SMAD. An Organ of Student Opinion. 1931. Volume 2. Number 3.
Rowing Club Notes
Rowing Club Notes
The task of deciding which sport or sports he will take up is one which places the "fresher" in somewhat of a dilemma when he first enters the College.
He wants something which will be enjoyable, hold reasonable possibilities of success and above all will improve his physique. The Rowing Club offers all this and more to the aspiring athlete. If you are afraid of a strenuous sport or are not prepared for stringent training, or are prepared to stand aside and look on, do not join the Rowing Club.
The sport of rowing is The sport and is an integral part of University life the world over. It has wonderful developing powers and not only does it make for quickness of eye and hand, but also for alertness and mental improvement. A hard rowing race shows a man for what he is and demonstrates in no uncertain manner his hardiness and pugnacity of purpose. If you cannot play football, row during winter and keep fit.
Each year an inter-University eight-oared boat race is held at the venue of the Annual Easter Tournament and the large gatherings which witness the event are ample proof of the high regard in which the sport is held. In 1930 at Auckland the race was watched by several thousand spectators and many remarked that the boat-race was the most enjoyable and exciting event of the tournament, which opinion was repeated after the recent tournament. Of the four eight-oared races held to date Victoria has gained three firsts and one second place and we require as many men as possible to supply the material for future crews. Last year the club was able to sit six crews in the trial fours, but we would like to see this number exceeded and so provide material for the club.
In order to obtain a seat in the "eight," membership of one of the three local clubs is essential, where the necessary plant and coaching is obtainable.
Do not let the fact that you have never been in a boat before prevent you from adopting the sport. Indeed it is easier both to the coach and the man if the aspiring oarsman is an absolute novice at the game.
We will welcome inquiries from anyone desiring further information. Just leave a note in the rack for the Club Captain, F. M. Bell, or the Secretary, W. J. Kemp, who will be glad to render all the assistance in their power.