Page:History of Oregon Newspapers.pdf/494

Rh the different handsome prizes, a list of which is herewith given. The gaudy and "jocky" dresses of the riders were much admired, and the happy temperament, pleasantry, and firmness of decision of the respected Judge were proverbial. The heats, particularly that for the "Ladies' Plate," were eagerly contested and great prowess displayed by the riders. It was gratifying also, that these sports passed off with regularity and eclat, and without any serious accident. A hand some pavilion was pitched in the center of the race course, where the officers of the Modeste entertained at dinner a numerous circle, among whom were the officers of the Shark, and much happiness and good feeling prevailed.—Communicated.

This, of course, reads like a bit of a triumph for the society re porter. The keen sports followers of 1846, however, were let down at this point with the following note from the editor (1): "We acknowledge the receipt of the accompanying list of horses, owners, riders, heats, prizes, etc., etc., which we find too lengthy for insertion."

By October 1, after George L. Curry had become editor of the Spectator, the attitude toward this sort of thing apparently was more receptive; and under the side-heading Vancouver Races appears the following, the first reference to anything resembling a horse race since the article of August 20:

"We have received the result of the recent races at Fort Vancouver, and sincerely regret that the crowded state of our columns precludes the possibility of publication in this paper. In our next, however, we shall be happy to give place to the same. We are pleased to hear that the amusement was numerously attended by both sexes and passed off with great eclat. These races, it is understood, are open to the whole territory, as any and every one may be present to witness and enjoy the sport; and while they are thus a great source of gratification, they are likewise instrumental in encouraging improvement in the breed of horses—an object most desirable and praiseworthy."

Well, let us not get too impatient for the results of those races. The list of owners, horses, riders, winners, etc., was published one month after the ponderous announcement just quoted.

There were four more races; but probably now, nearly a century afterward, the reader will be content with the foregoing as a sample.

First reports of prizefighting—not yet "refined" into "boxing"—were even skimpier and much less sympathetic. Here's the way