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SWIMMING.
KAHANAMOKU'S
RETURN.
CARNIVAL ACTIVITY.
Last Saturday
was a blank day as far as carnivals were concerned, but next Saturday will
be the reverse.
The return or
the Kahanamoku party provides the reason for actlvity In both surfing and
swlmming sectlons of the sport.
The champion
sprinter and surf-board exponent will make hls first public appearance
In the surf at the Dee Why Club's carnival, and if the waves be at all
suitable, his exhibitlon of board-rldlng in various attitudes should be
worth witnessing.
Kahanamoku stands
upright on the board, and is also at home standing on his head and
balanclng In various positlons as the board shoots towards the shore.
Another achievement,
so far alone mastered by him, is to take a passenger on the board with
him.
George Cunha,
the travelling companion of Kahanamoku, and one who, on his performance
in the hundred yards championship or the State may be classed as the fastest
white swimmer in Ihe world, is Iisted to make another appearance at the
Domaln Baths, where he will meet Barry and other speedy local performers
over the 100 metre course in a special handicap at the Ladies Association
championshlp carnival.
Cunha holds the
record for the dlstance, but Barry Is showing such fine form, that the
dlfference between the two in their one contest was so Ilttle, that both
are looking forward to another meeting.
The Ladies' Association
has also arranged for the troupe of divers, led by Len. McCarthy, to give
an exhibition of high tower acrobatic diving, a branch of the art which
has not so far been mastered by the fair sex.
Excepting these
two items, the whole of the programme will be confined to girl swimming,
and Miss Fanny Durack will be called upon to defend her championship titles
against the fast-improving Lottie Fevyer, Marjorie Winn, Aggie Sly, and
others.
Miss Mina Wylie,
who has been a very consistent performer for many years at these galas,
will be an absentee owing to an illness.
A third carnival—an
important one, too— will also be held at Lavender Bay.
The North Sydney
and Rose Bay Clubs have joined forces for the day.
Two district
champlonships besides the Harris Cup high diving competition, in which
all the leading exponents of the art are entered as representatives of
their respective districts, will be decided.
Champion Longworth
will make his re-appearance, after his unfortunate illness, in the 220yds
Eastern districts' championship, and it is predicted by his club-mates
that new Australasian figures will be created.
In the quarter-mile
Northern Suburbs' championship, T. Adrian, the State champion, will be
challenged by club-mate G. Wyld, and Cotton, the North Sydney rep.
As the carnival
will clash with that of the ladies, it has been arranged that the divers,
and also Barry, Cunha, and others will appear at both fixtures, and a launch
will be utilised to transfer these competitors from one bath to the other.
On Monday next
D. P. Kahanamoku will make his last swimming appearance in Sydney, when
he will appear at the Drummoyne Club's gala in a special hundred yards
invitation handicap.
The event will
consist of one heat, in which only the best sprinters will be invited to
start.
The bath provides
an ideal course for a fast swim, as, although the laps are short (33 1-3
yards), the width of the enclosure minimises the trouble experienced in
other small baths of a jobbled state of water for the scratch man.
Kahanmoku will
give starts to all the men, which means that he will have to move considerably
faster than if he were to meet the same field in a championship, and, that
being so, a new record should be created.
Besides the main
event, the programme includes no fewer than four championships.
The Harris Cup
medley event, in which three swimmers from each district will swim relays
of hundred yards by means of the back stroke, breast stroke, and free style,
is new to Sydney.
A few of the
nations are anxious to have such an event included in the programme of
the Olympic Games, so that, from many points of view, the item will be
of considerable interest.
The 500 yards
teams championship of the western districts should provide an even tussle
between the Drummoyne and Rechabite clubs, and both are anxious to
gain the Association's standard time certificate.
The 100 yards
club championship and 50 yards junior championship will also be decided.
Other items include
an exhibition swim by Miss Fanny Durack, world's lady champion, diving
and novelty events, and handicaps.
George Cunha,
the Hawaiian swimmer, will not take part in the special 100 yards
race, but will give a special swim over a distance to be selected.
The competitors
in the event as opponents of Kahanamoku will be Barry, Longworth, Boardman,
Solomon, Hay, and Page.
A good proportion
of the seating accommodation has already been sold, so that the success
of the venture is practically assured.
In the polo competitions,
Sydney are leading in the first grade with two points, and in the second
grade Pyrmont and Sydney each have two points.
Pyrmont easily
defeated Mosman last Saturday, and the meeting between the two leaders
should provide some excellent polo.
Both Manly and
Sydney held 220 yards handicaps last Saturday, a feature that cannot be
too highly valued.
In this column
attention has often been drawn to the too frequent 50 yards events at the
"Village" to the detriment of promising distance talent.
However, the
fact that seven heats were necessary to decide the furlong event on Saturday
shows that the members appreciate a change to a longer race now and again.
The 220 yards
is the most important distance to Australians, in view of the world's teams'
championship being decided in relays of that length.
Barry has improved
considerably over the distance, and on Saturday put up 2m 36 2-5s, an improvement
of several seconds on his best previous swim.
A slight alteration
to his stroke is responsible for this.
The sprint champion
deserves every credit for his perseverance in mastering this distance.
Rose Bay held
heats of its Longworth Cup, 500 yards event, and again William Longworth
qualified for the final by swimming second in his heat.
The champion
has a very substantial lead in this competition, and looks all out a winner
of the cup presented by his father.
The Melbourne
Club has arranged its programme for the visit of Kahanamoku on Saturday,
February 13, and Monday, February 15.
On the first
day the 100 yards and diving championships of Victoria will be decided,
but as only State residents are eligible to compete in the championships
a special 100- metres event has been included for the visitors.
This function
will be carried out at St. Kilda Baths, but the Monday fixture will be
held at the City Baths, and a 220 yards race is listed for Kahanamoku.
Newcastle has
arranged a special 150 yards race for the Hawaiian visitors, who will appear
in that city on Wednesday, February 10.
It is an effort
to secure Longworth and Kahanamoku over a course likely to make an even
contest.
It will be interesting
to note the doings of Kahanamoku over this distance, and yet another Australian
record may go to the credit of the visiting team after the event.
The Sydney
Morning Herald
Wednesday
3rd February 1915, page 7.
PAGE
FOR WOMEN
HOME
AFFAIRS.
THE SURF AND
THE SUN.
The hot weather
of last week had its dire effects on surfers, especially on the younger
members of Neptune's adopted family, who come down annually from the country
to pay their visit to his watery realms.
Father Neptune
and Father Sol had a merry time of it, and together they basted and grilled
many
a poor back to
torture point.
Sunburn has been
causing real suffering in the ranks of surfers.
Doctors have
been called on to proscribe for bad cases, and the only alleviation of
the pain is found in the fact that the doctor sometimes prescribes no school
until the burn is off - and school began last week!
