ROWING

Evening Post, Volume LXXXIX, Issue 1, 2 January 1915, Page 10

ROWING

(By "Scull.") There have been many hints thrown out lately as to Webb's disregard of Hannan's challenge. My views are that | Webb will not stand in the way of a match, providing Hannan secures backing for £200 a-side. This he has now secured, but it was not so two weeks ago. Webb told Hannan six months ago that he would be quite willing to row him for £200, or even £100, providing it ' came early enough to row in September, but it did not come. No man who has a business to look after, and whose best trade covers the summer months, is going to sacrifice that trade to retain a title, which, even at £200 a-side, offers little recompense when a solid preparation means two to three months' training. Hannan devotes the best part of his time to the sport ; Webb does not. There are many facts that stand out, though clouded a good deal by the mist of argument and controversy. Hannan has now got his £200; he has lodged a deposit of £25, and has so far complied with recognised rules. Now that negotiations are put npon a businesslike footing, I am certain that Webb will not stand in his way, though business reasons may compel him to take full advantage of an acceptor's time' to accept a challenge. The regattas which took place on New Year's Day were Lyttelton and Marlborough. Outside representation was below the average, due doubtless to the war and unseasonable weather. The latter interfered/ with rowing everywhere. The Star Boating Club and the Wellington Rowing Club will be holding their swimming sports in about four or five weeks, and arrangements will , be taken in hand early in the New Year. To day Charlie Towns will row S. Kemp (challenger) for £100 a-side and the championship of New South Wales. With this race over interest in sculling will move to the match between A. D. Felton and B. Ford, for £200 a-side, which takes place on Ist February