Cheviot's Rugby history recalled

Press, Volume CX, Issue 32322, 13 June 1970, Page 9

Cheviot's Rugby history recalled

VARLY days of compelitive Rugby matches played since 1895 were recalled when the Cheviot Rugby Football Club celebrated its seventy-fifth anniversary. Recollections were made of the exciting days of country football matches, when a trip to Kaikoura took three days, travelling on horse-back, gig and buggy, and the Waiau River could only be crossed by fording it; when a journey to Waiau involved crossing the Stanton River 22 times and the Leader eight times

Supporters on these trips were never hard to find. The “dry” state of the Cheviot County encouraged many to travel with the team for the enjoyment of the “aftermatch” celebrations.

The anniversary activities included a welcome and get-together, with a photographic display, on the first night. The oldest former-player present was Mr A. W. Leaman, 1904. The All Black prop, A. E. Hopkinson, a Cheviot

Football Club player since 1964. was congratulated on his selection again this year and Mr J. A. Harrison. president of the club, presented him with a rug. On the second day a seven-a-side tournament for Hurunui district clubs was played at Cheviot The jubilee banquet in the evening had, as guest speakers. Dr J. D. Stewart of Lincoln College, and Mr D. J. Graham, a former All Black. The master of ceremonies was the Rev. G. V. Hill, a former player for Cheviot, 1950-56.

A golf match on the Sunday was followed by a church parade in the evening. The collection was donated to the Cheviot sub-centre of St John Ambulance Association.

The last day of the jubilee was devoted to school matches and “old timers” games. The kickoff was made by Mr C. F. Barnes, an outstanding wing for Cheviot in the 1920 s and a notable identity in the district.

The celebrations concluded with a jubilee ball.