WELLINGTON DRIVER WINS N.Z. GRAND PRIX

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23207, 20 March 1950, Page 8

WELLINGTON DRIVER WINS N.Z. GRAND PRIX

(P.A.) PALMERSTON N.. March 20. A crowd estimated at between 20,000 and 25,000 saw the first New Zealand Grand Pnx held at the R.N.Z.A.F. station, Ohakea, on Saturday. The event was organised by the Manawatu Car Club. A strong westerly wind provided an additional hazard for drivers and of the 19 vehicles which faced the starter only eight survived the 100 miles of gruelling racing. Misfortune dogged several well-known drivers, including the Australian, Garry Coglan, who was forced to withdraw at the last minute through lack of a spark plug. H. J. McLean I Christchurch) another favourite, struck engine trouble after about five laps and although he later remedied the fault and finished his chances of victory were gone.

J. McMillan, driving a Wellingtonbuilt Jackson special, was first home in lhr. 41min. 40sec. Only a second behind was the winner of the recent Wigram race, H. Green (Christchurch), who drove a Wolseley special. Third place went to a local man, A. S. Farlancl. in a Singer special. Winners in other classes were: 500 to 750 c.c.: W. Lee, 1; 750 to 1100 c.c., 11. R. Logan; 1500 c.c., P. M. Iloarc; 1500 to 3000 c.c... If. Green.