ATHLETIC SPORTS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXXIX, Issue 11878, 1 February 1902, Page 6 (Supplement)

ATHLETIC SPORTS.

CItICKET FIXTURES. . February 1, B—Gordon v. Auckland, Ponsonby v. North Shore, Parnell v. United. , ENGLISH TEAM'S PROGRAMME. February 7, Bathurst. February 14-19—Fourth Test Match, at Sydney. February Victoria, at Melbourne. March 1-s—'Fifth Test Match, at Melbourne. March Broken Hill (18). March 14—South Australia, at Adelaide. March Leave by Omrah for London.

CRICKET. The Cup competitions will be continued this afternoon at the Domain and North Shore | grounds, when the senior fixtures will be j Gordon v. Auckland, Parnell v. United, and Ponsonby v. North Shore, the latter on the Devonport ground. When the teams mentioned met in tho first round Parnell defeated United by 13 runs, after an exciting contest, in which interest was maintained right up to the last; Auckland beat Gordon by tho substantial majority of 85 runs, and Ponsonby beat North Shore by the same number of runs. _ All three matches were, won on tho first innings' scores. The most interesting match of Saturday last was that between Auckland and United, in which the latter, requiring 211 to win, sent D. Clayton and D. Hay in to open the innings. The pair opened lather sensationally, 13 runs being made off St. Paul's first over, after which Clayton sent Cossey's first ball to the boundary for four and then went out lbw to tho Auckland trundler's second. P. Hay followed, and the partnership of the brothers must have made the supporters of Auckland somewhat uneasy, as both played the game right up to the hilt, forcing matters and hitting out with great freedom. Tho batting, as might have been expected under the circumstances, was not faultless, both men being missed more than once, but it was effective and vigorous and no less than 88 runs were signalled on tho scoring board when tho second wicket foil. The pavilion boundary was evidently too short fo* St. Paul, and had he been bowling from the othe. end the result might have been very different. The third wicket fell with 105 up, the result of about an hour and thirty-five minutes' batting,,but after this the remaining wickets went cheaply, tho total only reaching 134, which left Auckland winners by the substantial margin of 77 runs. Tho batsmen failed to negotiate the bowling, particularly of Cossey, who was keeping a splendid length, and was simply unplayable. His average read:— overs, 10 maidens, 16 runs, five wickets.

Auckland in their second innings lost nine wickets for the small total of 64, Nicholson, who was run out with his score at 12, being the one to show best form with the bat. It did not seem that the batsmen were taking matters very seriously, but of course ono cannot actually say that such was the case; only the players themselves can speak to this with authority. Ponsonby, though defeated by Gordon, made a better stand than many had .expected of them, the principal contributors being G. Kemp (51), White (48), Lundon. (35) and "Wallace (32). Lundon, as usual, hit out vigorously, but should really have been run out before ho got going at all, while the others all batted well, Kemp not giving a chance, while "Wallace again showed considerable promise, and should be heard more of as a batsman if he continues as at present. In their second innings Gordon got into the eighties for the loss of two wickets, King playing a nice innings for 24- (not out). Ponsonby again suffered in the bowling department through the absence of W. Mills, while on the other side the brunt of the trundling was borne by Williams and Soutliall. There was nothing of note to call for comment in tho Parnell-North Shore match —won by the —beyond the fact that I. Mills (26. not out) played steadily for his runs. The North Shore wicket-keeping was largely responsible for tho 46 extras credited to Parnell, the attempts to stop the ball being feeble in the extreme. AUCKLAND UMPIRES AND THE j CRICKET ASSOCIATION. Under date or January 29 Mr. P. H. Wilson writes me as follows concerning the unfortunate difference between the Auckland Cricket Association and the Auckland Umpires and Scorers'- Association, which has : led to the members of the latter body declining to act in matches held under the auspices of tho Cricket Association:—"Dear 'Lynx:'l think it would be well for the cricketers of Auckland to know the reason of the deadlock between the Cricket Association Committee and the Umpires and Scorers' Association. Tho Auckland Umpires j and Scorers' Association was formed in 1898 i by several cricket enthusiasts, who wished to I cause some improvement in the matter of j umpiring by having umpires who wore effi- j cient, and not connected in any way with tho cricket clubs. These gentlemen submitted , themselves to an examination by a committee . consisting of Messrs. A. M. Beale, R. Neill, J and F. J. Ohlson. After this examination 1 was over tho committee suggested that ' Messrs. Lankham, Mays, and Wilson should ' bo the examiners and sinco then Messrs. | Lankham and Wilson have always been on ! the committee. We have up to this season : allowed the appointment of umpires to bo j in the hands of the Cricket Association but i as things have been carried on in anything but a satisfactory manner we "..nought the timo ripe for a change, and resolved that all appointments should be made by our own committee. The Cricket Association virtually kept the senior matches as a close pre- I serve for soma half-a-dozen of our members ; whom they (the Cricket Association) con- ! sidered better than the others. During the jperiod since the formation of the Auckland ; Umpires and Scorers' Association I have ; never once been appointed to a junior match while Cup matches were in progress—en passant, I may remark that I have derived far more enjoyment from watching the junior:? than the seniors; there is more 'bat and ! br.ll,' as distinguished from 'leg and ball,' j and not so much ' pointing.' The Cricket i Association committee agreed that our com- ! mittee should appoint the umpires and send j in a lis* of appointments to them, when, if 1 they had any objection to an appointment, j they were to state it. Well, sir, wo ap- i pointed umpires tor tho third series, and the 1 Cricket Association Committee were satis- ! fied. We appointed umpires oi tho fourth series, aid the Cricket Association Committee were not satisfied, but up to the present time we are entirely ignorant of which appointment they disapprove. Some little correspond once ensued, the outcome being a resolution of the Auckland Umpires and 'Scorers' Association not to officiate in any match played undei tho auspice? or the Cricket Association unless appointed by our own committee. This resolution, I may say, ir being loyally adhered to by all the experienced umpires; in fact, -with"one exception, by all the umpires belonging to the association. I-think, that we have merited better treatment than we have received from the Cricket Association, considering that we give time and even money to the promotion of the. grand old game. Personally, I have received more discourteous treatment from one of the Cricket Association Committee i during the past two or three seasons than I have received during the whole time I have been umpiring from other people. I started umpiring in 1879, and have followed it almost continuously ever since.. If the Cricket Association Committee are anxious to find out whether they have the oricketers as a body with them in their high-handed aotion, let them take a vote by referendum. For my own part I do not care whether I ever umpire again or not. I feel that I have done my share, even though I never act again." HERE AND THERE. Tho fourth test match, England v. Australia, will be commenced at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Friday, February 14. The teams to play in the North v. South Island match have to be selected by Friday next. .. . J

