Following an inaugural equalisator meeting in December 1951, Banks Peninsula Trotting Club was described by Hoof Beats magazine as “highly likely to gain a permit to conduct totalisator meetings. Enthusiasm runs high in the district” it reported. That same level of excitement still exists today with the Club noted for its innovative approach to conducting Harness Racing in a relaxed, rural environment.
Preceding that equalisator meeting, enthusiasts had enjoyed a regular diet of both thoroughbred and harness racing, with various venues providing race meetings together with gymkhana events for Peninsula inhabitants. In fact the initial meeting at Motukarara (then called Rabbit Island), was conducted by Peninsula Racing Club on Friday May 2nd 1884. Although harness events had been regularly carded at thoroughbred meetings, Saturday December 22nd 1956 was selected for the fledgling trotting club’s first totalisator meeting. This achievement acknowledged the commitment, foresight and organisational skills of club principals, who had only amalgamated a mere six years previously.
New Zealand Rail Road Services, together with Midland Motorways Services provided return bus transportation to the course for punters and spectators. A train service departing Christchurch, via Addington and Hornby was also available. Motor Vehicles were invited free, whilst admission to the enclosure cost five shillings.
Motukarara Racecourse provided an excellent venue on a beautifully fine day for owners, trainers and other enthusiasts to enjoy the exciting eight race programme. It seemed appropriate that W.J. (Bill) Doyle should prevail in that historic opening event, driving his own horse With You. A 6yo gelded son of U Scott, With You prevailed by half a length in the 3.37 class trot after starting 36 yards behind. Two other notable performers racing later that day were the U. Scott mares, Elsinore and Ladyship. Although unplaced, both would have significant impact via the broodmare paddock, where they were destined to produce Robalan and Lordship respectively. Following this outstanding beginning, the annual meeting of 1957 was relocated to what became its regular spot, in early October.
The Club, together with Canterbury Park Trotting Club had been forthright in its promotion of races for squaregaiters. To underline that commitment, in 1965 it established the Banks Peninsula Trotting Cup, an event to be run under invitation conditions, over a mile and a half. Consideration was given to Bank’s Peninsula Racing Club hosting the event at its meeting just prior to New Zealand Cup Week. That option did not eventuate, with the inaugural cup contest confirmed for 9 October 1965 at Bank’s Peninsula Trotting Club’s tenth annual meeting. The race was programmed to cater for 2.13 class trotters (or faster), with a stake of £1,000. In addition the winning owner received a trophy valued at fifty pounds, courtesy of Club President Mr C.E. (Cyril) Gray. Being one of three races on the card scheduled for trotters, was in itself was an unusual feature.
As entries for faster class trotting events at Addington had been smaller than expected, club officials initially held grave concerns about its decision to proceed. However a positive response from owners and trainers allayed all fears when twenty three nominations were received, ensuring an outstanding field for the inaugural event.
Most notable inclusion was aged Light Brigade mare When, who had been unsighted since March 1963. Victorious then from 48 yards on New Brighton’s grass surface, When had subsequently campaigned with distinction in the United States, albeit without major success. Being continually dogged by soreness she underwent leg surgery, before a six month quarantine period was completed in England prior to her return boat trip. Owner, trainer Bill Doyle who also bred When, lined her up against the free for all pacers at Amberley’s Matinee Meeting in September. She impressed with a fast finishing fifth behind Stormont and Golden Oriole, running her last half in 1 min. 3 2/5 secs.
Others in the first Cup field included When’s brother Asia Minor, Flying Maiden, Tronso, Flaming Way together with Greenpark trained Mighty Chief. A lightly raced 5yo My Chief gelding from super broodmare Gala Girl, Mighty Chief was seen to advantage mid week at the Ashburton matinee meeting and boasted an imposing grass track record.
Edendale trained Le Chant was scratched, leaving another mare Queen’s Cord the distinction of having travelled furthest to compete. The Kaikoura prepared mare would benefit from R.G. (Bob) Young’s steady hands and big race temperament. Lucky Hanover gelding, Mighty Hanover was also scratched, leaving close relative Tronso to carry the hopes of Ashburton’s Jamison family.
Perfect weather conditions assisted record crowd numbers and on course turnover, delighting Club Officials. Punters entrusted Bill Doyle’s bracket with favouritism; offering three pound eighteen shillings when the balloon went up and pole horse Uteena was called into line.
By no means a foolproof beginner, When stepped splendidly from behind the 30 yard tape, working to midfield behind her stablemate Asia Minor and inside Field Chief, with six furlongs remaining. Bill Doyle angled When one off approaching the half mile, patiently sitting five back, then improving three wide as they turned for home. A gripping home straight battle ensued as Doyle and his chestnut mare appeared to claim the gallant Mighty Chief. Whilst awaiting confirmed placings, even spectators lining the birdcage line were unsure of a final outcome, which certainly provided an appropriate climax to this memorable contest. After studying his photo finish, Judge Mr H.V. (Harry) Spicer awarded victory to the wonderfully well travelled mare When, declaring her winning margin as a head.