So a few more
holidays are added to the already generous that, and the envy felt of "Grammar"
and'"High" scholars,
whose term began with the current month, is lessened along with the fiery
pain of the sunburn, which just now is making many backs tingle.
Sunbasking is
responsible for most of this excessively painful effect.
Some wise folk
rather frown upon the basking, and declare that our youth, if they keep
on at it, will develop into the bone-laziness of the Italian larzaroni,
who literally bask in the sun as long as he is in the sky.
It cannot be
denied that too much of the basking enervates the surfer, and seems to
cause an evaporation of all the invigoration of the surf.
But, of course,
a short spell and then a plunge back again into the briny curlers will
never cease to charm, and, as long as the golden rule of moderation is
observed, it may be used to add to the gloriously healthful result from
the surfing.
In passing, I
may note that surfing is more popular than ever.
Every season
sees an increase in the numbers of the family, alluded to above, and this
year promises to show the same rate of progress.
A proof of the
benefit which all derive from surfing is shown in the number of middle-aged,
and even elderly ladles who go in for it in zest.
Most readers
were struck with this on seeing the account of a painful surfing-board
accident recently, when the age of the victim was given as 60.
But this poor
lady- whose leg was broken by a surf-board which a young man was using-
is only one of many of that age, or thereabouts who take thelr daily plunge,
and would miss it sorely if thelr annual month at Manly, or Coogee, or
Bondi did not include that joy.
The effect is
seen in the bright eye, alert glance, and happy expression of the bather.
"It does brighten
one up wonderfully" is the general verdict, and the popularity of the sport
increases.
Baskers are usually
trying to acquire a lovely blown, and to help forward this desirable end
they use cocoanut oil, which is about the best thing to employ to prevent
painful sunburn.
But the oil should
be applied first thing in the morning and last thing at night.
After the burn
has become acute oil is useless.
The best remedy
is hot water and boracic when the blisters break, which they should be
encouraged to do, but not pricked.
The water should
be as hot as it can be endured, and no clothing, except a thin shirt or
blouse, should be allowed to touch the skin; legs and arms are better left
bare, and it is usually here that is found the painful part.
Some cases are
so bad that patients must remain in bed, there being a certain danger of
blood-poisoning.
For ordinary
tan and freckles, there are so many excellent face-creams and ointments
now on sale at the chemist's that any special recipes of the old-fashioned,
home-made type are not worth the trouble of making up.
A cream that
is non-greasy should be chosen.
Surf-boards have
evidently to be reckoned with nowadays, for nearly every small boy now
rejoices on one.
Those most in
use aré very small, some looking suspiciously like the kitchen chopping-board,
which, no doubt will be found missing next time it is required in a hurry.
These small affairs
really are only very slightly dangerous, being quite unlike the huge board
made popular by the Hawaiian Duke.
MARTHA.
DEPARTURE OF KAHANAMOKU.
The members of
the Hawaiian party, Duke Kahanamoku, George Cunha, and Francis Evans (manager)
- arrived by yesterday's mail train from Mt. Morgan and Rockhampton,
and spoke appreciately of the treatment given them.
They continued
their journey south by the Osterley, which left the New Farm Wharf at 11
o'clock yesterday.
Amoungst those
that bade them farewell were Messrs. D. M. Carter (Chairman of the Q.A.M.A.),
A.J. Wilkins (sec. treasurer), W. Finnemore (sec. treasurer, Q.C.U.), A.
Andersen, and E Jacobs.
The Sydney
Morning Herald
Thursday
4th February 1915, page 12.
SWIMMING.
KAHANAMOKU'S
TOUR.
NEW ZEALAND VISIT.
Some time ago
the New Zealand ASA arranged the itinerary to be carried out by D. P. Kahanamoku
in connection with his tour of the Dominion.
The fixtures
included carnivals up to March 27, but as the members of the Hawaiian party
were booked to leave Auckland ... 168 words
LADIES' CHAMPIONSHIP
CARNIVAL.
...
NEW RECORDS.
The New South
WaIes Amateur Swimming Association has approved of the following records
established by D. P. Kahanamoku and George Cunha at the State championship
carnivals on January 2 and 6.
-100 yards: 53
4-5s by D. P. Kahanamoku.
100 metres: 63
3-5s, by George Cunha.
Both records
are also Australian best performances, and will be submitted to the Australian
union for recognition as such.
The 100 yards
record is also the world's best, and will be forwarded to the International
Federation for recognition.
DEEWHY SURF CARNIVAL
The Deewhy surf
and beach carnival will be held tomorrow afternoon, and will be followed
in the evening by an open air concert.
Part of the afternoon's
entertainment will be a surf board display by Duke Kahanamoku, and many
other attractive items have been provided.
The Propeller
Friday
5th February 1915, page 1.
The Surf Expert
Duke Kahanamoku,
the 100 yds. world's champion swimmer, will visit Cronulla Beach on Sunday
afternoon and will give an exhibition at 3 o'clock.
At the invitation
of the Cronulla Surf Club he will visit the beauty spots of the Sutherland
Shire.
The
St. George Call
Saturday
6th February 1915, page 5.
SURF SPLASHES
Duke Kahanamoku,
the World's Champion, at Cronulla on Sunday afternoon.
A big draw.
The Surf bathing
Association' officials visited Cronulla on Sunday last to put through a
number of members for the Association's medallions.
The following
were successful: J. Hallet, N. Deacon, F. Postle, E. Wilshire, L. Newman,
S. Short, C. Ray, R. Whipp, W. Duff, R. Emanuel.
In addition to
these it will be pleasing to know that Capt. Stroud and Vice-Captain Cutherbertson
secured the Association's highest award - that of Instructor.
SWIMMING.
THREE BIG CARNIVALS
TODAY.
There are no fewer
than three very important carnivals to be held this afternoon.
The famous Hawaiian
party will endeavour to be represented at all of these.
DEEWHY SURF CARNIVAL.
Messrs. D. P.
Kahanamoku, George Cunha, and Francis Evans, the Hawaiian Swimming Team,
who have been touring Queensland, returned to Sydney yesterday morning
by the Osterley.
The visitors
report having made an extensive tour of the Northern State, which they
competed at Allora, Brisbane, Rockhampton, Maryborough, and Mount Morgan.
Owing to the
Queensland rules not allowing other than residents to compete in the State
championships, all the races were handicaps, in which Kahanamoku and Cunha
had to concede long starts.
However, the
majority of the events were created in every city visited.
DEE WHY SURF CARNIVAL
The second annual
carnival of the Dee Why Surf Club was held this afternoon at Dee Why Beach.
The attendance
was large.
The principal
attraction was a display on the surf board by Kahanamoku.
