MERCER REGATTA.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXII, Issue 259, 9 November 1901, Page 6

MERCER REGATTA.

(To the Editor.)

Sir, —As one who takes a keen interest in the aquatic displays held on the Waikato River from time to time, kindly permit me to protest againstthe action of the Mercer regatta authorities in adding another of those absurd war canoe races to the programme fou- 30th inst. Last year, I am told, the prize money (£3O) allotted was, after a most uninteresting competition from a public point of view, divided among the natives' forming the two crews who competed in the race. This is "pot hunting" pure and simple, and not sport, and should be discouraged if the authorities wish to retain the inter-> est of the public in the regatta. If.it is absolutely necessary to have Avar canoe races (which I don't admit) then there should be a stipulation that three or even four boats must' start or no prize, so as to give thei public a "go" for their money. Ir would, however, cause greater satisfaction if the committee could see their way to abolish the war caaoer

races and increase the side show and rowing events, not forgetting' the-, Maori wahine canoe races.—l am, etc. SPORT.