SPORTS AND ATHLETICS

Waimate Daily Advertiser, Volume XXIII, 19 May 1922, Page 6

SPORTS AND ATHLETICS

* SCULLING. HENLEY AND DEMOCRACY. WILL AUSTRALIA COMPETE? (Per Press Association—Copyright.) LONDON, May 16. Apropos the application by the Melbourne champion eight to compete at the Henley Regatta, it is pointed out. that the rules of the Amateur Rowing Association bar membership -of mechanics, artisians, labourers and all persons employed in menial duties. One Henley steward explains that the Regatta Committee is not bound by the rules of ihe Association, and the Australians’ application will receive most, just consideration. The Association’s rules were framed only because those who earn a livelihood by muscular effort have an impair advantage over the ordinary amateur. The “Evening Standard,” referring io Australian applications to row at Henley, points out that the Amateur Rowing Association’s rule is quite specific, rind unless it is waived the pplication cannot be accepted. It Is unlikely that it will be waived. JACK AS GOOD AS HIS MASTER. LONDON, May 17. Newspapers quote an Australia House .official who insists chat manual - orkers in Australia 'are regarded socially as equal with anyone, and, who points out that they comjpcte on equal ermh at Henley on the Yarra, which :s patronised by all classes. The official adds: If people who are tho backbone of Australia are debrir-:-ed by social reasons from competing here, the effect on. Australian public c pinion will lie 'sad. AUTHORITIES’ VIEW. Rowing authorities emphasise thi|t rhe rule against mechanics and artisans is not based on, snobbishness l , hut simply upon, the advantage the nianual workers has over the sedentary worker. Feeling among racing clubs is that relaxation of the rule in favour of .Australians would be the thin edge of the wedge, resulting in Henley and other meetings losing the present status.