BOB BECKHAM'S CREW WINS FIRST RACE FOR HUGH McDONALD TROPHY

Auckland Star, Volume LXXVI, Issue 88, 14 April 1945, Page 2 (Supplement)

808 BECKHAM'S CREW WINS FIRST RACE FOR HUGH McDONALD TROPHY

ROWING

Owing to the exceptionally low tide In the boat harbour the West End Rowing Club's last set of trial fours for the season were rowed over the Westhaven course this afternoon.

The Hugh McDonald Trophy was presented to the club by Mr. and Mrs. McDonald, in memory of their son, who lost his life with the N.Z.R.A.F. in air operations over Europe. In referring to the late "Tommy" McDonald, as he was known throughout the sport, Mr. D. G. Stotter mentioned the part he had played with West End, first as a coxswain, then regatta oarsman, and finally on the management executive. He thanked Mr. and Mrs. McDonald for the trophy, and the interest they always evinced in the club. Mr. McDonald suitably replied. The three races were the best seen in trials this season. The rowing was of a very high standard, and the finishes were close. Starting was by mutual consent, and Mr. McDonald judged the final. The first heat resulted: — R. Beckham. J. H. Barton, K. Broadfoot, A. Rallton, T. Pcnno (cox) 1 J. R. Keen, J. G. Howe, J. Christie, K. Burr, L. Harris (cox) 2 A quarter-length. Second heat: B. Coulam, R. Tonkin, R. Blgelow, B. Coombes, W. Pledger (cox) 1 M. Conway. M. Jameson, E. Johnston, G. O'Leary, C. Coulam (cox) 2 A convas. In the final the crews rowed on even terms, stroke for stroke, until passing the gap, where Beckham's four forged ahead to win by about a length.