Arthur Lydiard Games coach

Press, 1 June 1989, Page 56

Arthur Lydiard Games coach

PA Wellington The middle-distance guru, Arthur Lydiard, continued his official return to New Zealand athletics when he was named yesterday as one of six track and field coaches for the 1990 Commonwealth Games. Mr Lydiard, who coached such stars as Peter Snell and Murray Halberg in the 19605, drifted away from the sport in New Zealand in later years and spent much time coaching overseas. He was appointed one of three national middledistance coaches in March this year, and the director of coaching, Kerry Hill, said Mr Lydiard still had a lot to offer New Zealand athletics. “Arthur is very enthusiastic about the local scene and he’s been very generous with his time since March. He’s got a lot to offer,. particularly in the motivational area,” Mr Hill said. Mr Lydiard’s last appointment in an official capacity was at the 1974 Christchurch Commonwealth Games, where he was one of three coaches. “Arthur doesn’t sit easily with administration and he’s very quick to say so, rightly or wrongly. He rubs people up the wrong way sometimes,” Mr Hill said. “But there, have been quite a few changes in New Zealand athletics and he’s very enthusiastic.” Mr Lydiard, now based in Auckland, is overseas and could not be contacted for comment. Joining him as distance coach is Canterbury’s Bruce Milne, while John Hunt (Wellington) will look after the sprinters, Jeff Bailey (Canterbury) the relays, Doug McClymont (Hawke’s Bay) the jumps and Mene Mene (Canterbury) the throws. Mr Hill said the coaching lineup was very experienced and provided a good cross-section to serve as much of the team as possible. But he added that he was hopeful of adding further coaches.