Five-mile Sweepstake Bicycle Handicap.

Manawatu Herald, 4 February 1904, Page 3

Five-mile Sweepstake Bicycle Handicap.

The above race was got off last evening on the local cycle track and provided a very agreeable break to the somewhat quiet state of things in Foxton. The arrangements were carried out by a number of our wellknown “sports,” headed by Mr L. Wilson as secretary and treasurer. Out of ten nominations, six competitors faced the starter (Mr A. Shadbolt), determined to give each other a big “ shaking up ” for the “ quids,”

ns the prize-money Was Commonly called. The riding throughout was very good, and, as the laps were reduced one by one the spectators excitement grew more intense, and, judging by the manner in which some made use of their lung power, one would have thought that lives Were at stake. The winner turned Up, however, in F. D. Whibley (350 yards), who rode with detertuL nation and good judgment. He beat F. Withers (400 yards) by about two lengths; D. Walden (540 yards) being third. Whibley’s win was very popular, it being his first attempt at bike racing. J. E. Marshall had the misfortune to fall on entering the straight the last lap but one from home. The pedal of his machine was broken off at the spindle.

The promoters of the above race wish to thank all who assisted, financially or otherwise, at the Park last evening.

Judging by the interest taken in this race by the public generally, it is to be hoped that a few more such races will bo arranged before the evenings draw in. A few running events would prove very attractive. Say have one before the bike race and one after.