SWIMMING

Dominion, Volume 9, Issue 2642, 13 December 1915, Page 8

SWIMMING

ISLAND BAY SURF CLUB OPENING. The Island Bay Surf Chib formally opened their season on Saturday afterr.oon. The weather was fine, but a typical Wellington zephyr wafted the sand about on the bejfch, and made it a little cool for those in bathing-dress. There were a number of people present. ■ The Mayor, Mr. _J. P. Luke (president of the club), in declaring the' season, drew attention to the fact that many members of the club had gone to tho war, and ho said it behoved those remaining who were unable to enlist to keep the club colours flying, and to work energetically, especially in the direction of life-saving. He emphasised the advantages and necessity of being a good swimmer, and he congratulated the Island Bay people on having such a strong and energetic club. Ho hoped they would not forget -what the' City Council had done for them, and he foresaw that there were many things that the council might yet do. He thought the people wouid do well to keep their wants prominently before his council. Mr. R. A. Wright, M.P., member for the district, also spoke. On behalf of tlio Island Bay residents, ho thanked the Mayor aiid the council for what they _ had done in the interest of the district. He wished the Surf Club a very successful season. Three cheers were given for "tho hoys at tho front." Mr. T. Shields took tho opportunity to address tho many children present on the necessity of being able to swim. Ho told them how, by gaining a proficiency certificate in swimming and lifesaving, they would be given free admission to the city baths for one year. The splendid swimming feat of Major B. C. Freybcrg at Gallipoli was, he said, an example of the splendid part swimming was playing in the present war. An exhibition of the various life-sav-ing methods was given by a club squad. A handicap bqek-swimming race was held during the afternoon (tho backstroko being largely used in life-sav-ing). The race resulted as follows:— First heat. —Donovan, 1; Mitchell, 2; Beckett, 3. Second Heat.—Eowo, 1: Bcasley, 2: Wilcox, 3. Final.—Eowe, 1; Mitchell, 2; Donovan, 3.