BIG ROAD RACE

Hokitika Guardian, 1 October 1929, Page 1

BIG ROAD RACE

TIMARU TO QHRISTCHURCH. The Dominion’s cycling classic, the Timahi to Christchurch road race, 112 milesj. is to take place next Saturday. This race has been held on twentyone occasions since 1899 and has been responsible for the bringing out of several New Zealanders who have made history in the athletic world. Amongst these athletes are :Phil O’Shea,. Dick and Jack Arnst, Andy Ralston, A. B. L. (Smiler) Smith and Harry Watson.

O’Shea’s performances are outstanding, as he won the big race on two occasions and gained fastest time in six races. He also created a record by securing the Australasian road championship on three: successive occasions. There is a possibility of a fresh champion being unearthed this - year, as the field is , the strongest-that has contested this event for several years. The scratch men are all distance men of proved ability, and recent performances have shown them to be capable of covering the course in record time. Ninety nominations have been received, all parts of- the North and South Islands being represented. The race will decide the 112 miles New Zealand road championship. The Mayor of Timaru will despatch i the first bunch of riders from Timaru at nine o’clock, and the leaders are expected to reach the Show Grounds, Addington, at about three o’clock.