A NOTABLE ROWING SUCCESS

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 77, Issue 82, 7 April 1934, Page 8

A NOTABLE ROWING SUCCESS

jgY winning the interprovincial eight-oared race from Otago, holders of the title for five years in succession, Wanganui has created a record by breaking a record. It has also attracted attention to its oarsmen and coaches and proved, once again, that its rowing ability ranks among the best in the Dominion. The crew’s achievement was notable. Only six feet separated it from the Otago crew, and the last 100 yards were covered at a pace demanding a supreme effort of its men. Not only was the victory notable for the physical fitness of the crew; it also reflected credit on two men who have given the value of their experience to younger oarsmen. The pair referred to are Mr. W. G. Cootnbes, the coach, and Mr. C. A. Healey, the captain. A matter of 15 years ago, these two men were rowing together in the New Zealand Army eight in England and the Continent. They won races together then; they arc still winning togethernow. They gained experience then; they are giving the benefit of that experience to-day. Although Mr. Coombes is not an active oarsman to-day, his interest in the sport is as great as ever: the man who still takes an interest in a sport in which he does not participate possesses, to a high degree, the qualities of a sportsman. For- Mr. Healey to be winning races when oarsmen of his day have retired, proves conclusively that he is a man of remarkable physique and a fine general. With two such men of experience working together Wanganui rowing is enriched. The crew also contained the ex-single sculls champion, A. I\. G. Jackson, and two members of the crew which was runner-up for the New Zealand fours title last year. It. is a crew of remarkable ability and should be, the, means of Wanganui continuing its rowing successes in future years.