At a recent meeting of the New Zealand Oil eke t Council it was decided that no further action should be taken with regard to getting an English team to visit. New Zealand until more definite information is in tho hands of the secretary. In submitting to a local paper the names of players he would select to take part in the North \. South Island match, a Southern enthusiast omits D. Hay (Auckland), who will probably bo one of the first men chosen for the North Island team. -.Control to govern the test matches a- England will consist. of Earl Howe (president), Mr. W. H. Patterson, the v w ifr °d * JytfceltolV K.C., M.P., Mr. V. k^ k -Mr.A. G Steel, K.C., and the Of +I,2M'fu 35 J- 1 ' 0 SIX representatives fL Marylcbone C.C., and a representative each, from Yorkshire, Middlesex, Lancashire, Sussex, Warwickshire, and Surrey An extraordinary bowling performance'is [ reported from Ceylon. At the end of October, at Diyatalawa, the Boer first eleven played the next eighteen, when A. Smuts, of the eleven, secured 20 wickets for 20 runs in the two innings of the ' eighteen. He took 13 for 11 in the first innings of 47 and seven for 9 in the seoond innings of 33., Sixteen wore clean bowled. The first eleven, scoring 178 won easily, the highest scorer being Kotze (58), Scheepers getting 43. '

It is very clear that the selectors-of • Australian team did '. wisely •in choosing •' another bowler in the person of C. E. McLeod, says an Australian writer, • speaking before the third test match. A.. At the same time, there are those who consider Laver the better j man of the two. - Mr. C. H. Ross, extreasurer o'f the Melbourne Cricket Club, says that Laver is almost the equal of MoLeod in bowling, is -the better batsman, - and has no superior in the -field, especially at point. There are a lot cf rumours about the Australian eleven for England, but so far nothing' has been done. A Sydney write* says it will probably be found that there will not be more than two new men in the team. In compiling his 103, not out, in the first inning.? of the Englishmen in the third test match, Eraund was at the wickets three hours 42 minutes, and hit one five and 10 fours. He had two streaks of luck. In the early part of his innings he stonewalled, but towards the end he played much mere forcibly and attractively. The comparative non-success of M. A. Noble with the bat this season is one of the most widely discussed topics among cricketers on the other side. His loss of form with the bat has proved unexpected, and it seriously weakens Australia's strength. _ In the test matches he lias made 59 runs in six innings. Thus "Sydney Bowler" on _ Howell:— " Why is Howell persevered with in test matches? What has he ever done in a test match? We read that he will " rest" for the fourth test match! Howell has played in 11 tests, and, according to the figures recently published, he has in those matches taken 20 wickets for 848 runs, averaging 42.4 per wicket! In addition ho has not made 100 rails in all his test matches! As a bowler ho merely helps to play batsmen into form. In the three test matches this season ho has got four wickets for 280 runs, a performance in keeping with what ho has dono for his club." j

