AT THE SIGN of THE PENNANT

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 498, 30 October 1928, Page 14

AT THE SIGN of THE PENNANT

POWER-BOAT ASSOCIATION YEAR’S ACTIVITIES REVIEWED That interest in cruiser racing is waning is pointed out in the 23rd report of the New Zealand Power-boat Association, to be held to-morrow evening. The report makes it clear the causes of the declining interest were beyond the control of the association.

A note of optimism is sounded with regard to outboard and speed-boat racing in which interest was certainly increasing. In addition to the interest of competitors, it was patent also that the general public had a lively regard for outboard and speed-boat events, provided such races could be , suitably staged. With these facts before it, the executive adopted a modified programme, which called for fewer cruiser races and a number of special outboard races. The executive wished to place on record its appreciation of the kindness of Mr. P. Robertson in permitting the association to use his property for the accommodation of the large numbers of the general public. *' In the racing for cruisers the outstanding events were the races to Kawau for trophies presented by Mr. A. Brett. The races for speed-boats attracted quite good fields, and it was encouraging to note that this year quite a few new craft would be commissioned. The association would have to consider the sending of a team of speed craft to Wanganui to compete for the New Zealand speed-boat championship race for the Masport Cup. Outboard racing made a tremendous stride forward during the past season, and indications were that the coming season would see some dozens of outboard racers competing in the events of the association. This branch of the association’s activities would need careful consideration, and if it was thought desirable a permanent course would be secured in the boat harbour. The site on which the clubhouse was now held under a threemonthly tenure. While there was no present indication that the tenure will be terminated for some years, members should bear in mind that eventually a new and permanent site would have to be found. The executive had made pro forma application for a section on the outer wall of the boat harbour, as this would be an ideal spot from which to start and view outboard and speed-boat races. The balance-sheet shows a sound financial position, a credit balance of £6O 17s being carried forward. The receipts include £129 from subscriptions, £9l from lockers, £7O from Whau gate money and £23 from donations for trophies. The principal items of expenditure are: stamps, printing, advertising and stationery, £l2O for interest on debentures, £6O for trophies, and £B4 for wages.

The following nominations for officers and committee have been received:—Commodore. Mr. C. J. Collings; vice-commodore, Mr. H. O. Wiles; rear-commodore. Mr. A. R. Brett; secretary. Mr. J. S. D. Hanna; assistant secretary. Mr. S. H. Blundell: treasurer, Mr. A. M. Wilson; committee, Messrs. E. L. Buchanan, L. Buchanan, L. Schischka, A. Williams, R. Mouat, R. H. Sheppard, L. Stericker, B. Spencer, J. Brook, A. W. L. Macdonald, G. P. Robertson and C. F. Chivera.

By

KEELSON.

MODEL YACHT NOTES “Enthusiast” writes: The sporting spirit of the Public Works Department in filling the Orakei Basin on Labour Day to allow model yacht enthusiasts to practise was much appreciated by the many who availed themselves of the opportunity. A whole day was given to this fascinating sport. During the afternoon conditions were ideal for model yachting. Several races took place. Heather, a new four-foot model, exceeded expectations. Silver Bell has improved wonderfully since last seen out. Norma, a pretty model from Edendale, needs improvement to become a good one. Salome and Felix left nothing to be desired. Several persons have expressed their desire to join a club should one be formed, but at present no protection being afforded dingies, the scheme is not likely to mature. MARINE PARK FOR AUCKLAND The announcement last evening by the Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. J. G. Coates, that Auckland is shortly to have Motuihi Island as a marine park will come as a matter of gratification to yachtsmen. Full details of the scheme are published elsewhere in this issue.

The island is one of the gems of the gulf and its easy access will make it a resort of the greatest popularity.

MEOLA CREEK BRIDGE Following: a petition from residents and yachtsmen to the City Council the City Engineer has suggested that the bridge over the Meola Creek at the bottom of Meola Road be raised at a cost of £ 30. The City Engineer reported that the bridge was serving a useful purpose. It could be raised two feet, thereby enabling yachtsmen to bring their boats under it. The council will deal with the work through its Works Committee.

The America Cup.—Sir Thomas Lipton, whose interest in yachting began when as a boy he got free sailing trips on the Clyde, completed recently his most successful season with his yacht Shamrock. This year she has won 13 first prizes, seven seconds, and one third. Britannia, the King’s cutter, comes next with nine firsts, five seconds, and five thirds. Shamrock is now 20 years old and has more than 100 flags, each representing a prize, to her credit. Speaking of the America Cup, Sir Thomas said: “It is the ambition of my life to get that cup, and I shall try for it again in 1930. I cannot get a syacht built for it before then.’