AIR RACE FROM ENGLAND TO HAREWOOD IN 1953 IS BEING PLANNED

Wanganui Chronicle, 28 June 1948, Page 4

AIR RACE FROM ENGLAND TO HAREWOOD IN 1953 IS BEING PLANNED

(P.A.) Wellington, June 24. An international air race from England to Harewood, to coincide with the proposed international exhibition at Christchurch in 1953, is now being planned by the Canterbury International Air Race Committee. The total prize money for both sections of the race, speed and handicap, will be approximately £30,000. The objects of the race are to further public Interest and confidence In civil aviation generally, to promote tourist trafiic to the South Island and lo assist in obtaining worldwide publicity for the international exhin>tion. The Royal Aero-Club in England will be asked for its co-opera-tion in the running of the race and (tie International Air Safety Regulations will be the main guide to the conditions. Sir Frederick Handley Page, noted British aircraft designer, who is president of the Royal Aeronautical Society, has been consulted about the race and lias told the committee that it would serve a useful purpose to aviation generally and British aviation in particular. The scheme has also been discussed with Air Chief Marshal Sir Keith Park, who considers the idea an excellent one and has offered assistance. The committee hopes that airline operators will enter standard passenger aircraft in tile handicap section ot the race and bring visitors to Christchurch for the exhibition. Plans for the speed section are being considered, and it is hoped that entries will include new types of jet-propelled combat aircraft. The chairman of the committee is Mr. H. D. Christie, president of the Royal New Zealand Aero Club and the Canterbury Aero Club.