Sporting.

New Zealand Mail, Issue 229, 29 January 1876, Page 17

Sporting.

INTERPROVINCIAD. REGATTA. The annual interprovincial regatta meeting was opened on Saturday, in the Wellington harbor, the course chosen by the committee being in the direction of Petone, where the water was less disturbed than in the more exposed portions of the bay. GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. Saturday was a gazetted holiday, and consequently all the Government offices were closed, and Government, officials were permitted to participate in the general festivity of the occasion ; while every description of business establishment in the town and country were shut up, save and except publichouses, a species of social flowers whose petals are seldom closed against the inquiring mind of man, and in this we may discover a special providence, forasmuch as competent atithorities tell us, it is next to a physical impossibility to obtain an accurate and satisfactory estimate of the virtues of this floral curiosity by an external survey thereof. The remark, " How little this ' seems like Saturday," was pretty frequently made during the early morning, persons being induced so to speak in consequence of the streets presenting an unbusiness-like aspect. On each side of the commercial thoixraghfares severe-looking shutters and " blinds down," greeted the eyes of spectators, who, while conscious of the occasion being extraordinary, were no doubt impelled to indulge in the common observation above referred to, notwithstanding that they, and many around them, happened to be attired in what the Americans call " store clothes." Indeed, this popular adherence to one idea became somewhat melancholy and distressingly monotonous. Even the man or woman in whose versatility you had the most complete confidence would meet you with an air of bewildering freshness, and accost you with "Don't seem like Saturday, does it." Undoubtedly it did not look like Saturday, but it looked as little like Sunday, for towards ten o'clock there began to appear in the streets numbers of people, coming from every conceivable direction, and all wending their way, either towards the Queen's wharf, or the Railway station at Thorndon. THE WEATHER. In this respect Wellington had reason to congratulate itself; because the weather of Saturday was beautifully fine —a circumstance of such exceeding rarity, considering the weather we have experienced of late, that holiday makers must needs have been more than ordinarily thankful. At daybreak and for a considerable time afterwards there were indications of approaching wet, and these symptoms increased till the rain came, but as the atmosphere was excessively close, it was generally thought that the day would brighten. This proved to be correct, for shortly after eleven o'clock the rain ceased, the sky cleared, and the sun shone out in all its glory. A finer day could not have been wished for—on land and sea alike everything looked beautiful in the golden sunlight—the harbor, dotted with numerous small craft and sailing vessels, presented a grand picture. A light breeze was blowing, not sufficient to disturb the water, beyond causing a gentle ripple, which reflected back the rays of the sun, making the harbor seem a bed of liquid gold, laden with sparkling gems. Under such circumstances, with joyous surroundings, and the pleasure and excitement of the boating contest, it would have been a difficult matter to be otherwise than happy, which, indeed, every one seemed to be. THE STEAMBOAT EXCURSIONS were successful, in regard to the number of persons who patronised the various boats, namely, the Wellington, Stormbird, Manawatu, and Napier. The Tui was to have carried passengers, but not having arrived in time, all that would have gone by her, certain of the aquatic authorities in particular, went by the Napier, which was the Press boat, having been chartered by a few members of the profession, not as a speculation, but in order that they might independently and conveniently see what was to be seen. There were in all about fifty or sixty on board, just as many as was convenient, and which was precisely what the gentlemen who chartered the boat had intended.

The other steamers were literally crowded, and to judge from the appearance of the people who formed the crowds, they must have "made believe very much," as the Marchioness said of the orange water, before they could have discovered any enjoyment in their situation. It was a decided case of jam, and the fruit of it was that certain of the excursionists could not feast their eyes, however they may have fared from a stomachic point of view. Altogether, the steamboat excursionists looked pretty miserable, and they did not succeed in improving this impression by ghastly attempts to appear in a high state of satisfaction and complacency, as, while crushed up and half smothered, they stood broiling in the noonday sun. At the start of a race was the time when one could see effectively wbat amount of physical exertions and discomforts an English speaking people will endure by way of a day's entertainment. The cry, "They're off" was Immediately followed by a genuine crush, tall men having the advantage, and short men trying to make up for their shortness by prodigious but ineffectual attempts to make them-

selves bigger than nature had destined them to be- a oractice very common, in this world outside of crowded steamboats, and not confined to regatta meetings. The s.s. Wellington was decorated as flagships usually are, though she was not a flagship, no arrangements having been made for one on the first day. All the boats started from the Quean's wharf within a few minutes of one another, at about 11 o'clock, and steamed to near the starting point, where they took up their position. The Wellington, having on one occasion got too near the shore, went aground, but she soon got off, and did not succeed in doing the like again during the remainder of the day. Some difficulty was experienced in seeing the start from the steamers, even with glasses, and in this respect indeed it may be said o-enerally—those on the water had not so good a chance of witnessing what was going forward as those on the shore. As a matter of fact, those who had horses on the beach were in the best position to see the races. Many horsemen on Saturday having taken up positions at the starting-point rode along the shore, and came in at the winning-post in time to see the finish of the different events.

