JOHN O'NEILL
Dedicated 18 years on the Pond. Rowed every year from 1931-1949. Known as the ,"Gentleman of the Pond." He was the favourite of the crowds. Known and respected for his sportsmanship. He is considered by his peers to be one of the finest and most powerful strokes for his day. Enclosed is a list of crews, races, place and times.
1932: All-Comers-Nellie R.-Central Labourers-9:47-winning by just
one stroke with St. Joseph's labourers coming in second. This was a
big upset and most money was bet on St. Joseph's. The Central
Labourer's did not win a race during the day. -
1932: 2nd place in Labourer's Race-lost to St. Joseph's.
1933: 2nd place-Labourer's Race were favoured to win.
1934: 2nd place ???-Labourer's-Southside Crew.
l935: Labour Race-Nellie R.-9:54 1/5. Bowring Bros won by a post; 2nd best
time of the day.
1937: Labour Race-2nd place-.Coronet.
1939: Nellie r.-labour Race-10:01 3/5:Bowring's crew.
1939: 2nd place in All Comers-Bowring's crew.
1936 Labourer's Race-Nellie R.Bowring's crew-10:23 1/5-stroke.
1936: Championship Race-Nellie r. (6 oar) second to West End
Police-neck and neck turning the buoys .. a close race.
In the Labourer's Race he competed against Harbour Grace and
Portugal Cove Rd.
1947: Union Race: Nellie r.-LSPU- 10:10 1941: 2nd place in 6 oar-All Comers Race duel championships held. 1943: Union Race-6 oar- Nellie R. 10:27. 1948: Union Race-LSPU-Red Cross-l.Rogers. 1949: LSPU 2nd to Labourers and General Workers-did John row this year.