OPENING OF STAND.

Auckland Star, Volume LXV, Issue 112, 14 May 1934, Page 13

OPENING OF STAND.

LORD BEEDISEOE'S PRAISE. TRIBUTE TO ENTERPRISE. Tribute to the enterprise of the Auckland Rugby League in erecting its new grandstand at Carlaw Park was paid by his Excellency the Governor-General, Lord Bledisloe, on Saturday afternoon, when officially declaring the stand open. His Excellency said he had always been a firm believfer in the advantages of football, both as a means of developing physique, and in forming character and a sense of discipline. Some 24 years ago on the area which was now Carlaw Park, the Chinese, he understood, had cultivated vegetables; to-day the ground was in use for the cultivation of sport and of health and character, which , flowed from sport when conducted fairly, honestly and in a spirit of unselfishness. Congratulating tlie League organisation on its enterprise. Lord Bledisloe ventured the hope that the sport would continue and flourish, and !>..■ maintained in New Zealand for many years to come. Impartial Applause. His Excellency said it was essential that an unselfish spirit should be displayed, not only among the players, but also among the onlookers. It was natural to applaud one's own friends for their achievements, but to be able to applaud one's opponents as well for their outstanding merits added to greatness of character, and testified to national nobility. "During my four years' sojourn among you, nothing has caused me more pride and gratification than the noticeable fact that throughout this Dominion good play by friends and foes alike is always appreciated and applauded in a true spirit of sportsmanship," added Lord Bledisloe. "I hope that this will alwavs be so in the years to come. Lord Bledisloe expressed his gratification that the erection of the new pavilion had provided useful and remunerative work for about 60 men. He understood that it had cost £3500, accommodated 3000 people and was built of good New Zealand rimu timber. He hoped that the beautiful ground in which it stood would continue to be the scene of many fine matches that would maintain the reputation of League football for good sportsmanship. He wished them all good luck. His Excellency remained for some time and witnessed part of the match between Richmond and Ponsonby.