THE SCULLING CHAMPIONSHIP. WANGANUI, June 13.
Webb left to-day for Wellington, where he embarks to-morrow in the Mahcno for Sydney to row Charles Towns for tho sculling championship of the world on August 3. Webb had a most enthusiastic send-off, large crowds gathering at the station. There was a big assemblage at the Provincial Hotel this morning, where Webb was presented with a purse of sovereigns by the Mayor on behalf of sculling admirers. Eulogistio speeches were made by the Mayor and the member for the district. Webb is accompanied by his trainer (J. D. Barrett). (Fbom Oub Own Correspondent.) WELLINGTON, June 14. New Zealand's champion oarsman, W. Webb, of Wanganui, leaves by the Maheno this evening for Sydney, where he will row Charles Towns for th& championship of the world on August 3. A Post reporter had a conversation with Webb this morning, but found him modestly reticent* about himself, and it was only after a process of cross-examination that he was induced to remark that he felt " real fit " ; that he was going over the other side to win if he possibly could, and that if he was beaten — well, he would do his best, and no on-© oould do any more. Mr Webb's trainer (Mt J. D. Barnett) reports that his charge is in really firstclass fettle, and has the utmost confidence in the result of the trip. As an old oarsman himself, he is full of praise of the style displayed by Webb, and thinks that the Wanganui man will render a firstclass account of himself. Mr Webb takes over his own boat for practice purposes, but will row in a new boat, to be built specially for him out of funds subscribed by the people of Wanganui. - His training occupies about five hours a day. Ho reckons that if he gets a course similar to that at Wanganui out of the town he will achieve what he desires. He thinks he will be better in the approaching contest than in the struggle against Stanbury, as he has increased in weight since then, and has improved in condition. Finally he considers that the fact of his having joined the ranks of the professionals will have the effect of spurring amateurs on to increased efforts. In fact since he rowed against Stanbury very many aspirants to possible fame have come forward.
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Otago Witness, Issue 2779, 19 June 1907, Page 56
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394THE SCULLING CHAMPIONSHIP. WANGANUI, June 13. Otago Witness, Issue 2779, 19 June 1907, Page 56
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