindo failed to see the distance out and Olive L staying on well, won by a length and a half from Wild Tree, who was forty yards in front of Galician, who just beat Michael Galindo for third place. Auckland Girl and Electrocute were next. Time, 5min 11 3/5th sec.

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

R McDonnell's b c Emilius, by Rothschild-Imperialism, 4yrs, 7sec (Owner) 10 3
S Chambers's ch m Succeed, 6yrs, 8sec (W R Thomas) 2
R M Morten's b m Bright Alice, 6yrs, 7sec (J Bryce) 3

Little Kauri 4sec, Phingari 7sec, Antonio 8sec, Waitchie 8sec, Ariadne 9sec, Al Franz 9sec and Princess Sherwood 9sec also started.

Emilius was in front before they had gone half a mile, with Al Franz, Succeed and Bright Alice following in that order. With a lap to go Succeed had taken second place and Bright Alice third, but Emilius kept his place in front and won easily by six lengths from Succeed, who beat Bright Alice by a dozen lengths. Waitchie was fourth and Al Franz fifth. Time, 5min 5 4/5th sec.

ST ALBANS HANDICAP (in saddle) of 200 sovs; second 40 sovs and third 20 sovs from stake. 2.21 or better. One mile.

B Shadbolt's b m Rawene, by Albert Victor-Judge Beldon mare, aged, 5sec (B Shadbolt, jun) 1
T Bryant's b m Dot Robbins, 5yrs, 3sec (Owner) 2
F Hickinbottom's b m Mountain Rose, aged, 1sec (A Butterfield) 3

Ludski 1sec, Prince Poole 2sec, Barmaguie 2sec, Dalwhinnie 3sec, Miss Advocate 3sec, Stanley's Child 3sec, Radiant Morn 4sec, Bequest 4sec, Andy Regan 4sec, Caledon 5sec, Sir Elmo5sec and Rosebery 5sec also started.

Rawene at once went to the front and led past the stand from Bequest and Miss Advocate. Dot Robbins went up to the leader at the tanks, but Rawene drew away again to win by ten lengths. Mountain Rose was another ten lengths away just in front of Ludski, Prince Poole and Andy Regan. Time, 2min 22 5/5th sec.

RICCARTON HANDICAP (in harness) of 300 sovs; second 60 sovs and third 30 sovs from stake. 3.30 or better. One mile and a half.

E Harris's b h The King's General, by General Pet-King Harold mare, 6yrs, 5sec (E McCann) 1
Mrs E Blair & H L Kettle's b h Childsdale, 6yrs, 3sec (A Hendricksen) 2
F A Piper's b h Bingana, aged, 4sec (J Messervey) 3

Bell Metal 1sec, Breeze 3sec, Fashionwood 4sec and Bonny Jenny 3sec also started.

The King's General began smartly, and with half the journey gone was well clear of Breeze, Bingana and Childsdale. Going along the back Childsdale ran into second place, but The King's General held his advantage, and won easily by six lengths. Bingara was four lengths away third, with Fashionwood fourth, the rest pulling up. Time, 3min 53 2/5th sec.

HAGLEY HANDICAP (in harness) of 250 sovs; second 50 sovs and third 25 sovs from stake. 2.24 to 2.21. One mile.

J H Olliver's b m OIC, by OYM-DIC, 6yrs, 2sec (F Holmes) 1
W J Doyle's b h Disappear, 5yrs, 2sec (R Logan) 2
S Humphrey's b h John Dillon, 5yrs, 1sec (M Edwards) 3

Child Beldon 1sec, Prince Toronto 1sec, Corbell 2sec, Icicle 2sec, Rema Rosa 3sec, Lady Rattoo 3sec, Annie Dillon 3sec and Ottawa 3sec also started.

John Dillon was very quickly into his stride, and at the end of two furlongs was three lengths in front of Ottawa, with Disappear next. John Dillon broke going along the back, and Disappear took charge, but in the straight was challenged by OIC, who won by two lengths. John Dillon was two lengths further back third, with Child Beldon fourth, the rest pulling up. Time, 2min 32 1/5th sec.

Credit: The Press 10 Nov 1915

 

YEAR: 1915

1915 SPRING MEETING: FRIDAY 12 NOVEMBER

The New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club's Spring Meeting was concluded yesterday in fine weather, though the strong nor'-west wind that was blowing for the greater part of the afternoon raised a good deal of dust and made matters rather unpleasant for the spectators. There has seldom if ever, been a larger attendance at Addington, and, extensive as is the stand accommodation there, it was altogether overtaxed.

The track was in capital order, and there were some very smart performances registered, the most notable being Solo's 2min 10 4/5th sec in the Enfield Handicap, which establishes a new race record for the Dominion. The racing was full of interest, and in that respect the Meeting is entitled to be written down as in every way successful.

Financially the three days have produced very satisfactory returns, and as the net profits are to go to the Wounded Soldiers' Fund, there should be a substantial sum to hand over at the end of the season. The totalisator investments yesterday amounted to £48,278 10s, as compared with £42,776 10s on the corresponding day last year, making a total of £125,343, as against £117,999 10s for the last November Meeting. The war tax on dividends gave a return of £1086 6s 6d, the total for the Meeting from this source being £2820 10s. With such an experienced secretary as Mr A I Rattray at the head of affairs, it was only natural to find the business details of the Meeting receiving capable attention, while Mr W H Macdougall's totalisator staff got through a busy day in good style.

Galician, Kaikanui and Truganini received most support for the Governor's Handicap, a two-mile race in saddle for unhoppled trotters, with which the programme opened. Kaikanui broke early in the race and was never afterwards prominent, while Galician showed a good deal of pace but did not go very steadily. Truganini did not make any mistakes, and the win was largely due to her steadiness, for Wild Tree headed her before turning for home but broke in the straight and was beaten out of a place. Chub, who was second, stayed on rather better than usual.

Prince Berlin was backed down to a very short price in the Victoria Handicap, and led for a greater part of the distance, but had to be driven out to stall off a strong challenge from Waitchie.

The Christchurch Handicap, the principal event of the afternoon, drew a field of eleven good class pacers, Wallace Wood being the only withdrawal. St Kevin was made favourite, with Jingle next in demand, but the latter lost his chance at the start. Jewel Chimes made the pace until half a mile from home, but then had had enough, and Persuader, who had always been handy, took charge, and staying on well, won in the good time of 4min 35sec. St Kevin faded out in the final stages, and both Adonis and Tommy C, finishing strongly, beat him home.

Granger and Disappear carried most money in the Australasian Handicap, and they quickly drew out from the rest of the field. Granger paced well, but found his task a little beyond him, and Disappear won by three lengths from Gladsome, the only trotter in the race, who was running on strongly at the finish.

