LOVELOCK’S VISIT

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLII, Issue 20532, 25 September 1936, Page 8

LOVELOCK’S VISIT

SUGGESTED REASON FOR INVITATION GOVERNMENT’S ACTION By Telegraph—Press Association DUNEDIN, September 24. A belief that J. E. Lovelock, the New Zealand Olympic champion, may be appointed on the conclusion of his medical studies in England to a New Government position in the Dominion, is held in some circles. It Is suggested that behind the Government’s action in inviting him to visit the Dominion there may be something more than to reward him for his achievements. A proposal has been made to the Government that physical culture in its various form in New Zealand should be co-ordinated under one supervising body, in accordance with methods adopted in some European countries, and that sport and recreation in the Dominion should be organised with a view to aiding the physical development of the people. It is understood that the secretary of the New Zealand Olympic Council (Mr H. Amos) has suggested in official quarters, with strong backing, that a new Government department should be created with this object in view, and that Lovelock should be its head. The Minister of Health (Hon. P. Fraser) is reported to have discussed the proposal with the Olympic Council, and to have expressed himself as being impressed with the idea. INTEREST IN SOUTH CANTERBURY The South Canterbury sub-centre of the New Zealand Amateur Athletic Association has been in touch with the Department of Internal Affairs regarding the proposed visit to the Dominion of Jack Lovelock. A representative of “The Timaru Herald” was told yesterday that although representations had not been made to the Department in the matter, it was felt that a coaching school in each Island might be considered during the champion’s visit. Lovelock could be the central figure in such a school when his advice and lectures would be invaluable in improving the standard of athletics in this country. If two such schools were established, it was felt that the one in the South Island could be held in Timaru. It might also be possible to arrange a sports meeting at which Lovelock could give an exhibition. Many New Zealanders would be thrilled at the opportunity of seeing their own champion in action after his wonderful success since he left the country. The reporter was told that a good deal would depend on Lovelock's itinerary, and the time he had at his disposal. The sub-centre, however, was fully alive to the importance of the visit and would do whatever possible to make it profitable and successful.