He went through
all sorts of acrobatic meats (sic).
Notes
1. "acrobatic
meats" is a printer's error and should be "acrobatic feats".
The
Sun
7th
February 1915 page 8.
DEE WHY SURF CARNIVAL
The second annual
carnival of the Dee Why Surf Club was held yesterday at Dee Why Beach.
The attendance
was large.
The principal
attraction was a display on the surf board by Kahanamoku.
He went through
all sorts of acrobatic feats.
Notes
1. This is
essentially a reprint of the previous day's report.
2.The previous
printer's error,
"acrobatic meats" , has been corrected in the next
day's edition.
KAHANAMOKU IN THE SURF.
Duke Kahanmoku
treated something like 4000 persons to a fine exhibition of surf board
shooting at Deewhy on Saturday afternoon.
The local club
had arranged a surf carnival, and Kahanamoku was asked to appear and shoot
the breakers as the Hawaiians do.
"The Duke" did
all, and more than was expexcted of him,
Taking a board
something like 10 feet in length, the champion swimmer made out towards
the open sea.
When a favorable
rise presented itself the swimmer's paddling arm action drove the board
ahead, to be eventually carried shorewards on the crest of a breaker.
When "the Duke"
stood up the sight was grand.
Later Kahanamoku
came in standing on his head, and at another time carried a lady passenger.
For more than
an hour exhibitions were given.
The Sydney
Morning Herald
8th
February 1915, page 13.
DEE
WHY CARNIVAL.
KAHANAMOKU
AND HIS SURF BOARD.
D. P. Kahanamoku,
the famous Hawaiian swimmer, gave an exhibition on the surf board at the
Dee Why surf carnival on Saturday.
The beach was
lined with people, all anxious to obtain a good view.
The various events
were watched with interest, especially the performance of Kahanamoku.
He came out with
his surf board, plunged into the water and continued to swim out until
those watching from the beach soon wondered when he would stop.
After covering
nearly half a mile, Kahanamoku turned and prepared for a roller, which
came along a moment after; he caught it, and as the wave carried him shorewards
he performed all kinds of acrobatic feats on the board, and finally dived
into the water as the roller broke.
The crowd showed
their appreciation in a very hearty manner.
Kahanamoku remained
in the surf for nearly an hour, and he was accompanied at intervals by
Miss Letham, of Freshwater, and it was a rare sight to watch both swimmers
on the surf board.
The various surf
events under the control of the New South Wales Surf Bathing Association
were well contested.
An open-air concert
at night concluded the day's sport.
Details :—
Grand Parade
of Clubs.—Dee Why, 1 ; North Steyne, 2.
Three-legged
Race.—North Steyne, 1 ; Collaroy, 2.
Pennant Rescue
and Resuscitation Competition.— Metropolitan Division, third
round ; Bondi A, 57.77 points, 1 ; Manly A, 57.47 points, 2 ; Coogee, 56.66
points, 3 ; North Steyne, 52.03 points, 4.
Novice Surf Race.—A.
V. Rein (Manly), 1 ; C. D. Bell (Manly), 2.
Tug-of-War.—Collaroy,
A. L. Melrose, capt. ; C. Knight, J. Walton, A. Thew, J. Jack, J. Bloomfield,
D. Scully), 1.
Beach Relay Race.—First
heat : Collaroy, 1. Second heat : North Steyne, 1. Third heat
: Coogee, 1. Final : Collaroy (L. Chinchen, T. V. Smith, A. Sheldon, L.
Sheldon), 1 ; North Steyne (E. Goulding, G. Morgan, O. H. G. Merrett, C
.Whitehead), 2.
Alarm Reel Race.—Manly
(H. M. May, belt, O. Mater, H. Buhl, F. Bennett, D. West), 1 ; North Steyne
(L. Hind, belt, F. Nicholls, B. McEwan, E. Goulding, N. Thompson), 2.
Cock Fight.—Balmoral
( J. Doudney, C. Walker), 1.
Surf Race Relay
Race.—Manly (J. Brown and N. Smith), 1 ; North Steyne (C. Healy, L. Solomon),
and Bondi (J. G. Brown and H. Fletcher), dead heat.
Novice Alarm
Reel Race.—First heat : North Steyne, 1 ; North Bondi, 2. Second heat :
Coogee, 1. Third heat : Bondi, 1. Final : Coogee (J. Leary, H. Mason, H.
McClure, R. Harret, M. Reubenstein), 1.
Wheelbarrow Race.—North
Steyne (H. Nicholls, F. E. Nicholls), 1.
SWIMMING.
SENSATIONAL SURF
RIDING.
BUSY WEEK END.
The exhlbltlon
of surf board rlding given by D. P. Kahanamoku at the Deewhy Surf Club's
carnival provided the greastest spectacle that has yet been witnessed in
this respect.
The Hawaiian
proved himself a master of the art, and, despite the fact that the conditions
were anything but favourable, fulfilled his advertised programme.
On one occasion
the board carried him a distance of four hundred yards, and he balanced
on his head while shooting towards the shore.
On another occasion,
and whilst sitting on the board, he finished the shoot by coming in broadside
on.
He also carried
a lady passenger a distance of a hundred yards.
The exhibition
lasted more than an hour.
There seems to
be no limit to Kahanamoku's work with the board, and at Cronulla on Sunday
he used it he used it to carry him for a short distance, and then dived
into the wave and completed his trip to the sands with a body shoot.
The Deewhy carnival
was well carried out.
The Sydney
Morning Herald
Thursday
11 February 1915, page 13.
NEWCASTLE
SWIMMING CARNIVAL
KAHANAMOKU
DEKEATS BARRY
CRONULLA SURFING
The Duke's party,
consisting of Duke Kahanamoku, George Cuhna, Harry Hay, W. Hill and officials
of the Aus. A. S. A.: W. Scott, Marks, and officals of the N.S.W.A.S.A.,
and D. McIntyre, and officials of the Surf B. Assn., altogether a very
representative gathering of Sydney swimming powers that be, was met at
Sutherland station by the following members of the Cronulla Life Saving
Club, with their cars, J. Munro, J. Halett, D. Bouffier, L. Giddings, and
F. Stroud, and whirled off to Waterfall, returning to National Park via
Lady Carrington's Drive.
Alfesco luncheon
at Audley.
The toast of
the visitors was given by the Club captain, who expressed the Club's appreciation
at being given the opportunity of entertaining such distinguished members
of the swimming world as Duke and George Cuhna, and hoped that Cronulla's
welcome would bring them an enjoyable day.
The toast was
responded to by the Duke, G. Cuhna, W. Hill, E. Marks and R. Doyle, brevity
being the order of the day, all thanking the Club for its hospitality.
