SPORTS OFF THE PIER, YESTERDAY

Lady canoeists’ disappointment

Yesterday afternoon a series of aquatic sports took place off the Pier in the presence of a large number of spectators. The several events were organised by Mr Grace and a sub-committee of the Amusements Committee. The Volunteer and Town Band, under Signor D’Anna performed a programme of music. The weather was beautifully fine, but a rather strong breeze was blowing, which prevented a ladies’ canoe race taking place. The first event was walking the greasy pole for a leg of mutton. There were three competitors – Wetherick,  Eldridge, and Saunders, the last-named winning. The second event was a race for single-handed skiffs.1 Arrow (H Hunt). 2 Little Vixen (Geo. Wheeler) 3 Rose (H Wheeler) 4 Beatrice (C Blake) 5 Nellie (W Jenkins) 6 Ada (Charles Harding). The race was won easily. The course was round a mark boat off Steephill Cove, round another boat on the east side of the Pier, finishing at the Pier. C Saunders, the duck in the hunt which followed,  was captured by Wetherick,  Eldridge, Hunt and Tharle, his pursuers. Next cam a pair-oared skiff race, won by the Oliver (C Blake and H Wheeler), the only other boat going being the Beatrice (G Wheeler and H Hunt). Another greasy pole contest and duck hunt followed. Mr F Hardley acted as starter and Mr Galley as judge.

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