Sportsman’s Notebook DEEP FREEZE SOFTBALL TEAM HAS RARE ABILITY

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30054, 12 February 1963, Page 18

Sportsman’s Notebook DEEP FREEZE SOFTBALL TEAM HAS RARE ABILITY

Witih the splititiiing of the senior men’s softball competatdon into two sections the executive of the Canterbury Softball Association has boldly decided to infuse some life into the competition, which usually stumbles along to a dismal end with the winners well established. If the decision is taken to include Deep Freeze in the top category, this will prepare local softball spectators for a brand of softball that is adequately covered by that American slogan—“ Hustle.”

After a start that was as teniiatiive as it was unsuccessful, this team from the American base at Harewood has in the last few games played softball that has set 'Other teams by the ears. Fast, intelligent fielding, with an amazing two or even three men backing up every fielding play and throw, has opened opposition eyes. With, by local standards, only moderate pitching from C. Seaigars, the team has played defensive games of fine skill. The catcher, White, throws the ball the 85ft to second base from a crouch, and it arrives at express speed to provide easy pickoffs by the second baseman. Russo plays at first base with agility aind manages the infield with unobtrusive method. The short-stop, Gable, plays fine games, and is the spark-plug of an infield that really moves. Right of Gable is the agile Ryan at third base, a clever player who bats with real resolution.

Strenuous preparation that makes local efforts seem casual allows Deep Freeze to start every game in top Kear, and quick runs in the early innings have upset lesserprepared but better-rated teams. Practice has moulded these servicemen into a smoothly operating team of rare ability. H they are playtag in the top division or the lower, opponents will find the task of beat tag Deep Freeze a major one. * * * Borrowed Timers All real golfing enthusiasts more than 70 years old will be competing in the Borrowed Timers’ GoM Chib’s annual match, to be held art the Shirley course on Monday. Golfers from any part of the world are eligible, amateurs or professionals, men or women, as long as they are more then 70. There will be six competitions. The president (Mr J. Dolph) has presented • salver cup to be held for one year by the player gaining the best gross score. Other comnerttitotw will include the best net score, the longest drive, the best approach shot, foe best bunker Shot, and the best putting score ewer nine holes. Prizes wIH be pre-

seated by the club mascot (Mrs T. Hyde). Entries are being taken by H. Blair (Christchurch) and J. Clements (Avondale). * * * Royal Carnival Some aspects of the Royal surf carnival held at Ocean Beech, Mount Maunganui, on Saturday were not entirely satisfactory. The Government did not offer surf clubs sufficient compensation for bringing surf boats to the carnival, and as only one boat, from Auckland, made an appearance, it was impossible to give a display of this Important section of lifesaving. The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh would undoubtedly have been provided with a fine spectacle had more boats been present. It was also a pity that the Royal box, 200 yards from the water, was not closer to ■the competitions. * * * Good Bowling The former Sydenham and Canterbury left arm fast bowler, C. R. Nicholson. who is playing senior cricket in Sydney, showed good form on Saturday. Playing for Paddington against Manly, he dismissed four batsmen for 82 runs in a spell of accurate deliveries, Manly losing seven wickets for 190 runs during the day's play.