! Asked as to his opinion as to the proposal to play out future test matches, K. S. Ranjitsinhji replied: " I think it is impracticable. Personally, I am opposed tc anything that lengthens tho game and tends tc make it slower. Making a match extend over four or five days is bound to make the game slowe., and in all conscience some players are slow enough now." Commenting on the selection of li. Carter to keep wickets for New South Wales in the recent inter-State matoh against Victoria, "Not Out" says:—"There is a feeling of universal satisfaction amongst cricketers that H. Carter is to keep wickets against Victoria. J. MeKenzie, the South Australian, is said in wires received from Adelaide to be a certainty for a place in the team for England as wicketkeeper, but I shall be greatly surprised to learn that the three able cricketers selecting the Australian team against Maclaren's combination, and who, presumably, will select the team for England, have made such a huge mistake as to fill such an important position with unnecessary and unpardonable hurry, and before two 'at least of them have had an opportunity of forming an opinion of the ability of others with strong qualifications for the position. Carter is one of the finest wicketkeepers I have ever seen, and superior to anyone of the day in Australia whom I have seen, not excepting anyone. It has been stated in tho press in one of the wires from Adelaide —that Carter's hands would not last through a long tour. That is a groundless assertion. As we all desire to see Australia send the best to England—for this time the prospects of Australia returning with ' the ashes' are net so bright as-,they were in 1899 is to be sincerely hoped that the selectors of tho Australian eleven will not allow inter-State jealousy to influcnco them against t?king both wicket-keepers from the one State, if their merits entitle them, to selection."

From reports to hand it seems that Hayward was run out in a peculiar way in tho third test ma toll. It was this way: Hayward played forward to Noble, and in doing eo— just as he did at Melbourne left his crease. The ball was just touched. Kelly missed the chance, but the ball fell on the wicket, while Hayward was out of his ground, and he was, according to the lav/, run out. This was one of those instances in which no ono would have grudged the bowler getting the wicket. It was all owing to tho excellence of Ncblo's delivery that Hayward lost his wicket. If Hayward had not touched the ball Noble would have secured the wicket, but simply because the ball was touched tho batsman was run out. ATHLETICS, I hear that the question of sending G. W. Smith and W. F. Simpson to England will be discussed at a meeting of the Management Committee of the Auckland Amateur Athletic and Cycle Club, to be held in tho course of a few days. This will probably lead to something definite. At a recent sports gala held at New Brighton (Canterbury), one of the " trophies" offered for an amateur athletic race was a pair of trousers. The N.Z.A.A.A. can hardly let articles of wearing apparel pass muster as amateur trophies. ' • , Tho suggestion thrown : out in these columns a week or two back that the authorities of the A.A.A. and C.C. should make an effort to got the Southern : distance crack, W. F. Simpson, to come up and compete at the club's.March carnival, has been received with considerable favour, and it is quite on the cards that an invitation will be sent to the Christchurch runner. Two or three of our local distance men have told me that they will be only too pleased to assist Simpson if he accepts and decides to make an attack on some of our existing records. In the course of his review of the Australasian championship meeting, " Prodigal," in referring to the hurdle races, says: "The obstacles were fixed in Auckland, as obtains in England, but not in America, New South Wales, Queensland, and, I believe, Victoria. I see no particular necessity for the hurdles being fixed, and prefer the' American stylo to the English." , Instantaneous photography shows that timekeepers, who take time for a sprint event from tho moment they see the flash of tho starter's pistol, do the . runners less than justice, as a result of light travelling so much faster than sound. A snapshot of the 100 yds race at the Inter-University contests in New York shows the flash of Ihe pistol clearly, but the men are still on their.,marks waiting for the report. An American paper j claims that the runners thus loso credit for { at least a fifth of a second. ! j

A West Coast paper says the Dunn Brothers, of wrestling renown, are back 011 the Coast after their trip to Otago, where Harry Dunn succeeded in throwing Scott, before an audience of nearly 2000 persons. It was evident from Scott's remarks, after the match, that lie felt he lost through a bit of " rank bad luck," as Buller would say, and that if ho had another try tho result would be different. There is consequently some talk of getting up another match between the two. When Dunn went to Otago he had to pay his own expenses, and is in no humour to again visit Otago to wrestle Scott. But we believe that if the latter likes to come to tho coast Dunn will be prepared to wrestle him for any reasonable amount say, —and, perhaps, even go so far as to pay his expenses, or a portion of them. ALLEGED VIOLATION OF AMATEUR LAWS BY AMERICANS. In my notes of January 18 I published a cable from New York, which appeared in tho London Daily Express of December 12, with regard to the correspondence that has been going on between Mr. Herbert, the secretary of the Amateur Athletic Association of England, and Mr. Sullivan, tho secretary of the American Athletic Union, concerning the alleged violation of the laws of amateurism at British meetings, by Messrs. Kraenzlein, Duffy, Baxter, Tewkesbury, Long, and E. Flanaghan, during their late visit, for which they are said to bo liable to be disqualified. The latest concerning the matter is furnished by the American correspondent of the Sydney Referee, who says:—Mr. Herbert's letters intimated that certain American athletes demanded and received their expenses in England, last summer. If ho is sure of his ground, such Americans have laid themselves open to charges of professionalism. The athletes in qeustion are Alvin C. Kraenzlein, 1. K. Baxter, and J. W. B. Tewkesbury, of the University of Pennslyvania, and the New York Athletic Club; Arthur Duffy, of Georgetown University; Maxwell W. Long and John Flanagan, formerly of the New York A.C. •