The Dominion Trotting Handicap, the most valuable race of the year for unhoppled trotters, was generally regarded as a match between Redchild and Master Raymond, but they did not begin well, and Michael Galindo, settling to his work very smartly, led all th way, and won comfortably. The winner early in his career showed himself to be a very high-class trotter, but an accident kept him off the track for a considerable time, and his owner-trainer has done exceedingly well to get him back to racing form again.

The Hornby Handicap was a very interesting contest. Cello Sydney Wilkes, and Desdemona were responsible for the pace in the early stages, but three furlongs from home Erin's King, the favourite, put in a brilliant run, and though challenged by Araidne, won handily by two lengths.

The Enfield Handicap brought out a field of twelve smart mile horses. St Kevin and Ludski being best backed. Breeze fell soon after the start, and Adonis and Mountain Rose broke early in the race. Solo was always one of the leading division, and won decisively from St Kevin, who was under pressure some distance from the post. The time of 2min 10 4/5sec officially recorded as the fastest that has yet been put up in a race in New Zealand, but a good many private watches made it a second slower.

The Meeting concluded with a great finish in the Recovery Handicap. Dot Robbins took charge along the back, but then Our Aggie challenged, and in the straight she appeared to have the race won, when Frank Tracey came with a strong run and won by a head. Frank Tracey was driven by A Hendricksen, who had also been behind Erin's King in the Hornby Handicap. the following are details of the racing:-

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

W H Hargreaves's b m Truganini by Del Paso, aged, 3sec (T Annett) 1
E McDermott's b g Chub, aged, 6sec (Owner) 2
R J Munro's b g Mushroom, aged, 4sec (Owner) 3

Galician scr, Huia 2sec, Treasure Seeker 2sec, Wild Tree 3sec, Craibwood 3sec, Ohapi 7sec, Kelso 7sec and Kaikanui 7sec also started.

Kaikanui took the lead at the start, but broke before going half a mile, and Truganini took charge from Wild Tree and Chub. Going along the back Galician ran past Wild Tree, and six furlongs from home he was in second place, but was going rather unsteadily. At the far turn Wild Tree displaced Truganini in the lead, but broke in the straight, and Truganini won by three lengths from Chub who was a similar distance in front of Mushroom, Galician and Wild Tree being next. Time, 4min 46 4/5sec.

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

Holland Bros br g Prince Berlin by Berlin Abdallah-BJN, aged, 14sec (J Bryce) 1
J Henderson's b g Waitchie, 5yrs, 17sec (R Reay) 2
M Edwards's b h Wallace Wood, aged, 8sec (Owner) 3

Stanley's Child 12sec, Franzalena 17sec and OIC 18sec also started

Franzalena showed in front for half a mile, but at the end of the first lap Prince Berlin had taken charge, with Franzalena, OIC, Wallace Wood and Waitchie following in order, while Stanley's Child was pulled up. In the next circuit Wallace Wood had taken second place behind Prince Berlin with Waitchie next. Half a mile from home Waitchie ran up alongside Prince Berlin, but in a good finish between this pair, Prince Berlin stayed on and won by a length. Wallace Wood was twelve lengths away, with Franzalena and OIC together. Time, 5min 15sec.

CHRISTCHURCH HANDICAP (in harness) of 750 sovs; second 150 sovs and third 75 sovs from stake. 4.39 or better. Two miles.

Herrick Bros' b g Persuader by General Lincoln, aged, 8sec (A Pringle) 1
J C Whiteman's b h Adonis, aged, 8sec (F Holmes) 2
J Henderson's b g Tommy C, 6yrs, 6sec (R Reay) 3

J J Kennerley's b g Eminent, 6yrs, 4sec (Owner)
H W Kitchingham's b h Jingle, aged, 5sec (H Gaskell)
Hall & Black's b g Frandocia, aged, 6sec (A Butterfield)
W D Lemon's blk g Sherwood, 5yrs, 6sec (A Bright)
J D Piper's b h Jewel Chimes, aged, 7sec (A Hendricksen)
R Allan's br g Don Caesar, 6yrs, 7sec (Owner)
J G Lecky'sblk h Manderene, aged, 8sec (J Bryce)
J Farrell's b h St Kevin, 6yrs, 8sec (J Brankin)

Jingle and Sherwood broke at the start. St Kevin moved away smartly, but Jewel Chimes quickly ran past him, and at the end of half a mile these two were followed by Persuader, Manderene, Adonis, Tommy C and Frandocia. Going along the back, Persuader moved up into second place, while Tommy C put in a good run. With a lap to go, Jewel Chimes was still in the lead, with Persuader, St Kevin, Adonis and Manderene next. Three furlongs from home Jewel Chimes was beaten, and Persuader took charge from St Kevin. Persuader led round the turn into the straight where Adonis put in his claim. Persuader however, held his advantage and won by two lengths. Tommy C came with a late run and finished a length behind Adonis. The next to finish were St Kevin, Eminent and Manderene. Time, 4min 25sec.

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

W J Doyles's b h Disappear by Willowood-Mambrino Girl, 5yrs, 8sec (A Butterfield) 1
T Annett's b m Gladsome, aged, 9sec (Owner) 2
K H Smith's b g Granger, 4yrs, 10sec (F E Jones) 3

St Ursula scr, Red Mac 2sec, Jack Ashore 2sec, Breeze 4sec, Fashionwood 4sec, Stanley's Child 5sec, Princess Sherwood 6sec, Medallion 6sec, Rawene 7sec, Vermont 7sec, Yarraville 8sec, Lodi 8sec and Waitchie 9sec also started.

Stanley's Child stood on the mark, and the order in the first quarter was Granger, Disappear and Gladsome. Yarraville was with Gladsome in third place passing the stand, and Rawene and Princess Sherwood headed the others. Disappear displaced Granger in the lead at the tanks, and entering the straight, with that exception the order was unchanged. Fashionwood and Vermont improved their positions passing the stands for the last time, and Vermont had passed all but Disappear when heads were turned for home. He tired, however, in the run to the post, and Gladsome got second place about three lengths away from Disappear, with Granger two lengths further back, third. Vermont was close up fourth, followed by Princess Sherwood and Yarraville. Time, 4min 41 3/5th sec.

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

C Tasker's br h Michael Galindo by Galindo-Mavoureen, 6yrs, 7sec (Owner)
Houston & Wilson's br g Galician, aged, 6sec (coupled with Master Raymond) (H Gaskell) 2
H Bink's ch g Master Raymond, aged, 1sec (A Butterfield) 3

Redchild scr and Olive L 7sec (coupled), Electrocute 3sec, Lord Roanchild 7sec and Bushranger 7sec also started.

The back-markers were rather slow to begin, and at the end of half a mile Michael Galindo was showing the way to Olive L, after whom came Lord Roanchild, Galician, Bushranger, Redchild and Master Raymond, in order. At the end of a mile Lord Roanchild had had enough, and Galician passed him. Six furlongs from home Michael Galindo was still going comfortably in the lead, but Olive L broke and a little further on gave place to Galician. The latter had no chance of reaching Michael Galindo, who won easily by ten lengths. Master Raymond, who made up a lot of ground over the last half-mile, was six lengths further back, and then came Olive L and Redchild. Time, 4min 42 1/5th sec.

