Chinese Sports, Evening Post, 11 Oct. 1921, p 3

CHINESE SPORTS^[1]

"HAPPINESS TO THE REPUBLIC"

Unique scenes were witnessed at Newtown Park yesterday afternoon, when the local Chinese residents celebrated the tenth anniversary of the proclamation of the Chinese Republic. In business the Chinaman has shown that he can march with the times; on the sports field yesterday he demonstrated that he is an athlete of ability. Those who journeyed, to the Park to see the Chinese at play, and they comprised a large crowd, had expected to see sports of quite an unusual character, but they were treated to a programme much on usual lines. There were, however, several novel events. To their friends the Chinese extended hospitality, and did much to make the outing enjoyable for all. The lining up of competitors for the races created a good deal of interest. The line-up afforded good material for eager camera-men.

The proceedings opened with addresses by Mr. Wong Tong, president of the Chinese Association, Mr. Ping Ming, a well-known Chinese resident, and the Rev. Y. P. Hi. Each made an appeal to the Chinese to always observe the tenth day of the tenth month. Pleasure was also expressed at the large attendance of friends. Among others present were: The newly-appointed Chinese Consul (Mr. Li Kwang Heng), the ex-president of the Association (Mr. J. B. Lum), and Mr. N G. Kwong, manager of the "Nan Sing Times (sic).” Several of the leading men wore the badge of the party under Dr. Sun Yat Sen, awarded for services rendered, and bearing the inscription, "Leader of Kuo Nun Tang. (sic)"

The display of decorations at the Park included the flag of the Republic, with the New Zealand flag on either side, and a streamer bearing the message, "Happiness to the Republic." Two Chinese kites were also a source of attraction.

The Consul was late in arriving, but sent, the following message :—

"To-day is the anniversary day of the establishment of the Republic of China. I am glad to say that the Chinese subjects in those countries where I have resided celebrated this glorious day enthusiastically, and I am glad to see that the Chinese in this Dominion are doing the same. I hope that all the Chinese will observe this 10th day of October— the double-tenth festival—as enthusiastically as the Americans observe their memorial day, 4th July. I also hope that such celebration will not merely be considered as a formal one, but will be considered as the day to remind our Chinese of the difficulty of the success of the great, Republic. We should therefore unitedly love the country, so that the Government for the people, by the people, and under the people, shall not be perished from the world."

Liberal prizes were awarded for the sports events, gold and silver medals respectively, for first and second places, and neckties for third places. The events resulted as follow:—

100 yds, under 14: Raymond Wong Tong 1, Lo Fung Hong 2, Kong Heng 3.

220 yds, under 18: L. Tommy 1, Ah Ken 2.

440 yds: C. S. Fong 1, J. Kitchill 2, Joe Yew 3. In this event there was a large field! The winner was ahead at 200 yards, and, showing fine speed, won easily.

High Jump: Joe Yew 1, C. S. Fong 2, J. Kitchill 3.

Sack Race: Joe Jong Lun 1, J. Kitchill 2, Jem Lee 3.

Two Miles Bicycle Race: James Lowe (Palmerston North) 1, C. S. Fong 2. Jem Lee fell exhausted, and Fong also fell, but recovered.

Tug-o'-war: J. B. Lum (captain), Chung Lung, Peter Chen, and Ngan Guy 1.

Lue Jue, ex-champion boxer, gave exhibitions of shadow-sparring and knife juggling.

Refreshments were distributed at the conclusion of the gathering, and "lollie scrambles" provided for the children. 'Much of the success of the celebrations was due to the work of the secretary, Mr. Matthew Shun.