Mr. Doyle remarked
that if he remembered the day by nothing else, the run down Lady Carrinton's
Drive would never be forgotten and he registered a debt of gratitude to
the Club.
Apropos of mr.
Doyle's remarks, it was extrodinary from the remarks of other prominent
Sydney men, world scourers too, t5hat they should have missed the beauties
of that gully so near sydney all their lives.
Incidentally,
the five drivers, local men at that, had not been through before either,
but did not say so.
Lunch over, the
launch was waiting to run the party down the river to Cronulla, where the
beach was gay with bunting and packed with people.
The party was
met by the Shire president, Mr. Hyman.
Unfortunately,
Jupiter Pluvius and Father Neptune were in a bad mood and spoilt the afternoon,
the former dumping water where it was not wanted and the latter would nor
stir his up at all.
An alarm reel
race was held, between the Duke, Cunha and Hay, the linesman being made
up of the clubmen.
There was much
guessing as to who the winner would be as the two Hawaiins (sic)had never
been in the belts before, and Hay is one of the fastest beltmen in the
State.
However, the
Duke made good use of his long legs in the wade out and beat Hay by a yard.
Cuhna could not
get use to the belt and line at all, swimming a crawl stroke he nearly
wrenched his toes off, catching them on the line.
The Duke then
adjourned to the big beach as there was more roll on there, and gave an
exhibition with his board that will be long remembered by those who saw
him.
Standing upright,
standing on his head, diving off, twisting the board.
It all looked
so ridiculously easy, and so it was to the Duke, but local men who tried
after came to the conclusion that they had a lot to learn about the game.
One wants to
try and stand on that unstable piece of wood, even in smooth water, to
appreciate fully the sight of that bronze statue tearing in through broken
and choppy seas.
Tea was held
in the new pavillion and the party adjourned to the captain's house for
a couple of hour's music, the Duke and George Cuhna rendering an item in
Hawaian (sic), the Duke providing the accompaniment on his eucalalia (sic,
ukulele/ukelele).
The visitors
declared themselves delighted with the day, before leaving.
The two Hawaians
(sic) proved themselves unassuming gentlemanly fellows, good sports, very
much "one of the boys" variety, who set no hugh (sic, huge) price
on their services, but did all they could without stint.
Altogether the
Committee congatulate itself on the success of the day.
A few things the
Club need not do the next time the Duke & Co. visit Cronulla.
Prince Henry
Joe needn't bolt from Sutherland and take all the party down to Audley
to start the run through Lady Carrington's Drive.
Jack needn't
make up his mind the Duke's going with him in his car, "Nor walk" either.
The Captain needn't
break his petrol pipe and try to borrow soap from every passing car.
Lance needn't
try to shift the gate post with his dash board again, it hurts.
The "Waverley"
nearly met its "Waterloo".
Jack needn't
try to shift the same post with his rear wing, it also hurts.
The whole of
the Club needn't take the invitation, when the Duke says "Pas a 'bernaner,'
" one can have too much of a good thing.
Raining "bernaners"
isn't raining manna.
The divers needn't
kid they know every inch of the "Drive" when they start off by going to
the wrong end.
Some members
needn't give exhibition rescues in Port Hacking, the country has more use
for them on the Suez Canal, if they want to take a risk.
The blubber needn't
be so thick on the big beach.
The Duke needn't
say "Gee, these stingarees are hot."
The captain needn't
look for red marks on the Duke to rub ammonia on where the blubber stung.
The same chap
needn't try to get twenty on his car when it will take only neneteen.
New York Times
14
February 1915, Sunday. Section: Sports, page S3.
KAHANAMOKU
KICK LATEST IN SWIMMING
Famous Hawaiian
Amphibian Stirs Australians by His Feats in Water.
SYDNEY, Australia,
Jan. 6.
The performances
of Kahanamoku, the Hawaiian, in the New South Wales championship swimming
carnival a few days ago, particularly the Olymplc record holder's lowering
of the world's record for 100 yards of 54 3-5 seconds by four fiths of
a second, has caused a decided stir in Australian swimming cirles.
Indeed, it is
predicted by sporting authorities here that the Australlan "crawl" stroke
wil have to give way to what is being called the "Kahanamoku Kick."
It had been contended
ever since "Dick" Cavill first used the "crawl" in championship races
that the leg work did not materiaIly assist the pace of the swimmer except
in keeplng the body well balanced on the water and thus minimizing the
retarding effects due to the legs and feet sinking.
But this theory
was quite upset by the methods or the "Duke" and his swimming mate, George
Cunha, also of Hawaii, who use the rapid independent movement or the feet,
as against the Australian fashion of smacking the leg from the knee down
upon the water at every stroke of the arm. The slow, easy movements of
Kahanamoku and Cunha from the hips to the tips of the fingers was markedly
in contrast in the races with the style which the Australian cracks pitted
against them.
The buried heads
of Barry and Longworth of Sydney, who are among Australia's best, was also
in contrast wIth that of the Hawaiian.
The "Duke" kept
his head well clear of the water and had, what his competitors did not
possess, a clear view of what every opponent was doing.
"Swim with the
head low so that your legs will float nearer the surface" has been one
of the first instructions given by the coaches in Australia to racing swimmers;
and this has been followed by injunctIons to work the arms fast and the
legs in unlson with them and to roll the body slightly from
side to side
so that from the hips up it should assist the arms and make breathing easier.
But all these
requirements, it is pointed out by experts here, are more than met by the
"Kahanamoku" or independent "kick."
According to these
same experts this kick originated in the fresh water baths of the Eastern
United States, where the more rapid movement of the legs was not necessary
to overcome the Iess buoyant fresh water as against the salt water
baths of Australia, where the "CrawI" was evolved.
But this opinion
seems pretty far fetched when one bears in mind that Kahanamoku belongs
to a race of Islanders who have no superiors in the world as swimmers and
that his prowess is likely instinctive rather than the result of any artificial
conditions.
However that may
be, the Australian swimmers admit now that they have seen him race, that
the "Duke's" kick serves all the purposes of the "crawl," and that it is
much faster and needs less exertion than theIr own method of locomotion
in the water.
Before Kahannmoku
came here there was some skepticism about his achievements, but it vanished
after his first performance.
It is only ten
years since the then wonderful feat of swimming 100 yards In a minute was
accomplished by the Australian and world's champion, F.C. Lane, in England.
He was followed
by several other exponents of the "crawl," and at one stage the Commonwealth
claimed the only four men who had covered that distance in that time -
Lane, Cavill, Healy and Wickham.
But it was another
American, Charles M. Daniels, who upset their calculations, and, altllough
Australia is still the place par excellence of swimmers, generally speaking,
and the Commonwealth possesses many first-class performers in the
water, it is more than likely that the Honoluluan's style will be have
to be taken up if Australia hopes to keep up its record.
