A Report Corrected.

Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 386, 31 March 1932, Page 8

A Report Corrected.

To the Editor. Dear Sir,—On our return from Picton today the members of the Canterbury interprovincial eight-oar crew were surprised at the description of the race that appeared in your paper and, in fairness to the clubs and supporters who made the trip possible, I think that it would be a reasonable request to ask you to correct certain of the statements. The start, which you describe as even, was decidedly the opposite, and Canterbury received the worst of it. Otago, rowing at forty, not thirty-two, as stated, had a lead of over two lengths at the mile, and Canterbury’s striking rate, according to officials following, was never over thirty-two up to this period. From the mile to within two hundred yards of the finish Canterbury made up all but half a length. Rowing at thirty-seven over the remainder of the course, the distance separating the two crews was reduced to such a small margin that neither Otago nor Canterbury could say who had won, and it was some minutes before the decision was heard by any but those who were in a position near the finishing line. Canterbury have no excuses to make. We were beaten by a better crew, by a small margin, and extend our congratulations to Otago, who deserved to win. At the same time the supporters of the crew who were not present at the contest are entitled to know the true facts and if, as your paper states, two lengths separated the first and second (a distance of 42yds), the result would have been clear to all. the moment the race finished.—l am. etc., C. A. STILES. The “ Star ” will make inquiries as to how the Press Association estimate of two lengths was arrived at. —Ed., “ Star.”