HARRIERS

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXVI, Issue 8103, 4 May 1912, Page 7

HARRIERS

Once more the Harrier season, is in full swing, but for some not obvious reason this splendid winter pastime is not as I flourishing «s it should bo. There are hundreds of young fellows to whom football, hockey, or lacrosse possess no attractions and who would, if a little inducement were offered, take up crosscountry running. This is a .sport wherein ono can find a splendid afternoon s enjoyment. tt is not necessary to be a speed-merchant to be a Lanier, on the contrary the successful cross-country runner is usually made, not born, for it is most unusual for a. first-season runner to achieve anything sensational in the distance events. During his second season the enthusiastic harrier will probably find a decided increase in his speed, although I recollect quite a number of cases where it was not until the third season that top-form was shown. There is nothing very difficult about cross-country running—quite the reverse, any young fellow in normal health can participate in this excellent health-giv-ing pastime. The pace is always regulated to suit the slowest runner and, it is the combined duty of the captain, “pacemaker,” and “whip” to see that none of the runners are unduly distressed. The more experienced runners are always glad of the opportunity of giving some friendly hints and advice to the beginner, and tho short "run-in.” at the finish of each day’s run will give him actual experience in competition. Tho sport, which is an inexpensive one. should certainly have more followers than it has at present. Personally I think that if prizes were given (open to all harriers) to those introducing tho most new members during tho season excellent results would follow.

The Brooklyn Harriers will run from Thorndou Baths this afternoon.

Tho Wellington Harriers will run from the Lyoll Bay Surf Club’s shed, Lyall Bay. Both runs take place at 3 p.m.