The popular view
of the Hawaiian's victory - although he has been beaten by an Australian
in one of the three races he has participated in - is perhaps best expressed
by the comment by a Sydney newspaper:
"Kahanamoku has
justified all that was said of him.
It was not mere
physique that did it, for although his physique is fine, it is not unsurpassable.
No doubt the
fact that he is practically a waterman, and has lived in the water ever
since soon after he was born, has made a difference, though some Australians
have been watermen in that sense too.
But his American
training must certainly be counted in.
The Americans
got hold of him early.
They found the
man with the possibilities, and they turned him out a specialized swimming
machine."
As for the "Duke",
his sportsman-like actions and good nature have made him very popular here.
The Argus
(Melbourne)
Monday
15 February 1915 page 10
TO-NIGHT'S MEETING
Kahanamoku and
Cunha will make their last appearance in Melbourne this evening when they
will take part in competitions at the Melbourne Swimming Clubs meeting
at the City Baths Swanston street.
Kahanamoku and
Cunha will compete in the in ternational race relay race against the Victorian
and New South Wales swimmers and in this race Kahanamoku will attack his
100 yards worlds record- 53 4-5 sec - established in Sydney recently.
Kahanamoku will
again meet the champions G. W. Morris (Vic) and T. Adrian (NSW) in the
200 yards invitation handicap.
Kahanamoku will
concede Morris 6sec handicap and Adrian 2sec.
Beaurepaire the
ex-amateur champion of Australîa will attempt to lower the 200 yards
world's record.
A programme of
races has been arranged and the programme will conclude with an interstate
water polo match be tween teams representing New South Wales and Victoria.
The Melbourne
Swimming Club anticipate a record attendance and visitors are requested
to be seated early.
The first race
is timed to start at 6 o'clock.
DUKE
IN THE SURF
EXPLOITS
ON THE BOARD
Dexterity
and Skill Win the Title "Blondin of the Surf"
(By CECIL HEALY)
Three functions
competed for the patronage of natatorial enthusiasts in Sydney on Saturday
afternoon, each detracting more or less from the others, both as regards
attendance and exponents.
The great majority
of prominant swimmers are now connected with surfing bodies, and a number
seized the opportunity of taking part in the Dee Why Lifesaving Club's
carnival, in order to witness Kahanamoku's first and last public exhibition
of surf-board riding.
The crowd which
put in an appearance exceeded any that had previously congregated at this
out-of-the-way resort.
In view of the
district being only sparsely populated as yet, and its comparative inaccessability,
the local organisation showed great enterprise and initiative in shouldering
the financial responsibilities to secure the Duke as an attraction.
At the time the
Hawaiian put out to sea with his surf-board, which he seems to worship
almost as much as a child its doll, the waves, unfortunately, were not
particualy good for shooting purposes, merely an occasional one having
any length of run.
The rapidity
with which he took the weighty plank out through the breakers was not the
least amazing feature of the display.
He lay outstretched
upon it, and, used his hands as paddles, one on either side.
It struck me as I watched him propel himself along in this fashion infinitely faster than any of our expert surfers could move unencumbered, that he must be able to exert tremendous power with those arms of his, and, therein probably is to be found the explanation of his extrodinary capabilities as a sprint swimmer, rather than his particular method of kicking.
On sighting a
likely-looking wave, he commenced to paddle vigorously, still lying prone
as before.
After a few ineffectual
attempts he succeeded in catching one properly.
Instantly the
board seemed to leap forward like a fiery steed when the spurs are driven
into the rowels.
Immediately afterward
the Duke rose upright, and assumed the attitude of ancient chariot drivers.
And no sooner
had he done so than he appeared to exercise some subtle influence over
the madly careering craft : in fact just as if he had taken reins in hand.
He altered its
direction so as to steer a course diagonal to the beach.
Although the
prow pranced and bounded over the crest of the onrushing billow, the Duke
stood like an ebony statue, immovable save for the deft movements of his
feet, and remained so until a few of the shore, when he leisurely dropped
off.
It was a thrilling
sight to watch, and such balancing skill and dexterity entitles him to
the designation of a surfing Blondin.
A young lady acquaintance
then emerged and accompanied the Duke seawards.
It occured to
me at once if the Duke found it difficult to to get going by himself with
the not-by-any-means good waves at his disposal, obviously his chances
of doing so would be greatly minimised when hindered by a novice.
Such proved to
be the case.
A considerable
time elapsed before he managed to get a move on with his partner.
It must be admitted,
however, that the duel (sic, dual) shoot, when it did come off,
was the the more sensational spectacle of the two while it lasted.
It served to
show more conspicuously the Duke's wonderful facility for maintaining his
equilibrium under these exacting conditions, as although his passenger
was toppling backwards over the lattter part of their journey, the extra
burden failed to dislodge him until they had negotiated about three-parts
of the distance he covered when alone.
But the question
arises whether the onlookers, many who had come from distant suburbs, would
not have been better pleased to have been treated to a greater number of
performances like the first, rather than have to submit to the wearying
wait that occurred before the Duke found it possible to bring off the more
difficult stunt.
Another Wonderful Performance by Duke
The largest crowd
of spectators ever contained within the Drummoyne Baths was present at
the local club's carnival on Monday night, the chief source of attraction
being the final appearance of Duke Kahanamoku and his companion, George
Cunha.
The Duke figured
in a 100yds Invitational Handicap, the other Albert Barry, Tod Solomons
and Harry Hay.
Barry was in
receipt of 2sec, Solomons and Hay 3sec.
The precaution
was taken to despatch the Hawaiian from the word "go", so that in case
of his beating (the) record, the time would be recognised, which
proceedure added to the severity of his handicap.
A magnicifent
race was the outcome.
The Duke tore
after the vanguard and gained appreciably going down the first stretch
(33yds).
Barry, however,
more than held his own during the progress of the second.
With a terrific
shove-off at the last turn the Hawaiian lessened the Sydney Club man's
lead, but failed to make further advancement until more than half the remaining
lap had been disposed of, when he came with a superb burst, which enabled
him to touch down a fraction of a second before Barry, who similarly anticipated
Solomons.
The whole four
competitors seemed to finish practically in a line, which happening gave
rise to an animated scene amoungst the onlookers.
The Duke's time
was anounced as 55sec dead, which speaks for itself, and needs no embellishment,
suffice to say that it comes under the category of things marvellous.
George Cunha gave
a 66yds exhibition swim, which arosed much cheering, as did an exhibition
by Miss Fanny Durack over 100yds.
Their times were
respectively 35 9-10sec, and 1min 11sec.
Leslie Boardman's
back-stroke "crawl" was a feature of the 300yds Harris Cup Medly (sic,
Medley)
Teams' Race in which teams of three members competed, one representative
swimmi9ng freestyle, one brest, and the third back stroke.
