Western Times, Newton Abbot wrestling: May first prize (1841)

WRESTLING. Newton Abbot.—This good old Devonshire sport commenced on Thursday last, in one of the Bradley Meadows, near the town. The attendance was small on that day owing to the weather, it being very showery, but on Friday the ring was crowded to excess, and among the wrestlers were some of the finest men of the day for the heel and toe.

There were 24 standards made. In the double play, James Trace threw James Ellicombe; James Boon threw George Please; Wm. Stentiford threw Robert Bowden; John Greenslade threw George Osborne; Lewis Rendell threw Philip Pike; Wm. Pike threw Simon Webber; John Upton threw Wm. Ellicombe; Wm. Davy May threw James Webber; Geo. Rendell threw Thos. Spicer.

The prizes were awarded as follows:—First Prize, £5, to Wm. Davy May; Second, £3, John Upton; Third, £1 10s., to Wm. Stentiford.

On Saturday night, after the wrestling was over, Wm. Davy May and John Ellicombe, of Kingsteignton (the champion), were in company together when a question ensued as regarded their manhood. Three sovereigns were staked on each side to play for the championship on Monday morning. At the time appointed both parties were on the ground, with about three thousand spectators. Within the space of six minutes, Ellicombe was laid stargazing on his back by May. The play recommenced in about ten minutes, and after severe struggles on both sides for nearly an hour, Ellicombe, finding he had no chance to throw his man, they both gave in. The opinion that prevailed in the ring was that May is decidedly the best man.

Honiton Wrestling.—The first prize of 3 Sovereigns was therefore awarded to Trace. The second prize of 3 Sovereigns was given to W. Matthews; the third of one Sovereign to John Clapp. The play was the best ever seen here, and great credit is due to the Committee for the excellence of the arrangements.