WALKING MATCH AT SEA.

Dunstan Times, Issue 937, 2 April 1880, Page 3

WALKING MATCH AT SEA.

The Ceylon Observer publishes the following account of a “ walking match at sea,” which took place during the passage of tho steamship Duke of Devonshire from the Red Sea :—“ With a view of encouraging exercise among tho gentlemen passengers, it was determined to hold a six days’ walking match, which commenced at 6 o’clock on Monday morning. An entrance fee of 2s. 6d. formed a prize fund, and punctually to the time the men were an the track. The first day’s waiting closed with Mr. Marshall, of Ceylon, having accomplished over thirty-five miles, Mr. Wheatley, of Calcutta, being second with 264 miles. The enthusiasts, however, rapidly felt the effects of deck walking, ia the shape of heavy blisters and stiffness, and had to give away to the bet:er calculation of those who took things coolly. The course, which was kept clear of impediments by the kind direction of Captain Turner, was from the forcastle ladder to the stern and back, each return counting one lap. On Saturday, at half-past 5, there were only two gentlemen upon the track—Mr. Goodwin (Ceylon) and Mr J. Weir (Caehar). As these geatlemen had determined not to leave the track whilst one remained, they were advise d to withdraw, and gladly availed themselves of suggestion. At 8 p.m., according to the rules drawn up, Captain Turner proceeded to read out the scores, which were as follows : Mr. Goodwin, 2494 miles; Mr. Weir, 1474 miles ; Mr. H. Marshall, 1264 miles ; Dr. McGregor, 601 miles ; Mr. '.Wheatley, 364 miles, and nine other competitors for smaller scores Mr. W. E. Jefferson, Calcutta, officiated as referee, and carefully watched the proceedings to a pleasant termination. Such was the interest manifested in tho event that tho winner was carried up and down deck, proceeded by Mr. Trotman, the great musician of tho voyage, playing on the violin “See tie Conquering Hero Comes." And at tho farewell dinner given by Captain Turner to the passengers the first toast after ‘ Her Majesty the Queen ’ was ‘ The Victor of the Walking Match.”