THE CHAMPION INTERVIEWED.

Marlborough Express, Volume XLIV, Issue 77, 7 April 1910, Page 2

THE CHAMPION INTERVIEWED.

Immediately on his return to his headquarters at Mr Louis Vangioni's pretty boatshed, I had a chat with the champion concerning the race. "It was a hard race to row," he said, when the preliminary congratulations were over. "I have never rowed in worse water. The jobble kept me busy, and over the last mile there was a side roll that made things very awkward. Yes, it was a good start. We struck the water together, and George was soon a bit ahead of me. I was a bit anxious at the start for the first time in my life, and I had to put my best into it to keep near George, but of course he was at a disadvantage in the sea that was runing, because .he is so light. I rowed hard all the way to the bend, in order to get out of the rough water, and I couldn't afford to take any risks. George Whelch rowed a really good race, and put up a solid go, but, as I say, the conditions were all in my favour. I don't reckon he had a chance to show his form until the last mile, and then you saw how he rowed.

"I was well boated in the rigger built by George Towns for Alf Felton, Oh, yes. I patronise local industry, of course, but you have to have the best material, and you go to the makers who have the name. Now the sculls were made for me by Norton, and beautiful blades they are. "May I thank the Akaroa people through you, and particularly Mr Vangioni, for their kindness. I couldn't have been better treated anywhere, and I am very grateful. This beautiful shed and grounds made ideal quarters."