OLYMPIC GAMES.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIV, Issue 19748, 22 September 1927, Page 16

OLYMPIC GAMES.

DOMINION REPRESENTATION PROMOTION OF INTEREST. AUCKLAND BODY FORMED. The formation of an Auckland branch of the New Zealand Olympic Games Association was undertaken at a meeting in the Chamber of Commerce last evening, attended by representatives of numerous sports bodies. The Mayor, Mr. G. Baildon, presided. It was stated the branch would assist in promoting interest in New Zealand's representation at next year's Olympic Games, to be held at Amsterdam, while funds would be accumulated to enable the Dominion to be represented adequately at future games. The Mayor said a movement was in progress to organise amateur 3port throughout the Dominion, and it -tvould be the object of the Auckland branch to assist in this cause. Mr. E. A. Craig said it was fcigh time action was taken to form an Auckland branch. The council was a little concerned at the apathy shown in Auckland up to the present. A meeting of enthusiasts was called last October, when a provisional executive was elected. At that time, however, the Dominion Council had not been formed. A great deal of work would have to be done by those who were to undertake the definite formation of an Auckland branch, as there were many things to be done if New Zealand was to be adequately represented at Amsterdam. It would be essential to .appoint a district council, which would control the branch's area. This, it was suggested, should include all territory now controlled by the Auckland Rugby Union. Membership of the branch would be almost without restriction. Not only would all sports bodies be eligible, but also any persons who were desirous of giving their assistance in the promotion of interest in sport. No definite subscription had been suggested, except that life members would be appointed on payment of £5 ss. This money would not be spent at once. The council would accept 5s as the member's first year's subscription, and it had been laid down by the Dominion Council that the remaining £5 had to be invested to return not less than 5s a year. This would ensure that money raised would not be expended wastefully. On the motion of Mr. Baildon it was decided to form the Auckland branch with jurisdiction over an area identical with that of the Auckland Rugby Union. It was decided to defer the preparation of rules and appointment of officers until preliminary questions had been dealt with. The following provisional sub-com-mittee was appointed:—Messrs. H. Frost, E. A. Craig, E. Hickson, G, Henning, T. C. Hobbs-Jones, A. T. Davis, G. B. Metcalfe and J. Carlaw. -