SWIMMING

Evening Post, Volume CXV, Issue 148, 26 June 1933, Page 11

SWIMMING

DOMINION STANDARD

LESSONS FROM THE GAMES

"Although New Zealand did not A compete in any national events, as swimming and diving take such a leading part in the sporting life of New Zealand, 'there, are Wessons to be learned from a review of results, of the tenth Olympiad," states tho report of Mr. P. N. Rundle, manager of the New Zealand team which competed at ';the Olympic Games at Los Angeles last. 5-ear.

First and .foremost, states 'Mr. '-Bundle, was the ascendancy of the Japanese, who in men's events practically swept the board, taking, first and 6econd places in each individual event with the. exception of the 400 metres. A.careful selection of the most-.efficient 'style of swimming, after an analysis of all style?, backed up by. assiduous .training and a grim determination, was responsible for the sensational success of the Japanese. . . ■

In all classes of diving the - Americans were' supreme, and took first, second, and, third places in every diving event.. Their displays far. surpassed those of other competitors. Here again a close study. .of. methods, with assiduous practice, was largely responsible . for results.

In. water polo, the Hungarian team was supreme, being in a class definitely superior to other competitors.

"The standard of swimming in New, Zealand is reasonably high and progress is consistent," says Mr. Rundle, "but there is still some distance to go before our swimmers will be in world;class.": Mr. Rundle commends to the New Zealand Amateur Swimming Association the methods adopted by the Japanese to perfect their men and women in the natatorial art. He expresses the view -that by the close study of swimming styles as revealed by slow-motion pictures— which can be imported—backed by sound coaching methods and with enthusiasm and determination on the part of the pupil, /there is no reason why New Zealand swimmers should not'attain, world standard and compete on level terms with other nations.

The same remarks Mr. Rnndle _ applies to diving,, the standard of which in New' Zealand, lie says, is very mediocre. He contends,, however, that the exponents of this attractive.sport can be developed to a higher standard. ■ . ■ ■