Runner-up Mighty Chief proved exceptional in his first start for the season. After tangling badly early and drifting toward the rear, he unleashed powerfully to be second equal behind Uteena with a half mile remaining. Sent clear when still trotting well upon straightening up, he was collared right on the line. After predominately sharing the fourth line, North Canterbury trained mare Harbour Light finished third for M.F.T. (Maurice) Holmes. Second Favourite Gala Song in N.L. (Noel) Berkett’s distinctive black and gold hoops battled solidly finishing fourth, after attempting to close the gap on Mighty Chief turning for home. Tronso, handled by trainer C.A. (Cyril) White and A.M. (Alec) Purdon’s drive Flaming Way finished next in line, just behind the first four. Field Chief and Fourina both made early mistakes whilst Flying Maiden finished a distant last for co-trainer D.G (Derek) Jones after breaking near the five furlong peg.
New Zealand Trotting Conference president Mr A.J. (Arthur) Nicoll was lavish in his praise for the club when presenting winning trophies. He acknowledged its initiative and progressive outlook “You would not see a better race anywhere in the world” concluded Mr Nicoll.
Bill Doyle was equally jubilant regarding both Motukarara’s grass surface and the occasion generally. He singled out the Club Caretaker for commendation. “The track was in wonderful order and just beautiful to drive on” he declared, promising to donate a trophy in 1966 if the race was repeated.
A product of the very much sought after Light Brigade – U Scott mare cross, When became this family’s first star performer. Her dam Passive, the winner of four races was absolute broodmare gold. She produced eight individual winners totalling seventy races from only nine foals, six of which were sired by Light Brigade. Besides 19 win mare When, the pair also produced trotters Chances Are 8 wins, Asia Minor 15 wins, Remember When 5 wins, Someday 6 wins together with cup class pacer Wipe Out a winner of 10 races. Of note, all were named after hit songs or instrumental music. Not only was Passive a truly astonishing broodmare, she has created an outstanding legacy which will be enhanced by her ever increasing number of Group winning descendents. Clearly her pedigree and contribution will continue to beat a tune in the hearts of many harness racing enthusiasts for countless future years.
A notable undercard feature was the performance of 5yo Court Martial mare Melissa. Prepared by Ashburton trainer C.M. (Charles) Laing, Melissa scored from 24 yards in race one, the 2.20 class trot, accounting for Glen Dee and her stablemate Say Dianna. Five races later with a 24 yard re-handicap in the 2.19 class event, Melissa finished third behind Direct Globe and War Scene. During these times, a horse starting twice in one day was not uncommon and invariably occurred without any problems.
Following an inaugural equalisator meeting in December 1951, Banks Peninsula Trotting Club was described by Hoof Beats magazine as “highly likely to gain a permit to conduct totalisator meetings. Enthusiasm runs high in the district” it reported. That same level of excitement still exists today with the Club noted for its innovative approach to conducting Harness Racing in a relaxed, rural environment.
Preceding that equalisator meeting, enthusiasts had enjoyed a regular diet of both thoroughbred and harness racing, with various venues providing race meetings together with gymkhana events for Peninsula inhabitants. In fact the initial meeting at Motukarara (then called Rabbit Island), was conducted by Peninsula Racing Club on Friday May 2nd 1884. Although harness events had been regularly carded at thoroughbred meetings, Saturday December 22nd 1956 was selected for the fledgling trotting club’s first totalisator meeting. This achievement acknowledged the commitment, foresight and organisational skills of club principals, who had only amalgamated a mere six years previously.
New Zealand Rail Road Services, together with Midland Motorways Services provided return bus transportation to the course for punters and spectators. A train service departing Christchurch, via Addington and Hornby was also available. Motor Vehicles were invited free, whilst admission to the enclosure cost five shillings.
Motukarara Racecourse provided an excellent venue on a beautifully fine day for owners, trainers and other enthusiasts to enjoy the exciting eight race programme. It seemed appropriate that W.J. (Bill) Doyle should prevail in that historic opening event, driving his own horse With You. A 6yo gelded son of U Scott, With You prevailed by half a length in the 3.37 class trot after starting 36 yards behind. Two other notable performers racing later that day were the U. Scott mares, Elsinore and Ladyship. Although unplaced, both would have significant impact via the broodmare paddock, where they were destined to produce Robalan and Lordship respectively. Following this outstanding beginning, the annual meeting of 1957 was relocated to what became its regular spot, in early October.
The Club, together with Canterbury Park Trotting Club had been forthright in its promotion of races for squaregaiters. To underline that commitment, in 1965 it established the Banks Peninsula Trotting Cup, an event to be run under invitation conditions, over a mile and a half. Consideration was given to Bank’s Peninsula Racing Club hosting the event at its meeting just prior to New Zealand Cup Week. That option did not eventuate, with the inaugural cup contest confirmed for 9 October 1965 at Bank’s Peninsula Trotting Club’s tenth annual meeting. The race was programmed to cater for 2.13 class trotters (or faster), with a stake of £1,000. In addition the winning owner received a trophy valued at fifty pounds, courtesy of Club President Mr C.E. (Cyril) Gray. Being one of three races on the card scheduled for trotters, was in itself was an unusual feature.
