ALLEGED LIBEL

Hokitika Guardian, 26 October 1932, Page 2

ALLEGED LIBEL

“WIZARD” SMITH’S CLAIM. NEW ZEALAND EVIDENCE. SYDNEY, Oetob-M* 24. Tlie libel action in which the speed motorist, Norman (“Wizard”) Smith is claiming' £20.000 damages for alleged libel in an article published by “SmitTi’s Weekly” concerning his attempt on the world record at NinetyMile Beach, New Zealand, was continued to-day, when evidence taken on commission in New Zealand was read. * Percy Tliode, hotelkeeper, said lie had observed Smith closely and could not understand how lie came to get tins name of “speed king.” He appeared to be an arrant coward, could not hold a teacup, and was of a frightful colour. Other New Zealand witnesses, im eluding Keith Stewart, solicitor, of Kaitaia, gave evidence. There were days when the Ninety-Mile Beach was in excellent condition. Stewart said he had a brief conversation with Smith one; splendid day and remarked': “I suppose you are going to make an attempt cm the record to-day. The beach is good, and the wind seems right.” S’mith produced his handkerchief and appeared’ to be nervous. He then answered: “I don’t know how the wind will he on the beach.” Witness added: “I don't think Smith was a trier, as hi the 10 mile run he only beat a woman's record.”

Constable Mark Thornell, who helped Smith into hi* overalls, observed that Smith was agitated and gave the impression that he was going to ''do somlething against his s will. Indeed his condition was such that witness, who was doing traffic eointrol duty on the beach, contemplated debarring him from making an attempt oil the record. James Taafe, garage proprietor, Kaitaia, who supplied a. fire extinguisher for Smith’s oar, declared that the beach was fit for 1 racing on several occasions lietween February and May. The hearing was adjourned.