Olympic Games CRITICISM OF UNIFORM

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 29051, 13 November 1959, Page 14

Olympic Games CRITICISM OF UNIFORM

Brighter Colours Suggested (New Zealand Press Association) WELLINGTON, November 12. The charge of drabness was made against the present Olympic uniform by a number of promient Wellington sports’ administrators today. Suggestions for its improvement were many and varied, but nearly all agreed that the time was ripe for a change. Mr R. Carruthers, a member of the New Zealand Cycling Association, described the team which paraded at the Melbourne Olympics as “a lot of undertakers.” Mr J. Stafford, a national fencing official, said thought could be given to adding one or two other bright colours, such as green or gold. “New Zealand is the only country in the world where it is green all the year round. A splash of green and gold would certainly make the badge look more striking,” he said. Mr C. A. Blazey, a member of ■the Wellington Amateur Athletic Association, made no apologies for wanting to retain the traditional all black running shorts and singlets for New Zealand athletes. “Our athletes are at least distinctive, and this is important when it is realised that a large number of athletes at the Olympic and Empire Games compete in white singlets. “I would be surprised if any move originated. in the national body to depart from this uniform,” he said. The president of the Wellington Hockey Association (Mr K. C. Osborne) thought the black uniform was too drab. “A change to a white jersey with a black kiwi might improve things,” he said.