CHINESE AT PLAY

ANNIVERSARY OF REPUBLIC

SPORTS AT KARORI PARK.

Perhaps, there were quite a number yesterday who, being accustomed to buying their vegetables or fruit from the nearby Chinaman's practically at any time of the day, received somewhat of a surprise when they found locked doors, and canvas screens covering the shop windows. From midday the Chinese residents of Wellington observed a holiday in honour of the anniversary of the Chinese Republic, and shops were closed. As usual, one of the chief item* among the celebrations was a sports meeting at Karori Park, where the majority of the Chinese in the city and suburbs spent the afternoon. The conditions were most unsuitable for the gathering. A strong, cold southerly wind blew across the -ground throughout the afternoon, and adding to the unpleasantness was the turf, which was very sodden after the heavy rains. To all intents and purposes these difficulties were overcome, and all appeared in the best of spirits. There were Ghinese of all sizes, and all ages, displaying coloured ribbons, and mothers carrying small children, most of whom had their Chinese flag. And then, of course, there were the provisions, which form an important part of any such gathering. There were plentiful supplies of fruit, biscuits, and tea, not to mention other eatables which appeal to the palate of the Chinaman. Refresh ments were provided for everyone, visitors included, and no doubt some of the school boys present, ate very little tea last night. Evidently the provision of refreshments received consideration' some little time before the big day, for in spite of the c6ld there were ice creams and soft drinks in plenty. To most people ice creams and soft drinks yesterday would not have been very popular, but at Karori Park it was different. While visitors to the ground were, availing themselves of the shelter of the trees round the park,- Chinese children scampered about and found no dim- j culty in disposing of the ices. j Much interest was taken in the sports, i There were running and jumping events I for all, while a cycle race added to the excitement. The competitors entered into the various events with great zest. Some of the more youthful competitors were quite good, and showed surprising ability. The big event of the day was an Association football match between the Wellington Chinese and a Christchurch team for a silver cup donated by the Chinese residents of Wellington. It was not generally known >that many of the Chinese in Wellington are very keen on their game of football. During week-ends they go out to the Petone Racecourse in motorvans and play a game or two. For the match yesterday with the southern team the Wellington representatives had had some practice. Players on both sides were unable to stand knocks to any extent, however, and the ground was not soft enough for some. First-aid men, were on the spot, and the injured combatants were carried off the field in approved fashion and received every attention. From the number lying on the ground at regular intervals it seemed that every member of the two teams except the goal-keepers, required attention at some part of the game. The players were unable to boast a sound knowledge of the rules, and referee E. Taylor was as liberal with the whistle as possible. -. ; • Each team had its supporters, and they kept up an incessant torrent of encouraging cries in Chinese. The result of the game was >, draw, each side obtaining one goal. Christchurch goaled in the first spell and Wellington evened up matters in the second half.

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