44 FLAT-RACINO EXPLAINED. 



in the placing of tUoir Li^rses, though in this respect 

 I am aware there are very notable exceptions. For 

 owners makiag mistakes of the kind there are 

 legitimate excuses; but when it is known that if (en- 

 tries are aot made by trainers in their behalf, it is 

 done under the guidance, and most probably at the 

 suggestion, of tht latter, then it is primarily trainers, 

 and trainers only, who are to be blamed for tlie 

 blunders that are made. 



It is lamentable, in a sense, when one goes, as I so 

 often do, lo enjoy racing as the most exhilaratir-g 

 and delightful of all outdoor sports, to observe _so 

 many Ul-2:>laced horses in the events that come on for 

 decision in the course of a sicgle day. 



In this respect it is no common thing to see a beau- 

 tiful horse, full of point,? for a race he is in, revel in 

 delight at his work, and win at his ease. Here \^as 

 a happy seleciion of ground, a straightaway course, 

 and not very far removed from the level. *Ju an- 

 other occasion I may see him as fit and as bright- 

 looking as a star. He goes to the post not quite so 

 jauntily, probably not liking the ground. One sees 

 him get well away and come on in front till he 

 reaches the hill, when he suddenly falters and loses 

 his place. Hard driven, one will see him still strug- 

 gle on, but to be beaten for speed, and to return to 

 weigh in apparently downcast and discouraged. 