HORNBY HANDICAP (in harness) of 300 sovs; second 60 sovs and third 30 sovs from stake. 3.33 or better. One mile an a half.

J D Parker's b c Erin's King by Hal Zolock-BJN, 4yrs, 7sec (A Hendricksen) 1
P Dalton's b g Ariadne, aged, 8sec (A Butterfield) 2
T L Morrison's b c Cello Sydney Wilkes, 3yrs, 9sec (A G Wilson) 3

Emilius 4sec, Bingana 5sec, Pearlchild 5sec, Prince Poole 6sec, Succeed 6sec, Radiant Morn 7sec, Soda 7sec, The Whip 8sec, Desdemona 8sec, Bacchus 8sec, Al Franz 9sec, OIC 9sec and Antonio 9sec also started.

Cello Sydney Wilkes and Al Franz were quickest to begin, and they made the running to the tanks, where Desdemona took charge, while The Whip was closing on the leading division. With half the journey gone Desdemona was followed by The Whip and Cello Sydney Wilkes, but along the back Erin's King put in a fast run and was in front rounding the turn to the straight, with Ariadne in pursuit. In the run home Erin's King kept his place without difficulty, and won by two lengths. Cello Sydney Wilkes was three lengths away third, followed by Desdemona, The Whip, Bingana and Al Franz. Time, 3min 25 4/5th sec.

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

J H Power's b m Solo by Albert Victor, aged, 3sec (E McDermott) 1
J Farrell's b h St Kevin, 6yrs, 3sec (A Pringle) 2
W G Abbott's br m St Ursula, 5yrs, 3sec (L Knight) 3

Tommy C 3sec, Frandocia 3sec, Little Tib 3sec, Adonis 4sec, Ludski 4sec, Breeze 5sec, Mountain Rose 5sec, Bellis 5sec and Yarraville 5sec also started.

After one false start Ludski got out smartly and Solo got into his stride well. Passing the stand the order was Ludski, Solo, St Kevin and Yarraville. Bellis went in pursuit of the leaders going out of the straight. Solo passed Ludski at the tanks, and St Kevin began to reduce the gap. Solo went on full of running, and though St Kevin finished gamely he was beaten by two lengths. St Ursula was six lengths away third, and Ludski and Yarraville close up. Time, 2min 10 4/5th sec.

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

W J M Hopkins's ch g Frank Tracey by King Tracey-Electioneer mare, 6yrs, 3sec (A Hendricksen) 1
J Bryce's ch m Our Aggie, 6yrs, 3sec (Owner) 2
R Allan's r g Don Caesar, 6yrs, 3sec (Owner) 3

Solo scr(2sec penalty), Emmiline 1sec, Eccentric 1sec, Sherwood 3sec, Albert H 3sec(coupled with Frank Tracey), Dot Robbins 3sec, Bell Metal 4sec and Buff 4sec also started.

Buff, Our Aggie, Dot Robbins and Don Caesar were the leaders passing the stand. Along the back stretch Dot Robbins moved up and was in front rounding the turn to th straight, but when they were in line for home Our Aggie had taken charge. Frank Tracey then put in a brilliant run on the outside and got up in time to win by a head. Don Caesar was a length away third, with Emmeline fourth, Sherwood fifth and Dot Robbins sixth. Time, 2min 13 4/5th sec.

Credit: The Press 13 November 1915

 

YEAR: 1915

1915 NEW ZEALAND TROTTING CUP

Despite a fine second the previous year and a win in the New Brighton Cup in 4:32 2/5, which made her a backmarker and gave her a reputation as the best stayer in the land, Country Belle was one of the outsiders when she wore down fancied leader Don Caesar and fought off Our Thorpe.

She became the fourth mare in eight years to prevail and through her daughter Rustic Maid established a quite outstanding family.

**Credit: NZ HRWeekly 1Oct2003**

-o0o-

In the 1915 Cup Country Belle, urged on by Albert Hendricksen, went in pursuit of the leader Don Caesar and, after taking control two furlongs from the finish, fought off the challenges of newcomers Our Thorpe and Jingle. Don Caesar was fourth, and then followed Admiral Wood, Tommy C, Win Soon, Frandocia and Manderene. Country Belle's winning time was 4:35.6.

It was Hendricksen's second success, having won with Albert H in 1912. A seven-year-old mare by Wild Moor from Bonnie Bell, by Lincoln Yet, Country Belle was bred by Rakaia owner Bill Morland. After her fine second in the New Zealand Cup the previous year, she won the New Brighton Cup a month later in 4:32.4, which stamped her as one of the best stayers in the country.

The stake for the Cup remained at 2500 sovereigns, but the overall stakes at the meeting reached 10,000 sovereigns for the first time.

Country Belle and Emmeline trialled well on the Sunday morning before the Cup, yet the Morland mare went out 10th favourite, with only three others less supported in the 15-strong field. There were two bracketed pairs - Wallace Wood and Adelaide Direct, and Admiral Wood and Manderene. Country Belle had been a consistent performer early on. She started racing as a three-year-old and won twice from five starts. At four years she won at each of her three starts. The current season, however, was her best, and her Cup victory enabled her to end the season the leading earner, with £1930, followed by Our Thorpe. Morland, with £2635, was the season's top owner.

Country Belle and the previous year's winner, Win Soon, were the scratch markers in the Cup, giving a start of six seconds to Manderene. Win Soon, who had not raced since August, did not go well and finished a long way behind the placed horses.

The rising star from the previous season, Admiral Wood (then in the James Bryce stable, having changed hands for a record sum), was race favourite and shared the one-second mark with Emmeline. But he too raced below his best. Because of his outstanding achievements, Admiral Wood was asked even then to race from long marks, and was another victim of a less-than-satisfactory handicap system. He did win more good races, including the 1916 New Zealand Free-For-All and the Auckland Cup the same year, and when retired at the end of the 1919-20 season had a two-mile record of 4:26.6.

Our Thorpe, a five-year-old by O.Y.M. from Lady Thorpe, whose dam was a Young Irvington mare, received solid support, as did Adonis(Free Holmes) and Frandocia(Artie Butterfield), the latter another son of Franz. Our Thorpe was slow away and was left behind by the scratch pair. He made a forward move, with Jingle, in the back straight on the last lap to follow Don Caesar and Country Belle. Our Thorpe ran past Don Caesar in the straight but could not match Country Belle. Adonis collided with Manderene at the start and lost his chance, while Frandonia, slow away, plugged on without ever looking likely to fill a place.

