SANDERS CUP

Evening Star, Issue 19792, 16 February 1928, Page 5

SANDERS CUP

FIRST RACE TO-MORROW [Fjiom Orn Own Rimorcmi.] HALFMOON BAY, February 16. Stewart Island, the isle of glowing seas, is aglow with excitement over the Sanders Cup contest. 'Hie first race will bo held to-morrow, afternoon, and all yachtsmen are sanguine that an exceedingly close and exciting contest will result. All accommodation is fully booked. Glorious weather continues, and the competing boats have had numerous trials. Late arrivals were Wellesley 11. (Wellington) and Avalon (Auckland), with their crews, the boats reaching Oban yesterday. Only Eileen (Otago) was out sailing in the afternoon, the other boats being prepared for the contest. Several interesting finishes have been held, and the islanders select Eileen e<s a likely winner. The Otago boat showed a good turn of speed in a fair breeze against Murihikn 11. (Southland) and Betty. All boats were racing full out. Muriluku is a much improved boat, and drew away steadily, while Betty and Eileen raced neck and neck. It was a pleasing trial, giving promise of groat rating in the contest proper. Avalon’s owner declares that the boat that beats Avalon deserves to win. The Auckland boat has never sailed better previously, and she wifi carry the pick of the Rona and Avalon’s trial crews. A stirring welcome was given to visitors in the Athenaeum Hall last nig at, over 500 being present. Southland’s past efforts, entailing 7,000 miles ol travel, to win the cup were eulogised, and every province’s delegate anticipated a keen sporting contest, ail agreeing that the result has never before been more open. After the reception a dance was held, the islanders giving the visitors a happy time. Owing to the non-arrival of the full Auckland representation the dominion conference called for last night was adjourned till this afternoon. Messrs John Moffett (Wellington) and Horace Camp (Otago) were appointed sail measurers. A final try-out of the boats will be made to-day, and the races will take place each afternoon until one province scores three wins.