The three tailenders were North Grammar boys.
"Central Grammar wins handily," announced Len Spencer through a megaphone.
Hi Martin's face darkened.

"Anyway, I'll have the satisfaction of showing Dick Prescott my heels all the way up the course," he grunted.
"Now, you two individual racers tumble aboard, and get ready for your work," warned Len, as the launch ran in alongside the pier.
"Wipe him up, Dick!" "Don't show him any mercy, Hi!" Various other comments wafted to the pair as they sat in the launch facing each other.
"Some of those people must think we can both win," laughed Dick good-humoredly.
"I'll soon show you that only one of us can win," retorted Hi almost savagely.
Arrived at the raft, Len Spencer spoke briefly: "At the first shot of the pistol you two youngsters take up your positions, ready to dive.

At the second shot, or as soon after as you wish, you may dive and begin the race.

Either contestant who dives before the second shot is heard will be disqualified and then the race will go to the other contestant." Dick waited, tingling with the desire to win, though he knew that Martin was a splendid swimmer for his age.
"Are you ready ?" asked Len in a low voice.

Both boys nodded.
Bang! Len fired a revolver into the air, calling the attention of all spectators.