ANNIVERSARY REGATTA.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXV, Issue 20114, 27 November 1928, Page 12

ANNIVERSARY REGATTA.

.Sir, —In your issue of Wednesday last was a Jotter drawing attention to the abominable noise made by motor-boats (especially outboard motors) on the harbour. and suggesting that silencers should be made compulsory. I am heartily in agreement with your correspondent and would like to suggest that, if the use of silencers is not enforced, motor-boat races should not be held on regatta day (January 20), as the pleasure of the day is largely spoiled to yachtsmen by the execrable noise. One might as well be in a sawmill with all machinery in full swing. Another suggestion I would like to make for the consideration of the Regatta Committee is that a return to the old system of giving the time allowances at the beginning of the race, instead of at the end, should be tried. Under the present system the general public take very small interest in the racing, as it is impossible for anyone to tell which boat is in the lead, in fact, the competitors themselves have frequently to buy a newspaper to ascertain if they have won or not. As there are not such large entries now as there were a few years back, I am sure tliere would be little difficulty in starting the boats. At one time a start used 'o be made at anchor with sails down, which provided a good test of seamanship in getting under weigh quickly. R. E. Fkxton.