Evans Pass run re-enacted
A field of runners came under the starter’s orders for a Sumner to Lyttelton road race in 1908. For eight testing miles, the contestants ran from Sumner to Lyttelton and back. Over Evans Pass and down to the port, the field entered into temporary police custody. Led by a local runner, James Merritt, they ran into the police station and once round a large billiard table groaning under an Edwardian feast of fresh fruit. Suitably refreshed,
they ran back up the Sumner Road. James Merritt won the first prize — a clock and a sum of money. Local punters also reaped the financial rewards through a local bookmaker. Merritt’s girlfriend was a Lyttelton girl and he ran from Sumner to Lyttelton each evening to meet her. The Sumner Running Club will recreate on Sunday the Run-as-you-ease race — but without the
billiard table. Sunday's event will follow the same course, taking runners through the Lyttelton Police Station and return. The race will begin at 11 a.m. from the Sumner Community Centre. Runners will be encouraged to dress in period costume to celebrate the eightieth anniversary of the race. A $1 entry fee will be charged, all proceeds to be given to the Mary Moody Home for Handicapped Children.
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Bibliographic details
Press, 17 June 1988, Page 7
Word Count
210Evans Pass run re-enacted Press, 17 June 1988, Page 7
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