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Hokitika Guardian, 29 September 1926, Page 2

The annual meeting of the Westland Racing Club on Monday disclosed that the Club were passing through a period of financial stringency, ['nfortunalolv that is a general condition with many of the country clubs. It must he due in a measure to the high taxation which is imposed on the Clubs. When it is noted the Government derived over £IBOO in taxation from the Club’s three days’ racing at Hokitika last season, it will he realised that the Government obtain much “ea« ' money for a very trilling effort. But tbe drain on the Clubs and the investing public to meet this high taxation. is manifesting itself all too plainly. At tbe same time appeals to the Government for redress are ignored. Year after year it is the custom for deputations to go cap in hand to Ministers to seek relief, and after the interchange of views and pleasantries to go away empty handed. Last season, apart from the burden of taxation, the big exposition at Dunedin, was a social lure to Coasters, and people and cash were depleted at tbe holiday season by tbe exodus to'the big Show. Tbe experience of the Coast was not singular, it was n general experience all over tbe Dominion. As a third barrier to success there was a shortage of entries and poor fields prevailed, but there is a hope and the promise of butter conditions in . this respect the year. The Clubs have to face the position in the best sporting spirit. Difficulties of a similar character have had to be faced in tbe past, and the troubles have been allayed. No doubt with tbe help of a little good fortune tbe immediate future will be met no less successfully. For the coming race meeting the Chib has resolved on an important change by introducing on trial the ten shilling totalisator. It np- j pears there hits been an insistent de-

maud by the public for the change, and although some of the. officials do not favor it, it has been agreed to make a trial. In the event of any loss occurring, ways and means are to be provided to meet such a contingency. The ten shilling totalisator is a popular medium for investment on the larger courses, but entails some extra expense in conducting it. However, the trial is to be given, and all will be hoping for the best. The Westland Racing Club is an old established institution having been founded in 18G7. Next year will be its diamond jubilee, dt would be fitting indeed on such an anniversary to see the Club's debt substantially reduced, and perhaps the fates may so determine. The Club's officials may be relied upon to do their best to that end, and with good fortune assisting the best may he hoped for.