EXPERT AXEMEN

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22339, 26 May 1947, Page 2

EXPERT AXEMEN

P. O’ROURKE’S DOUBLE OLD-TIMER GETS HOME Despite the withdrawal of a team of bush workers from the Waikaremoana district, who were held up by slips on the highway and were unable to keep their engagements, the chopping competitions conducted on Saturday by the P.B. Axemen’s Association as a special rodeo fixture were well supported and the public was given a first-class exposition of expert axemanship. Entries were large in all events, and those who have followed this sport closely for some years were gratified to note the appearance of a scattering of young competitors. No less gratifying was the success gained by V. Bayne, a real old-timer who has competed with undiminished zeal in successive annual meetings though never hitherto with outstanding success. Teamed up with F. Anderson and P. O'Rourke, the 70-year-old axeman was placed first in the relay chop, an event which created great interest and drew an entry of four teams.

The events were judged by Messrs. M. Williams and T. Bennett, and the close competition was a tribute to the work of Mrs. A. Lloyd, the only woman known to be officiating as handicapper for chopping events in any New Zealand district. Mr. J. Goodley was starter for all events, which resulted as under: 12in. Standing Chop (14 entries). —I. Tucker, Bsec., 1; P. O’Rourke. 12sec.. 2; A. Dahm, lOsec., 3.

14in, Standing Chop (12 entries). —P. O’Rourke, 12sec., 1; A. Dahm, 12sec., 2; J. Saunders, 12sec., 3. 141 n. Underhand Chop (14 entries). — J. Saunders, 12sec„ 1; F, Anderson, scr., 2; S. Orlowski, lOsec., 3. Relay Chop (4 entries).—F. Anderson, P. O’Rourke and V. Bayne, 1. Two trophies were presented for competition, P. O’Rourke winning both the J. S. Allan Cup for the Min. standing chop and a cup presented for the winner of most points in all events.