lie most pertinent of Mr. Herbert's communications to Mr. Sullivan i„ as follows: — It is a matter of common knowledge over here that some of _ the few Americans who came over here after Paris last year, and also this July, asked foi, and obtained, expenses for competing at some of our athletic meetings. This is, as you are aware, contrary to our, laws. Were those men, after Paris last year, ' on their own,' a-, we say, or in any way under the- control of their colleges or clubs? Also, this year, were Kraenzlein, Duffy, and Tewkesbury sent by their clubs, or were they simply 011 their own account, without any controlling power on your side of the water? I have been asked by a division of our association, tho Northern, to ask you this." To this particular missive Mr. Sullivan replied :—" The athletic teams that visited Paris for the Olympic games in 1900 were sent by their colleges or clubs, and at the expense of same. In relation to the athletes who visited England last year, I believe that soma. of them, went - on their own responsibility, namely, Long, Baxter, Tewkesbury, and Kraenzlein, Manager Thompson, of Georgetown : " University, informed "me the other day that Duffy had his expenses paid

1 by Georgetown University, and represented i Georgetown University. From my investigation and personal knowledge I _ would state that the athletes ' who took part in the Paris games of 1900 were furnished in Paris with . the transportation home by their clubs or their colleges. Of course, this gave them the right "to remain abroad as long as they wished to, and at their own expense." .Kraenzlein, ' when questioned recently in regard to the matter, said:—"As to myself I will say that I never accepted one cent, of money, as my expenses were paid by the University of Pennsylvania. I competed in London in 1900 and 1901, as did several others of the boys. Whether or not they accepted money, as claimcd, I cannot say, but I doubt it."

English exchanges recently to hand say that the amateur authorities on the other side are still awaiting Mr. Sullivan's reply. Possibly this means that the correspondence is still in progress, and that Mr. Herbert is trying to extract further information from the secretary of the American governing body" in regard to the circumstances under which the men from this side travelled and competed abroad. Some of the British papers hint that the main purpose of the investigation is to discipline some of the smaller amateur associations on the English' side who chartered the American visitors for the purpose of adding tone and importance to what would otherwise have been obscure meetings. The explanation is all very well in its way, but it goes without saying, of course, that if the inquiry is pushed to a finish the American athletes as well as the minor associations across the pond will have to submit to punishment. Anyhow, the storm hasn't broken yet, and it -is just possible the grand denouement may be side-tracked. LAWN TENNIS, The entries for the annual competition for members of the West End Lawn Tennis Club will close with the secretary (Mr. J. Paterson) this afternoon. The events to; be competed for aro as follows:—Gent.'s singles championship (best of five vantage sets), ladies' championship singles (best three vantage sets), gienfc.'s handicap singles, ladies' 'handicap singles, gent.'s handicap: doubleshandicap events, best 17 games; if eight all is called, winner to score two successive games. A special prize (a racket) for the runner-up in the men's championship singles has been donated by tho well-known tennis material manufacturers, Messrs. Gardinoi and Sons, through their agent here, Sir. Swinnick. On Wednesday afternoon last a combined handicap doubles competition took place on the West End lawns, Ponsonby. A large number entered, and all the matches proved interesting and evenly contested. The final was played off between Miss Blades and J. Caldwell (owe 15) and Miss Edwards and C. H. Jones (receive 15), and the former pair succeeded in winning. The matches for the Auckland championship are proceeding, and the first round should be finished to-day. On Wednesday morning one of the most interesting in the round was played between Messrs. P. A. Vaile (Mount Eden) and J. Paterson (West End). The West End player having won the toss decided to play at his' own ground. The j weather was all that ' could be desired, and the court in good condition. Vaile started by winning the first game, after deuce had boon called, but Paterson soon had him in difficulties, and won the first set: 63. -In the second set Vailo ran away with tho first four games, but his opponent, settling down to steady play, scored the next throe, but Vailo eventually won the set: 7 — The third set proved an easy one for Paterson, who won: —2. The fourth sot was very hotly contested,'game and game being called until soven all, when r Paterson making a special effort placed the next two games (the last game being a love one) to his credit, thus winning the match three sets to one: 6—3, 5— 6— 9—7. '

