AQUATICS.

Auckland Star, Volume XLI, Issue 272, 16 November 1910, Page 7

AQUATICS.

A fine display of power-yacht manoeuvres was witnessed on Saturday afternoon, when the N.Z. Power. Boat Association held tho official opening on the' Waitemata Harbour. The boats assembled off the Wynyard Pier at 2.30 p.m. Even the embarking of the crews, accompanied by their lady friends, was a note of interest, the gentlemen in their smart uniforms and some of the ladies in smart yachting costumes, and others in dresses ofevery hue, all bent on doing their best to make the afternoon's display a thorough success Soon after 2.30 a signal was run up from the Commodore's yacht, and with the firing of a gun the boats gathered way and steered up the harbour in line astern, at a speed of five knots, with the Commodore (Mr. Howden) in the fore. They made a very pretty sight as in perfect line and distance the fleet passed the waterfront of the city. It was a pity tho ships, of H.M. Navy were not in port, as it would have given them an idea of what material they could rely on should the occasion ever arise making it necessary to call on the pleasure fleet for volunteers. There was just enoegh wind to cool the air and cause a slight roll, which was rather an advantage than otherwise, showing up as it did the deck-fittings and making the burnished brasswork flash in the sunlight as the boats gently rolled to the sea. Up past the Railway and Queen-street wharves they went, and the onlooker at a distance would have thought the boats were connected, so perfect was the distance kept. After rounding the first hulk a northerly course was steered, which took the boats across the harbour. Then a signal broke out from the Commodore's yacht, and as soon as the last boat had rounded the hulk a gun was fired, and all helms were put hard a starboard, bringing them on a westerly course, line abeam.' This course was steered till the. narrow channel of the upper harbour was reached, when the boats again fell into line astern, and continued this course until Pine Island was reached, when each boat in turn came to her allotted position, and let gor her anchor. All hands were quickly ashore, where tea was made and served to the happy gathering. It is doubtful whether this favourite picnic resort ever presented a more striking appearance. Tht bright sunlight of the afternoon showed up to advantage the numerous tints of the summer frocks and the blue and white uniforms of the gentlemen, all mingling harmoniously with the beautiful green shades of the late spring. By 5.30 all had embarked, having spent a most enjoyable afternoon, and a course was set for home. Great praise is due to those oflicers who had the manoeuvres in hand, and also to those who took part in them, as a mistake in reading or obeying a signal might have resulted in a serious accident. It is to be hoped that the sailing fleet will give an afternoon for the benefit of sightseers as soon as all the yachts are afloat.

Quite a number of yachts and launches were away for the week-end, mostly making for Cowes and the south Waiheke shore, where smooth water bays are found when a northerly wind is blowing. All the engineering firms report very brisk business, and the builders have their hands full for some time to come.

A smart little craft was launched from Mj. C Bailey's yard last week for Mr. De Schruyer, The cabin top sides are grained to imitate bright teak. Both the cabin and cockpit cushions are upholstered in leather, which will make her a very comfortable cruiser. Her topsides are painted royal blue with a gold line on her sheerstreak. On her trial trip everything worked smoothly, her owner expressing every satisfaction.

Messrs. Bailey and Lowe have just finished planking up a 40ft cruising launch for Mr. W. R. Twigg, the wellknown power-boat enthusiast, who hopes to get a smarter craft than his late Sybil. Mr. Twigg is also having a 20ft. open launch from the same builders.

Messrs. Lane and Sons are just completing a 42ft. launch for Mr. Wallace, of Auckland.

The same firm also have on hand a 35 feet launch for Mr. Puller, of ParnelL The firm have a number of others on the stocks.

The well-known launch Banshee has again changed hands, having been bought by Mr. J. H. Cory-Wright, of the Great Barrier. She lias been fitted with a mast and sail, which rather adds to her appearance than otherwise.

Next Saturday, November 19th, the North Shore Yacht Club will hold their first cruising race to Awaroa Bay. The North Shore and Auckland Clubs have arranged trial fours for next Saturday, which in the case of the former club will mark the opening of the season. Waitemata are last in the field, as they will not commence the season until Saturday week next.

The North Shore Club have engaged Meredith's band for the "at home" to be held at the club house in connection with the initial trials, and arrangements for the entertainment of the guests are in the hands of tlie ladies' committee. The trials will be for trophies presented by the president, Mr. W. Swinnerton.

A large consignment of sculls and oars has , just been received by the North Shore Club from the makers.

The North Shore Club has received delivery of another pleasure boat for the use of hon. members.

The Norf& Shore Rowing Club have selected the undermentioned crews to compete in the Trial Fours on the cluVs opening day on Saturday, 19th Novem3>er, for the trophies presented by Mr W. Swinaerton (president). The connnifctee extend a iheaitty welcome to all old memibars and! their supporters. The- course eelected is the No. 3, starting at the Torpedo whaTf, and finishing off the Magazine rock. The club have engaged an orchestra ior the afternoon, and given a fine dxyy an enjoyaMe afternoon's sport is anticipated. The crews a-rej— The crews are: First Heat —A. W. Wynyard, ti. Fraser, S. Westdn, W. ■Wynyard. B: E. Gflmour A. Powley, P. Duncan, Carr. Second Heart.—A: ii. Wynyard, G. Cardno, I. Blakey, P. Stephcnson. R: Bl Bailey, G. Bnchanan, Johnston, E. Trayes. C: Eev. McLean, H. Gruhb, Hipkins, S. Stepbensoo. Third Heat—A: G. Seager, B. Bongard, Morris, Dawsom. B: P. Bennett, L. Spinley, S. Bongard, R. Marks. C: E. Spinley, P. W-eston, F. Kingston!, Iα Weston. Final.— Wlnnere of first heat, winners of second heat, winners of third heart. Coxswains.—E. Swinnerton, H. I/acy, B. Goldwater, H. Grey, F. Lacy.

This chrb is holding Sohscription Trial Fours on Saturday, 26th inst, entries for which close at the iboaibonse on 19th inst.