Third placed Jingle - owned by Greymouth solicitor Harry Kitchingham, for many years a great patron of trotting - was by Capitalist from Merry Bell, from Silver Bell, a Blackwood Abdallah mare. Robert Wilkin imported Blackwood Abdallah, foaled in 1878 at Lexington, Kentucky, to New Zealand. He stood at the Fendalton Stud and later at Ashburton, and in all sired 57 winners. Among his descendants were the racing idol of the 1930's, Harold Logan, outstanding trotter Ripcord, and Gold Chief, the sire of Rupee. Kitchingham set up a stud in Russley Road, Upper Riccarton. Jingle was the best horse he raced.

Country Belle, after her impressive Cup victory, earned favouritism for the Free-For-All, along with Our Thorpe and Emmeline. After one false start, the seven-horse field was sent away, with Our Thorpe last to settle, while Adelaide Direct broke stride at the starting post. Our Thorpe made up his lost ground and finished brilliantly to beat Country Belle, with Emmeline third, 40 yards away. Our Thorpe recorded 2:41.4, a mile rate of 2:09, the fastest winning rate paced in New Zealand to that stage.

On the third day of the meeting the outstanding performance came from Solo, in the Enfield Handicap. Driven by Eugene McDermott, he registered 2:10.8, a mile winning record. Michael Galindo (Cliff Tasker) won the Dominion Handicap from Galacian and Master Raymond, and in so doing became the first double winner of the country's prestigious trotting event, having recorded his initial success in 1913.

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

 

YEAR: 1913

1913 SPRING MEETING: TUESDAY 11 NOVEMBER

During the past few years the progress of trotting in Canterbury has been little short of phenomenal, and this has been fully shown at the meeting of the New Zealand Metropolitan Club at Addington.

The club's appointments have for several years past been noted for their completeness, but during the last few months very extensive alterations and additions have been carried out, making the people's stand in the outside enclosure a very commodious structure. In the inside buildings several changes have been made, the most important being the construction of a vice-regal box in the grandstand. This includes a beautifully fitted-up suite of apartments for the use of their Excellencies. The attendance yesterday was representative of all parts of the Dominion, and several Australian enthusiasts were also present.

The chief attraction was the race for the New Zealand Trotting Cup, of 2000 sovs, the largest prize ever offered for a trotting race in Australasia. A field of 21 started. Calm, a previously unbeaten son of Wildwood Junior-Gertie, was rather a better favourite than Ravenschild, with Albert H and Adonis next best supported. The race was very largely spoilt by the start, and several of the competitors took no part in it. It is much to be regretted that this event has in no case produced a contest worthy of its importance, but this year's failure is perhaps the most disappointing of the whole series. The investments on the New Zealand Cup amounted to £9257 10s, and the total for the day was £42,558, as compared with £32,969 last year.

The Spring Handicap brought out a field of eighteen unhoppled trotters, Wickliffe being made a slightly better favourite than Armamenter, with King William third in favouritism. Maoriwood was first into his gait, and trotting kindly all the way through, won easily by forty yards from Benmore, who beat Mokau by half a length for second place. In the Empire Handicap, General Wylie was made a strong favourite, with Oceanic the next best supported. The latter made most of the running, but was outstayed by Lady Rattoo, who beat her home by ten lengths.

It was unfortunate that the race for the New Zealand Cup, of 2000 sovs, the most valuable stake ever offered in Australasia, should have been spoilt by a mishap at the start, which resulted in Glendalough, Gold Bell, Medallion and King Cole being put out of the race. This spoilt the contest from a spectacular point of view. Ravenschild, who escaped mishap in the early part, won by eight lengths from the Australian representative, Denver Huon, after whom came Manderene, Emmeline, Stop It, Little Tib, Lord Heathcote, Aberfeldy, Quincey and Lord Dillon.

Of the twenty acceptors for the Riccarton Handicap, Cameos, Lady Ratoo and Quincey Maid were withdrawn, the American-bred filly Bonista, by Star Pointer-Bonny Jenny, being made a very warm favourite. The public confidence was well justified, for she was in front with half the journey gone, and won easing up by a length from Brown Bell, who finished fast and beat Merry Child for second place by two lengths.

The Middleton Handicap, for unhoppled trotters, produced one of the best races of the day. Michael Galindo, a splendidly actioned, square-gaited trotter, led from Mahomet and Verax as the straight was reached. In the run home Mahomet broke, and Michael Galindo won by four lengths from Verax, who was the same distance in front of Havoc.

The St Albans Handicap (in saddle) brought out a field of sixteen, Royal Vesta being made a very warm favourite. Franz Josef paced kindly throughout the race, and won by three lengths from Ariel, who was a head in front of Royal Vesta.

There were some brilliant horses engaged in the Provincial Handicap, one mile and a quarter, Gianella being made favourite, with Princess Louise secoond in demand. Wilkie, Stop It and Bell Metal made the earlier running, but then gave place to Jingle, who finished brilliantly, and beat Bell Metal by half a length.

The race for the Hagley Handicap was rather spoilt by the falling of Rosemary, Child Beldon and May Dillon at the entrance to the straight, but that happening made no difference to the result, for Wereroa was well clear at the time, and won by two lengths from Harold Minto, who was followed six lengths back by Rema Rosa.The following are the results:-

SPRING HANDICAP (in saddle) of 150 sovs; second 22 sovs and third 15 sovs from stake. For unhoppled trotters only. One mile and a half.

D Sutherland's b h Maoriwood, by Wildwood-Berlin mare, aged 10sec (A Pringle) 1
A J Clyde's b g Benmore, aged, 2sec (M Butler) 2
B Edwards's blk g Mokau, aged, 4sec (Owner) 3

Tea Tree 2sec, Monsoon 2sec, Lignite 6sec, Ophelia 7sec, Belvic 7sec, Fiction 7sec, March Hare 8sec, Whispering Lad 8sec, Mayflower 8sec, Hiroki 10sec, Armamenter 10sec, Dollywood 10sec, King William 10sec, Wickliffe 10sec and Ivory Bells 10sec also started.

Maoriwood was quickest to begin, and running towards the back stretch had March Hare as his nearest attendant. With half the journey gone Maoriwood was well clear of March Hare, with Wickliffe next. A little further on March Hare broke, but was quickly got going, while Benmore improved his position. Maoriwood kept his place, and won very easily by forty yards from Benmore, who just beat Mokau for second place by half a length. Wickliffe was fourth, and March Hare fifth. Time, 3min 40sec.

EMPIRE HANDICAP (in saddle) of 175 sovs; second 25 sovs and third 10 sovs from stake. Two miles.

D J Clark's b m Lady Rattoo, by General Lyons-Toronto mare, 5yrs, 9sec (G Berry) 1
H Tregoning's rn m Oceanic, aged, 12sec (E McDermott) 2
I M Thompson's b m Bold Maid, aged, 9sec (W R Thomas) 3

Link scr, Franzalena 2sec and Radiant Morn 5sec(coupled), Regina Belle 5sec, General Wylie 8sec, OIC 11sec, Gertie L 12sec and Lady Devon 12sec also started.

