CASH PRIZES FOR OPENING DAY.

Auckland Star, Volume LXI, Issue 228, 26 September 1930, Page 14

CASH PRIZES FOR OPENING DAY.

At the last meeting of delegates to the Auckland Yacht and - Motor Boat Association some different control of the opening of the season was discussed. Possibly a method whereby each club taking part would subscribe to the prize fund in proportion to its entries is feasible. This should be done in cash, say, £1 or more per class from clubs, which would allow a standard first prize of £5, second £2 and third £1. The time has come when the duplication of prizes is beyond a' joke. One owner last season won no less thau four primus stoves. Good articles, surely, but you can have too much of a good thing. If the cash was given instead it would materially help an owner in the expense of fitting out and general running expenses, which have become no small item these days. While as keen as ever to retain the amateur status of our sport, yet cash prizes are fully recognised all over the world and no breach is committed by giving them. It has often occurred to the "writer that one of the reasons for the popularity of our Anniversary Regatta is the"fact that cash prizes are given in every class. It certainly merits a trial. The consensus of opinion among boat owners is decidedly against any radical change from the present system of holding combined opening day events, and, after all, it is a good one. The matter of cash prizes is for each individual club to settle. It is to be hoped that all clubs will help to give the season a good start by making a good opening day.