SWIMMING.

Hawera & Normanby Star, Volume XLII, Issue XLII, 28 October 1922, Page 9

SWIMMING.

The which officially opened last Wednesday promises very well. The enthusiasm displayed was reflected in the^crowd which thronged the baths and the keenness shown by everyone to. get as much as possible into the time at their disposal, and their evident appreciation of the fact that the time for swimming has come round once more. There is no doubt that few sports give more real joy to all who are able to enjoy the delights of swimming. Certain it is that the devotee must be constitutionally strong and vigorous to indulge largely, but everyone who is SO' constituted gains tremendously in health and strength from this wonderfully invigorating exercise. But, as in all active exercises, it is well not to overdo it, especially at the beginning of the season. | The club will, no doubt, be arranging carnivals from time to time. As these' entail a fair amount of expense, it is up to everyone to do all in their power to assist and to the civic authorities to be as liberal as may be in their dealings with the club. 'It is much to be regretted that more interest has not been shown in the

work of the Life-Saving Club. Last year it promised well, several enthusiasts having taken up the matter and classes being formed for instruction and practical demonstration. The club had a reel, which is still located down at the beach, and appeared to have a litfe of much usefulness ahead. These anticipations have, however, owing to various causes, not been realised, and at present the movement languishes for want of a little push and enthusiasm. It seems very regrettable that such a good and useful avenue of effort cannot be explored further. Two or three enthusiasts who stuck to the scheme j right through are naturally discouraged, j but it is certain that they, if given anything like adequate support, would continue their efforts. It is a move- ' ment that should appeal to swimmers generally, and probably the committee, now that they realise the position, will i take the matter in hand. It so natu- ! rally links on to the sport of swimming and is such a useful adjunct not only to swimmers, but to everyone who goes out to the beach or river, and is fraught with such possibilities for good to the whole community, that there j should be no difficulty in forming and maintaining a strong committee and enrolling a large membership. A few have tried for the past two seasons to Touse some enthusiasm, but they have met with little response, and naturally their enthusiasm has beeji damped. It is up to the club committee to take this matter in hand. They would find it a useful helo to their club work.