Oceanic at once went to the front, and as they passed the stand was showing the way to Bold Maid, OIC and Lady Rattoo. As they raced along the back stretch Regina Belle, General Wylie and Bold Maid were on terms behind Oceanic, who was well clear of the field. With a lap to go, Oceanic was still in front, but Lady Rattoo had run into second place, with General Wylie, Regina Belle, Bold Maid and OIC in a bunch. In the back stretch Lady Rattoo closed on Oceanic, and turning into the straight had her measure, and going on won easily by ten lengths. Oceanic was twelve lengths in front of Bold Maid, after whom came Gertie L, Franzalena and Radiant Morn. Time, 4min 48sec.

NEW ZEALAND CUP HANDICAP (in harness) of 2000 sovs; second 400 sovs, third 300 sovs and fourth 200 sovs from stake. 4.38 class. Two miles.

J McCutcheon's br h Ravenschild, by Rothschild-Ravensdale, aged, 6sec (N L Price) 1
R Geddes ch h Denver Huon, aged 2sec (M Edwards) 2
W Kerr's b h Calm, 6yrs, 6sec (Owner) 3
J G Lecky's blk h Mandarene, aged, 6sec (B Edwards) 4
Mrs R O Duncan's ch h King Cole, aged, scr (J Bryce)
R McDonnell's b m Emmeline, aged, scr (Owner)
McDonald & Reid's gr g Eccentric, aged, 2sec (J Brankin)
A G Wilson's b h Bright, aged, 4sec (Owner)
G Clarkson's b g Redchild, aged, 4sec (C Kerr)
M Maher's b h Albert H, aged, 4sec (Hendricksen)
S W Scott's b h Quincey, aged, 5sec (Owner)
J G McConochie's br g Aberfeldy, aged, 6sec (J Tasker)
J Dennett's b h Adonis, 6yrs, 6sec (F Holmes)
D Spence's b g Little Tib, aged, 6sec (H McNae)
McMillan & Alpe's ch g Lord Dillon, 6yrs, 6sec (R McMillan)
J Lorgelly's ch h Lord Heathcote, aged, 6sec (Owner)
J Shaww's b h Medallion, aged, 6sec (J Rainey)
W G Abbott's br m Stop It, aged, 6sec (Owner)
T Roe's b h Gold Bell, aged, 6sec (J Lynch)
J Farrell's b m Glendalough, aged, 6sec (A Butterfield)
Walter Kerr's b g Bellis, aged (A Pringle)

The field paraded past the stand, and then walked back to the starting post. They started racing some lengths before reaching the post, and got off in straggling order. Glendalough lost her driver, and Gold Bell, Medallion and King Cole took no part in the race. Ravenschild at once went to the front, with Mandarene and Lord Dillon at the head of the others. Passing the stand the first time Lord Dillon had headed Ravenschild, who was followed by Mandarene, Little Tib, Aberfeldy, Stop It and Calm. Going out of the straight and into the back stretch there was little change in the order, but Denver Huon had started to move up from the second division. Racing towards the straight Ravenschild again took charge, and with a lap to go was followed by Manderene, Lord Dillon, Calm, Denver Huon, Stop It, Little Tib, Eccentric and Emmeline.
Turning out of the straight Ravenschild was still out well clear of Mandarene, while Calm put in a strong run, and took third place, Lord Dillon and Denver Huon being at the head of the others. Turning for home, Ravenschild was going along well in front, while Calm, who had raced into second place, broke, and Denver Huon closed on him. In the home stretch Ravenschild easily held his advantage, and won very comfortably by eight lengths from Denver Huon, who was two lengths in front of Calm. Mandarene was four lengths away fourth, and then in order came Emmeline, Stop It, Little Tib, Lord Heathcote, Aberfeldy, Quincey and Lord Dillon. Time, 4min 35 3/5th sec.

The following are the fractional times for the race:-
First quarter 31sec, half-mile 1min 5sec, six furlongs 1min 41sec, one mile 2min 15sec, one mile and a quarter 2min 50sec, one mile and a half 3min 28sec, one mile and three-quarters 3min 59sec, two miles 4min 35 3/5th sec.

RICCARTON HANDICAP (in harness) of 200 sovs; second 30 sovs and third 20 sovs from stake. One mile and a half.

F Holmes's b f Bonista, by Star Pointer-Bonny Jenny, 4yrs, 9sec (Owner) 1
I W Thompson's br m Brown Bell, aged, 5sec (W R Thomas) 2
J S August's b f Merry Child, 4yrs, 9sec (S August) 3

Brooklyn scr, Win Soon 4sec, Edith A 4sec, Bonification 5sec, Childsdale 5sec, Vermont 6sec, Proud Girl 6sec, Don Caesar 6sec, Baron Franz 6sec, Bright Alice 6sec, George Hard 7sec, Dalwhinnie 9sec, Our Aggie 9sec and Huon Drift 9sec also started.

Merry Child and Our Aggie showed the way to Bonista over the first half mile, but when the second lap was enteredd, Bonista had taken charge from Our Aggie, after whom came Merry Child, George Hard, and Dalwhinnie. Bonista made all the rest of the running, but Our Aggie stopped badly in the straight, and Bonista won easing up by a length from Brown Bell, who finished fast, and beat Merry Child by two lengths for second place. Our Aggie was fourth, George Hard fifth and Don Caesar next. Time, 3min 37 2/5th sec.

MIDDLETON HANDICAP (in harness) of 200 sovs; second 30 sovs and third 20 sovs from stake. Two miles.

R Tasker's b c Michael Galindo, by Galindo-Mavourneen, 4yrs, 12sec (J Tasker) 1
R Geddes's br g Mahomet, 5yrs, 10sec (M Edwards) 2
Mrs R O Duncan's br g Verax, aged, 2sec (J Bryce) 3

Betel Nut 2sec, Rosalie 2sec, Craibwood 7sec, Kelso 7sec, Welfare 10sec, Adventuress 7sec, Brookbell 7sec, Te Kuiti 8sec, Mystic 12sec, Miss Vivian 12sec and Vigorous 14sec also started.

Vigorous held the lead for about one hundred yards, followed by Michael Galindo. The latter broke, and Welfare led into the straight, but at the stand Mystic and Michael Galindo were showing the way to Miss Vivian, Mahomet, Welfare and adventuress. Going down the back stretch and into the straight the second time, Miss Vivian and Michael Galindo led with Mahomet running next. The last-named assumed the lead, and with Michael Galindo, carried on the running into the straight, but in the run to the post, Mahomet broke, and allowed Michael Galindo to win by four lengths, with Verax, who finished well, four lengths away. The next to finish were Kelso, Betel Nut and Rosalie. Time, 4min 53sec.

ST ALBANS HANDICAP (in saddle) of 170 sovs; second 25 sovs and third 17 sovs from stake. One mile.