Boardman was
timed at to negotiate his 100yds relay in a fraction less than 1min 19sec,
which is some 10 sec faster than the record.
NOTES
1. Blondin,
also known as Chevalier Blondin, was born as Jean Francois Gravelet in
France in 1824, and gained a world-wide reputation as a tightrope walker
when he successfully crossed Niagara Falls in June 1859.
In 1874 he made
highly profitable and much acclaimed tour of Australia, performing in Brisbane,
Sydney and Melbourne.
http://www.hat-archive.com/blondin.htm
The
Referee
17
February 1915, page 16.
"We have had a
fine time in Australia," said' theDuke Kahanamoku, before leaving Sydney
for Melbourne, "though I may say that the programme has been almost
too severe a tax upon us.
I do not say
this in a complaining spirit, but to point out that we did not expect this
tour of pleasure to to marked by so much hard work."
Nevertheless the Duke did not look as if he had wasted away, but frankly admitted that in the matter of weight he was all there.
"To judge by the
programme I have seen, the task will be harder in New Zealand, where so
much travelling have to done," continued the Hawaiian.
"I hope they
will be able to make it a little less severe upon us over there."
Yes, I know the
chmate In New Zealand is not. so hot; but I do not. mind the climate."
The Duke looked
very
fit as he left for Melbourne.
He had just returned
from the surf at Bondi, after some hard battles with the rough breakers,
which he explained, were vastly different from those of his beloved Honolulu,
which roll in with a long, steady, sweeping roll.
The Duke likes
the surf play here; though it is different to carvorting on the waves at
Honolulu.
The Duke and his
companions will take away with them souveniers of their visit in the shape
of albums, containing photographs of scenes and races in which they have
figured.
These will include
the principal photographs which have appeared in "The Referee."
He also takes
all copIes of this paper dealing wlth his visit to Australia, a fact which
shows that the visit will rank as no mere passing hour in the life of the
sprinter.
The Hawaiians
will return to Sydney to-morrow, and leave for New Zealand on Friday.
SWIMMING.
KAHANAMOKU
AMONG
RECORDS.
PARTY
LEAVES ON FRIDAY.
Melbourne had
a visit from D. P. Kahanamoku and party on Saturday, a result due more
to the pertinacity of Sydney officials than to any effort on the part of
the Victorian A.S.A.
However, the
Melbourne Club undertook the necessary financial risk, with the result
that a very fine success was achieved.
St. Kilda Baths
were calm, and the two appearances of the famous Hawaiian were responsible
for the creation of two new Victorian records, and a new Australasian 100
metres that overshadows the previous best.
The visitors
were allowed to swim in the 100 yards championship of Victoria on condition
that the first Victorian past the winning post should rank as the local
champion.
W. B. Bennett
secured fourth place, being beaten by Kahanamoku, Cunha, and Hay, the battle
for second place being a magnificent tussle, in which Hay was beaten by
a touch only.
The time of the
winner was 56s, which is much better than Cecil Healey's figures, established
in the same baths many years ago.
In the hundred
metres event the Hawaiian equalled his own world's record of 61 3.5s, which,
from the point of view of speed, easily beats any previous swimmer's effort
by several seconds.
A few years ago
the time would have been a 100 yards record, but it now goes down as the
best performance over a distance 10 yards in excess of that.
It is pleasing
to note that Kahanamoku has proved just as big an attraction in Melbourne
as elsewhere, and that the Southern City will probably be prepared to undertake
international fixtures in the future.
This is the farewell
week of Kahanamoku.
He will swim
at Goulburn to-night, and return to Sydney to-morrow morning.
The opportunity
will be taken to say farewell to members of the party at 5 p.m. at the
Sports Club. They will leave Sydney by Friday's boat for New Zealand, where
they will tour until March 23, and then catch the Niagara from Auckland
to Honolulu.
To say that the
tour has been a success is but a mild statement of the case.
Financially,
socially, and from a swimming point of view everything possible has been
accomplished, and Australia will readily welcome the next international
visitor on account of the success of this venture.
Since his return
from Queensland, Kahanamoku has taken part in several first-class handicaps.
Cunha has also started in two of these events, and in all cases the grouping
of the topnotchers has resulted in very fine races, with everyone having
a good chance of success.
These have been
true international events, and the spectacle of some competitor with a
long start beating all the famous exponents of the day has been saved.
Kahanamoku has
won every handicap in which he has started in New South Wales, and Cunha
has won every handicap in which he has competed since his return from Brisbane.
At Newcastle the
local organisation, owing to the wet weather prevailing on the night of
the carnival, and also to the large expense incurred in the erection of
seating accommodation, netted a loss on the visit.
The incident
was responsible for a fine sporting action on the part of the Australian
champion, Albert Barry, who, in order to help the Northern Association
to make ends meet, decided to forego the prize coming to him as second
in the hard-fought 150 yards race with Kahanamoku.
To-night two carnivals
will be held.
At Drummoyne
Baths the Rechabite Club will carry out its annual function, and besides
the usual interclub and district championships the Harris Cup polo match,
between Metropolitan and the Western Suburbs will be played.
Coogee Aquarium
Baths will be the scene of the Palace Emporium Gala, when the Harris Cup
race (open only to Palace Emporium, Newtown, St. George, and South Sydney),
will be contested.
The club has
also hit on a novel prize in connection with 66 yards interclub event in
the form of a reward to the fastest performer over the distance.
On Saturday the
newly-formed Woolwich Club will hold its first annual carnival.
The 100 yards
Northern Suburbs championship will be decided, and a water polo Harris
Cup game between Northern Suburbs and Eastern Suburbs will be played.
In club circles
on Saturday the most note-worthy performance was that accomplished by R.
Longworth in the Rose Bay handicap, when he got so near the minute for
the hundred yards that he may be looked upon as the next swimmer to join
this elect circle.
Longworth won
the final in 60 1.5s.
At Manly and
the surf carnival at Collaroy, the absence of the Manly Life Saving Club's
team at Melbourne depleted the entries to a large extent, yet enough members
were mustered to make the other clubs envious, in this respect, of the
villagers.
The next race
of the Sydney University Club will be on Saturday next, at the Domain baths,
at 10 a.m.
Evening
Post (New Zealand)
Volume
LXXXIX, Issue 40, 17 February 1915, page 4.
Wellington
Cups Carnival
by
"Header".
KAHANAMOKU AND CUNHA.
In a letter to
Mr. H. S. Williams, who will pilot the Kahanamoku party on their tour through
the Dominion, Mr. Francis Evans, the Hawaiian's manager, requests that
Cunha and the "Duke" appear in exhibition races mostly, "with a few handicaps
now and then, say, in the larger cities where the jumps are not too close
and the stops longer.
