Race Down Manawatu River

Manawatu Times, Volume 64, Issue 302, 22 December 1939, Page 8

Race Down Manawatu River

EVENT OVER 86-MILE COURSE A race by boat and canoe from the Fitzherbert bridggo at Palmerston North to the Manawatu Heads is being organised to take place at the New Year. The sponsors of the project are at present endeavouring to obtain at least three more entries and if they succeed considerable interest should attach to the arrival of the competitors at the beach after their long trip. It is the intention of the committeo which is fostering the race to start the boats from the bridge on the morning of ' Sunday, December 31, with the first 1 official halt being made at Shannon, where the night is to be spent. From there the crews will proceed to the 1 beach, arriving during the afternoon of ; New Year’s Day. 1 The distance is 86 miles and, with the current to help, it is stated to be a most enjoyable trip and has provided a great deal of pleasure to those who have undertaken it in the past. The last race : over this course was held not long before the outbreak of the Great War and was won by a crew which used a specially built boat and covered the wholedistance in the very fine time of eight : hours. On this occasion no distinction is being made as to the type of boat that , may be used, but if boys want to employ a canoe they must commence at Shannon. Adults may use canoes from the bridge and boys boats, but the committee is of the opinion that no risks ' should be incurred by competitors and they do not intend to relax the provision requiring boys to begin at Shannon. Although the use of engines will not be permitted there is nothing to stop boats rigging sails. There is a possibility that some men may be keen to enter, although they cannot arrange for a boat. Anyone who 1 falls in that category is requested to get 1 in touch with the organiser, Mr. D. T. : Dilks, 373 Main Street, Palmerston 1 North, or the secretary of the Mana--1 watu Boating Club, Mr. Reed, Abraham 1 and Williams, Ltd., Palmerston North, ■ who will also accept entries. Thero is ’ a small starting fee and prizes are to be awarded. ” =