LAND SPEED RECORD

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 74, Issue 114, 16 May 1931, Page 10

LAND SPEED RECORD

CAMPBELL’S PLANS. The Auckland Automobile Association has received a letter which indicates that Sir Alalcolm Campbell is very seriously considering tho final details in connection with making an attempt on the world’s land speed, record at the Ninety Mile Beach, North Auckland. When Air. 11. Butcher visited England last year, on behalf of the . A.A.A., the first real effort was made ' to interest overseas drivers in the pos- 1 sibilities of New Zealand’s beach. Air. Butcher has since been in direct communication with a number of the leading racing authorities in Great Britain, and the A.A.A. has also officially confirmed the statements made 1 by Mr. Butcher while in Great Britain. In addition, inquiries were made through the British and New Zealand Governments, and it now appears that the British racing enthusiasts are convinced not only that the Ninety Mile Beach is admirably suited for the purpose of attempting speed records, but, that both Sir Alalcolm Campbell and Air. Kaye Don are preparing for further attempts to bo made, possibly in New Zealand. The latest inquiries received by the A.A.A. indicate that Sir Alalcolm only requires specific information and definite assurances with regard to the transport of his car from Auckland to the garage on the Ninety-Alile Beach for him to make a definite decision to attempt to better the time_rccently established by him at Daytona. The “Blue Bird,” the car which Sir Malcolm Campbell will drive in the speed test, is over 25 feet long, and weighs 24 tons. The car is accompanied by over three tons of the various spare parts which it is essential should be carried, and in addition, there would be the personal belonging of attendants and mechanics necessary for the venture. Tho questions concerning transport and the difficulties which have been raised by the English drivers have been considered by the A.A.A., which is posting to England detailed parti, culars of the facilities which are available for the transport of tho car. Suggestions aro also being included which, it is considered, should overcome any doubt in the minds of the British officials as to the existence of adequate facilities for handling tho car, transporting it safely to the beach, and carrying out all details in connection with tho trial.