Speed-Cycling on Road and Track

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 814, 7 November 1929, Page 13

Speed-Cycling on Road and Track

By “CYCLOS."

THE AMATEURS , Last evening should have seen the second track event decided at the Domain, but owing to adverse weather conditions the race was postponed until next Wednesday. Although the officials of the Manukau Cycling Club, under whose auspices tlie grass races are held, | did not mind how bad the conditions were for road racing, they cannot see their way clear to allow members to participate in the usual handicaps on greasy surfaces. Thus they were faced with the only alternative of postpone'ment. * * * On April 23, 1927, a record was establishel for 51 miles, when W. Bray pedalled the distance in 13m 555. This record was only broken this season by J. Wade, who rode under better conditions. Members will be pleased to learn that “Bill” Bray has since been competing with marked success in Wellington. By gaining most points he retained possession of the Corbett Cup, which he had won last season.* # * * A very debatable question is arising a.t the present time among Auckland cyclists. This is whether it is an advantage or otherwise for competitors to leave their seats when putting in a final sprint. Good arguments can be put forward for both positions. In advancing the claims of the two styles one could take, for instance, the styles of Jack Wade and Mai Byrnes, both Auckland champions. An amateur had the misfortune to damage a new machine recently. Tue cycle was an imported one. He is now wondering how he can get it repaired, as the parts are not stocked locally. Why enthusiasts should go pas£ their own town is hard to understand, as the machines built here are as good, or even better, than elsewhere. When Phil O’Shea rode in Australia, and H. Watson toured France, they both usej New Zealand cycles. * * • Last Saturday afternoon a new club, i the Papatoetoe Athletic Club, held its . first meeting. A lot of Auckland runners competed. However, if the club offieials can see their way clear to form a cycle track, no doubt their meeting will gain more popularity. THE CASH RIDERS As with the amateurs, the Auckland Cycle Club could not hold its events la-st evening. The club seems to have struck an unlucky night, as the opening event had to be also postponed on account of the weather. The recent sensation, which was the climax of the big Australian road race, in which Hubert Opperman finished second and gained fastest time, has now righted itself. The original placings.are to stand. This is interesting news in view of the probable appearance of Opperman in Auckland shortly. The Christchurch centre has completed negotiations for this wizard to appear over here. Auckland is in touch with the Southern club to have him demonstrate his capabilities in this city.

Perhaps the most consistent rider in the professional

ranks is Slater Hayes. When he starts in an event he always gives the spectators their money’s worth. ii«* gains his popularity by his genial manner and his willingness to help a less brilliant performer. Many members have made good use of S. Hayes the advice he lias given them. When he and Harcourt meet there should be a thrilling contest. «, * * Jim Harcourt, the winner of .fastest time in the Auckland classic. from Hamilton, competed successfully at New Plymouth on Labour Hay. His best ride was in the two-mile handicap, which he won by half a wheel. In the three-mile handicap he was second to that well-known star, Syd. McCann. In the champion of champions event he was third to McCann and Parker. It speaks well for the sport here when Harcourt rode so well among the best of New Zealand’s wheelmen. * 0 * It is rumoured that a number of amateur riders are contemplating joining the professional ranks. Already there are a few ex-amateurs among cash riders. They all ride very prominently. Negotiations are afoot for a big meeting to he held on the Auckland Domain on December 7. If the neces* sarv arrangements can be made th<; Auckland public should have a treat, Phil O'Shea has signified his willingness to again compete. His last exhibition here is not readily forgotten