Although a very general idea was prevalent that Vaile would prove the winner there is no doubt that tho match was played on its merits and the better man won. Paterson kept a good length on his balls, and pegged away at Yaile's backhand, thus giving his opj ponent little chance to make use of his noted forehand drive. His overhead work and volleying were good, although he made several wild smashes, possibly duo to the glare of the sun. Yaile played a steady game throughout, hat was evidently nonplussed by Paterson's forcing tactics. Ho served well and got in somo fine drives, but his style of play in i continually,"chopping" his strokes, although at times it proves effective, is certainly not attractive tennis. GOLF. Though this is the off season so far ;>s golf is concerned there have been a large number of golfers on tho links during the past two months. Several distinguished visitors have played on tho course, notably, Mr. Hugh Macnoil, of Sydney, who liar, held both the New Zealand and New South Wales championships; Mr. E. P. Simpson, champion of Now South Wales; Mr. W. Pryde, ex-champion of New Zealand; and Mr. Herbert Ross, who is probably the host actorgolfer in the world. It must be very gratifying to the local club to know that such golfers as these have expressed very high approval of the remarkable golf course which is laid out over Onetree Hill and Cornwall Park. All of the players mentioned anticipate that with the improvement age alone can give a golf course the greens and course will attain a very perfect condition. Dr. J. Logan Campbell has recently played over the course several times, and is very enthusiastic. The course is rapidly improving in condition and should bo in splendid order by the end of this month, when the usual club matches will recommence. It is the intention of the committee to issue a programme of matches for the season, so that each player will know when the regular club matches will be played. There has been a marked improvement in the play of several members who have been getting lessons from Hood, the club professional, who is proving to bo a very good teacher. ■ BOWLING. The final contest for the possession of 'tho Auckland Bowling Association's champion fours shield will bo played at half-past two to-day (at the Roumera Green) between the teams skipped by Messrs. C. G. Brookes (Mount Eden) and W. Lcdingliam (Auckland). The teams are: Mount Edenß. Rankin, J. M. Tregaskis, R. It. Ross, and C. G. Brookes (skip). Auckland—J. V. Dingle, W. Lambert, W. Culpan, and W. Lodingliam (skip). Most of the local bowlers who took part in the Northern Association's tournament at Wellington have returned to Auckland, and speak most highly of the hospitality meted out to thorn whilst in the central city: all are agreed that had Captain Edwin treated them as well as others did, nothing moro could havo been desired, but it seems that ho had kept the wind bottled up for five weeks prior to January 20, and then let it lose in all its fury upon the visitors. It was comical in the extreme to see hats go flying from men's heads out of the greens and over two or three fences into the gardens of the residents round about. It has been decided that the tie between Auckland and Mount Eden for the champion shield of the Auckland Bowling Association will be played off on the Remuera Green on Saturday, February 15, at half-past two p.m. POLO. Recent Now York exchanges contain further reference to tho proposal, mentioned in these columns some weeks ago, of sending a polo team to England at Coronation time. One paper says: Matters in relation to the formation of an American polo team to com- I pete in the Coronation tourney next summer : in England will be acted upon definitely with-:; in_ the next 10 days. Letters are being re- I ceived at frequent intervals from the polo authorities in England urging the Polo, Association, of which Mr. H. L. Herbert is chairman, to use every endeavour towards having the United States represented by its leading players., Mr. Foxhall Iveene, who will probably '-captain any American forces selected, has promised Mr. Herbert that lie would shortly be in a position to speak in an authoritative manner regarding tho entering of a team. In commenting upon the chances of tho United States being represented at the English tournament, Mr. Herbert said: "Nothing definite can be said at present. Mr. Kecne has not been able to give the matter any great amount of attention, although s he expects to confer with me soon about the chances of sending a team. Mr. Gould, on the other hand, is in Texas at present, and as he was one of the factors toward the success of the Lakewood championship team, action will bo deferred until his return." I hear Cambridge are getting practice now and again, and are indulging in good hard play. With a little more combination they will be a formidable lot, and give promise to repeat the dose administered to Auckland at Cambridge, notwithstanding Auckland havo strengthened their team.

I notice a number oi the polo players are back in town- again after the holidays, and ■■ if ;■ we have a : fine ; afternoon to-day I look forward to a good turn .out of members and friends at Alexandra Park.

Harry Tonks has been away for a holiday, but will be on the scene this afternoon. I have never seen Alexandra Park in l worse condition than it is just now; in fact, it is becoming dangerous to ride on. I think the committee should draw the Rugby Union authorities' attention to the matter, because if left till the end of the season the polo players will be blamed. " Play commences at the Park at three p.m. sharp, and every member, as I have before . remarked, should try and be up to time, so os to have as long an afternoon as possible. CYCLING. —\ The New Zealand League of Wheelmen has allotted the amateur cycling championships to the Auckland Amateur Athletic and Cycle Club, and if accepted the races will be run in conjunction with the club's March carnival. Canterbury will, no doubt, be represented by Rodgers, who recently won the one mile Australasian championship, or Amos, or both, and it will be interesting to see how the Southern men compare with W. Reynolds and other of our leading local riders. v

An exchange states that there is at present a strong demand for ladies' bicycles in Chxistchurch.