THE ROAD AND RAILWAY presented a scene of life and activity quite uncommon-along that route except on occasions so important to Wellington people—we say to Wellington people advisably, because boating is an institution in Wellington, and there is really nothing in which their representatives hold so high a position in relation to the other portions of the colony. The physical features of the town, and a beautiful harbor, have tended to this end; and, without laying ourselves open to a charge of vain boasting, it must be said that Wellington has reason to be exceedingly proud of its boating men. But to return to the road and railway. Carriages and vehicles of every description —from genuine cabs and'buses to a species of cross between modern water-drays and Irish jaunting-cars —might have been seen conveying holiday makers along the road to Petone. A number of ladies and gentlemen also rode out on horseback, and there were even a few foot passengers. The houses of refreshment along the road, it will be well understood, were largely patronised, the day being exceedingly warm, and travellers as a natural consequence, remarkably thirsty. The railway was patronised to a great extent. Every available carriage, trucks, and even meat waggons, were taken advantage of ; yet, the accommodation was insufficient, and each time the train left, carrying away cargoes of men and women packed like sardines in a tin, numbers of persons were left behind disappointed and impatient. It was a fortunate circumstance for the railway, therefore, that the committee elected to have the course at Petone. The crush on the trains returning to town was even greater than on the trip out. Indeed, it was painful, and not to be endured unless under the most pressing circumstances. In connection with the facts to be related under the heading of this paragraph, there were TWO ACCIDENTS, both of which might have been exceedingly serious but for mere chance. Mr. Stevenson, of Stevenson and Stuart, was, with others, standing on one of the carriage platforms while the train was in motion, going towards Petone, when he accidentally struck his head against something, and was rendered insensible. The accident was probably caused by the train giving a sudden jerk. Mr. Stevenson recovered soon after, not being seriously injured, but when thinking of the position in which he stood when struck, it will be seen how easily he might have been seriously injured, if not killed. Another incident of the road was as follows: —A man on horseback was racing the train, a very common practice with horsemen ; but this particular horseman was either an indifferent horseman, or had taken more "modest quenchers" than he could " keep properly concealed about his person," as remarked by the Professor in the "Trump Card;" for certain it is that, after galloping in a frantic manner for some time, and presenting the appearance of a " show " monkey on a dog's back, he was thrown off and, fortunately for him, fell on the road side of the fence. It might have been quite possible for him to have fallen on the other side, in which case he would most probably have been crushed to death. AT PETONE. The spectators on the shore congregated at Petone, where the booths were erected. There were a great number of people here, and the booth-holders did an enormous business. The full benefit of the sun was felt at this point, there being no shelter unless at certain places on the hill-side, upon which several parties stationed themselves for the day. The band of the City Rifles did service on the occasion, and performed well, though their work must have been very arduous. There was an absence of anything approaching disorderly conduct, a fact which speaks much in favor of the people there congregated. In every respect, save in a matter hereafter referred to, the meeting was a complete success, and we question whether a single individual could say that he failed to meet with the enjoyment which he set out on Saturday morning to obtain. THE RACING- ARRANGEMENTS. As to the arrangements made by the committee —if any were made at all—they were simply execrable. No system, no order, no rules with one or two exceptions, no one knew anything about anything; no one seemed to care what was done, and no one felt at all responsible for the muddles which occurred. No course was marked out, so that strange boats had to grope their way as best they could, while Wellington boats knowing the "run" obtained an unfair advantage over them. Passenger steamers were allowed to go where they pleased, even to the injury of boats and the prejudice of rowers, no properly defined winning-goal was fixed, crews did not know how far to go, when they stopped were quite ignorant

as to whether they had won or lost, and if a close finish had taken place the judge himself woidd have been equally ignorant. More than six hours were required to get through a programme of six events—or rather five events, for owing to some careless j amble the outi'igger pairs race did not come off at all, and the last race—the sculler's —in consequence of another bungle, it may be necessary to have rowed over again. For the credit of Wellington, it is to be hoped that the next regatta may fall to the management _of persons with a little more practical acquaintance with rowing matters. Shortly after one o'clock —not twelve, as arranged, was started the

CHAMPION FOUR-OARED OUTRIGGER RACE ; With or without coxwain—-Distance three miles. Entrance, £5 ss. First prize, £150; second prize, £lO 10s. Both prizes in money or plate at the option of the winners. Dolly Varden (Wellington Rowing Club). Moore (bow), list 101 b, ; Hearn (No. 2), I2st. 41b ; Walker (No. 3), 12st. 31b. ; Woods (stroke),

12st •■ •• x Stella (Star Club). Jos. Ames (bow), list ; Lennox (No. 2), lOst. 71b. ; Webb (No. 3), list. 71b. ; Walden (stroke), 12st 2 Young Colonial (Thames Naval Brigade), Auckland. Thomas Goldsworthy (bow), list. 31b. ; T. Newdick (No. 2), 12st. 31b.; Richard Newdick (No. 3), 12st. 61b.; Henry Goldsworthy (stroke), list. 41b.; Valentine Savage (coxswain), 9st. .. 3 Cam (Cam Boating Club), Kaiapoi. Wright (bow), lOst. 121 b. ; Wearing (No. 2). 9st. 101 b. ; Perrin (No. 3). list. 101 b. ; Winterbourne (stroke), list. ; Heyres (coxswain), 4st. 61b... .. ..4

