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Chronicle (Levin), 1 December 1949, Page 5

SYDNEY, Nov. 30. Aviation experts in England estimated that the 1953 air race from Lbndon to New Zealand might be completed in 20 hours* flying time, said Mr Hume D. Christie, president of the Canterbury International Air Race Council, who, with Mr A. B. George, secretarytreasurer, arrived in Australia by air from England late last night. Mr Christie added that this would mean an average of 700 miles an hour. He said the first prize would be £30,000, the second £3000, the third £1000, and. the fourth £500. These "would apply in both speed and handicap sections. During the two months' visit to England the offieials discussed the race details with the leaders of Britain 's aircraft industry, the Royal Aero Club, the Civil Aviation Department and the Ministry of Supply.' The route will be through Bazra, Calcutta, Singapore and vi'a a point on the east eoast of Australia to Christchurch. Mr Christie said he hoped that full details of the, handieapping would be announced early in the New Year. The best aviation brains in England were already working on the handicap details. Entries had already been received from the de Havilland company, makers of the Comet, qnd provisional entries from Armatrong, Whitworth, makers of the Trudo-jet. aircraft Apollo, the British European Airways, British Overseas Airways Corporation, and K.L.M. The race is due to start on October 10", 1953.