THE SCULLING CHAMPIONSHIP.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 6114, 14 September 1881, Page 2

THE SCULLING CHAMPIONSHIP.

RUSH v. LAYCOOK-

Tho match between M. Rush and E. Lay cock for L2OO a side, rowed at Sydney on Ibl September, is thus described :—

At last the signal was given, and away they went, Laycock being the first to take the water, leading for a few strokes, but, finding he was taking Rush's water, and fearing a foul, he ceased rowing. Rush drew slightly ahead, | probably a quarter of a boat's length dividing them. Rush, who seemed determined to lead, Boon had an advantage of three lengths, anu both men drew towards tho north side, which belonged to Rush. About thiß time they were rowing about 3G to the minute. Laycock pulled in one of Jewett's boats, which he brought from England, whereas Rush used Donuelley'a boat. At the mile point Rush <vas close in on the north side, abont two lengths ahead of Laycock, the Clarence man evidently doing hie utmost lo out down his opponent, who was rowing with less exertion. After passing the mile point Rnsh drew very much to the north side, so much so that his backers were apprehensive of his losing all direction, whereas Laycock, although inclining to the northern side, took a straighter course. There waa here probably a space of 20 yards betweerj them, though Rush was probably at no time more than three lengths ahead. As they approached Putney, Ru3h came out a little and showed an advantage of three lengtha over his adversary. Once past Putney, Rash again drew in towards the Bhore to save the wind, Lavcock keeping more on his course. Passing M'Donuld'a Point, Rush had rather increased his lead, and both men began to cross to the ether Bid ■of the river. Prom thia to tho Hen and Chickens Lnycock appeared to gain slightly, but Rush immediately placed the ordinary three lengths to bis credit- Although doing his utmost, the same positions were halo past Gladesville and to Branch's Point, where Laycock appeared to mako a final straggle to reach bis opponent; but it was of no avail, Rush maintaining his advantage to the end, and Laycock not persevering in the last hundred yards, Rush paddled past the winning post leisurely, 20 lengths in front of Laycock. Time, 20 mm. 30 sec. After the first quarter of a mile they were ro * ing 34 to the minute with scarcely a variation. After the race, Laycook made a claim of foul, bnt ilr P- J. Clarke, the nmpire, declined to entertain it.