The boats paddled down to the starting point about one o'clock, and were not very long getting into position. The Stella took No. 1 position, with Kaiapoi next, Thames third, and Dolly Varden outside well away. The starting line was not square, the inside boats having the advantage, which in the case of the Stella amounted to half a length. On the word being given the Dolly Varden was the first to catch the water, and in a hundred yards had passed the Stella. At a quarter of a mile the order was as follows: — Dolly, first; Stella, two lengths away, leading Kaiapoi by a length, with the Thames three lengths behind. This order was maintained for three-quarters of a mile, distances between the boats occasionally varying. Winterbourne then called upon his men for an effort and they got by the Star, Lennox at this time beginning to drop his head. The Cam then made up to the Dolly Varden, and for a few seconds it seemed as if Kaiapoi was to be the winner. All the boats were now going thoroughly. The long steady sweeping stroke of the Dolly Varden was increased to 42 a minute, Kaiapoi, Star, and Thames about 41 or a little less. Kaiapoi's effort, however, was played out, and the Dolly gradually drew away. The Thames meanwhile were pulling very strongly, and struggling: manfully against the fatal difficulty a "bad boat were fast overtaking the Stella as the turn was approached. Passing the turning-post, Wellington led by fully a dozen lengths, the other three being all together. Here Ames worked a splendid point. Instead of following the other boats round inshore, he kept straight on up the bay, and the manoeuvre not being noticed, the Dolly kept at her steady pace till she suddenly found the Stella had gained fully 200yds. upon her. A spurt was put on, and the excitement grew intense. Both crews for a few moments were again at top speed, and the Dolly won by a length and a half ; Thames, two and a half lengths behind the Stella, with a length separating her from the Cam. Time — 19min. lOsec. EIVE-OARED WHALEBOAT RACE. For racing whaleboats. Boats to be five-oared or more, and steered with a bona fide steer-oar. Course same as first race. Entrance, £2 10s. First prize, £SO ; second, £5 ss. Colonist, Frost (bow), Reid, Westrup, McArthur (stroke), J. Ford (cox) 1 Titokowaru (Gannaway) 2 Cure(W.R.C) 3 Thistle (Thistle Boating Club) 0 Orion (Star Club) °

This race was the greatest surprise of the day. The Thistle Club coming with the reputation of the winners of the race at Nelson, were at once high in favor with the public, while the Star Club crew, steered by the veteran O'Meai'a, one of the best coxswains to be found in Wellington, and having under them the best "timber" in the race, were looked upon as pretty safe to win. But "what a falling off was there" in regard to the Thistles ; and as for the Stars, they were never in the race. A new boat and a fast boat is not such an advantage that good men and training can be dispensed with, and if boating clubs wish to furnish winners they must not only improve their boats, but must also train their crews. All five got away on pretty equal terms, and none gained any particular advantage for a few hundred yards. The Titokowaru, Colonist, and Thistle then began to draw off from the rest ; and, after a quarter of a mile had been covered, were well away from the Cure and Orion. All three were "pounding" away at 38 or 39 strokes per minute, and for half a mile the chances of the three seemed equal. But the Thistle now began to tail off ; the pace was evidently too much for her, she had "shot her bolt" in the first mile, and after struggling on for another half-mile, cried peccavi. The Titokowaru and Colonist meanwhile raced on magnificently, stroke for stroke, first one and then the other getting a half-length advantage; but approaching the two-mile point, the Colonist assumed a decided lead, and it was clear that the various sized oars—no two being alike—in the Titokowaru, the difference in the quality of the boats, and the neglect of the coxswain to back up stroke, were beginning to tell, and practically the race was over. Passing the two-mile flagstaff, the Colonist led by a couple of lengths, the Titokowaru being a long way ahead of the other two, which were rowing an exciting race for third place. After passing the flagstaff, the Titokowaru gained a half length ; but just then the steamer Wellington forced the Stormbird close into the course, and the "wash" just caught the Titokowaru and spoiled whatever chance she had of winning. However,

she secured a good second place, being . about three lengths behind, the Colonist, and twenty or thirty ahead of the Cure and Orion, which finished in that order. The Titokowaru crew were far and away the best of the two, and equality of boats, or even a better coxswain, would have changed , the first and second positions. The race was .. very fast—2omin. 37sec. —the champion , outrigger being less than a minute and faster. A private match between the first, and : second crews may yet be arransred.. It ,is but. ■ , fair to state that the Thistle crew attribute : ;. their defeat to the illness of one of their nunxr ,; b er J. Brown. .For some weeks they say The.. , has been ill, yet he believed he would be able to pull through this race ; however, shortly, . after starting, owing perhaps to the fast pace at which all went off, and also to the excitement, be suddenly became very ill, and was almost useless in the boat, therefore winning was hopeless. On being carried ashore medical attendance was obtained and now he is getting round again. FOUR-OARED INRIGGED RACE •'•'• With or without coxswain. Distance, three miles.Entrance, £5 ss. First prize, £100; second, £lO. 10s. Transit (W.R.C.), same crew as in champion ..1 Arawata (Dunedin Rowing Club). Crew: Vinnie (bow), Mercer, Davis, Burke (stroke), R. Burke Greenhorn (Thames Naval Brigade) .. .. /-'■ 3 Eclipse (Queen's Club) .. .... .. .'. 0 Maud (Star Club) .. .. ..... .. <► There was pretty well as much excitement over this race as there had been about the ' four-oared outriggers' race. Wellington Was the hot favourite, owing to the grand style in which they had rowed in the first race, but there were many willing to risk a "fiver" or '& " tenner "on the Dunedin crew. These had the advantage of freshness, but the disadvantage of their boat being much heavier than the Transit. All things considered, the two boats were very fairly matched, and a good deal of betting was done. The Eclipse led off at a rattling pace, but a mile was sufficient for herAt the mile point, the Wellington and Dunedin boats drew away from the others, and a splendid race between these two ensued. Both did the second mile at top speed—4o and minute. First the Arawata's nose was in front, then the Transit got a slight lead, and positions kept changing in this manner until nearing the two-mile flag, and excitement : on ship and shore became visible. Just before reaching the flag Wellington got a clear lead of a length, and kept it for a hundred yards, when Arawata put on a magnificent stroke, and ' again got on terms with her. But this was the last effort. The Transit now .had the race well in hand. Passing the flags she was a length and a half ahead of the Arawata, the Thames ten or twelve lengths behind, dragging their log along with splendid pluck, the Eclipse a couple of lengths further behind, and the Maud close to her stern. During the last mile the relative positions of the boats were not changed ; and the only thing worth noticing is the mishap which occurred to the Maud. Ames again had his eye to business and tried the short cut again, but the Manawatu broke in upon the Maud's course and sent some lumping rollers across to bier. The boat half filled, and for a fewseconds looked like swamping. Eventually she righted, and was pulled into shore. It is said she is much damaged. At the conclusion of the race the Dunedin and the Thames crews were loudly cheered. Considering that the average weight of the former is something like lOst. 61b. only, and the boat unsuitable, they rowed a wonderful race, and not less can be said of the Thames. Time, a little under 20 minutes. PAIR-OARED INRIGGED RACE. Distance two miles. Entrance, £1 Is. Prize, £2O ; second boat to save its entrance. W.R.C '• 1 Star Club 2 Westland -- . -. 3