C E Cross's b g Franz Josef, by Franz-Victor mare, 6yrs, 5sec (W Pine) 1
R D Petrie's blk g Ariel, 5yrs, 5sec (J Tudhope) 2
J Moorhead's b m Vermont, aged, 6sec (J Brankin) 3

Barmaguie scr, Frances 2sec, Kalgoorlie 3sec, Millwood 3sec, Grampian 3sec, Regina Belle 4sec, First Alarm 4sec, Cute 4sec, Centrewood 5sec, Wallace Junior 5sec, Royal Vesta 5sec, Rosemary 6sec and Harold Minto 6sec also started. (Harold Minto and Grampian were bracketed on the totalisator)

Franz Josef began better than any others of the limit division, and passing the stand was four lenghts clear of Vermont, Grampian and Rosemary who were close together. Franz Josef kept his place in front, and won easily by three lengths from Ariel, who was a head in front of Vermont. Rosemary was another head away fourth, with Royal Vesta fifth. Time, 2min 19 4/5th sec.

PROVINCIAL HANDICAP (in harness) of 350 sovs; second 52 sovs and third 35 sovs from stake. One mile and a quarter.

H W Kitchingham's b h Jingle, by Capitalist-Merry Bell, 6yrs, 5sec (H Gaskill) 1
J Archibald's br g Bell Metal, aged, 5sec (C Kerr) 2
C G Fryer's b m Princess Louise, aged, 6sec (T W Price jun) 3

King Cole scr, Havoc 4sec, Adonis 4sec, Lady Sybil 5sec, Gianella 5sec, Wilkie 6sec, Glendalough 6sec and Stop It 6sec also started.

Adonis, Lady Sybil, and Glendalough refused to strike a gait at te start, and took practically no part in the race. Stop It and Wilkie showed out momentarily, but Bell Metal quickly ran past them, and passing the stand the order was Bell Metal, Wilkie, Princess Louise and Stop It. Going out of the straight Jingle and Gianella improved their positions, and along the back King Cole put in a strong run, but broke and lost his chance. Bell Metal and Princess Louise were in the lead at the tanks, but Jingle then closed on them. In a good race home Jingle beat Bell Metal by half a length. Princess Louise was two lengths away third, with Havoc a length back fourth: Stop It and Gianella next. Time, 2min 52 2/5th sec.

HAGLEY HANDICAP (in harness) of 170 sovs; second 25 sovs and third 17 sovs from stake. One mile.

F Macdonald's b g Wereoa, by Young Governor colt-Albert Victor mare, aged, 4sec (J Brankin) 1
T Wark's br g Harold Minto, aged, 4sec (Owner) 2
J Fisher's b m Rema Rosa, 4sec, (A G Wilson) 3

Lord Heathcote scr, Vibon 1sec, Ruby S 1sec, Muricata 1sec, Derringcotte 1sec, Wild Victor 1sec, Lady Child 2sec, First Alarm 2sec, Cute 2sec, Onawa 2sec, Child Beldon 2sec, Rolf 3sec, Boldrewood 3sec, May Dillon 3sec, Royal Vesta 3sec, Bernie L 4sec, Rosemary 4sec, Sylvie 4sec and Ard Cairn 4sec also started. (Muricata and Rosemary and Derringcotte and Harold Minto were coupled on the totalisator).

Harold Minto was the quickest to begin, and with Ard Cairn and Wereoa made the running past the stand. Going out of the straight Rema Rosa ran into third place, but was unable to make any impression on Wereoa and Harold Minto, Wereoa winning by two lengths. Harold Minto was six lengths in front of Rema Rose, after whom came Onawa and Cute. Time, 2min 20sec.
Rosemary, Child Beldon and May Dillon fell at the entrance to the straight.

Credit: The Press 12 Nov 1913

 

YEAR: 1913

1913 SPRING MEETING: FRIDAY 14 NOVEMBER

From every point of view the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club's Spring Meeting, which was brought to a close at Addington yesterday, must be regarded as the most successful fixture yet conducted by the leading club of the Dominion.

Each year sets a record that one would think likely to stand for some time, but in twelve months time the previous year's figures are left far behind, and so marvellous has been the growth of the popularity of the sport,that even the phenomenal returns of this past week will no doubt be surpassed next November.

With the general holiday the attendance yesterday was the largest of the three days, and during the afternoon the crowded stands, and the throngs of people on the lawn and in the centre of the course presented a really remarkable sight. Naturally the totalisator turnover showed a large increase yesterday, and indeed each of the three days has given much better returns than those of twelve months ago. The figures for each day are:- 1913: First day £42,558, second day £36,308 10s, third day £45,496, Total £124,362 10s. 1912: First day £32,969, second day £28,372, third day £37,836, Total £99,177. This gives an increase for this year of £25,185 10s.

As may be imagined the totalisator staff had a very busy time, but Mr W H Macdougall's management left no cause for complaint, the only grumbling heard being that of dilatory investors, who found themselves shut out when the machines closed promptly to time. In the other departments the management of the meeting was of the high standard that is associated with Addington fixtures. Mr A I Rattray, the secretary, who has done so much for the sport of trotting as well as for the club, had the business running very smoothly; Mr H Brinkman's handicapping produced some excellent racing and in the starting yesterday Mr H Reynolds achieved a fair measure of success.

The weather conditions yesterday were favourable, but for the strong east wind, which did not assist in the making of fast times, and the track, though apparently in fair order, was evidently not in such good condition for fast performances as on the previous day. There were, however some capital performances registered, and the sport generally was of high grade.

The opening event, the Ladies' Bracelet Handicap, gave amateur drivers their only opportunity during the meeting. Of nineteen starters, Sweet Agnes, Selected, Prince Raynard and Kinetic were the best supported. The result proved that the public were good judges, for the first and second favorites finished in that order. Selected, who is a half-brother to Albert H, was showing as much pace as Sweet Agnes when he broke, and Sweet Agnes, who was well driven by Mr R J Munro, one of the most accomplished of the amateur reinsmen, went without a mistake and won by four lengths.

The Governor's Handicap, a two mile race in saddle, for unhoppled trotters, found the public again fairly accurate in their estimation of the chances of the competitors, for the three placed horses were the best-backed in the race, though they did not finish exactly in the order in which they were supported. Bushranger was in front practically the whole way, and though Treasure Seeker appeared to have his measure in the last half mile. Bushranger, who was very capably ridden by T Annett, stayed on well, and won a capital race by little over a length, the effort which had been required of Treasure Seeker to get on terms with the leader evidently told on him at the finish.

The Christchurch Handicap was the principal event of the day, and the field included ten horses that had taken part in the New Zealand Cup on Tuesday. Calm was sent out an even stronger favorite than he had been in the Cup, with Denver Huon also very well supported, and Adonis third favourite, though carrying much less money than either of the other pair. There were some bad beginners in the race, and two of them, Lord Heathcote and Persuader, took no part in the race, while Bright went off so badly as to make his chance hopeless, and he was pulled up early in the race. Calm put himself out of court by a bad break in the first half mile, and though he subsequently showed a lot of pace, he had lost too much ground. Mandarene, who had finished fourth in the Cup, quickly ran into a good position, and taking charge three furlongs from home, won rather comfortably. Emmeline, who was second, was putting in great work at the finish, and she ran very nearly up to her best form. Both Mandarene and Emmeline paid very good prices. The winner, who is owned by the Auckland sportsman, Mr J G Lecky, competed unsuccessfully at last year's Spring Meeting, and also two years ago, when it will be remembered he met with a mishap at the start of the New Zealand Cup.

