AUCKLAND ANNIVERSARY REGATTA.

Auckland Star, Volume XLIX, Issue 11, 12 January 1918, Page 6

AUCKLAND ANNIVERSARY REGATTA.

The prompt and practical sympathy extended by the Hon. the Minister for Marine towards the Anniversary Regatta has done much to hearten the committee in their efforts for a successful issue, and should do much to dispel the doubts as to the advioability of holding the regatta which may be still lingering in some minds. Though the committee are fully conscious of the grim task before them owing to the war, they are of the opinion it should not be faced with mirthless faces and spritless bodies. Healthful clean recreation is necessary for the recuperation of bodies anu minds, so as to >be the better able to face the task. And in this connection what better and cleaner sport more fitted for this can there be than yachting. Another good reason for continuing the regatta is pointed out in the fact that Imperial and national patriotism are the direct outcome of the civic spirit, the latter being bred and fostered by the observance of civic tradition and historic association. For this reason alone the committee think it would be a pity to allow the regatta to lapse at such a time as this. That this is recognised is evidenced by the generous response to the appeal for funds which is being made by the business firms of Auckland. The committee having worked so hard, it now rests with the yachtsmen to do their share in furthering the interests of the regatta by filling the entries.