"SPORT AS USUAL."

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXV, Issue 90, 19 April 1915, Page 3

"SPORT AS USUAL."

"A-HUKTINC WE WILL CO!" For the sound of his horn brought me from my bed, And the cry ol his hounds which lie of times led ; Peel's view halloo! would awaken the dead, , Or the fox from his lair in the morning!

Who does not know "John reel?" And knowing him, who doc,-, not love the old Bnglisli huntsman for the good "spoil" that lie was, and for the rollicking chorus (as above) which has immortalised his name? The time is opportune just now to refer at some length to hunting as a sport, and to its effect from other points of view upon the province of Taran'aki in general. The war has, of course, seriously affected limiting in these parts, but the feeling of the past few mouths, that -.port in all its forms should be allowed to He dormant in view of the extraordinary circumstances of the war demanding its toll of men, material, and money from all parts ol the Empire, has been succeeded by a more hopeful and healthier decision. This was publicly stressed by Mr A. M. Myers, M.P., at Auckland last week, when he stated that not only "business as usual,"

hut "sport us usual," should be kopt going during war-time, to fortify the spirits of tlie nation and keep tire young men lit. Sir Myers was referring at the time more particularly to football, but bis fine optimisirii applies with equal force to the sport of hunting, which in its time can claim many famous men as followers. Here in North Taranaki, hunting is on a fairly sound footing, but a more general support by the public and the farming community is desirable at the present time. Kew, indeed, give much thought to the sport as a whole, and its effect from a business point of view. Remember, there is horse-feed, shoeing covers, saddlery, the train fares of men and horses to the meet, as well ;l s incidental expenses to bo met by sportsmen. There is an outcry for remounts for war purposes, and remember that'the hunter makes an ideal typo for the purpose. There are many such to be found on the farms in Taranaki. A local case that occurred recently is worth mentioning—a high price was paid for an animal for hunting purposes, which was then doing duty in a milk-waggon. It is an undoubted fact that huntsmen will buy suitable horses irrespective of price, and for these there is a keen demand just now. The support accorded the North Taranaki Hunt Club is not what it should lie. Take the large and ke>u competition in the hunting and leap ing exhibitions at the several agricultural and pastoral shows in the province. In how many cases are the owners of the horses members of tin hunt club? At any show, no doubt, these could bo counted on the lingers of one's hand. This is short of what it , should be by a long way, and it is 1 to he hoped an improvement will be noticeable in the near future, indeed, that is the object of this article: to stir up interest in the North Taranaki Hunt Club and bring the sport a little more prominently before the public. It will be seen that many businesses, benefit directly from the sport, while the farmer's interests are indissolubly wrapped up with the huntsman's. The loyalty and patriotism of the latter was strikingly illustrated at the outbreak of the war. when at an impromptu meeting which took place at Waitara, it was decided to offer the Defence Department the loan of every one of the horses "free" gratis, and for nothing." That is a

fine sample of the spirit which will keep the Flag Flying, and save the Empire from disintegration. The North Taranaki .Hunt Club opens its season on Thursday next (29th inst.) at the picturesque farm of Mr W. Hirdling, at Waitara, when all lovers of tlie game will be cordially welcomed anil hospitably entertained. In the Stratford district, there are seventeen financial members of the Club, but considering the area and really excellent hunting ground which is included, it is felt that a great deal more support should be accorded the Club. Last year meets were held on the Beaconsfield Road and at Ngaere, at both of which there is capita] country, and where a successful and enjoyable afternoon's sport was recorded. Visitors are thus enabled to obtain a better view of the country than would otherwise be tin 1 case, and even from this (J.s.d. point of view the farming community derive not a little benefit...

Stratford lias the honor of supplying the Deputy-Master of the Hounds, which position is so faithfully and creditably filled by that good "sport," Mr 15. Mason. The energy and enthusiasm of Mr Mason in all matters appertaining to the Hunt Club's affairs make for no little an amount of the support which is forthcoming from this district. With increased membership, it is quite certain DeputyMaster Mason and his fellow-hunts-men will be able to secure at least two meets for Stratford. These can be arranged for suitable dates, and will, as usual, provide interesting outings, with that spice of excitement which hunting has all on its own, and which has enabled the sport to live and llourish in the good (or bad) old times, and to come down to the present generation as fresh and exhilarating as Cod's good air itself, which forms so bio; a factor in the pleasure derived from following the hounds.