ROWING.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVI, Issue 261, 4 November 1935, Page 16

ROWING.

OPENING OF SEASON. WAITEMATA BOATING CLUB. Although no combined display by tho clubs on tlie Auckland harbour marks the ollicial opening of the season, it has been taken for granted that one club's function celebrates tho auspicious event. On Saturday it fell to llie Waitemata Boating Club with its ofliciaj opening ceremony to herald in the season"of 1935-36, and tho many oarsmen and supporters of rowing who were present will long remember the enjoyable afternoon spent. The weather conditions were ideal, the oarsmen from sister clubs wore in force in their colours, and with (he flags Muttering in a fresh southerly breeze, the otherwise drab surroundings of the waterfront were transformed to a picturesque scene. It was about 2.30 p.m. when Mr. L. Koss, the Waitemata Boating Club's captain, in a lew well-chosen words welcomed the visitors, and then called upon Mr. C. J. Ellerbeck, commodore, to open the season, and unveil the two presentations. In welcoming Uve_ visitors. Mr. Ellerbeck said; The 1935-6 season opens jinder ideal conditions, beautiful weather, and a big membership. Glancing round the- boat house it is particularly pleasing to lind the fine plant of boats and oars all in such splendid condition. This was evidence of the work the members had put in during the off-season, and marked their enthusiasm and a keen desire to better their performances of last season, when tlieir efforts headed the harbour clubs' records at the various regattas throughout the province. In breaking the flag Mr. Ellerbeck declared the season open, and three hearty cheers I were given by the members. Mr. Ellerback then unveiled the "Name Scroll" hung over the boathouse entrance—the gift of Mr. G. H. Reston, vice-commodore. Mr. Reston, in replying, mentioned the great traditions of the Waitemata Boating Club, and expressed thanks to the members for the spirit displayed in the acceptance of the gift. Mr. Ellerbeck nnxt mi veiled the Trophy Case, the gift of Mr. Jim Wait, a foundation member of the club. "This gift will be highly prized by the members," said Mr. Ellerbeck, "and I have no doubt their ambitions will be to keep it filled with the trophies it now contains." Mr. Wait was received with applause, and In thanking the members for their appreciation of the Trophy Case trusted they would achieve many more successes to those already on view. Next Saturday afternoon will be a full day on the harbour, when West End, Auckland, St. George's and North Shore will start activities. HAMILTON OPENING. (By Telegraph.—Own Correspondent.) HAMILTON, Saturday. Ideal conditions favoured the opening of the Hamilton Rowing Club's season to-day. In declaring the season open, the president. Mr. A. M. Bisle.v, announced that this year the club lipped to go further in building a new clubhouse, and said that means of raising the necessary finance would receive the close attention of tlie committee. It was hoped to erect a pavilion worthy of the surroundings. Past successes, Mr. Bisley said, had placed Hamilton on the map as a rowing centre, and lis appe/ilod for the maintenance of the club's best traditions.