NGARUAWAHIA REGATTA.

Waikato Argus, Volume IV, Issue 255, 5 March 1898, Page 2

NGARUAWAHIA REGATTA.

A M beting of the Regatta Committee was held on the evening of the 3rd inst. There was a good attendance of members. The Secretary re id a considerable amount of correspondence, which was dealt with. Messrs Rathborue, Burr, Daries, Snelling and McKenzie were appointed as a subcommittee to arrange matters for the entertaiuing of the visitors on regatta day. Mr Parks' tender of £4 for the conveying of the war canoe from the Waitetuna bridge to tlie Waipa river was accepted. For the convenience of the gcnerwl public it was decided to provide a large quantity of seating accommodation, and the tender of Mr Marshall fur the erection of the same was accepted. It was announced that the subcommittee appointed at the last meeting had decided to engage both a European and also a native brass band. A. number of nuttcra of minor importance concluded the business of the meeting —(Own Correspondent).

We learn from the town clubs that intense interest is taken in the Senior Gig Race at the Ngaruawahia Regatta, on account of the contest between the crews representing the West End and St. George's Rowiug Clubs. On three different occasions this season have these crews met ; the West End crew winning twice and St. George's once. Iu two of the races accidents have happened, and so the crews are taking this opportunity of settling the matter. Both crews are in active training, and both are determined to wiu at all costs, so we may anticipate a good race. Provided that the 17th of March is a fine day, hgaruawahia will witness the largest gathering ever held in the Waikato. Everything seems to be favouring the managing committee, who are leaving no stone unturned to make the regatta a success, and who feel confident that no less than 10,000 visitors will be in the township on that day. An immense Maori meeting has been arranged to take place at Huntly a few days after the regatta. This meeting will te attended by Maoris from all parts of the North Island, who will undoubtedly not miss the opportunity of seeing this monster Maori aquatic carnival and regatta. The committee have engaged two brass bands, one a European and the other a Maori band. The Waikato River, being in a low state at the prescut time, has greatly favoured the fixing of the hurdles for the canoe hurdle races. These have been placed nearer the centre of the river so that spectators will get a better view of the races than last year. Two local ladies' crews are in training and hope to be in good form on the day of the race. Five large war canoes will compete in both of the war canoe races. This in itself should prove a sight well worth coming from a distance to sec. All that is now required to crown the untiring efforts of the committee with success is a fine day.