AQUATICS.

Auckland Star, Volume LIII, Issue 50, 1 March 1922, Page 9

AQUATICS.

THE SANDERS CCP. RECEPTION TO DESERT GOLD'S CREW. TROPHY HANDED TO ASSOCIATION. A large and representative gathering of yachtsmen attended the reception to tbe crew of the interprovincial champion 14----rooter Desert Gold, held in tbe rooms of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron last evening. The meeting was presided over by Mr. J. B. Johnston, commodore, who was supported by .Sir Joseph Ward, Mr. R. H. Mackenzie (acting-chairman of the Auckland Harbour Board), Mr. A. Hurt (vice-commo-dore), and Mr. A. K. Gifford (rearcommodore). An apology was read from the Mayor (Mr. J. H. Gunson) by the chairman, for his inability to attend, adding his congratulations to the crew of tUe Desert Gold. A congratulatory message was also read from Mr. B. Ness, on behalf of the citizens and yachtsmen of Dunedin.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Johnston said they had gathered to do honour to Auckland's representative, Desert Goid, whose crew bad gone to Duuedln and regained the Sanders Cup for this province against the ; best boats of the other lour provinces, winning it iv strange waters in a fair and square contest. The chairman spoke very j highly of the hospitality and good sporting feeling of the Otago yachtsmen, and mentioned several amusing instances which served to show the very great interest which the contest had aroused, not only in Dunedin, but throughout the South. The speaker concluded by conveying the thanks of Auckland yachtsmen to Messrs. J. and T. Patrick, F. Oloke. and the other members of Desert Gold's crew on their success. . Mr. H. K. McKenzie was requested, on behalf of the citizens of Auckland, to present the cup, which had been handed over by the Otago Yacht and Motor Boat Association, to the Auckland Yucht and Motor Boat Association, aud, in doing so, Mr. McKenzie said he was proud to have the honour of handing over the cup to Mr. I Gifford. chairman of the Auckland Association. Mr. McKen«ie spoke of the great deeds of Lieutenant Sanders, V.C., whose memory the cup helped to keep greeu, and he hoped it would also serve to stimulate the love of the sea in the rising generation. The speaker referred to Lord Jellicoc's entry into the class, and expressed the opinion that his example would also serve a good purpose. No doubt Auckland hud the best harbour and the largest yachting fleet, and he hoped some day they might also have a boat harbour. (Oheers.) Mr. McKenzie concluded by congratulating Desert Gold's crew on their victory, and formally handed the Sanders Cup to Mr. Gifford. amidst applause.

Mr. A. E. (JifTorti said he was pleased to receive the cup on behalf of the Auckland Yacht and Motor Boat Association, which had sent the challenge on behalf of Auckland, and be was also very proud of the men who had won it. as they had worthily upheld the reputation of Auckland, both afloat and ashore.

The toast of the crew of Desert Gold was received with musical honours.

In replying to the toast, on behalf of Desert Gold's crew. Mr. J. Patrick said he was no speaker and no sculler, but ye thanked the association for selecting Desert Gold to represent Auckland, and he was glad that they had accomplished the tasK they went to Dunedin for.

Sir Joseph Ward, who was received with applause, said be was pleased to be amongst Auckland yachtsmen, who wero good winners, and he would like them to also remember the losers down South, who were also good sportsmen. They had done their best to win. hut had not succeeded. Sir Joseph added bis congratulations to Desert Gold's crew, and also mentioned the sporting spirit shown by Lord Jellicoe in taking up the 14-footers so keenly. (Applause.)

Mr. Ernest Davis said their best thanks were due to Me»srs. J. B. Johnston, A. Burt. and K. J. Kelly, who represented the squadron in Duneclin -luring the contests, and they were accorded a hearty vote of thanks.

The meeting concluded with the National Anthem.

RANGIRIUI REGATTA. On Saturday next the annual regatta at Rangirlri will take place. Among the features of the interesting programme which will be decided during the day will be a large number of rowing races, Maori canoe races, horse swimming, greasy boom competitions, and a canon race In which the Maori will compete against the pakeha. Musical selections will bo rendered by the Huntly RrasH Band, and further amusements will be afforded visitors by moans of numerous side shows. A special excursion train will leave Auckland at 7.30 a.m. on Saturday.