OBSCURE ROWING TERM

Wanganui Chronicle, 8 December 1948, Page 4

OBSCURE ROWING TERM

Sir, —The origin and meaning of the term “Best and Best” as applied to racing shells in the rowing sport, seems to be quite obscure. The term is generally accepted to imply that a shell is carvel built. Is it too much to ask that you throw what light you can on the matter? Thanking you.—l am, etc., “CLINKER.” Wanganui, Dec 7, 1948. The term “best and best,” the origin of which is obscure, has grown through usage. As you say “best,” as applied, to a boat means means that it is carvel built —smooth skinned. Originally the best classes of rowers were to have the best boats, so, through the years, it came to be recognised that they were competing in “best-and-best” events —the best rowers (classed as seniors) in the best boats. In some cases “best and best” as a term has been applied to junior events, meaning the best juniors in the best boats. Other readers may have something to add to this explanation. Many of the terms as applied to modern day sport have origins that are interesting.—Ed.