In the matter
of handicapping may I ask that consideration be taken of the fact that
they are travelling all the while and this, coupled with the further act
of entertaining, all tends, if anything to keep one out of good condition,
and I would therefore ask that the handicapping be not too stiff.
I would ask also
that the "Duke" and Cunha appear once only in each carnival, such as is
being done throughout the present tour.
We will be much
obliged if you will confine the swims to sprInts only, say, from 50 upwards
to 100yds.
One appearance
may seem short to you, but I would suggest that in order to lengthen the
programme somewhat the "Duke" be entered in one race and Cunha in another.
This is what
we have been doing all along."
This information
should help the framers of the local programme for 6th March.
The programme
for the first Kahanamoku carnival in Christchurch, to be held on 24th February,
has been drawn up, and will be as follows: (1) 100yds Invitation Race;
(2) 66yds Interclub (first class), limited to swimmers doing 35sec; (3)
Diving Competition (fancy, swallow, and running); (4) Relay Interclub (100yds),
teams of three men; (5) 33 1/3yds Dash Handicap (interclub); (6)
exhibItion by Kahanamoku; (7) Water Polo Competition (time permitting).
The Sydney
Morning Herald
Wednesday
24 February 1915, page 12.
DROWNED AT MANLY.
Last Saturday
Niel Peter Nielson, 27, was drowned near North Steyne, Manly, through being
caught in the undertow.
At an inquliy
held on Tuesday by the City Coroner, Alfred Ferns, 10, stated that he and
Nielsen were bathing together.
The former was
carried out about 200 yards, and the boy says that he went out and tired
to save him. Messrs. Claude West and Williams went out with a line, and
brought the man and the boy in.
The boy was all
light, but Nielson did not recover consciousness.
A verdict of
accidental death was returned.
At the request
of the relations of the deceased, furthci evidence as to the accident will
he taken on
Thursday.
Grey
River Argus (New Zealand)
3
March 1915, page 3.
DUKE
KAHINAMOKU'S VISIT
A
WORLD'S CHAMPION
HIS
CAREER
The Duke's full
name is Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, and his age is 24 years.
Standing over
six feet in height, weighing 13 stone 21b stripped, he is a fine specimen
of humanity.
He is a full-bloodedled
native of Hawaii and is consequently a subject of the United States.
He speaks English
well and despite his fame, is quite unassuming.
In his own words,
he cannot remember a time when he could not swim- and he is still improving.
In 1911 he was
unknown as a swimmer, but in that year he broke the world's record for
100 yards in Honolulu; his time was 55 2-5 seconds.
In 1912 be made
a trip to the States and as a result of his successes there, was slected
to represent America in the Olympic Games at Stockholm.
There he put
up a world's record for the 100 metres - 62 2-5 seconds.
He reduced this
time to 61 1-5 seconds at Hamburg.
Since then he
has made three trips to the American west coast, durlng which he reduced
his time for the 100 yards to 54 4-5 seconds.
On November 30th
1914, he left Hawaii for Sydney where on January 2nd last he put up a world's
record for the 100 yards of 53 4-5 seconds.
He toured over
Queensland and visited Sydney and Melbourne, breaking local records every
time.
His first public
appearance in Wellington will be on March 6th.
On a surf-board
Kahanomoku is supreme.
It is stated
that in his native islands he has shot the distance of two miles upon one.
In Sydney he
had a special board made 8 feet long, 22 inches wide and three inches.
It weighed 83Ibs,
and on it he frequently travelled half a mile from out at sea to the beach.
At Deewhy, near
Manly, he has often taken a lady passenger on board and shoots hundreds
of yards.
He performs the
same feat standing on his head.
Wellington swimmers
will probably have an opportunity of seeing Kahanamoku on a surf-board
at Lyall Bay on the Sunday following his appearance in Te Aro baths.
The Dukes companion,
George Cunha, is a swimmer of no mean ability.
He is an American
of Portuguese extraction, aged twenty, and can do the hundred yards in
55 2-6sec.
He is improving
fast, and promises to develop into a champion.
He is much smaller
than the Duke, scaling 11 st 3lb.
The third member
of the party is the manager, Mr. Francis Evans, also a Hawaiian by birth.
Evening
Post (New Zealand)
Volume
LXXXIX, Issue 56, 8 March 1915, page 6.
(Lyall Bay)
A record Sunday
crowd attended Lyall Bay yesterday, in order to see the famous swimmer,
Duke Kahanamoku,
in the surf.
The people were
well repaid.
The visitor entertained
them with a truly wonderful display of shooting the breakers, which, after
the spell of southerly weather, were fairly large.
His renowned
standing shoot on the surf board was the particular feature.
He stood right
up on the board, while the latter shot along at a great speed.
By careful steerlng
he prolonged the shoot for a distance of 150 to 200 yards.
Kahanampku and
party spent a very pleasant time at the bay, the whole arrangements being
in the hands of the Lyall Bay Surf Club.
NZ Truth,
13 March 1915, Page 12.
Truth
Motor World
by
"Self-Starter"
Duke Kahanamoku,
George Cunha and Francis Evans, the great swimming trio, spent a glorious
week end under the excelent supervision of Alec Ross, who placed his motor
car at their disposal.
All of Wellington's
beauty spots including the bays, were visited, and altogether an enjoyable
time was spent.
Alec must have
had his business eye open very wide.
Maybe he was
after some of the big Maori Chief's sumptuous supper at Lyall Bay.
At any rate the
way Alec piloted his guests back to town on Sunday night is suggestive
enough that a real loverly time had been spent, and our generous motor
friend had made good in the general round-up, and the lemon juice had put
finishing touches to the great touring party.
Examiner
(Launceston)
Tuesday
16 March 1915, page 6.
Spencers are maintaining
their reputation for high-class programmes.
At the Princess
Theatre the new bill presented last evening embraces some very fine subjects.
The feature of
them is the Spencer exclusive art film, "The Children of Captain Grant,"
adapted from Jules Verne's great story.
It is 5000 feet
in length, and is shown in seven parts.
The story deals
with an expedition which has associated with it many adventures, earthquakes,
escapes from death, the taking of a child into the air by a condor, and
other sensational events.
It is a highly
interesting production.
"The Unknown
Country" is another drama of much merit.
It featured happenings
of an entertaining and thrilling character.
A war topical
subject which is more than usually attractive is "With the Belgians in
Action," while the picture "Bully Boy" depicts the No. 4 series of war
cartoons which have been cleverly executed.
The only humorous
feature is "Biff! Bangl Wallop!" an amusing item.
The "Australian
Gazette" embraces the following topical subjects:- Sydney- Delfosse Badgery,
the Australian aviator, does some most sensational flying at Victoria Park,
including bomb-dropping. Melbourne- The state championship carnival; Duke
Kahanamoku gives exhibitions on the surf board; and cartoons by Harry Julius,
which form an entertainment by themselves.
