The Ravensbourne annual regatta, held on Saturday afternoon, proved an attractive and successful function. There was a large attendance of residents and visitors, several hundreds being present from the city, Port Chalmers and the various bays. The foreshore at the boatshed presented a bright appearance, which was greatly enhanced by the big fleet of sailing and motor craft moored near the jetty before the start of the various races. The weather was ideal for sailing, but was not favourable for the small number of rowing crews which put in an appearance, and these had a severe dusting in the strong wind and lumpy sea. The wind was blowing fresh and steady from the north-east, and all the sailing craft found it necessary to carry several reefs and rolls in their mainsails. The yachts made a really imposing spectacle, and some close finishes were witnessed in the sailing and motor boat races. Chief interest was centred on the 14-footer race, but many were disappointed owing to the Sanders Cup winner (Iona) not being a competitor. The boat’s absence was due to the fact that she has not yet been repaired, having sustained some damage to her planking while in transit from Auckland. Kia Ora sailed one of her best races, with Mr C. French at the tiller. The strong wind proved too severe a test for the small boats, and several came to grief during the afternoon. Winifred was unfortunate, too. This boat was loading the fleet in the 14-footer Jellicoe-class race. After rounding the Yacht Club buoy she had trouble with her spinnaker. The sail appeared to get out of control. It was taken in and then hoisted again, but immediately split down the centre. This mishap practically lost Winifred the race. She was quickly passed by Kia Ora, which established a serviceable lead, and secured an easy victory.
Mou Waho island name tweaked
The latest issue of the New Zealand Gazette contains the notification that the name of the island in Lake Wanaka known in the past as Manuka or Pigeon Island will be altered, from June 1 next, to Harwich Island.
Take it to the limit
By degrees the speed by-laws in the cities and towns are being overhauled and altered to suit motoring conditions. Last, year Temuka had by-laws making motorists drive at six and 10 miles an hour in different parts of the township. The Otago Motor Club and the South Island Motor Union participated in having the speeds declared unreasonable, and now the rates are 12 and 18 miles an hour respectively. In Timaru the by-law requiring motorists to travel at eight miles an hour over intersections, and 10 miles around corners, has been held to be unreasonable.
Writer suggests width and name
To the editor: Sir, After obtaining the sanction of the ratepayers for a loan for a broad highway, the council proposes to substitute a miserable narrow roadway. The Harbour Board offers the 99 feet free to the corporation. Why break faith with the citizens and spoil the whole project? "Anzac" Highway should run from Anzac Square to "Anzac" Park, and it should be, as the ratepayers were promised, a highway — one worthy of such a name. The elections are due shortly. If our Mayor and councillors are not broadminded enough to look to the future, let us replace them with men who realise the cost of widening roads that have once been established. — I am, etc, T. De Spong, Dunottar — ODT, 23.2.1925
Compiled by Peter Dowden
