SCULLING.

Grey River Argus, 17 January 1922, Page 2

SCULLING.

THE WORLD’S CHAMPIONSHIP. PADDON TO BE HADFIELD’S NEXT OPPONENT. WANGANUI, Jan 15. In connection with the world’s sculling championship Hannan’s decision to waive his claim to the next race for the title in favour of Paddon has been well received in rowing circles here. The news will also be received with much satisfaction in Australia, where, rightly or wrongly, there has been a feeling that the Australian champion was being side-stepped in his efforts to get a match for the world’s supremacy. Hadfield, of course, was not responsible for the awkward position which arose, as the result of Hannan getting in first with his challenge. The new champion was keen to row the best man amongst the aspirants for the title, but was bound to abide by the rules, and according to these Hannan was entitled to the race. A match between Hadfield and Hannan would have created no interest as, on performances to date, the Blenheim man would have had no possible chance with the holder of the title, and such a race would probably have done the sport no good. Hannan’s withdrawal paves the way for what promises to be a match of absorbing interest. Paddon is regarded by Australian critics as one of the best men seen over there for many years, and by a good many judges is declared to be the best in the world to-day. In the circumstances, if he can show top form here, he will seriously test Hadfield, against whom Arnst made such a poor showing that no idea as to the new champion’s real class could be obtained. Had Hannan gone on with his challenge it is understood that the next championship race would have been rowed in six weeks’ time. Now that Paddon is to be Hadfield’s first opponent the race may be put back a couple of weeks tolfllow the Australian plenty of time to come over and get fit.