As entries for faster class trotting events at Addington had been smaller than expected, club officials initially held grave concerns about its decision to proceed. However a positive response from owners and trainers allayed all fears when twenty three nominations were received, ensuring an outstanding field for the inaugural event.
Most notable inclusion was aged Light Brigade mare When, who had been unsighted since March 1963. Victorious then from 48 yards on New Brighton’s grass surface, When had subsequently campaigned with distinction in the United States, albeit without major success. Being continually dogged by soreness she underwent leg surgery, before a six month quarantine period was completed in England prior to her return boat trip. Owner, trainer Bill Doyle who also bred When, lined her up against the free for all pacers at Amberley’s Matinee Meeting in September. She impressed with a fast finishing fifth behind Stormont and Golden Oriole, running her last half in 1 min. 3 2/5 secs.
Others in the first Cup field included When’s brother Asia Minor, Flying Maiden, Tronso, Flaming Way together with Greenpark trained Mighty Chief. A lightly raced 5yo My Chief gelding from super broodmare Gala Girl, Mighty Chief was seen to advantage mid week at the Ashburton matinee meeting and boasted an imposing grass track record.
Edendale trained Le Chant was scratched, leaving another mare Queen’s Cord the distinction of having travelled furthest to compete. The Kaikoura prepared mare would benefit from R.G. (Bob) Young’s steady hands and big race temperament. Lucky Hanover gelding, Mighty Hanover was also scratched, leaving close relative Tronso to carry the hopes of Ashburton’s Jamison family.
Perfect weather conditions assisted record crowd numbers and on course turnover, delighting Club Officials. Punters entrusted Bill Doyle’s bracket with favouritism; offering three pound eighteen shillings when the balloon went up and pole horse Uteena was called into line.
By no means a foolproof beginner, When stepped splendidly from behind the 30 yard tape, working to midfield behind her stablemate Asia Minor and inside Field Chief, with six furlongs remaining. Bill Doyle angled When one off approaching the half mile, patiently sitting five back, then improving three wide as they turned for home. A gripping home straight battle ensued as Doyle and his chestnut mare appeared to claim the gallant Mighty Chief. Whilst awaiting confirmed placings, even spectators lining the birdcage line were unsure of a final outcome, which certainly provided an appropriate climax to this memorable contest. After studying his photo finish, Judge Mr H.V. (Harry) Spicer awarded victory to the wonderfully well travelled mare When, declaring her winning margin as a head
Runner-up Mighty Chief proved exceptional in his first start for the season. After tangling badly early and drifting toward the rear, he unleashed powerfully to be second equal behind Uteena with a half mile remaining. Sent clear when still trotting well upon straightening up, he was collared right on the line. After predominately sharing the fourth line, North Canterbury trained mare Harbour Light finished third for M.F.T. (Maurice) Holmes. Second Favourite Gala Song in N.L. (Noel) Berkett’s distinctive black and gold hoops battled solidly finishing fourth, after attempting to close the gap on Mighty Chief turning for home. Tronso, handled by trainer C.A. (Cyril) White and A.M. (Alec) Purdon’s drive Flaming Way finished next in line, just behind the first four. Field Chief and Fourina both made early mistakes whilst Flying Maiden finished a distant last for co-trainer D.G (Derek) Jones after breaking near the five furlong peg.
New Zealand Trotting Conference president Mr A.J. (Arthur) Nicoll was lavish in his praise for the club when presenting winning trophies. He acknowledged its initiative and progressive outlook “You would not see a better race anywhere in the world” concluded Mr Nicoll.
Bill Doyle was equally jubilant regarding both Motukarara’s grass surface and the occasion generally. He singled out the Club Caretaker for commendation. “The track was in wonderful order and just beautiful to drive on” he declared, promising to donate a trophy in 1966 if the race was repeated.
A product of the very much sought after Light Brigade – U Scott mare cross, When became this family’s first star performer. Her dam Passive, the winner of four races was absolute broodmare gold. She produced eight individual winners totalling seventy races from only nine foals, six of which were sired by Light Brigade. Besides 19 win mare When, the pair also produced trotters Chances Are 8 wins, Asia Minor 15 wins, Remember When 5 wins, Someday 6 wins together with cup class pacer Wipe Out a winner of 10 races. Of note, all were named after hit songs or instrumental music. Not only was Passive a truly astonishing broodmare, she has created an outstanding legacy which will be enhanced by her ever increasing number of Group winning descendants. Clearly her pedigree and contribution will continue to beat a tune in the hearts of many harness racing enthusiasts for countless future years.
A notable undercard feature was the performance of 5yo Court Martial mare Melissa. Prepared by Ashburton trainer C.M. (Charles) Laing, Melissa scored from 24 yards in race one, the 2.20 class trot, accounting for Glen Dee and her stablemate Say Dianna. Five races later with a 24 yard re-handicap in the 2.19 class event, Melissa finished third behind Direct Globe and War Scene. During these times, a horse starting twice in one day was not uncommon and invariably occurred without any problems.
