TOM HEENEY ARRIVES.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIX, Issue 3843, 11 September 1928, Page 2

TOM HEENEY ARRIVES.

IS ACCORDED ROUSING WELCOME. Tom Heeney, who contested the world’s heavyweight championship with Gene Tunnev, arrived in New Zealand on Sunday by the Aorangi, after an absence of three years. A large crowd packed the Auckland wharf to welcome him. In the evening, Heeney with his wiflp. father and three (brothers, visited the Auckland studio of the Broadcasting Company and was induced to speak briefly over the air. “ITow do yon do, New Zealand and Gisborne,” was the manner in which Heeney opened his remarks. “I am glad to be back in the old Dominion and want to thank the Auckland people for the Rousing welcome given us on our arrival. I have not brought back the world’s title, but when I get back to America, I am going after it again and I hope next time when I return to New Zealand, I will be the world’s champion.” (Applause). Heeney added that he had had a great time in the States and the people there were extremely kind and friendly. Mrs. Tom Heeney was then introduced to the microphone and speaking a decided American accent, stated that she had learned from “dear old Tom” about how beautiful New Zealand was and that she would like the people. She was glad to be amongst her husband’s friends. She concluded her little speech with “Kia Ora !” Jack Heeney and Dr. Lowry, of Gisborne, also spoke, the latter mentioning that Tom was in good fettle and had brought back to New Zealand a beautiful wife.

'The singing of “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow” concluded the brief function.