OPENING OF THE BOATING SEASON.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXI, Issue 500, 28 October 1909, Page 3

OPENING OF THE BOATING SEASON.

Glorious weather was experienced for the opening of the local rowing club’s Season yesterday afternoon, which was a factor in attracting a large gathering on the banks of the river. The fair sex and little children were well represented. Shortly after 3 o’clock the Mayor (in the absence of the President), formally opened the season, He stated that the Manawatu river was t.ie town’s most valuable asset, and from a sculling point of view there was no reason why the club should not produce a Webb or an Artist. He congratulated the club upon the improvements it had carried out —the building had been altered and renovated and the boats thoroughly overhauled and repaired which, under capable management, auguted well for a successful season. He would like to see a regatta held under the auspices of the club, and he referred to the club’s doughty crew which iu years gone by were able to bold their own with the best iu the Dominion. There was no reason why we should not again send forth a crew to win laurels for Koxton. He hoped the day was not distant when this wish would be realised. He wished the club a successful season and hoped both young men and women would take full advantage of the healthful recreation provided by the club. Before declaring the season open he apologised for the unavoidable absence of Mr Gower (President).

Mr G. W. Morgan, treasurer, on behalf of the club, thanked the Mayor, who, at short notice and personal inconvenience, had consented to perform the opening ceremony and for whom he called for three cheers, which were heartily responded to. Mr Morgan slated that all subscriptions were now due aud on payment members would be provided with keys to the shed. A hearty invitation was extended to all to partake of afternoon tea which was dispensed by Mr Perreau, aud much appreciated. The pleasure boats were soon filled with passengers and none were denied an outing on the river.

Messrs Gordon aud Tuohy were out in the two-oared and a crew manned the four-oared boats.

The gear for the racing boats needs careful overhauling. , It was discovered that the borer had attacked some of the oars and one snapped as soon as it was subjected to strain.

The staging, one side of which cracked under the heavy weight it was subjected to yesterday, will require to be supported and improved.

The Club intend to enforce the rules in respect to defaulters, and no boat will be allowed to leave the shed unless the member requiring to use it has paid bis sub. All subscriptions are now due and payable to the club’s treasurer, Mr G. W. Morgan. A book will he kept at the shed for the purpose of registering boats required. Everything points to a most successful season.