A RACING INCIDENT

Gisborne Times, Volume IX, Issue 825, 13 February 1903, Page 2

A RACING INCIDENT

In connection with the Gisborne Racing Clubs Meeting yesterday, several enquiries were iieiJ by the stewards. Two oi these had reference to complaints as to certain horses being on the forfeit list and the non-transference of ownership, but in each ease after lengthy enquiry by the stewards, the protect was dismissed.

fu connection with the running of the Flying Handicap, a complaint was lodged by tne starter. Mr Buiand, against the well-known jockey. Maik Ityan. who was riutng Mr J. (Mark's Faria, on the grounds that tie did not attempt to get away at the stait.

R.Vau's explanation was that ho was pulling Faiia up as he was hounding forward. when the starter gave the woid to go. Mr Clark, the owner, stated that l’aria was well-known as an awkward horse to manage, and lie required a lot of handling at the post. Mr Newman said that no doubt there was a bungle at the start.

The matter was discussed at some length by the stewards, and as a result of their deliberations, Ryan was ordered to stand down for the meeting.

Upon the decision of the meeting being made known Mr Clark ut once scratched his horses for all engagements at the meeting. The decision of the stewards caused a good deal of surprise to the public, and much sympathy was expressed with Ryan. The latter claims that a great injustice has been done to him, as the fact of being suspended for the Gisborne Club’s meeting only prevents him from appealing to the Metropolitan authorities. The stewards of the Club would, we consider, have been acting with greater justice, both to the owner of the horse and the rider, had they suspended Ryan for a longer torrn, or else merely cautioned him. It would have allowed Ryan a chance of clearing himself of the grave imputation that now lies upon him, and certainly would have been more satisfactory to all the parties concerned.