ATHLETIC CHAMPIONSHIPS.

Taranaki Daily News, 21 February 1933, Page 2

ATHLETIC CHAMPIONSHIPS.

(To the Editor.)

Sir,—Prior to the athletic championship meeting held at New Plymouth on the 11th inst there was every indication of the meeting being an outstanding success from an athletic point of view, for it was a foregone conclusion that several of the existing records would be broken, on account of form shown by competitors at meetings held throughout the season. It is therefore very discouraging to those athletes who put up such splendid performances, and have trained hard throughout the season, if . their efforts are not to be recognised in the proper manner through slackness on the part of the management committee or responsible persons. That the times were correct is proved by the times, registered at the West Coast championships. Therefore as it appears very unlikely that these records will be approved it is the duty of the management committee to do their best to compensate those competitors by giving them a chance at an early date to regain their titles; otherwise there is very little inducement for athletes to remain amateur. Trusting that those interested will wake up.—l am, etc., BALLY RUFF. Eltham, February 20. [When the above letter was referred to Mr. M. Comber, captain of the New Plymouth Amateur Athletic Club, he stated that his club much regretted the unfortunate position that had arisen, but pointed out that no less than five timekeepers were appointed, and all were communicated with by letter, with a request that they inform the secretary if they were unable to be present. As the secretary received no advice that any of the time-keepers could not be present it was expected that all would be. in at- ‘ tendance, and it was only at 7.45 p.m. that it was discovered that only two were present Endeavours were then made to get into touch with at least one other, but without avail—Ed.J