ASSEMBLY SPORTING NOTES.

Globe, Volume XXIII, Issue 2369, 5 November 1881, Page 3

ASSEMBLY SPORTING NOTES.

THE SYDENHAM PLATE. [By the Fbiab.] The third acceptor for this event, who has been some time In training, took hia preliminary on the Colombo road oonrse. I refer to Stonoohatter, whose chances of patting this event to his stable’s credit are not looking very promising, the result of his long preparation not being so satisfactory as could be wished, I noticed the two other acceptors, viz , Qailldriver and Mortmain, on the ground. They were both doing walking exercise only. The first of these appeared to be in good condition, but the remark same does not apply to Mortmain, who has been taken out of active training—and not without reason, as he appears very groggy on hia pins, and quite gone at the knees. This is attributed to the unkind way In which he has taken several preliminary canters, he having found the Financial stretch of the course too hard for hia understandings. It was rumored he had foundered, but that la incorrect. Still I think he has so far knocked himself up that ho will stand no show cn the day of the race. It was rumored that another horse would put in an appearance on this occasion. I refer to Whiteboy, by King William, from Gat. works, but I found his friends had not finally decided to accept, consequently I was disappointed. I also noticed old Stone waller from the Heathoote stables, who was being walked about with the clothing on, but he did not gallop. After a little time, Stoneohatter was (brought out, and he was sent a long spin on the local track, the first obstacle encountered being the Policy hardies, at whioh ho showed considerable temper; but still the jump was taken with decision. Next came the .Representation water jump, at whioh he labored somewhat; yet he crossed it. The City hurdles seemed a sweet morsel to him, as also did the Manhood enffrage fence ; but he did not approve of the Qualification gulf, which was therefore declined. The Triennial sticks were crossed gamely, but he did not taka the National Debt dyke at all comfortably. The Income Tax hurdles and the Property Tax barrier were both negotiated olomsily, whilst he cleared the Corrupt Practices Bill gully with a bound. He was again In distress at the Local Government hurdles, but the West Coast jump was taken in good form, as also was the Top House hurdles. He made bad work at the Native fenced water jump, but gathered himself well together for the Education hurdles and cleared them splendidly. This was the best piece of work done by him. At the Affirmation ditch, the Lottery hurdles, and the big Brewers’ drain he showed good work ; after whioh he was eased off and came slowly home. I cannot forecast a winning bracket for this little horse. He has not been sufficiently trained, so as to ensure success, and his work is very unequally done. I shall reserve my final tip for this fixture till 1 know definitely whether Whiteboy accepts or not. Till then I adhere to my previously expressed opinion.