A CHAT WITH MR JOHN KEBBELL.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXI, Issue 702, 23 December 1909, Page 3

A CHAT WITH MR JOHN KEBBELL.

HOW THE FOXTON RACECOURSE WAS ACQUIRED. In conversation on Monday with Mr John Kebbell (one of the original trustees of the Foxton Racecourse), our representative gleaned that racing was carried on in the district as far back as the late so’s. At one time, Himitangi used to be the racing rendezvous, though the turf outings were held at other localities during the infancy period of Foxton racing history. It was not till after Mr Donald McEean bought the Awahou block —(a large strip of land including the present racecourse) —and acquired it for the Government, that the residents petitioned the latter, who set aside the present allotment for racing purposes. It was in 1869 that “The Manawatußacecourse Act,” which set aside the present course for racing purposes, passed through Parliament, and of the first batch of. Trustees appointed, Mr John Kebbell has continuously held Office. Messrs Francis Robinson (father of Mr Frank Robinson, one of the present day trustees), Thomas Uppadiae Cook, John Taylor Dalrymple and Alexander Gray were the gentlemen associated with Mr Kebbell as the first appointees to rule the destinies of the reserve. In the interim, the late Mr Thynne was perhaps the most notable appointee to the Trust, while at the present time, Messrs Kebbell, H. Thynne, F. Robinson, J. Whyte and John Davis are the' selected representatives. The racecourse area at first allotted covered the present railway line, but the Railway authorities acquired the plot in consideration for the erection of some fencing. The finances of the Trust are limited, and take little management, the Racing Club having the use of the area for a nominal rental.