The Australasian Handicap brought out a field of thirteen. St Kevin, Crown Prince and Frandocia being best backed. Neither St Kevin nor Crown Prince ever looked dangerous, but Frandocia was always with the leading division, and taking charge six furlongs from home, went on for a comparatively easy win. That fine trotter Submarine finished with his customary gameness, and in a good race for second place beat Ruby S by a length.

Next in importance to the Christchurch Handicap was the Dominion Trotting Handicap, a two-mile harness race for unhoppled trotters, the stake of 500 sovs being the largest yet offered for a trotters' race in the Dominion. It produced a contest worthy of such a valuable stake and Michael Galindo, who won in good style from Muricata, proved himself one of the best trotters bred in the Dominion for sometime. He has splendid action, and showed himself possessed of plenty of pace by the manner in which he made up the ground lost by an early break, and his style of finishing proves undoubted stamina. Muricata, another remarkably fine trotter, put up a good performance in finishing second, and Quincey was also going well over the final stages. Verax was prominent for a mile and a half, but was unable to see the journey out.

The Hornby Handicap produced a surprise, as Child Beldon, the winner, and Franzlena who was second, were two of the least supported in the race, and they paid large dividends. Child Beldon was in front practically all the way and just lasted long enough to beat Franzalena. Maelstrom, the favourite, looked like winning with half the journey gone, but found the task too much for her, and Bonista, also well backed, failed to see the journey out.

There was a capital race for the Enfield Handicap, which was contested by a field of thirteen of whom Maplewood, Bellis and Mollywood were best backed. None of these three gave their backers much encouragement, though Maplewood went well for half the journey but then dropped out. Barmaguie and Franzie fought out a great finish, and the former, showing much gameness, won by only half a length. Stop It, who showed a lot of pace at various parts of the race, finished third, but had anticipated the start and been ruled out of the race.

The Recovery Handicap, the last event of the day, brought out a select, if small, field. Silver Princessx was made a good favourite, but she lost her chance by beginning badly. Bell Metal got to work smartly, and though half a mile from home Eccentric was showing pace that made him look like a sure winner, he was stopping very badly at the finish, and Bell Metal won by four lengths. The following are the details of the racing:-

LADIES' BRACELET HANDICAP (in harness) of 100 sovs; second 12 sovs and third 8 sovs from stake. One mile and a half.

Mrs R J Munro's gr m Sweet Agnes, by Rothschild-Wild Agnes, 5yrs, 7sec (Mr R J Munro) 1
Mrs J Le Breton's gr c Selected, 4yrs, 5sec (Mr D Spence) 2
Mrs P Dalton's b g Ariadne, 6yrs, 3sec (Mr P Dalton) 3

Kinetic 3sec, General Smith 4sec, Black Arrow 4sec, Pastime 4sec, Betty Beadon 4sec, Prince Dorie 4sec, Wild Elm 4sec, Wee Pat 4sec, Merce 4sec, Lady Rona 5sec, Rose Dillon 5sec, Flora Tracey 5sec, Harold D 5sec, Dora McKinney 5sec, May Wallace 7sec and Prince Raynard 7sec also started. (Black Arrow and Pastime were coupled on the totalisator).

Sweet Agnes, Selected and Rose Dillon made the running for the first six furlongs, and entering the final circuit Selected was almost on terms with Sweet Agnes. Just before reaching the tanks Selected broke, and though he was got going again Sweet Agnes won by four lengths. Ariadne was forty yards away, third, with Flora Tracey and Prince Raynard next. Time, 3min 44 1/5th sec.

GOVERNOR'S HANDICAP (in saddle) of 175 sovs; second 25 sovs and third 17 sovs from stake. For unhoppled trotters only. Two miles.

W T Lowe's gr g Bushranger, by Dictator-Girlie, aged, 8sec (T Annett) 1
J Melrose's b g Treasure Seeker, aged, 3sec (F Holmes) 2
A J Clyde's b g Benmore, aged, 2sec (M Butler) 3

Wild Tree scr, Craibwood 3sec, Monsoon 4sec, Te Kuiti 5sec, March Hare 7sec, Bow Bell 8sec and Vigorous 8sec also started.

Bushranger was quickest into stride, and at the end of half a mile was followed by March Hare and Treasure Seeker, with the rest of the field strung out. There was not much change in the next six furlongs, but with a lap to go Treasure Seeker had taken second place from March Hare, while Craibwood was going well, but broke and lost his chance. Going along the back Treasure Seeker closed on Bushranger, and the pair raced round the turn into the straight on terms. In a great finish, Bushranger outstayed Treasure Seeker and won by a little over a length. Benmore was fifty yards away third, with Te Kuiti fourth, the rest in a bunch. Time, 4min 52sec.

CHRISTCHURCH HANDICAP (in harness) of 600 sovs; second 100 sovs and third 70 sovs from stake. Two miles.

J G Lecky's blk h Mandarene, by Norval-Eland, aged, 6sec (B Edwards) 1
R McDonnell's b m Emmeline, aged, scr (Owner) 2
A Smith's b m Schoolgirl, aged, 8sec (Owner) 3

R Geddes's ch h Denver Huon, aged, scr (M Edwards)
Mrs R O Duncan's ch h King Cole, aged, scr (J Bryce)
A McCutcheon's b h Ravenschild, aged, 1sec (N L Price)
T Frost's b g Red Mac, 5yrs, 4sec (Owner)
A G Wilson's b h Bright, aged, 4sec (Owner)
W Kerr's b h Calm, 6yrs, 4sec (Owner)
T Roe's b h Gold Bell, aged, 6sec (J Lynch)
J Dennett's b h Adonis, 5yrs, 6sec (F Holmes)
J Lorgelly's ch h Lord Heathcote, aged, 6sec (Owner)
W J Morland's br m Country Belle, 5yrs, 6sec (J Grice)
D Spence's b g Little Tib, aged, 6sec (H McNae)
H F Nicoll's b h St Swithin, 6yrs, 7sec (A Pringle)
Herrick Bros' b g Persuader, aged, 8sec (H Herrick)

Lord Heathcote and Persuader did not leave the mark, and Bright began badly, and was pulled up at the end of the first round. Schoolgirl, St Swithin and Country Belle were smartest to begin, and passing the stand the first time were followed by Mandarene, while after an interval of ten lengths came Red Mac and Emmeline. Going along the back Schoolgirl was still showing the way, the order of those nearest to her being Country Belle, Mandarene, St Swithin, Red Mac, Emmeline and Adonis. With a lap to go Mandarene had run into second place behind Schoolgirl, with Country Belle, Emmeline, Red Mac, Adonis King Cole and Denver Huon next. Going along the back Mandarene closed on Schoolgirl, and before turning towards the straight had drawn clear, while Emmeline was moving up fast. From this out Mandarene had the race safe, and won by five lengths from Emmeline, who finished fast, and beat Schoolgirl by four lengths. Country Belle was fourth and then came Red Mac, Denver Huon and King Cole. Time, 4min 37sec.