Dr Humphry Haines and Mrs. Haines have gone to, Rotorua on the motor car recently imported by Mr. Goo. , Henning. 1 Writing to a friend in tho South the New Zealand cyclist, Geo. Sutherland, states that lie is anxious to compete in the New Zealand - championships this season, but expresses a doubt as to whether be will be able to obtain permission , from the Australian authorities to race in this : colony owing to the New Zealand League not boin!; recognised by the Australian governing bodies. ' Platt-Betts, the crack English pace-fol-lower, contemplates another visit to Australia. Betts visited the colonies some three years back on a racing circuit. Should he again come out to Australia he will ride in scratch and handicap events, he having practically given up pace following owing to the dangerous falls ho has sustained behind the pacing machines. The free wheel world's record has been further increased by J. E. By water (England), who lias coasted on the track the marvellous distance of two and a-half miles. This ride was accomplished on a banked track, the cyclist taking advantage of the banking to keep way on his machine. Fancy averaging 53 miles an hour up a hill, the gradient over a measured kilometre (1094 yards) being one in eight.* This wonderful performance was recently accomplished at the great French motor hillclimbing contest by a French motorist named Rigal, who drove a double-cylinder motor cycle 1094 yards in 425. This great, performance was accomplished in public and officially timed by competent watch-holders. P. Alissof, an Italian, who has been for some time resident of Sydney, and who was on the motor tandem during Arthur Smyth's record hunt, had a go for the Goulburn to Sydney road record recently. The distance is 1362 miles, and tho record was held by C. S. Orr, lOh. 38m. Alissof had bad luck with punctures, etc., and is . said to have been on four machines, but he knocked ten minutes off the record.

Further experiments in free wheels in relation to the proportion of pedalling saved shows that in an extended run, over all kinds of country, the general average mileage coasted was 220 in —about one mile in every four and a-half miles. _ It would be 'interesting if more records of this sort were available; for instance, the record of a season's' riding and the distance freewheeled should provo valuable, for while the average man knows that the coaster brake saves a deal of pedalling in a day's or a week's ride, he has but little idea of the extent. •

Michael, on landing ,at New York, said he had made £600 for his three' appearances in Paris, but lie considered the American riders, such as Elkes, Walthour and Stinson. a class above the Ilobls, Bonhours, and Bauges. Eek, his manager, says:—"Jimmy is without an equal either indoors or . out of doors, but the odds are more in his favour on the small indoor tracks, and it is difficult- -to get anyone to meet him in a true sporting match for genuine stake money, so we shall have to offer something tempting in the way of odds on to get- a match."

One or two makers declare that for the : motor bicycle a new design of frame is I needed, as they consider the diamond pattern not altogether suitable. For the purpose of pedalling, the diamond frame' type is well designed, but it is quite another thing to lie riding well up in the air, necessarily out of reach of the ground,-with a 1 J.- h.p. motor driving the rider along at a lively pace. At the present time the most popular and the prevailing form of motor bicycle carries its weight, not only of motor and its appurtenances, but of the rider as well, high above the wheel centres, excepting that class whose motors are placed at the bottom bracket. The belief is growing that the pattern of the frame should be altered, by which the rider will get nearer the ground, that lie may have a comfortable seat instead of the customary saddle, and by this means enable the manufacturers to bring the greater portion of the entire weight carried by the frame below the wheel centre. To my mind, however, the first essential to this end is that the motor itself should be absolutely reliable uncier all conditions, for the alterations proposed will dispense /with the pedals and cranks. The annual six days' race (in teams of two) at Madison Square Gardens, Is ew York, started at midnight on Sunday, December 8. The prize-money amounted to £1000. Despite the hour, 12,000 people saw the start. The race was an iinpaced one. The contestants started away at terrific speed, and the first five miles was done on tho 10-lap track in 12m., and nearly 25 miles was ridden in the first hour. The first 4-00 miles was covered in 18 hours. At the end of 24 hours six of the teams, all Americans, were level, \Vit-h, 494- miles three laps; three other teams were only a lap behind them, while tho Englishmen (Hall and McLaren) were three laps behind the leaders. On December 14, when the race was concluded, there were, it is said, 100,000 spectators present. The event was closely contested right out to the finish, five of the teams riding the same distance, and there was a sprint for the tape, which resulted in tho teams being placed as follow: — McEachern and Walthour (Canada), 2555 miles, 1; Mayer and Wilson (Pennsylvania), 2555 miles, 2; Newkirk and Munro (Tennyson), 2555 miles, 3: Rabcock and.Turville (New York), 2555 miles, 4; Butler and McLean (Boston), 2555 miles, 5; King and Samuelson (Salt Lake City). 2555 miles, 6; Hall and McLaren (England), 2552 miles, 7. AQUATICS. It has been decided to give a display of the yachts on the departure of the troopship Surrey this afternoon. Particulars of the arrangements will be found in another part of this issue. I hope that every yacht possible will take part in the display, in order to give visitors an idea as to what we possess in Auckland in the way of yachts. The next general handicap yacht race of the New Zealand-Yacht Squadron takes place on Saturday afternoon next at half-past two o'clock, the destination to be decided upon according to the weather. The third , and last series of races of the Parnell Sailing Club take place at Judge's Bay on the 22nd inst. Auckland Anniversary Regatta took place on Wednesday last, and was one of- the most successful which has taken place during late 3ears. The weather was beautifully fine, and the Union Company's steamer '■ Taviuni, which acted as flagship, was largely patronised, fully 1500 people being on board. Everything passed off exceedingly well, no hitches occurring throughout the day, and all on board went away perfectly satisfied with the day's outing. The committee of the Anniversary Regatta are to be cordially congratulated upon the success attending their efforts in making the aquatic carnival so interesting, and for the manner in which everything was carried out. Each committeeman was at his post during the day, and paid strict attention to his duties, leaving no chance lor even the faintest grumble to mar the pleasure of the day. Tho large -lumber of ladies who patronised the flagship had every care and attention paid to them, not only by the committee, but also by Captain McLean and the officers and crow of tho Taviuni, and were loud in their praises of tho kindness and consideration shown to them. , Oil Regatta Day Speedwell carried for the first time a new mainsail of crosscut pattern, similar to the sails of Shamrock and Columbia, and the first of its kind seen in Auckland. It was made by the noted firm of Boston sail makers, Messrs. Wilson and Silsby. The cloths in this sail run across it from luff to loach, -and nearly parallel to the gaff. It appeared to " set" very weil, and must have contributed in no small degree to Speedwell's victory. St. George's light-weight maiden crow successfully weathered the heavy sea on Wednesday , last. They are a much-improved crew, and I would like to see thorn have a good " go" in fine weather.

