AUCKLAND.

Thames Star, Volume XII, Issue 3773, 31 January 1881, Page 2

AUCKLAND.

This day. The Regatta.—Auckland Wins.

The Thames Men Defeated.

Accident to the Whites' Boat.

The Champion Four-oared Outrigger Eace, postponed from Saturday, took place this morning under fair conditions. The course was three miles straight, and the prize £100 and accompanying trophies. The competing crews were the Transit, of the Thames ; the Mercury, of Mercury Bay; and Auckland, representing the City. The start was effected at 10.20, beyond the Watchman. The Mercury crew at once assumed the lead, and with a regular and powerful stroke and a good reach came right away from the others, who pulled more directly towards the wharf. After a brief struggle between second and third boats the Thames dropped slightly to the rear, while the Mercury went on increasing the lead. They made the mistake of keeping too far in the channel, and consequently had a heavy rip to contend against. Each splash of the oars dashed -volumes of spray over their heads, and at times the boat was almost hidden from view. When off Stokes Point the Mercury Bay crew were leading by fully half a mile. Suddenly the boat filled and went down, while the crew supported themselves as best they could in the water. A steamer which accompanied the race went off to their assistance. The Auckland and Thames crews meanwhile kept steadily on, the former when passing the coal hulk having a clean lead of forty seconds. The Thames put on a spurt, and by dint of better rowing lessened the disparity somewhat, but not sufficient to alter the result, and Auckland finished a good first. General regret is felt for the mishap which befell the Mercury Bay boat, and if the race is not rowed over again a challenge will probably be the result. The spectators numbered about 3,500. .

The Union Sash and Door Company declared a dividend of 10 per cenL

Archdeacon Maunsell delivered an address on Saturday on the Education Act. He protested strongly against any attempt to re-introduce denominationalism, but claimed that the New South Wales system of admitting ministers and other qualified persona to give religious instruction should be employed under the NewZealand Act.