An hour and a half was wasted in the start for this race, over a dispute as to •whether the outrigged pairs should not be sent first. The outrigged race had been placed first on the programme by the committee, but owing to a mistake in the printing, the inrigged appeared first. Some felt their interests were interfered with by the transposition, hence the dispute. Eventually the race was started as placed on the programme, and the outrigged race postponed. It was a gift to the Wellington boat, as the Star, the only other boat at all in the race, could not get on terms with her after the first mile had been traversed.

SCULLERS' RACE (OUTRIGGERS.) Distance, li miles. Prize—Cup and £ls. Second boat to save its entrance. Hearn .. • • • • • • • • • • "■ ■ i Pascoe . - - • • • - • ■ - • • . -2 Turnbull » Ferry 0 The race was a gift to Hearn, none of the others having a chance. A protest has been, or is to be entered, against the winner for having failed to pull over the proper distance. It was decided to shorten the course ; the committee cut a piece off, and Captain Halliday, being unaware of this, cut another piece off, hence the dispute. This being the last race, the bay and the shore were soon deserted, although several of the steamers had left before this race, people being disgusted with the delays which had taken place.

SECOND DAY. The town kept holiday on Monday, and although there were not so many people out as on Saturday, still there was very little business done, and great interest was taken in the various events which took place, notwithstanding the fact that the sailing races were seen to little advantage by the majority ; nay, to a great majority they were not seen at all after the start and just before the finish. The flagship was largely patronised, the entrance fee beino - very reasonable, and it was from, this position that the best view of the races was to be obtained. The various steamers also took large numbers of holiday makers. The wharf on the outer end was crowded ; the roofs of sheds were taken advantage of by many as affording good positions

for observations, and the large ships lying alongside the wharf received a fair amount of attention. The weather was all that could have been desired for the sailing boat races, but rather rough for rowing, and the pair-oared outrigger race was indefinitely postponed. The Avalanche was very kindly placed at the disposal of the committee by Captain Williams, and was gaily decorated for the occasion. To those on board Captain Williams was most hospitable. All the races were started from the flagship, and returned to finish at the same place. Mr. Buchanan with some members of the committee were on the Avalanche, and to these gentlemen seemed to fall the principal part of the work. FIRST-CLASS YACHT RACE. Entrance, £2 2s. Prize, Messrs. Shaw, Saville and Co.'s Cup, valued at £25 and £SO added. Second •boat to save its entrance, The entries were as follows :—Flirt (Taylor), Claymore (Brown), Esk (Gannaway), Xariffa (Firmin), Annie Ogle (Cunningham), Minnehaha (Cross), Red Jacket (Gannaway). The starting gun was fired at 11.35, a pretty stiff breeze blowing at the time. The Minnehaha went off with the lead, closely attended by the others, but as soon as ever the Annie Ogle's sails filled her bobstays were carried away, and directly afterwards part of her rigging followed. This affected her pace seriously, and during the first time round some of the hands were engaged in repairing damages. However, half a mile from the flagship, she assumed first position, and maintained it all through. The Xariffa was second past the ; buoy off Ward's Island. Coming up to the flagship for the first time the Annie Ogle was caught in a smart puff of wind off Kaiwarra, and had to luff up and let go her gaff j and maintopsail-kalyards. The boats passed the flagship the first time round as follows : Annie Ogle lh. 56m. 30s. Xariffa 2h. 6m. 455. Bed Jacket 2h. 16m. 21s. The Minnehaha came up later, but cried * content," and was reserved for the secondclass race. During the second run round the wind fell off, and the Anne Ogle showed that she was even better in light puffy winds than in a strong breeze, for she gained considerably. The order of finish was as follows : Annie Ogle 4h. Bm. 15s. Xariffa 4h. 37m. 455. Red Jacket sh. 3m. 30s. the others being nowhere. The victory of the Annie Ogle was complete, for had she been in any way pushed she was entitled to an allowance for tonnage. '- coasters' race. Entrance, £2 2s. Prize, Messrs. Shaw, Savill, and Ca 's Cup, value £25, and £SO in cash ; second vessel to save its entrance. The following boats were entered :—Cynthia (Stewart), Falcon (Fisk), Aurora (Pearce), Herald (Thomas), Planet (Murnane). After some little difficulty the boats were got away to a rather irregular start at 12.45, of which the Reliance, a post entry, had the worst.-' She also fell to leeward off Point Jerningham, and had to go about and make a short tack in order to weather it, and lost all chance. After this all went well. The flagship was passed for the first time in the following order : Herald 2h. 55m. 30s. Aurora 3h. .7m. 455. Cynthia 3h. 12m. 30s. Planet .. .. -> .. 3h. 15m. 30s. Falcon 3h. 19m. Os.

