ATHLETICS.

Auckland Star, Volume LI, Issue 27, 31 January 1920, Page 18

ATHLETICS.

In a letter to the "Post," a corresponlent ("Enthusiast") makes the suggestion that a trainer should he sent with the team of athletes to compete at the Australasian championships in Sydney on the 31st January and 7th February. "On reading the personnel of the team," writes the ■correspondent, "it appeared to mc that there was a serious omission —no trainer had been appointed to accompany the team. Now, sir, this is a matter of great importance, for, in sending men away to uphold high honours on the athletic field, especially when they are to proceed oversea, it ie most essential that condition should be maintained. ■ This can only satisfactorily he done by strict attention from a man specially appointed to carry out such work as is required to keep the physical fitness of the athletes up to concert pitch. Thousands of people supported the championship meeting on Saturday in order that New Zealand should be represented in what is probably the biggest athletic meeting south of the line. The standard of sport that they witnessed was remarkable, and it would come as a great disappointment if the team selected did not reproduce such form in Australia. Between now and the commencement of the Australasian championships the Xew Zealand representatives will have a sea voyage of over three days and only a few days in which to regain their "land legs," Surely, in the face of this, it is essential that a trainer should be in attendance from the time the team leaves the Wellington wharf. Of course, it may be possible to obtain the services of a trainer in Australia, but why neglect the men during the voyage? ,.