THAMES RIFLE ASSOCIATION.

Daily Southern Cross, Volume XXVII, Issue 4234, 10 March 1871, Page 2

THAMES RIFLE ASSOCIATION.

The presentation of prizes to the winners in the late contest, followed by the inaugural dinner, took place last night at the Pacific Hotel, Shortland. The members of the Association mustered in strong force, and there was also a liberal sprinkling of outsiders, of whom several have expressed an intention to become members, and so lend their countenance to a movement that is deserving of the strongest support. The prizes were presented by Major Cooper, who in his opening address called attention to the splendid score of 64 points made by Sergeant Hopkins at 200, 500, and GOO yards, this score being only one below th» top score made in England at the International Enfiold Trophy in 1869. The scoring of Lieutenant Hazard, 2nd Hauraki Rifle Volunteers, and Messrs. Carnie and Pearson, was also highly complimented by the Major. The former gentleman made 63, and the others 58 each. Mr. Barnett, jun., a youth of some seventeen summers, was also I highly eulogised for his excellent shooting, he having scored 47 points. The prizes were then distributed — the principal ones as follow : — First prize, first class, the Association's gold medal, Mr. Pearson ; first prize, second class, Association's silver cross, Mr. Gilpin. Second day's shooting : First prize, first class, gold scarf pin (presented by Mr. Alghren), Mr. Hopkins ; first prize, second class, a rifle (presented by Mr. Hazard), A. Barnett, jun. ; first class, third prize, £1, Mr. W. 0. Creighton : All Comers' Match, first prize, a medal, A. Barnett, jun.; Consolation Match, first prize, a gold pi* (presented by Mr. Barnett), Mr. A. Fitzgerald. The prizes having been distributed, dinner was served, in Host Curtis's beat style, in the large dining-hall of the hotel, and was done ample justice to by those assembled. The usual number of toasts, loyal »nd otherwise, woro given, some spaeohea made, and, taking it throughout, a most wjjoyable QYQftiag ww sj^ufc^Qwa.