The Herald got round very badly, and lost a minute or two by steering wide, and the Planet neglected to take in her square sail before jibing, and immediately she turned, one of her spars was heard from aboard the flagship to snap. One end of the sail dropped into the -water, and seemed to jam with her stays on the weather side.. • However, she was got into going order immediately, and the wind falling light gave her an advantage, and she crept ahead of the Aurora and Cynthia. The finish was as follows : Herald sh. 24m, 15s. Planet sh. 42m. Os. Aurora .. .. . - : 6h. om. os. The others some distance behind. The result was quite a surprise, any but the Herald being fancied by the "knowing ones." A protest was entered against the Planet for having hauled round the buoys by means of ropes. ships' boats. Crews to be on ships' articles. Entrance, 10s. 6d. First prize, £lO ; second, £2. St. I/eonards, Tod 1 Schiehallion, Levack .. .. .. .. .. 2 Pleiades, Davis .. .. .. .. .. .. 0 Howrah, Greaves.. .. .. .. .. 0 Avalanche, Williams .. .. .. .. .. 0 The boats all started off at a great pace> the Avalanche and Howrah crews leading offCaptain Tod took his men straight for the Commissary, round which the boats had to turn, while some of the others lost distance by running wide. On the return journey there was an excellent race between the St. Leonards and Schiehallion, and the superiority of the boat alone gave the victory to the former. FIVE-OARED WHALEBOAT RACE. To be rowed by Volunteers and Firemen, each crew to belong to a single company or brigade. Boats to be steered with steer-oar. Distance 3 miles. Entrance, £1 Is. Prize, £lO 10s.; socond boat to save its entrance. Thistle, Nelson Naval Brigade 1 Titokowaru, Wellington City Rifles 2 Orion, Wellington Artillery 3 The Cure, with a crew from the Wellington Volunteer Fire Brigade, was also entered, but did not go. The Thistle's men were far superior to the others. The Orions made the pace pretty warm for a mile, but they were thoroughly done up then ; and the Titokowaru, which rowed pluckily to the last, was beaten by a long distance. ships' boats sailing race. Crews to be on ships' articles. Entrance, 10s. Cd. First prize, £lO ; second, £2. Avalanche, Williams .. .. .. .. .. 1 Howrah, Greaves .. .. 2 Schiehallion, T.evack .. .. .. .. .. 0 St. Leonards, Tod .. .. .. .. .. 0 Pleiades, Davis .. .. .. .. .. .. 0 The wind was very light during this race, and therefore the contest was shorn of most of its interest. The Avalanche and Howrah apr

proached the flagship on equal terms, but the former getting too close to the ship lost her wind, and was unable to get round so smartly as the Howrah, which had kept out a little, and thus got the advantage. SECOND-CLASS YACHT RACE. Five tons and under. Entrance, £1 Is. Prize, £lO 10s.; second boat to save its entrance. Minnehaha, Cross *• The Columbia, Garibaldi, and Flirt, also started. It was nearly eight when this race was concluded. In the evening there was a large party on board the Avalanche, Captain Williams having issued a general invitation to all subscribers to the regatta funds and to the visitors.

REGARDING THE ROWING. By an Old Fogey. My opinion as regarded the result of the great event was so far incorrect that the Star Club's crew came in second, instead of having the place which, in expectancy it seems, was wrongly assigned them. That they got their second place owing to excellent judgment in steering over the most extraordinarily laid down course I ever saw is nothing to their discredit. The Committee, or whosver laid out the course, gave an advantage to any crew that could see it. The Star fellows saw it, and shortened the distance they had to pull by many lengths. I am, however, quite as much convinced as ever that had they pulled over the distance travelled by the other crews they would have occupied the position I assigned to them. Now, it will probably be said that, as steering is an essential part of a race, the layers out of the course are not to be blamed for giving the opportunity taken advantage of by the Star crew, and that if the other crews had been as canny as they, they might have obtained a similar advantage. But to this I reply that as the course was laid out, had all the boats gone over a course pretty close to that of the Star's, they would have finished a good mile outside the winning post, and I never knew a course yet laid out in which the nearest cut to the winning post was made to terminate a mile or so outside it. What I am saying will be best understood by the following diagram.

S represents the starting point, T the boat around which the course bent, and W the winning post. Now an imaginary line has to be drawn from the winning post, cutting the course, in order to represent the line the first boat across which wins the race. This line was drawn from a flag at A through the winning post, and it will be therefore seen that, in the absence of any further marks, so soon as ever the boats were at T, it was in the power of each boat to take the shortest cut possible to this line, and this wa3 -exactly what the Star Club's crew did, and what they were quite justified in doing. This gave them so short a distance to travel, in comparison with the Wellington and other crews, that they reduced the distance between themselves and the winners from a great many lengths at the turning point to one length on the winningline. In fact they reached the proper winning point B, viz., the end of the shortest line on the course from start to finish ; but they showed by doing so that the winning point was some mile or so outside where the actual winning-post was placed, and, as I have mentioned, such a style of laying out a course I have never seen, and I may say without egotism that I have seen as many races rowed and pulled in as many as most men. All this confusion would have been prevented by the placing of a boat at the point marked C, and compelling the crews to pull inside it, making the winning line run from the post through it. I have not the smallest doubt that there will be some tall writing, and perhaps talking about this. I wish it to be distinctly understood, however, that those are alone to blame who had the arranging of the course for placing (as the Star Club's course showed) the actual point at which the most direct course should terminate, fully one mile outside the winningpost. And as to what may be written, let me say that critics who know so little of their subject as to have come not very long ago, and asked the question, " What do you call those seats the rowers pull upon?" can scarcely be accounted to have a knowledge of the subject. I am not going to say anything else against the committee, or whoever was to blame in the matter, since I have a request to make of them. I believe that a consolation stakes of a fair sum for those who were beaten in the Interprovincial Race would give great satisfaction and might be easily arranged to come off to-day, and would, I am sure, give much satisfaction and settle some disputed points as to merit. O. F.