: Parnell Sailing Club's second series of | races took : place at Judge's Bay last, Satur- | day, and provided some good sport: . The I entries for the various events were, however, much smaller than the previous, series, which |is• to be : regretted. . The members of > the club will have to bestir themselves, as I notice that the .enthusiastic feeling which prevailed last season in ' the affairs of the club is greatly' wanting., this year. This is. not as it should be in the eastern suburb, as there are plenty of yachts and-yachtsmen living in the district to make the club a power in aquatic matters in Auckland if .it were carried on on the right lines. There are only one or two members who seem to take any interest in the club, and who do splendid work in its interests, but members generally should remember that "the willing horse" is likely to <jet tired of it, and then goodbye to Parnell. Sailing Club. ' In her race on Wednesday Speedwell was sailed, as usual, by her owner, Mr. W. A. Wilkinson, who is to bo complimented on the way in which he handled her. The startwas a pretty piece of work, Speedwell crossing the line some five or six lengths ahead, and to windward of her rivals, and although carrying away her mainsheefe bridle soon after, yet she was never caught, and showed a steady gain at all the marks. Passing the flagship the first time she was sm. ahead of Miro; the next time past she liad increased it to 4m., and she eventually won by sm. 20s. after o- splendid race. On crossing the finishing. she was greeted with three hearty cheers from the flagship. Miro was sailed by Jack Kiss Ting. Malua and Eulr.lie both dropped out on the first round, the former having- met with an accident to her gaff. Some .of the yachtsmen are complaining very much about the course in the open handicap yacht race on Wednesday, their cause of complaint being that the course was much longer than that laid down in the programme. The distance given was 36 miles, but they assert that it was nearer 48 miles, owing to the' markboafc which should have been off Rangitoto wharf being placed nearer Emu Point thin the wharf. If that is so, I. think their complaint is a just one, as on the" longer course the handicaps would have worked out differently. In laying these marks particular attention should be paid to see that they are placed as nearly as exact as possible, and it is to be hoped that at the next regatta this cause of complaint will be removed. Moana sailed a great race at the Anniversary Regatta on-Wednesday, and won very easily from, Ida. The latter had a bit of bad luck by some of her gear car v ying away, by which she lost several minutes at- an awkward time. There is a lot in the old boat, and if she had a new mainsail would : travel very much faster than she does at present. : St. eorge's Rowing Club's competition for the Rathbone Cup, in stump outriggers, takes place this afternoon. The various heats are to .bo drawn at the shed at half-past- two, when all entrants are required to bo in attendance, otherwise they will forfeit their chance.

The gig rowing events at the Anniversary Regatta had to be abandoned after one had been got off, owing to the heavy sea which rolled into the harbour from the north-east as the breeze freshened. Only three boats started in the maiden gigs (under 10st)—two from St. George's and one from Waitemata. Two of them were swamped before tho course was half-covered, and the other met with the same fate just as the finishing-line was crossed. It has not yet been decided when the other races will be rowed off.

