Marathon plea

Press, Volume CXIV, Issue 33447, 31 January 1974, Page 16

Marathon plea

An appeal to motorists, other road users and spectators of the Commonwealth Games marathon this evening has been made by Mr S. y. R. Young, secretary of the tnarathon and walk committee.

Traffic and spectators had taused some problems for the Dames walkers on Tuesday, fee said, and it was expected |hat a much greater crowd, probably many thousands, would want to see the marathon runners. The course had been jhown in "The Press” and it would be a great help to the tunners if there were no cars parked along it and if traffic thowed consideration. If spec-

tators parked their cars in nearby streets, they would be helping themselves as well as the competitors because they would get a better view. It was particularly important that the seven time and refreshment stations were kept clear, Mr Young said. Officials must be able to pick out the runners’ numbers well in advance so that they could be handed their drinks. Any delay could cost them seconds. The marathon begins at Queen Elizabeth II Park at 5 p.m. The runners are expected to reach the turning point at the Christchurch Airport about 6 p.m. and to complete the return journey about 7.15 p.m.