CRICKET. A cricked match was played at Pahautanui on Saturday last between the Thorndon Cricket Club and the Pahautanui Cricket Club, which resulted in a well earned victory for the Pahautanui team. The game was well contested throughout, and as the Thorndon team in their second innings had to get only 28 to win, it was considered to be a sure game for them ; but this put the Pahautanui team on their mettle, and they showed that they were not easily discouraged. The fielding on their part was remarkably brilliant in this innings ; very few balls were allowed to pass their field, and they put their opponents out for 20 runs. The weather was very fine, and a great many spectators were on the ground, a goodly number of them belonging to the fair sex, who appear to take a lively interest in cricket in that district, as they generally grace the scene with their presence. The Pahautanui brass

band was on the ground, and played several lively tune 3 during the day. The Thorndon team were entertained in the evening by the Pahautanuis at the Junction Hotel, where a very good dinner was discussed, and the usual toasts were drunk. The scores were—Thorndon, first innings, 103 ; second, 20. Pahautanui, first innings, 82 ; second, 48. At the Wesleyan picnic at Howe's Farm on Wednesday, the Rising Star Cricket Club (Wesleyan School, Manners-street) challenged tho ministers attending Conference to a friendly game. The game was well contested, and resulted in a victory for the Stars by 17 runs. The following are the scores : Ministers. A. Buddie, c P. Brandt 29 J. Lawrie, run out .. .. .. .. 10 W. Reeve, c C. Godber 4 J. B. Richardson, cJ. Danks .. .. 1 J. Law, run out .. .. .. .. 3 H. Bull, b Kibblewhite 2 R. Bavin, b G. Godber 1 J, Symons, c G. Godber 33 W. Morley, not out 1 T. Buddie, b Kibblewhite 1 W. Rishworth, b G. Godber .. .. 1 Byes, &c 21 Total 107 Rising Star. J. Danks, l.b.w 23 S. Kibblewhite, b Buddie 27 J. Godber, b Bavin 0 F. Thompson, run out ' 16 C. Godber, b Bavin 25 W. Tustin, not out 15 G. Godber, b Bavin 2 J. Tustin, b Bavin 0 J. Clark, l.b.w 4 P. Brandt, b Bavin 3 J. Dunn, b Buddie 0 Byes, &c 9 Total .. ..124 CANTERBURY V. OTAGO. Dunedin, Thursday. The weather to-day was fine with a N.E. gale blowing. The match was resumed at 11.30, the two "not outs," Godby and Collinson, commencing. Collinson took his first over, a maiden, from E. Fowler. Godby made 3, and was then bowled by Lee, 2-20-46. Godby then followed, and started with a single off Fowler. The two seemed well set, and were batting about freely for doubles and singles. H. Godby made a splendid drive for 4, and then placed the ball in Ashby's hands, having scored a dozen rapidly, 3-12-86. Lathbury was the next man in, and commenced well ; three, then a double, treble, and four. A lot of free slogging followed for singles, when Ollivier put J. Fowler on with fast underhand bowling, which soon had the desired effect, for he took Collinson with a regular shooter. Collinson played a good innings for 48. 4-4-120. Fenwick next went to the wickets ; but after a few balls was well caught by J. Fowler at slip, without adding to the score, 5-50-121. Sutciiffe came next. He and Lathbury madeagood stand and raised the score to 140. Lathbury was playing splendidly, and when he drove one of Sweetes' for two, making the score 150, or one over the Canterbury total, the cheering was immense. But the next ball he got was placed in Ashby's hands and well held, having then scored with free hitting 42, 6-42-155. Clarke followed, but the next ball Sutciiffe got was skied up to short leg, and Fowler returned it, 7-2-155. McDonnell followed and broke the ice with a single and a treble. The score now stood at 160, when play was stopped for luncheon. Otago's chance now looks very bright. After luncheon McDonnell and Clarke continued to the bowling of Sweete, the first being a maiden. After two overs, J. Fowler sent in one of his daisy cutters, to which McDonnell succumbed. 8-10-166. Dixon was next man in, but before doing anything, Clarke was run out after scoring 2. 9-2-167. Downes was the last man, and commenced with a single, and shortly followed with a 3 ; he was then bowled by Sweete. Total Otago score, 175, or 26 over . Canterbury for first innings. Otago first innings.—Paramour run out, 12 ; M. Godby, b. Lee, 20 ; Collinson, b. Fowler, 48 ; H. Godby, c. Ashby, 12 ; Clarke, run out, 2 ; Lathbury, c. Ashby, 42 ; Fenwick, c. J. Fowler, 2 ; McDonnell, b. J. Fowler, 10 ; Dixon, not out, 3 ; Downes b. Sweete, 4 ; extras, 20 ; total, 175. Canterbury commenced their second innings at 3.30 with Corfe and Wood, to the bowling of Downes. Singles and doubles followed. When Wood had scored 10, he was given leg before wicket from one of Downes', 1-10-26. Alpe followed and commenced with three. Corfe was clean bowled by M. Godby for 31. 2-31-64. Alpe was then joined by Baker, who was bowled by Paramour after scoring a single, 3-1-65. Lee came next, but only enjoyed Alpe's company for a short time, when the latter was given leg before wicket. 4-23-72. J. Fowler joined Lee ; the latter was soon bowled after adding 5 to the score. 5-5-72. Score now stands—l3B, with Ollivier 38, and J. Fowler 22, both not out.

