THE KING AND BOXING

Evening Star, Issue 16990, 12 March 1919, Page 2

THE KING AND BOXING

PRINCE ALBERT'S SPEECH. A remarkable indication of the popularity of boxing was revealed by some memorable scenes inside and outside the Albert Hall, .Loudon, during the progress of the British ami American Services boxing tournament iu December last. The huge liall was packed with enthusiasts, and so great was the demand for tickets that many thousands were disappointed. During the afternoon a large crowd, who were without tickets, after clamoring and pushing for admittance, stormed one of the side doors, and it wae found necessary to' turn a hose on to them. This lor a time held up the invaders. Eventually soldiers, sailors, and men wearing discharged badges were allowed in, and from the gangways, steps, and floor they saw the contests. Many ladies occupied seats near the ring side. THE KING'S CHILL. The King, who was suffering from a slight chill contracted in Franco, was unable to be present to hand over his handsome trophy to the winning British Army team, but in a scene of tumultous enthusiasm Prince Albert took His Majesty's place, and, entering the ring, made the presentation. Ho is a very keen supporter of boxing, and had officers of the Imperial Service Boxing Association in his suite. To the competition winners he also presented small duplicates of the trophy in enamel. "The King," he said, "asks me to say how very sorry ho is not to be present at this exceptional tournament, and to congratulate the members of the various teams on the splendid display and on tho sporting spirit in which the contests have been won and lost. Especially do we welcome the officers and men of the United States navy and army, who, with perfect co-operation ai|ft gocd-will, have adopted cur rules for boxing, to which they are not accustomed. They have given us a fine performance in winning five finals and being runnera-up in two other contests. The King heartily congratulates the organisers on their efforts to encourage sport for the sake of sport. None more than His Majesty appreciates how valuable a part manly games and sporting instincts play in maintaining the character of the English-speaking race. I am proud to have been deputed to present this trophy and medals, and I warmly congratulate the winning teams on a memorable achievei ment."