THE ATHLETIC CLUBS.

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume XIII, Issue 4737, 10 December 1886, Page 3

THE ATHLETIC CLUBS.

Sin, — Mr Lewis undertook to correct me in a delusion into which I have fallen— according to him. I did^ not say that from January to the end of November would be tivu months. I took the report of the meeting, which does not appear to havo been questioned, and that plainly states the object to be to provide sports three or four times a year, and continues, ♦' the dates being fixed :is follows : (From) November 1), January 1, and (to) March 17." A little simple addition will show where the " delusion " is. This fixture is partly retracted by the Secretary stating they will really only hold two days' sports in the year, because one day would be for the Hospital. Is it not the public who will support the sports 1 Even taking Mr Lewis on his own statements, I repeat that with counter-attractions, it would be precarious, if not utterly absurd, to make the attempt. I would also refer to Mr Lewis' arguments hi support of his Club. My object is to see all respectable athletes in the district united in one body ; then distinctions could be made as to " professionals " and amateurs," for we cannot overlook the definitions laid down by standard clubs. Mr Lewis does not seem to be aware that an amateur running with a person who has run for money thereby becomes himself a "professional," no matter whether the race has been for a trophy or money. And then we have the selfish idea that outsiders must not run because we are frightened they will beat us. Sensible handicappers always lay it onto "dark ones," and Mr Primrose's handicapping seldom fails to bring the ■mart youngsters well to the front. If we have no higher aim than to collect the spoil and divide it among ourselves, the sooner we throw the spikes aside the better. Let is combine together, respect dilecacies of feeling on the "amateur " distinction, and have Fair Sport.

A meeting of the Amateur Athletic Club was held last night, Mr Croft being in the chair. A vory large number of members were present. The rule 3 were gone through and adopted, and officers were appointed.