Friday.

The third day's play commenced at 11.30. The day is as fine, but tho weather cloudy, with N.E. breeze blowing. The two "not outs," Fowler and Ollivier, commenced to the bowling of H. E. Godby. After careful play Fowler ran up a score of 39, when he was run out. 6-39-179. E. Fowler followed, but only secured three singles, when he was caught by Fenwick at the wickets. 7-3-182. Ashby came next and Lathbury took the bowling, the first of which was a maiden. Ashby made a good stand, playing carefully. Ollivier gave several chances, which were all refused. A fine drive from Ollivier brought the score up to 200, which was the occasion for loud cheering. He made another splendid drive shortly after for 3. Ashby was in splendid form, and played two excellent forward drives for four each. Both men made a splendid stand, and by luncheon time ran the score up to 234. Canterbury have two more men to go in. At a quarter to four Otago commenced their second innings with 240 runs to get to win. H. E. Godby and Clark were the first to go to the wickets, the former playing a maiden from Sweete. Clark, after scoring a single, retired leg-before-wicket to Sweete's bowling. 1-1-4. Paramour followed, and commenced steadily, as if he meant making a stand. He played

steadily and rose the score to 45, when Paramour was caught off the wicket. 2-28-45. M. Godby followed and played very steadily. They ran up the score to 69, when time was called at 5.30, and the match will be played out and commen.'od to-morrow at 1 p.m. Canterbury —sec< *id innings : Corfe, b. M. Godby, 31; Wood, Lb.w. b. Downes, 10; Alpe, l.b.w. b. Paramour, 33; L. Baker, c. Collinson, b. Paramour, 1; Lee, b. M. Godby, 5; J. Fowler, run out, 39: Ollivier, run out, 67; E. Fowler, c. Fenwick, b Paramour, 3; Ashby, not out, 56; Neilson, b. Downes, 7; Sweete, c. Lathbury, b. Downes, 11 ; extras, 19 ; total, 272. Otago second innings—Godby (not out), 16 ; Clarke, 1. b. w., 1; Paramour, c. Ollivier, 28; M. Godby, (not out), 16 ; extras, 8 ; total, 69. The breach of promise case, Hughes v. Shand, is still on. A lot of evidence has been taken. Saturday. Play commenced to-day at 1.15, the two Godbys, not outs, went in to the bowling of Corfe, being the last ball of yesterday's over. M. Godby commenced with a single off Sweete. H. Godby, who was well set yesterday, did not add to the score to-day, and was bowled by Sweete. 3-16-79. Lathbury followed, and after scoring three, was given out 1.b.w., a decision which was very much questioned. 4-3-80. M. Godby was bowled by Sweete for 25. 5-25-82. Sutciiffe followed, and was run out first ball. 6-0-82. Dixon came next, and after scoring two was run out. 0-7-2-90. Fenwick followed. The score at 2.15 stood at 95. The match was finished at 3 p.m. Otago's second innings concluded for 103 runs. Canterbury wins by 144. The following are the acceptances for the Dunedin Cup :—Templeton, 9st. 21b.; Guy Fawkes, Bst. 111 b.; Daniel O'Rorke, Bst. 21b.; Korari, Bst. lib.; King Phillip, Bst.; Tadmor, Bst.; Rory O'More, 7st. 81b.; Fishhook, 7st. 51b.; Atlas, 7st. 41b.; Tatler, 7st. 31b.; Right Bower, 7st. 31b.; Cocksure, 7st. 21b.; Cloth of Gold, 7st.; Amohia, 6st. 121 b.; Pungawerewere, 6st. 101 b.; Follefarine, 6st. 81b.; The Chief, 6st. 71b.; Blair Athol, 6st. 71b.; Game-, cock, 6st. 61b.; Merry Monarch, 6st. 61b.; Sir William, 6st. 61b.; Seauntereus, 6st.; Nabochish, 6st; Seabird, sst. 121 b.; Freestone, sst. 71b.; Merrimack, filly, sst. 71b.; Fanny Fisher, colt, sst. 71b.

THE TURF. Greytown, Friday. The Carterton and Taratahi races took place yesterday and to-day. There were 300 people present to-day, but less yesterday. The events were well contested, Gilligan's Princess Mary won the Taratahi Stakes and Open Handicap ; Dick Turpin the Hurdle Race. Napier, Tuesday. The following are the entries for the Hawke's Bay races on the Ist and 2nd of February : Maiden Plate. —Mr. H. Tomona's Hape, Mr. D. Fraser's New-chum, Mr. R. Farmer's Roro, Mr. H. McLean's Moa, Mr. J. Munn's Wairapa, Mr. J. Munn's Wanganui, Mr. McLean's Sprightly, Mr. Tangatake's Tare, Mr. Tangatake's Maungatahi, Mr. Brady's New Zealander, Mr. O'Brien's Auckland Elate.

