KINGS AND SPORT.

Taranaki Central Press, Volume IV, Issue 374, 4 March 1937, Page 8

KINGS AND SPORT.

George VI Has Competed At Wimbledon. (By Air Mail—Ov.'n Correspondent) London, January 10. While King George is the only reigning King who has competed at Wimbledon, remarks. 1 “The Daily Telegraph,” King Gustav of Sweden has the distinction of being a doubles ex-champion of his country. He has also won prizes at Riviera tourna ments in his 78th year. King Gustav, When asked whefaer he played golf, replied solemnly: “No, I am not yet old enough.” King Gustav is taking a keen personal in terest in the construction of a new covered court in Stockholm, capable of seating 4000 spectators. It will he used for the challenge round of the Gustav Cup next month between France and Sweden.

King George does not share King Gustav’s view that golf is a game but one stage removed from the bath chair. His' handicap is 11, which is proof of at least a moderate devotion to the game. King Leopold is in a class by himself amopg the golfing kings. He is a scratch player. Few of his Subjects can give him a game on level terms. He plays nearly every day, his most regular opponent being Vicomte- Gatien du Parc, who is a member of his household, but he often goes round witjh the professionals. The links he uses most frequently are those In the grounds of Laeken Palace. This 18-hole course was originally laid out for ‘Queen Elizabeth, who used to play on it In pre-war days. He also plays on the Waterloo and Ravenstein links Ravenstein was formerly royal pro perty. King Leopold 11. gave it to the nation for use as a golf cours'd.

In the summer, the King of the Belgians makes much use of the Le Zoute links. He is a regular player over the seaside course at "Le Cdq and he sometimes spends a couple f>f days incognito at Sandwich.