ATHLETIC TOUR

Evening Post, Volume CXXXVIII, Issue 136, 6 December 1944, Page 6

ATHLETIC TOUR

U.S. SERVICES' TEAM

The possibility of an American Services' team of athletes visiting New Zealand this season (probably in February) has been suggested to the New Zealand Amateur Athletic Association by the R.N.Z.A.F. recreation officer in the Pacific, and negotiations for the visit are now proceeding. At a meeting of the committee last night it was decided to advise affiliated centres of the possibility and asking them to indicate whether they would be prepared to arrange a meeting for the visiting athletes.

The secretary (Mr. J. W. Holley) reported having advised the Director of the Army Education Welfare Service (Lieutenant-Colonel D. G. Ball) of the prospect and of the administrative committee's decision to put in hand the necessary preliminary steps, "With this object in view," the secretary's letter stated, "I was instructed to write you and invite your co-operation. From information received many top-line American track stars are serving in the Pacific, including Cummins, present American 120 yards hurdles champion; Dixon, coloured miler, who holds junior mile record, and is rated fifth best miler in America; McDonald, coloured sprint champion, who was rated as the outstanding 1944 Olympic prospect. Outstanding talent is also available in the high jump, discus, and shot event, much superior to the pre-war New Zealand standard. My committee favours a team of approximately 12 athletes, and is anxious to arrange a*n appearance in as many centres as possible. Mr. Hay den, secretary of the National Patriotic Fund Board, has also been approached, and promises his support, for my committee is in complete agreement that such a tour would be of great benefit to patriotic funds, as well as assisting athletes generally, and would provide an outstanding public attraction." Lieutenant-Colonel Ball had replied stating that the suggestion had received consideration. The Services, he stated, would be willing to assist the association, if necessary, in accommodation and in uther matters, providing the team was here in time to comoete in the Combined Services' Athletic Meeting to be held some time in February. He suggested that the association should issue the invitation to the American authorities. In doing so, the association would have the assurance of the Services' co-operation.