Railway Stakes.—Mr. Mclvor's Hercules, Mr. Fraser's Whitefoot, Mr. Farmer's Roro, Mr. Willis's Waxworks, Mr. Munn's Wanganui, Mr. Miller's Never Miss, Mr. G. Heslop's Zero, Mr. O'Brien's Fishhook. Hawke's Bay Stakes. —Mr. Mclvor's Hercules, Mr. Dillon's Premier, Mr. Farmer's Toi, Mr. H. McLean's Moa, Mr. Tangatake's Maori Weed, Mr. Fraser's Whitefoot, Mr. O'Brien's Fishhook. Selling Race.—Mr. Fraser's New Chum (£SO), Mr. Dillon's Lady Grey (£SO), Mr. Swanson's Echo (£10), Mr. McLean's Sprightly (£SO), Mr. Miller's Never Miss (20), Mr. Tangatake's Passlow (£SO(, Mr. G. Heslop's Shark (£3O). Hurdle Race.—Mr. Fraser's Whitefoot, Mr. Swainson's Rattling Raven, Mr. J. A. Price's Wide-awake, Mr. J. Man's Wairapa, Mr. G. Heslop's Shark, Mr. T. Cross's Prospect, Mr. O'Bi'ien's Auckland Kate. Provincial Produce. Mr. H. MTLean's Moa, Mr. B. Willis' Waxworks, Mr. J. Price's Lady Grey, Mr. McLean's Sprightly, Mr. Brady's New Zealander, Mr. O. Heslop's Zero.

Napier Handicap.—Mr. M'lvor's Hercules, Mr. D. Fraser's Whitefoot, Mr. Dillon's Premier, Mr. Dillon's Lady Grey, Mr. Farmer's Roro, Mr. Farmer's Toi, Mr. H. McLean's Moa, Mr. Miller's Never Miss, Mr. Tangatake's Maori Weed, Mr. O'Brien's Fishhook. Publican's Purse. Mr. H. Tomoana's Hape, Mi\ Mclvor's Hercules, Mr. Fraser's Whitefoot, Mr. Swainson's Rattling Raven, Mr. Farmer's Roro, Mr. Willis' Waxworks, Mr. McLean's Sprightly, Mr. Miller's Never Miss, Mr. Brady's New Zealander, Mr. G. Heslop's Zero, Mr. O'Brien's Fishhook.

THE SCULLING CHAMPIONSHIP.

(Abridged from the Home News.) Since the memorable encounter between Harry Kelly and the late James Renforth, which resulted in the championship passing from the Thames to the Tyne, no race for champion honors has commanded so lanje a share of public interest as the match between J. H. Sadler and R. W. Boyd, which was decided on the 15th November on the Thames, between Putney and Mortlake. The betting during the morning had been currently quoted at 6 to 4 on Sadler, but just before the start 7 to 4, and in some cases 2 to 1, were offered on shore, though, strange to say, on board the umpire's boat as little as 5 to 4 was taken freely at the last moment, Sadler being pronounced to be "too fine." He scaled exactly lOst. 121 b., while Boyd weighed just lOst. 101 b. Punctually at 2.18 p.m., Mr. Ireland gave the signal to start, and both men dashed away at the first attempt, Sadler getting the first " draw," and showing a foot or two in front at the second stroke." It was evident, however, that' the

north countryman was bent on the cutting down tactics, as directly he was fairly under way he settled down into a tremendous stroke i of 45 to the minute, and off Simmon's yard showed with a perceptible lead, which he improved to half a length at the London boathouse, and to three-quarters at Bishop's Creek. Foot by foot he increased his advantage along the river wall, and at the top of Pinch's field drew himself clear, Sadler, who had started with a stroke of 40 to the minute, having by this time subsided into a steady drag of 37. The Newcastle man also shut off the steam a little, but he was still rowing quite 42, and at the lower end of Craven Cottage grounds was fully half a length to the good, and as they opened the Point, there was a gap of a length, or very nearly a length, between them. Here Sadler got a little unsteady, and for a moment appeared to falter, and it looked as though the Tynesider had fairly got him in his toils. The next instant, however, the Surbiton sculler pulled himself together, and quickening slightly, began gradually to reduce the gap, there being little more than half a length between the pair as they made the Grass Wharf. The pace at this point was tremenduous, as may be judged from the significant fact that the mile was covered some seconds under the five minutes. Boyd still led, but Sadler was perceptibly coming up, there being only a foot or two of daylight between the stem and stern of the two boats as they passed Rose Bank, where it was evident that the severity of the pace with which he had started was beginning to tell the inevitable tale upon the north countryman. He continued to struggle on, however, with indomitable resolution, but as they commenced to cross the water for the Soap Works Point, Sadler, taking one look over his shoulder at his opponent, put on half-a-dozen powerful strokes, and shooting alongside him as if by magic, showed at once with the lead. This was the crisis of the race. Directly he was collared, Boyd fell hopelessly to pieces, and though he made a desperate attempt to rally himself, it was clear that nature was exhausted, and he could do no more. Once well in front, Sadler slackened speed, but passing round the Horse Shoe Bend he still continued to gain, and at the lower end of Chiswick Eyot was fully half-a-dozen lengths ahead ; Boyd, now thoroughly distressed, laboring along hopelessly in his wake. The remainder of the race calls for no detailed description, as the Londoner clearly had it all his own way ; and from Chiswick to Mortlake it was a mere " procession," Sadler ultimately winning " hands down" by twelve or fourteen lengths in 28 minutes from the start.