SPEED STUFF

As a publicity stunt and a thrilling pastime, the train and motor boat race on the Hudson yesterday was interesting, but technically at least, it did not conform to any real definition of a race. Mr. Wood and his two motor speed boats were out to make their own schedule, while the train had to conform to a definite time-table, designed with an eye to safety as well as speed. By scorching down the river and then comparing his time with that of the Century, Mr. Wood could have run the race just as effectively, but there would have been no newspaper headlines, no airplanes, and no broadcasting of the event.

There was some vague talk of establishing speedy motor boat transportation to Albany if the Gar Wood match boxes cut the train time appreciably, but the race proved merely that a hurried New Yorker might save twelve minutes through going by water. Even at that he would probably have to carry a spare boat with him because only one of the two boats was able to finish out the race. There may, possibly be a place for Mr. Wood as legislative courier. He can hover near the New York water-front, engines warming up, and then whisk a Senator to Albany in time to cast the deciding vote. Aside from this, his motor boat performances can be nothing more ban amusing and ornamental.