TWIRLING 1500 TONS OVER HEAD

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18897, 23 October 1929, Page 10

TWIRLING 1500 TONS OVER HEAD

CLUB SWINGER SETS TASK FOR HIMSELF IN ATTACK ON RECORD

Charles Buckett, the well-known local athlete, who commenced an attack on the world’s club-swinging record at the Caledonian Hall at ten o’clock last night, was going strongly this afternoon He has set himself a Herculean task, intending to keep the clubs in motion for not less than 72hrs 36min. Buckett is twirling two 61b 6oz clubs, and at present is maintaining a speed of one complete swing of each club per second. If he achieves his object, and does not vary the time of his swing, a weight approaching 1500 tons will have been whirled about in the air by his efforts. No small task! Buckett is shaved in the mornings by a barber, and during the operation of removing the whiskers from his face the swing goes on as usual. It speaks something for the shaver and shaved that no unexpected developments have occurred. Buckett is fed on eggs and milk. His legs, which have to bear the weight of his body, are bandaged to prevent swelling from blood pressure. Mind and muscle are concentrated in the attainment of Buckett’s object. IJe stated this morning that he is confident of success. The effort is timed to conclude not later than 10 37 p.m. on Friday. Buckett at present holds the world’s records in endurance club-swinging in the following performances: —61b clubs, for 72 hours; 81b clubs, for 48 hours; 24 hours’ fast swinging; sword swing ing, for 60 hours; 24 hours’ combina tion swing, in which 1143 separate exercises were carried out.

The present attempt On the record of T. W. Burrows of 72 hours 36 minutes, accomplished, however, with 31b clubs, is carried out under very strict supervision. Referee and timekeeper have been appointed by the editor of the Sydney “ Referee.” The official timekeeper is Mr J- H. Shier, and the referee is Mr E. H Marriner, both of Christchurch.

The Canterbury Automobile Association reports that the road to Arthur’s Pass is open again and in good order. The Waimakariri is normal at the Bealev and the weather is fine.