AUSTRALASIAN HANDICAP (in saddle) of 250 sovs; second 37 sovs and third 25 sovs from stake. Two miles.

Hall & Simpson's b g Frandocia, by Franz-Cappodocia, 6yrs, 12sec (A Butterfield) 1
J Watson's b g Submarine, aged, scr (T Annett) 2
A J Carman's blk m Ruby S, aged, 10sec (W Wright) 3

Medallion 3sec, Miss Florrie C 9sec, Little Arthur 10sec, St Kevin 11sec, Crown Prince 11sec, Red Ribbon 12sec, First Alarm 12sec, Wallace Jnr 8sec, Millwood 12sec and Lady Rattoo 12sec also started

Lady Rattoo failed to leave the mark and First Alarm at once went off in the leasd with Frandocia, Red Ribbon and Wallace Jnr following in that order. Before reaching the stand Wallace Jnr had taken command, and he led down the back stretch from First Alarm and Frandocia. Passing the stand the second time Frandocia was in front with Red Ribbon, Wallace Jnr and Millwood most prominent of the others, while Submarine had materially improved his position. Frandocia led throughout and won comfortably by twelve lengths. Submarine caught Ruby S in the straight and beat her for second place by a length. Medallion, Red Ribbon and Wallace Jnr were the next to finish. Time 4min 46sec

DOMINION TROTTING HANDICAP (in saddle) of 500 sovs; second 80 sovs and third 50 sovs from stake. For unhoppled trotters only. Two miles.

C Tasker's b c Michael Galindo, by Galindo-Mavourneen, 4yrs, 12sec (J Tasker) 1
W F Clinton's rn m Muricata, 6yrs, 3sec (N L Price) 2
S W Scott's b h Quincey, aged, 1sec (Owner) 3

Redchild scr, Verax 8sec, Bell Car 8sec, Rosalie 10sec, Kelso 11sec, Adventuress 12sec, Master Raymond 12sec and Mahomet 12sec also started.

From a good start, Verax and Mahomet were quickest to begin, but Redchild last a good deal of ground. Passing the stand the first time Mahomet was just in front of Verax, after whom came Master Raymond, Kelso, Michael Galindo and Adventuress. In the back stretch Verax ran past Mahomet and Rosalie also made a forward move. Six furlongs from home Rosalie and Verax were on terms, with Mahomet, Michael Galindo and Muricata next. Going out of the straight Machael Galindo and Muricata closed on the leaders, and in the back stretch Michael Galindo and Muricata ran passed Verax. Michael Galindo, trotting in splendid style, won a good race by four lengths. Muricata was three lengths in front of Quincey, after whom came Rosalie, Kelso and Verax. Time, 4min 47 1/5 sec

HORNBY HANDICAP (in harness) of 250 sovs; second 37 sovs and third 25 sovs from stake. One mile and a half.

N Clegg's b m Child Beldon, by Rothschild-May Beldon, aged, 5sec (Owner) 1
L H Bealey's b m Franzalena, aged, 3sec (D Warren) 2
M Friedlander's blk m Maelstrom, aged, 4sec (C Kerr) 3

Lady Clare scr, Solo 1sec, The Whip 2sec, Frances 3sec, Wilkie 4sec, Don Caesar 4sec, Bonista 5sec, Prince Poole 5sec, Andy Regan 5sec, Lady Child 5sec, Prince Warbeck 6sec, May Dillon 6sec, and Bonification 6sec also started.

Child Beldon started very smartly, and went off in the lead from Bonista, Andy Regan, Prince Warbeck and Lady Child. All through the first circuit Child Beldon held the lead, and Maelstrom improved her position going down the back stretch, and passing the stand the order was Child Beldon, Maelstrom, Bonista, Franzalena and Don Caesar. Child Beldon was still in the lead going down the back stretch the second time, while Franzalena ran into second place at the tanks. Franzalena was several lengths behind Child Beldon at the entrance to the straight, and the latter easily held her own and won by two lengths, with Maelstrom four lengths further back. Prince Warbeck was fourth and Solo fifth. Time, 3min 34sec.

ENFIELD HANDICAP (in saddle) of 280 sovs; second 42 sovs and third 28 sovs from stake. One mile.

M Dickens's b g Barmaguie, by Huon Junior, aged, 4sec (J McLennon) 1
A Fay's b h Franzie, aged, 1sec (E McDermott) 2
C E Cross's b g Franz Josef, 6yrs, 4sec (W Pine) 3

Bright scr, Aberfeldy scr, Bellis 2sec, Little Tib 2sec, Stop It 2sec, Lord Elmo 4sec and Miss Florrie C(coupled), Piecework 4sec, Mollywood 4sec and Maplewood 4sec also started.

Franz Josef, Maplewood and Barmaguie were in front as they passed the stand, but along the back Maplewood was beaten, and before reaching the tanks Franz Josef lost his place, and Barmaguie went on in front, with Franzie closing on the leaders. Barmaguie was first into the straight, but had to be hard ridden to beat Franzie by half a length. Franz Josef was three lengths away just behind Stop It, but the latter had been called off for starting before her time. Time, 2min 18 4/5th sec.

RECOVERY HANDICAP (in harness) of 300 sovs; second 45 sovs and third 30 sovs from stake. One mile.

J Archibald's br g Bell Metal, by Bellman-Lincoln Yet mare, aged, 4sec (C Kerr) 1
F Macdonald & R T Reid's gr g Eccentric, aged, 2sec (J Brankin) 2
H F Nicoll's ch m Gianella, 6yrs, 4sec (A Pringle) 3

King Cole scr, Ravenschild 1sec, Adonis 3sec, Princess Louise 4sec and Silver Princess 5sec also started.

Adonis would not leave the mark, Silver Princess started very unsteadily, and Princess Louise broke after going a short distance. Bell Metal at once went off in the lead followed by Gianella, Eccentric and Ravenschild. Silver Princess put in a good sprint, and going past the stand was in fourth place. Going along the back stretch Eccentric and Bell Metal were racing together, with Gianella in third place. Turning to the straight Eccentric appeared to have the measure of Bell Metal, but the latter stayed the better and Eccentric who stopped very badly over the final stages, was beaten by four lengths. Gianella was two lengths away third, King Cole, Silver Princess and Ravenschild being next to finish. Time, 2min 15 3/5th sec.



Credit: The Press 15 Nov 1913



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