Royal Cornwall Gazette, Cornwall and Devon Wrestling Society: Menear champion (1868)

CORNWALL AND DEVON WRESTLING SOCIETY. THE CHAMPIONSHIP. The annual meeting of this society commenced at Hackney Wick, on Good Friday. There were fully three thousand persons present, the visitors taking much interest in the wrestling, which was carried out strictly in the Cornwall and Devon style, the “fair back fall.” Although open to all counties, at any weight, the exclusive rule of shutting out men at 13st, passed some years ago to exclude Pollard and Gloyne, two heavy men, was wisely abandoned.

“A hat! a hat!” from Mr. James Truscott, the manager, produced Robert Hayward (Devon) and Rd. Deer (Cornwall). After two splendid bouts, Hayward won in eight minutes by the “back lock.” The champion appeared, when, after playing time with S. Hayward, he next threw R. Hayward by the “pull under.” As Canning (Devon) gave his “back,” Joseph Menear, the champion, became the first standard.

On Monday: Bescombe, a Cornishman, succeeded in throwing Day, Devonshire, and having to “stand the ring,” Bescombe was called upon to tussle with Bartley, who finally had to retire, leaving the former the fourth standard. The final fall: Joseph Menear (Cornwall) and Wm. Harper (Cornwall): Menear threw his man in three minutes by the bearing toe; a terrific fall. Harper took second prize; James and Walters (Devon) third and fourth.

Menear was made champion for the year.