FRITZ HOLLAND AND TOM MAGUIRE

Grey River Argus, 1 April 1948, Page 6

FRITZ HOLLAND AND TOM MAGUIRE

The Australian boxing mentor, Tom Maguire, trainer of the triple champion, Dave Sands, struck a romantic note recently on the air, when he asked if anyone could inform him of the whereabouts of the man from whom he himself was many years ago instructed in the noble art. He had earlier ascertained that this veteran, Fritz Holland, was still in New Zealand, whither %he had come many years ago, aftei’ his encounters with the famous Les Darcy. Fritz at that time paid visits to the West Coast, and was known fox- his ability as a saxophonist. An American by birth, Fritz figured there in the ring before making his name in Australia. He conducted a boxing school at Christchurch for some time. It transpires that Fritz for over a year past has been engaged in the early day occupation of prospecting for gold in the Inangahua district, neax- Blackwater. He has now a claim developed near the Cariboo Creek, and is expectant of a satisfactory result. Fritz is now- expecting also a visit from Tom Maguire at the Blackwater. Tom told the “Southern Cross”. Wellington: “It’s a long time since I was flattened on my back by a punch from Fritz Holland, and I hope to meet him again and let him see a punil of one of his oupils. Fritz was a great teachex- of boxing, and I think Dave Sands would deem it an honour to shake hands with such a grand old timer”. As a matter of fact, Maguire’s broadcast was heard at Blackwater, and, though it was delayed in transit, a letter was sent in reply, which only reached its destination on Tuesday. In this Fritz Holland wrote Maguire as follows: —“First of all I want to. say that I am very anxious to see you while you are in New Zealand, and I am honing that you might possibly have the time, the opportunity, and the inclination to come over here foia visit. I am gold mining and I have .just lately got my claim into operation. I do not know how good it is, as I have not vet had a wash-up. bur it looks promising—very much so. My claim is only about a mile from Blackwater, so it would be convenient fox- you to visit. Do come if you can, and bring Dave Sands with you. The trip, and the stay in the hills, should benefit you both. I shall be very disappointed if you are unable to come, so please make a special effort .