The suburban club flying the St. George's cross appears to be regaining its old position in the rowing world, judging by the number of r.ew members enrolled this season and the keen interest shown by its regatta crews now in training. , . Yachtsmen's hearts were in their mouths on Wednesday morning last when they found that there was a dead calm prevailing for the races at ho Anniversary Regatta, and the first two or three races were sent away with hardly a breath of wind, and a long drifting match was anything but an enjoyable pro" spect. After an hour, however, the conditions changed, and before long some of the yachts had all the breeze and sea they wanted, and a little bit more. The strong wind and heavy sea found out the weak spots in the gear, with the inevitable result of crippling the boat, and a. necessary retirement from, the race.

It has been mooted that the model yacht race, which should have been sailed on Wednesday, bo sailed on Lake Tnkapuna at the forthcoming Northern Rowing Union's regatta. The interest in this event has been much revived of late, there being- no fewer than 16 entries for the race on Wednesday last. ' I trust that the interest will be kept up, and that every encouragement will be given by the various clubs to young yachtsmen to continue their construction. ..... The Mahurangi Heads Regatta wall take place on Saturday next. There are two races on the programme for Auckland yachts, ; viz., under 27ft waterline and over 27ft, en-: tries for which may be made with Mr. W. A. Wilkinson till five p.m. on Wednesday next. Post entries '-'will also be received on the morning of the regatta. It is unfortunate that this date should clash with several other fixtures, but the committee, whilst regretting this fact, were unable, to hold it on any other date, and have decided to carry it through. Ponsonby Cruising Club .; race to Howick took place last Saturday afternoon, and was won by Hinem-oa, who had a time allowance of 14m. Some 34- yachts anchored off the Howick Wharf in the evening, and presented a. Very pretty sight. A smoke concert was held in the hall at night, and was very much enjoyed. At the Wellington Regatta last Saturday lorangi, the new Logan-built 30-footer, owned by Mr. Turnbull, won the big yacht race, defeating the ex-Auckland crack Rainbow somewhat easily. A very fine picture of the lvohn shield, presented to the West End Rowing Club for competition annually, appears in the illustrated supplement of the Auckland Weekly News this week.

Ngaruawahia junior crew proceed home today. West End officials will see that their ■boat is shipped on the railway truck. The visitors cordially acknowledge the great kindness received at the hands of all West.Enders since their arrival in Auckland, and they hop© that they will be more successful on the Waikato when contesting with Auckland crews on March 17 next. West End Rowing l Club hold trial fours next Saturday for trophies presented by the president of the club, Mr. Murdoch McLean. The officers and committee of West End have done their best to make the visit of the Ngaruawahia, crow to Auckland pleasant. On one afternoon this week the visitors were taken to the Lake, while on Wednesday evening they were the guests of w West End _at the performance of the Hawtroy Comedy Company; while they have also had all the privileges of membership extended to them at the boat-house. ANNIVERSARY REGATTA ROWING RACES. The two junior races of the Auckland Regatta, postponed from Wednesday, were rowed last evening under most favourable circumstances. Last evening was decided on for tho events, as Ngaruawahia had positively to leave for home to-day. Captain Parker acted as starter and Mr. R. Logan as judge. There was quite a large number of interested persons at tho finishing-place, Hobson-streat Wharf. The start was from off Shelly Beach. Five crews, representing Ngaruawahia, West End, Auckland, and St. George's (2), started, and a capital race ensued, West End, rowing a fine stroke, winning by three lengths from Waitemata, Ngaruawahia being half-a-length behind Waitemata. This was a very fine light-weight race, and, as there was at one time some discussion as to whether the race should be dropped off the programme of the Auckland Regatta, its rentention was more than justified. Tho West End crew was stroked by J. H. Bigelow. After a spell of half-an'-hour the boats went out for the open junior race, Waitemata, St. George's, and Auckland with fresh crews, and West End and Ngaruawahia with tho same men as in the previous race. This pijpved also a most interesting race. Captain Parker got the crews away very evenly, and when the first quarfcer-of-a-milo had been travelled it was seen that the struggle lay between Auckland, West End, and Waitemata. Throe hundred yards from homo all the orews named pub in extra efforts, Auckland's four proving the best by a length from West End, Waitemata being Half-a-length behind. Auckland's representatives rowed a great race, West End also coming in for a great deal of cheering, as they had just before contested and won tho light junior race. The Auckland crew was stroked by B. Bach. Hearty cheers were given for Captain Parker (starter) and Mr. R. Logan (judge) by the various competitors. Lynx.

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" May I bring home a box of custard as well as the Sunshine Jelly Crystals?" "Yes," she said; "I'm so glad you remembered it; got two Jelly Crystals, a3 a reward; don't forget Tucker's."- . i