CHANGED GERMANY

Dominion, Volume 22, Issue 91, 11 January 1929, Page 8

CHANGED GERMANY

ONCE MILITANT, NOW ATHLETIC “There is a wave of athleticism sweeping* over Germany,, which, combined with industrial progress, is bringing her back to a place among the nations,” said Mr. Kenneth Impett, the New Zealand baritone, in the course of an interview last night with a “Dominion” representative upon his return from abroad. During an absence from the Dominion of three years he visited France, Belgium, Germany, Italy and other places on the Continent. “During my .visit to Germany, I formed a profound impression of the remarkable economic recovery of the country.” said Mr. Impett. “I suppose that 4 no other nation in history has made such an extraordinary revival. The German people have got their coats off. Having now no military interests they are attracted to athletics and open-air pursuits. The result is, of course, that with this intensive training, the German, whether male or female, is bound to develop into a r*rson to be contended with. When in Germany I encountered week-end parties —sometimes fifty strong—tramping here and there, and often sleeping out of doors at night to conserve their finances—the average clerk or shop assistant receiving a moderate salary, chooses this means of exercising himself during the holiday period. Sunbathing and open-air gymnasium work is becoming a feature of the curriculum employed by the various athletic societies and clubs throughout the country. An appreciation of the value of sunshine seems to take a foremost place in the mind of the average German today. Some classes insist on a nude condition. The physical development of the average German is finer than is to be found anywhere in Europe. Physically Germany is certain to lead in the future.”

Mr. Impett said there was no doubt that Germany would enter the field of trade again with an enthusiasm greater than before the Great War. She was producing in photographic .-.ccessories, cameras and perfumes some of the finest goods of their .find obtainable, and already her competition in this respect was being felt.