Help us promote Lemnos' link to Anzac - Make a donation now

Our Committee is raising funds to create a lasting legacy telling the story of Lemnos' link to Gallipoli and Australia's Anzac story. Our projects include the Lemnos Gallipoli Memorial in Albert Park, the publication of a major new historical and pictorial publication and more. To make a donation you can also deposit directly by direct debit into the Committee's bank account: Account Name: Lemnos Gallipoli Commemorative Committee Inc; Bank: Bendigo Bank; Account No: 188010037; BSB No: 633000; Include your surname in the reference section. For further information on our legacy projects or to make a donation please contact either Lee Tarlamis 0411553009 or Jim Claven 0409402388M

Saturday 18 October 2014

Horse (and Mule) Races at Thessaloniki in WW1

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In recognition of the Victorian Spring Racing Carnival, here are some reminders that even in wartime races can be a welcome distraction from the stresses of the day.

These images are from American war photographer Ariel Varges and are part of an extensive collection of photographs of the Salonika campaign preserved in the Imperial War Museum in London. These races were organised in 1916 by the British 22nd Division and were held at the British camp at Lembet, one of the key British Army bases during the campaign.

From the photographs we can see troops from various units, including Scottish troops and French soldiers eager to place a bet with the improvised bookies! The last picture shows a participant in the "Lemon cutting" competition! Slicing a lemon while galloping by on horseback. Well done, I say.
The race was won by Captain Whitehead, riding his prized stead, a Macedonian mule!

And an event reminder: The Australian and Thessaloniki in WW1 - 4pm. Sunday, 16th Nov., Ajani Hall, Lower Templestowe. For more information, click here.

Jim Claven
Secretary
Lemnos Gallipoli Commemorative Committee

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