SPEED MANIA

Wairarapa Daily Times, 26 January 1932, Page 4

SPEED MANIA

“WARD” SMITH'S TRY

ANOTHER DELAY. ,

NINETY-MILE BEACH, Monday. Although this morning everything pointed to “Wizard” Smith making an attempt on the ten-mile record, and all preparations were made for the run this afternoon, an inspection of the beach showed that last night’s spring tide had caused big wash-outs to the track north of Hukatere. The indications earlier were that the beach had been well cleared up by the heavv se.<s, and the highest tide of the season, but the wind was in the wrong direction, causing side currents, which made wash-^^^ outs. . x , ]Qt> Smith was patently disappointed at the state of the beach. He ran the whole length of the course in a touring car while feverish preparation* were made at the garage to get ready.% On his return, Smith stated that he would not take the Enterprise out. The racing tyres and wheels had been fitted, and flagmen from Kaitaia had all - arrived to mark the course. The timing apparatus was also sent up to the beach, but it is understood that the van will be parked in the sandhills, as if there is another, heavy sea to-night, Smith hopes to be able to do something tomorrow. —(P.A.) MAY ATTACK RECORD TO-DAY. NINETY MILE BEACH, This DayW At low water, between 4 and o o'clock this afternoon, “Wizard” Smith intends to attack the 10 mile record and, if successful, it is antiei- - pated that other records will be attempted within the next two days. . * “Wizard” Smith had announced his intention of attempting the record yesterday afternoon and all preparations, such as fitting the racing tyres, loading the truck with spares, and having the flagmen on the spot were made. Just before low water, however, Smith inspected the whole length of the course and then announced there were several washouts higher up the beach and that the run was off. To-day Smith seems determined to get something done. He stated that lie wished to start near the surf, and run on a diagonal course along the beach until he enters the ten mile stretch. He will then straighten up for the dash. He will he content with approaching the timing switch at a speed of between 90 and 100 miles an hour, and then speed up to about 150 miles an hour, which will enable him to beat Marchand’s record time of 137.21 jj^iles

per hour. The weather this morning is good and the visibility excellent. —(P.A.)