THE NORTH INLAND AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP.

New Zealand Illustrated Sporting & Dramatic Review, Volume XV, Issue 895, 2 May 1907, Page 11

THE NORTH INLAND AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP.

The competition at the Waitemata Saloon for the Amateur Championship of the North Island has steadily progressed, and on the whole some good play has been shown. The best form so far has been shown by Mr. Sweet, and it looks as though he will win the coveted title. On Thursday evening Cook met Russell, and gradually drawing away from his younger rival won by 500 to 417. The winner’s average per cue was 5.9. On Friday Sweet played Hackett, and as the result of this game was expected to decide the championship. There was an overflowing attendance, many being unable to gain admission. Up to 400 it was fairly even, but then Sweet drew out a big lead, ultimately winning by 500 to 401. Sweet’s best break was one of 65, which was terminated by him being angled on the red, the sole object ball. Hackett never appeared to warm up to it, his display being a long way below his best. The heat on Monday night between Messrs. Valentine and Hackett proved a capital contest, and provided some of the best play seen at the tournament. The issue was in doubt right up to the very end, both players being in good form. Valentine was the most brilliant, but the steadiness of his opponent beat him, Hackett winning by 500 to 474. His best breaks were 42, 38, 37, and 36, coming out with the good average of 8.6. Valentine strung together a pretty 88, the highest during the tournament, and also got runs of 48, 47, and 37, but was somewhat weak at times.