Y.M.C.A. NOTES

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVI, Issue 200, 14 July 1936, Page 12

Y.M.C.A. NOTES

(By “X”) A cross-section of Association life certainly shows a great deal of activity current at the “Y.” Apart from the eleven class sessions, with more than -100 members, numerous social and inter-class activities assist members to derive much enjoyment from the planned social, physical, spiritual, and educational programme. The interhouse basketball competition has completed its first round, and play to date shows R.D.C. in a leading position with 14 points, while Rosco and J. R. McKenzie’s follow closely behind, in the ladies’ section. Hopwood Hardware lead Berry’s and City Council A in the men’s section. Many keen games are being witnessed, even the “tail” providing some very thrilling exhibitions of the local game. In gymnasium competition in the men’s classes a very strong series of contests are being held. Athletic, Nomads, and Hangers lead a close field. Attendances at the gymnasium classes are maintaining a steady level, every week-day seeing numbers making tracks towards the open doors of the Y.M.C.A. On the floor a good hot pace is appreciated, and one comes from a cold shower tingling with health and fitness. The social committee continues to hold its regular weekly dances. These always prove immensely popular, and it is anticipated that the forthcoming Pirates’ ball will draw a record crowd.

Red Triangle Day, the annual appeal to the public for funds to carry on the boys’ work which, through the small fees, cannot hope to pay for itself, was held on July 4. The collectors were out bright and early ami they, together with the ladies’ auxiliary who conducted the street stall, contributed materially towards the success of the appeal. The thanks of the association are due to these helpers, and to those who sold badges, for their very commendable effort.

The latest venture, an association magazine tefling of the various activities anti other domestic matters, is in great demand. The humorous sallies are thoroughly enjoyed; the current comments are to the point, in fact the “Y-Cris” is proving itself an excellent contact between the various branches of the membership. The Optimists’ Club are having well-attended luncheons, and the speakers are of a particularly high standard, their subjects being both entertaining and instructive. Cross-country running as a sport has taken on a new lease of life in Palmerston North in the Y.M.C.A. Harriers’ Club. Good runs arc being held every Saturday, and some fast times are being recorded. A splendid social spirit is present, and the ineiii r bets thoroughly enjoy their weekly runs. An invitation run is to be held at Murton shortly. The fifth grade soccer team is displaying quite good form. They are at present runners-up in their competition, having won three games out of four. In the boys’ department the programme is being very fully carried out. The different classes take part in the various contests, games, groupwork, and general activity, in a state of keen competition. It is pleasing to see so many new faces this year, and old and new members alike are rallying enthusiastically around their club captains with a view to winning the group championships. New members "are at present looking forward to a “parent and son” banquet, to be held in the near future, while those who attended last year’s look forward even more keenly.