THE OLYMPIC GAMES.

Taranaki Daily News, 2 August 1932, Page 6

THE OLYMPIC GAMES.

Whatever may be said, of internationalism in the political realms, the Olympic Games sow in progress at Los Angeles are an example of the value of athletics in developing all that is best in that spirit. Two matters know no boundaries of race, creed or colour in modern civilisation. The first is science, and the second sports and pastimes. In both the spirit of competition has its share in bringing about fresh effort; in both the value of effort begins to lessen so soon, as the desire for pecuniary reward is allowed to predominate. Especially is this so in the case of athletics, and it is good to know that the modern Olympic Games are preserving that principle. It was the essence of their foundation that athletes should enter the contests with no thought of the money value of the prizes, and the modern organisation is still insistent that the amateur status of contestants must be proved before they are allowed to compete. But it is for their international character that the Olympic Games are most worthy of support from individual States. To be chosen to compete in the Games is an honour. worth striving for iu the view of every athlete. He knows that his choice will depend upon skill and prowess and not upon nationality or social standing. Competition among young people upon such terms is a good introduction to an international outlookin more serious affairs, to say nothing of the contacts set up between older folk in the preparation for the Games. Above all, they set a standard of athletic prowess that is clean and high. The only way to attain it is by careful preparation and the avoidance of self-in-dulgence. That is teaching which may be applied with good, effect in the more serious walks of life*