The new programme
will be repeated this evening, and finally to morrow night.
SWIMMING.
KAHANAMOKU'S
RECORDS.
Duke Kahanamoku,
the Hawaiian swimmer, has now placed every Australasian sprint record to
his credit.
By swimming the
50 yards course in Auckland last Saturday in 22 3-5s he has beaten the
previous best performance for the world, held by Alec. Wickham, by a full
second, which, in the short course named, is a remarkable achievement.
He has also secured
the 100yds world's best time, equalled his own world's record for 100 metres,
and lowered the 150yds Australasian record.
As these results
have been obtained under varied conditions, they undoubtedly stamp him
easily the world's best sprinter.
Kahanamoku, Cunha,
and Evans will compete at Auckland three times this week, and they will
leave New Zealand on March 23 by the R.M.S. Niagara for Honolulu.
The most important
items in connection with the club programme on Saturday were the combined
races of the East Sydney S.C. and Sydney Ladies' Club at Rushcutter Bay,
and the Bondi v Randwick and Coogee Interclub contest at Coogee Aquarium.
At the former,
the two clubs named repeated their successes at earlier gatherings this
season.
The principal
performer in the ladies' section was Miss Mina Wylie, who won both the
championship and handicap over 100yds.
At Coogee, Bondi
triumphed over the Randwick and Coogee Club in the Mile Relay Race by a
margin of 25yds, and thus recorded its sixth consecutive victory in this
annual race.
Manly Life Saving
Club has again shown that it possesses the speediest swimmers in both the
bath and surf.
At Coogee Aquarium
on Wednesday, Barry, Hay, and Wyld retained for the club the indoor relay
championship over 300 yards by defeating Healy, Solomon, and Jones of North
Steyne.
Last Saturday
at the Freshwater Club's Carnival the club won Mr. Arthur Griffith's trophy
for the 1000 yards surf relay race.
This was the
second consecutive win.
The race was
won fairly easily, and as all the members are young, the prospect for future
years seem very bright.
Manly also gathered
the senior and novice alarm reel races.
The display given
by T. Walker on a "Duke" surf board was very good indeed.
The canoe and
surf boat competitions provided some good exhibitions.
The teams championship
of the Northern Suburbs Club will be decided at the Mosman Club's members
carnival at the Spit Baths, to-morrow evening.
Manly team, comprising
Solomon, Hay, Wyld, Huie, and Brown, seems invincible, and North Sydney
and Mosman should have an even contest for second place.
The 50yds junior
championship of the district and an interclub handicap are also down for
decision. The Parramatta Club will also hold a carnival at the local baths
to-morrow evening, when a large number of prominent Sydney swimmers will
compete.
A council meeting
of the A.S.A. will also be held to-morrow night.
The carnival of
the Sydney Ladies' Club will be held at Coogee Aquarium next Saturday,
when the principal item will be the 150 yards ladies' championship of New
South Wales.
Last season Miss
Mina Wylie established a record for this distance, which, however, was
subsequently lowered by Miss Durack, and these two brilliant performers
will again compete.
In addition to
several events for ladies, the East Sydney Club will decide the 440 yards
champion of the eastern district, and also a club handicap.
Next Saturday
the Surf-Bathing Association of New South Wales will hold a carnival at
Bondi Beach, to decide the final event in its premiership competition.
Special facilities
have been granted by the Waverley Council in the matter of reserves, etc.
The nett proceeds
will be given to the Belgian Relief Fund.
The championship
pennant will be contested by teams from Bondi, Cook's Hill (Newcastle),
and Coogee.
The programme
also includes the usual surf races and rescues and beach sports.
The Sydney
Morning Herald
Wednesday
24 March 1915, page 8.
SWIMMING.
MANLY
CLUB'S SUCCESS.
SURF
AND OTHER CARNIVALS.
No fewer than
six carnivals were held during the week, and as in the majority of instances
the weather was not suitable, a test was placed on tbe enthusiasm of the
followers, with satisfactory results.
Particularly
was this tbe case at the Surf Bathing Association's gala at Bondi Beach
last Saturday, when, besides the cold, the spectators and performers
suffered much discomfort by the sand being carried by the southerly into
their faces.
However, a large
crowd remained in attendance until the end of what was a far too lengthy
progrnmme.
But for forfeits
in some of the events and a cancellation, the sports would not have concluded
until too late.
The contests
proved most interesting, and if a third ot the items had been eliminated
the whole function would have been more enjoyable.
Several of tbe
beltmen and swimmers were quick to see the effect of the current sweeping
from north to south, and make good use of it, but others made poor attempts.
The pennant teams
were the exception, and a close contest between Bondi, Cook's Hill, and
Coogee showed all the men alive to the advantages and disadvantages in
the weather.
Bondi were just
a little ahead of Cook's Hill in their water work, while the resuscitation
was very even.
The introduction
of a surf board exhibition during the latter competition was a good move,
and brought out three very fine exponents.
Lyall Bay Surf and Life-Saving Club.
The annual report
of the Lyall Bay Surf and Life-saving Club states that the membership has
been well maintained during the season.
Notwithatanding
the call made by the Empire on members, the active work of the club has
been well attended to, and it, is hoped that those remaining wiII do their
utmost to retain the good name of the club.
Life-saving has
received due attention during the season, and the committee is pleased
to report that the beach has been free from accidents.
The finances
have improved considerably during the past season, and it is anticipated
that they wiII remain steady during the coming season.
The report refers
to the visit of the Hawaiian swimmer Duke Kahanamoku, and says that the
thanks of the club are due to Mr. Heu Heu Tekino and his wife for entertaining
the team at the Bay, thereby relieving the club of a. great deal of the
necessary entertaining.
The report also
expresses the thanks of the club to Sir Robert Stout, Messrs. J. E. Henrys,
L. P. Blundell, and A. Levy for the practical interest shown by them in
its work.
The balance-sheet
shows: Receipts £22 5s, expenditure £13 2 4d, cash in hand
£9 2s 8d.
Poverty
Bay Herald (New Zealand)
Volume
XLII, Issue 13875, 24 December 1915, page 2.
Surf-riding is
becoming more and more popular at Lyall Bay, Wellington.
Since the visit
of Duke Kahanamoku and his swimming partner, George Cunha, and their notable
exhibition of the art of riding the surges, many swimmers have taken up
the sport with entusiasm.
Now it is an
every-day sight to see many bathers with surf-boards, disporting themselves
mor or less skilfully on the breakers.
![]() |
E. S. Marks was prominant in Sydney sports. Sydney's premier athletic track is named The E.S. Marks Field. Postcard reproduced from private collection. |
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