SCULLING.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXX, Issue 388, 12 March 1908, Page 2

SCULLING.

The Whirokino Long Reach. Arnst and Floyd’s Opinions. We have before referred to the fact that the fine stretch of the Manawatu river, known as the “Whirokino long reach,” about 2 Y* miles from the town, is an ideal course for sculling purposes, and anyone who has seen the Wanganui championship course, will admit that the latter is not in it with the local water. Of course, it would be ridiculous to expect the world’s championship to be defended here, despite the superiority of the local course over that of Wanganui. Such a suggestion would cause Wanganui to immediately “spring off its tail,” and would drive the impulsive and important Tuck (Webb’s backer) almost frantic. However, Wanganui is entitled to its river as the champion convincing ground, so long as Webb retains the coveted honour —and we are proud of him. But, touching the Whirokino stretch, Arnst, the challenger, while on a visit to Foxton recently was asked by Mr George Gray, to inspect the local “ stretch,” with a view to expressing an opinion, which he did, in conjunction with Mr Floyd. Mr Gray has received the following letter from Dick Arnst on the subject, dated Wellington, March 10th : “-Dear Sir,—We Were very much surprised at the splendid stretch of water above the bridge, and I cannot understand why there has not been big races on it. I am sure if it is deep enough, [it’s depth is from 12ft to 20ft] it is the best course in New Zealand. I think it is a better course than Wanganui. Floyd says it is ns good as he has seen, and the championship of New Zealand ought to have been held on it.- — Dick Arnst.”

It is very probable that A*nst will do his training, preparatory to meeting the champion, on this river. If he is successful, Foxton may see a world’s sculling championship rowed on the Manawatu.