ENGLISH PARK STADIUM.

Press, Volume LXIII, Issue 19156, 12 November 1927, Page 9

ENGLISH PARK STADIUM.

TO-NIGHT'S SPORTS. A lest between two well-known Christchurch cyclists will take place at English Park Stadium to-night, when "Willie Mackie will try conclusions with Jack Bearman. The performances of Mackie are well known, as they extend over a period of five years, during which time he has been continuously in the limelight. In Bearman, however, he will iind a worthy opponent, as Bearman is recognised as one of tho fastest short distance riders in New Zealand. The quarter and half-mile are his favourite distances. The splendid form shown by him in recent contests is sufficient proof that he will extend Mackie. Tho opinion of a large number of followers of cycling is that the two riders are very evenly matched, and that the issue will be in doubt until the final distance is run. The match race will be over three distances, a quarter-mile, Continental style, a half-mile, paced, with a deciding distance of three-quarters of a mile, which will also be paced. Large entries have been received for the supporting programme, which includes a (irst-class scratch race of three miles, open handicaps of three laps and one mile, halfmile second and third-class combined handicap, and 120 yards flat handicap. An amusing and interesting feature of tho programme will be a half-mile high bike race, in which four riders will take part. This event has been made possible by tho courtesy* of Mr P. C. Crookg. Tho chief performers in the cycling events are: Jack Henderson and 0. Bright, with recent Australian experience, ,T. R. I'Anson and H. P. Mills, the ex-ama-tours, 0. Austin, tho well-known road rider, M. V. Leathern, C. J. vSowden, and N. H. Goodman. D. McLennan, the New Zealand sprint champion, and M. A. Macdonald, Canterbury sprint champion, have nominated for the 120 yards handicap. The sports will start at eight o'clock, and the Park may be reached by special trams from Cathedral square.