DUKE CLOSES GAMES

Press, Volume XCVII, Issue 28649, 28 July 1958, Page 13

DUKE CLOSES GAMES

Moving Welsh Singing (N.Z. Press Association—Copyright) CARDIFF. July 26. The sixth Empire Games closed in an atmosphere typical of the host country. Wales. There was solemnity, fervour, enthusiasm, and a great cheer as Welshmen heard the voice of the Queen tell them that the Principality’s greatest wish was to be granted —Prince Charles, Duke of Cornwall. would be created Prince of Wales in Canaervon Castle. It was a fitting end to a week of Welsh hospitality.

Just after the last event of the Games ended, the Welsh Guards marched through the marathon gate followed by standard bearers of the Commonwealth nations, their flags flying proudly and heralding team after team of competitors. There was formality about this march, but there was also a cheerful mixture of costume —track suits, colourful blazers, white or grey flannels, and an extraordinary assortment of hats. Murray Halberg had a grey beret loaded with badges. Mike Agostini, a red Canadian track suit tucked up to his knees, wore a peaked cap he had acquired from a guardsman, and Ray Puckett. trousers rolled up. was buried beneath a panama hat too big for him. Review by Duke

What was supposed to be a dignified review by the Duke became a good-humoured jaunt. Nobody kept ranks, dozens followed the Duke around with cameras, and Bill Young, manager of the Australian team, grabbed the Duke’s hand as he passed in salute and shook it warmly. Then the Welsh crowd began to sing, and Cardiff Arms Park became a resounding open-air theatre as Welsh songs and hymns came spontaneously from scores of thousands of throats. Then the ‘‘lower flags” order came from the Chief Marshal. There was complete silence as the standard bearers in an arc before the Duke dipped their ensigns and the ceremonial flag was struck. The band started a subdued ‘‘Auld Lang,Syne.’’ and it grew in volume until the whole assembly was singing. Circles of men and women from all over the Commonwealth joined hands m the great arena, their voices blending in the pledge to meet again.

N.Z. Medallists At Games

(N.Z. Press Association —Copyright) CARDIFF. July 26 New Zealanders who won medals at the Games were:— Gold.—Valerie Sloper (shot put), Murray Halberg • three miles). Bob Parker and Reg Douglas (pair oar>. and J. Morris and E. Pilkingston (bowls). , Silver.—Mary Donaghy (high jump), Jennifer Thompson (discus) Warren Johnston (10-mile cycle race). Tessa Staveley <llO yards breaststroke). Les Mills ‘(discus), and Jim Hill (smg.e sculls). . .. Bronze. —Valerie Sloper (discus). Mervyn Richards (pole vault), Warwick Dalton (1090 metres time trial and 4000 metres pursuit). Paddy Donovan (boxing), Philippa Gould <llO yards backstroke), Neville Scott (three miles). Jim Hill and Norman Suckling (double sculls). Dave Norris (hop, step and jump).