AMATEUR ATHLETICS.

Manawatu Times, Volume LXV, Issue 1868, 12 March 1913, Page 6

AMATEUR ATHLETICS.

(By "Tout.") This afternoon the local runnels will have an opportunity of trying their powers at the St. Patrick's sports which are being held on the Sportsground. The programme is a good one, and the various events promise to be well contested. Last year the points prize was won by H. Stagpoole, and on his present running should again score. K. Tait has been hurdling very well on the training ground, and should be hard to beat in the hurdles. The other morning a 440 yards race was run on the Sportsground between two local runners, which created considerable interest. Both the contestants work in local drapery establishments, and each runner had its respective * supporters on the ground to see their choice do honour for the firm.

Easter Monday will no doubt be the last opportunity for amateur runners in this district to run, and I hope the Caledonian Society's amateur events will fill well, as the trophies given are of considerable value. I had word the other day from J. Bradbury, of Masterton, and he told me he intends to be over for the above sports. R. Messenger, who is well known over here, is running pretty well just now. and in an evening meeting in Masterton recently won the 220 yards in good style, running it off 8 yards in 22sec. A very good run. On present appearances the local club's season is now finished as far as evening meetings are concerned, and that being so Ken Tait wins the Presi ent's Cup, presented by Mr H. R. Cooper for most points scored during the season at the evening runs. L. Kerr, who is one point behind K. Tait, has been running very well this season, and will improve more and more as he trains on. J. Walsh has been the most consistent runner on the track this season, ami has been very unlucky that his recent starts should have resulted in no tess than four seconds. I hope this afternoon he may go one better. One of the club's new members this season, H. Stratford, was ju.sc beaten in a very fast run, 100 yards, at Woodvilie the other week and should improve next season.