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Hokitika Guardian, 17 July 1929, Page 4

The principal sporting bodies, relating to racing and trotting affairs met in Wellington last week, and according to custom discussed prominent subjects along usual lines. Excellent addresses were delivered by the heads- of the two Conference meetings, Sir George Clifford for racing, and Mr H. F. Nicoll for trotting, putting forward in a plain way the position of the two sports in regard to public interests. It is apparent that the two snorts ,stand high in the public estimation. The number of race meetings, and th< large patronage extended to the gatherings from one end of New Zealand to the other, indicates the general favour of the sport. It is essential therefore that the snort should be conducted in as' exemplary a manner as possible for the better protection of all concerned. That standard of efficiency is being secured and maintained tlirough the controlling bodies, and in respect to both snorts it lias long been realised that the system of control organised and carried out through the respective bodies, has assured the welfare of both racing institutions and encouraged the public to patronise and enjoy the sport as liberally as they have done. The actual conduct of the sport is in the main thrown back on the respective clubs. There are large financial obligations in organising and conducting a race meeting. Courses and appointments of a high standard have to be provided, substantial stakes offered and provided, and generally the conduct of the meetings must be kept at a high level far above reproach This onerous duty devolves on Clubs which must be conducted entirely in the public interests and without any individual profit to members from any surplus returns. Where Clubs do not prosper financially from meeting to meeting, the individual members have to incur personal financial responsibilities for the security of the Club, and tlie benefit of the snort. The onus being thus directly cast on the Clubs, it is necessary to see that the Clubs are on stable conditions as far as general management is concerned Year by year it is pointed out at the respective conferences, that the Clubs are unduly hampered by State taxation. For war purposes a few years ago, heavier taxation was placed on the Clubs, and a very little of it has been let up since that period. Over half a million in direct taxation is taken out of the snort by tlie Government and this drain is felt; specially by the Clubs, many of which (particularly the smaller) are now feeling the pinch. There is an urgent need for relief, and though the previous and the • present Government offer fair words - of comport, the reality of any relief is is still postponed. There are hopes 1 something will he done this session, but hopes in that respect have been deferred and the Chibs are waiting with concern for the relief so long pressed for. The relief is certainly urgent.