WALKING MATCH AT SEA.

Kumara Times, Issue 1128, 11 May 1880, Page 2

WALKING MATCH AT SEA.

The Ceylon Observer publishes the following account of a " walking match at sea," which took place during the passage of the steamship Duke of Devonshire from the Red Sea :—'" With a view of' encouraging exercise among the gentlemen passengers, it was determined to hold a six days' walking match, which commenced at six o'clock on Monday morning. An entrance fee of 2s Gd formed a private fund, and punctually to the time the men were on the track. The first day's walking closed with Mr Marshall, of Ceylon, having accomplished over 35 miles, Mr Wheatley, of Calcutta, being second, with 26| miles: TMga enthusiasts, however, rapidly .felt tv effects of deek-walking, in the shape of heavy, blisters and stiffness, and had to give way to the better calculation of thoße who took things coolly. The course, which was kept clear of impediments by the kind direction of Captain Turner, was from the forecastle ladder to stern and back, each

return counting one lap. On Saturday, "at 5-30, there were only, two fjentkuien upon tho track—Mi- Goodwin, (Uevlon) and Mr J. Weir (Caehar). As these gentlemen had determined not to loave the track while one remained, they were advised to withdraw, and gladly availed themselves of the suggestion-. -.At, -eight p.m., according to the rules drawn up, Captain Turner proceeded to read out the scores, which were as follows :—Mr Goodwin, miles ; Mr Woir, 147 A miles ; Mr H. Marshall, 12'6h miles ; Dr MacGregor, 69§ miles ; Mr Wheatley, 36] miles, and nine ether 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 the event that the winner was carried up and down deck, preceded by Mr Trotman, the great musician of the voyage, playing on the violin ' See the Conquering Hero Comes,' arid at the farewell dinner given by Captain Turner to the passengers, the first toast after .'Her Majesty the Queen' was 'The "Victor of the Walking Match.'"