two o'clock
In the morning buoys had been set on the lake at each end of a measured course . The course was to be a mile , around the upper buoy and returning to the starting line . The usual rules of boat and canoe racing were to apply as to clear water , fouling and the like , as well as the right of way at the upper buoy in case the rival canoes were close together . `` It 's half-past two o'clock now , '' announced the starter , glancing at his watch . `` At two-forty , '' stated the referee , `` I shall order both canoes into the water . As soon after that as each crew captain chooses he may put his men aboard and take such warming-up work as he may wish . At two-fifty-six the first gun will be fired , and both crews must come promptly to the judges ' boat for alignment .