NGARUAWAHIA REGATTA.

Waikato Argus, Volume VI, Issue 411, 18 March 1899, Page 2

NGARUAWAHIA REGATTA.

Yesterday it was clearly demonstrated that Ngaruawahia is perhaps the ideaj place of all others in tho colony for the holding of a regatta. The day was a beautiful one—clear sunshine and a pleasant breeze. The arrangements made by the committee were excellent, and the railway service was well carried out. Three trains from the Auckland side arrived punctually to time, notwithstanding that they were crowded to their utmost capacity. The trains which brought on the upper Waikato and Thames visitors were also well patronised. Preparations for the reception of the public were, if anything in excess of requirements, great as the number to be accommodated was, There were several very close finishes during the day and theinterest was sustained throughout. This remarks applies more particularly to the War Canoe race ; they all entered the smooth and sluggish stream of tho Waipa together and a terrific struggle ensued. The canoe hurdle races were watched with the keenest interest, moro particularly by those who had not previously witnessed the comicalities and skill which these races entail. The race for a Maori bride was one of the events of the day, the dusky maiden who represented the bride changed ownership twice, and the winners of the prize had a hard struggle for victory. The canoe parade, with which the proceedings opened, afforded the uninitiated a very fair idea of the Maoris' skill in their construction and handling. A war canoe fully manned is unquestionably an inspiring sight. The results of tho sixteen competitions were as follows : Maiden Gigs (Open).—West End Rowing Club, 1 ; Auckland Club, 2. War Canoe Race.— Paparata, 1 ; Pupirikana, 2 ; Kaiwha, 3. Maiden G-igs (under IOst). —Auckland Rowing Club, 1 ; West End Rowing Club, 2; St. George's Rowing Club, 3. Canoe Hurdle Race (Foe Men). — Kikurere, 1: Try Fluke, 2 ; Topito, 3. Ladies' Paib Oar.—Waipa (Ngaruawahia Rowing Club), 1 ; Rawene (Waitemata City Rowing Club), 2. Junior Gigs (open).—West End Row ing Club, 1 ; North Shore Rowiug Club, 2 ; St. George's Rowing Club, 3. War Canoe Race. Paparata, 1 ; Pupirikana, 2 ; Kaiwha, 3Special Challenge Race (Ngaruawahia v. Thames). —Ngaruawahia Rowing Club, 1 ; Hauraki Rowing Club, 2. Junior Gigs (under lOst.). —Auckland Rowing Club, 1 ; West End Rowing Club, 2. Canoe Hurdle Race (Wahines). — Tupouu, 1 ; Maori, tz. Sexioe Gigs. West End Rowing Club, 1 ; St George's Rowing Club, 2. Large Canoe Race.—Elinor Friar, 1 ; Pupirikana, 2. Canoe Hurdle Race. Riinu, 1 ; Hikurere, 2.