AMERICA’S CUP.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 57, Issue 251, 4 August 1937, Page 5

AMERICA’S CUP.

INTEREST PRACTICALLY ENDED. SOME CAUSTIC COMMENT . t. United Press Association —Copyright.) NEW YORK, August 3. The eclipse of the Endeavour in the two races already held in connection with the America’s Cup contest has practically ended interest in the series, with the exception of the distance by which the Ranger will win the remaining races. The reception given to Mr Vanderbilt, as his yacht crossed the line, was hysterically " vociferous. Experts feel that the Endeavour’s failure to hold the lead when in a better position proves that either the crew or the yacht lacks some race-winning quality. It is pointed out that the Endeavour lost the advantage through a disastrous tack, in which she was almost brought to a standstill. Mr Sopwith has claimed a one day’s rest under the rules, and is taking advantage of this to overhaul the Endeavour. Mr Sopwith considered that the theory that the Endeavour’s keel picked up a lobster pot might explain his failure. The keel will be examined at daybreak. “I was pretty sure the Endeavour would win until the Ranger crept up. The Endeavour then went dead. It was the most astonishing thing I ever saw. We lost 10 minutes in five miles,” he said. The yachting editor of the New York Times,” mentioning the suggestion that the Endeavour may be altered, acidly comments that “The installation of an engine might help.” Rumours that Mr Sopwith is so discouraged that he might retire from the series are denied. THE HULL FOUND CLEAN.

' - MR SOPWITH’S COMMENT. (Received This Day, 11.20 a.m.) NEW YORK, August 3. After examination of the Endeavour’s hull, which was found to be clean, Mr Sopwith said: “There must he some explanation for what happened. We were going along nicely, holding well into the wind, when suddenly she began to lose way. We eased off and the Ranger sharpened, pointing close to windward and forcing us back over. We lost the race right there.”