DEPARTURE OF THE CHAMPION

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume L, Issue 12145, 22 December 1908, Page 5

DEPARTURE OF THE CHAMPION

Among the passengers for the south by the 7 a.m. train yesterday were the champion sculler, his pacer and his trainer. There were a large number of enthusiasts at the station to say goodbye to the muscular oarsman, hearty cheers being given as the train moved off. Before leaving, Arnst said he could not speak too highly of the generous treatment he had received in Wanganui, and of the sportsmanlike way in which the other side had taken the result. He reckoned Webb was one of the whitest men he had ever met, and, he added,' "I am sorry that we could not both win, but unfortunately, in such contests, one has to come out on top, and the other go down." With regard to the wire published yesterday to the effect that Tommy Burns had expressed his willingness to train Arnst for the prize ring, the scullw said he, had had a letter from the Canadian, in whichr^urns stated that Arnst;was just the"" build, and had apparently all the qualifications to make a great boxer. Arnst says that so long as he can get sculling matches he will stick to rowing, even though, for top notchers there may be more money to be made in the prize ring. Arnst and Fogwell propose having a cycling tour through the Dominion, and will probably give displays of oarsmanship in the various centres. Both will, however be in Wanganui again in a fortnight's time as they have business to complete here.' Arnst will be entertained in Wellington to-night and to-morrow will be the guest of the Christchurch Regatta Club. He will also be entertained at a social by the residents of Tai Tapu, his birthplace.

Dick Ai-nst, who recently wrested the world's sculling championship from W. Webb, of Wanganui,,."passed through Palmerston yesterday. A representative of the Manawatu "Standard" happened' o meet him on the railway platform. He had a sheaf of telegrams in his hand and was looking for an office from which to send them.. Our reporter directed him to the office, and in turn. Arnst consented to talk. The train was just leaving and timo was short, but. the. pressman managed to glean a few; particulars. "The race," said Arnst, " was a hard one for the first mile and & half, but after that it was no,t so strenuous." He felt fairly fresh at the conclusion, "but, of course," he added, " the winner of a race always feels fresher than the loser."

Arnst; jwas- journeying to Wellington, and stated jthat from there he will proceed to CH'ristchurch, where a.Mayoral reception, awaits him. Mr Cowlishaw, president of the Rowing Association, had also written that they, too, would be giving him a reception. Afterwards he intended paying a visit to his home at Tai Tapu, near Ohristchurch. <- " And what about your future movements?" questioned the reporter. " I haven't made* any definite plans as yet,.?'' replied Arnst. " I have received a number of cables asking on what terms I will row Barry, but so far 1 have done nothing. If he sends a challenge to me I will accept it and will endeavour to induce him to come out here."

" Would you row on the Wanganai river? " *"" ' " I should row wherever the most -m^ney offers. It would probable be either at Wanganui or Sydney." The train was moving off. " Tell them, said Arnst, " that Webb is one of the best sports I ever met. He took his defeat like a man, and is just white right through."