SWIMMING VISITORS.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVI, Issue 272, 16 November 1935, Page 5 (Supplement)

SWIMMING VISITORS.

Victoria and N.S.W. Authorities Have Differing; Views. Although negotiations are as yet in the preliminary stages, there is a possibility that Duke Kahanamoku, the former Olympic champion, "Dad" Center, the world-rcuQwned swimming coach, and txvo other Hawaiian champions, will tour Australia this summer, writes Les Uren. The Victorian Amateur Swimming Association is sponsoring the proposed trip, which could only transpire provided the sanction of the Australian Swimming Union were obtained. As Australia generally and Victoria in particular is lacking in class performers a visit by Hawaiians should bring favourable results, for these watermen are expert in their methods and close observers of their styles probably would ascertain, by contrasting the methods of our foremost swimmers, what is lacking in the technique of Australian champions.

]f only for this reason official approval should be granted to the suggestion, although, in addition, the methods of tlie speedy visitors would attract the attention of all. At the first council meeting of the Y.A.S.A., to be held 011 November 14, the claims of the country clubs, which now comprise the major portion of the association, are bound to come under consideration. Already a suggestion to increase tlie number of country championships is officially before the parent body. There appears to be little doubt that the proposal will be adopted. Such action would be commended, for there is a great deal of undeveloped talent awaiting opportunity in the country centres. It is probable also that a teams breaststroke championship will bo introduced this season, even if it results in eliminating tlie 100 yards individual championship. The move will be progressive, for it will furnish the means of providing seratcji racing opportunities to those breast-strokers who are just below championship class in ability and experience. The most noteworthy feature of tlie annual report and balance-sheet, which was adopted, was the record credit of £582 15/5, which is in the association fund. Included in this sum is the amount of £300 transferred from the international and centenary carnival account. Authorities in Sydney are somewhat puzzled over the action of the Victorian Swimming Association in seeking to arrange a visit from overseas swimmers, but if the tour becomes definite they will do their best to participate, though the calibre of some suggested does not suggest great gate receipts. At the last meeting of the Australian Swimming Union it was decided to obtain a visit from Jack Medica, middle and long distance champion, and Peter Flick, world's star, over 100 metres.

V\ hv tho 46-vear-old Duko Ivahanamoku should be asked is a mystery. He has not been iu the swimming news since the last Olympic Games, when he scraped into the American polo team as a reserve. If it is intended that he be manager, why is "Dad" Center, a coach, though not regarded as modern enough by the present generation, included in tho invitations? Victoria wants the Hawaiians for January 11, a date which would not allow much time in Sydney, where the State championships will'be held on January 4, 8, 11. And Queensland will be at a similar disadvantage. New South Wales desired to ask some German swimmers, but the result of the negotiations with Medica and Flick are befn" awaited.