CYCLIST HONOURED

Taranaki Daily News, 1 November 1935, Page 13

CYCLIST HONOURED

SOCIAL EVENING AT KORITO.

PRESENTATION TO MR. ASHMAN.

A social evening and a dance were held in the Korito hall on Wednesday, when Mr. W. Ashman, who recently won the Waimate-Christchurch cycle race, was presented with a gold wristlet watch, suitably engraved, from the lesidents of the Korito district in recognition of his success. A large crowd was present, including representatives of the New Plymouth Cycle and. Athletic League, which was an indication of the popularity of the guest. Mr. D. George, president of the Taranaki centre of the New Zealand Athletic Union, spoke on the record of the Wai-mate-Christchurch race, stating that many riders from Taranaki had competed in the race but found it hard to win. Only a few riders were handicapped behind Ashman, and his record ride was full of merit. Mr. George pointed out that cycling differed from many sports r that to win a (Competitor had to work in the best of harmony with his keenest rival. Cycling also established a man’s character by the way he did his share of the pace-making during a race, and in this respect Mr. Ashman had always excelled himself and had become a very popular club cyclist with the other members.

Mr. H. W. Reader on behalf of the district said the residents were very proud to have the winner in the district, particularly so as it was the first occasion the cup had come t> Taranaki since the commencement of the race in 1889. He made the presentation to Mr. Ashman, who replied. Coupled with the occasion, Mr. Ashman’s 21st birthday was celebrated. Mr. D. George proposed the health of Mr. Ashman’s parents. During the evening the cup, valued at 100 guineas, was on show. 'Mr. L. E. Smith gave two recitations. Boulton’s orchestra played music for dancing and Miss W. Snell and Mr. D. George played extras. A Monte Carlo waltz was won by Mr. Ashman and Miss Parker.