S.O.S.

Daily Telegraph (Napier), Volume 58, Issue 250, 22 November 1929, Page 8

S.O.S.

FRANK DE LISLE, Hon. Treasurer,

(To the Editor.) » Sir, — Three years ago a small hand of enthusiasts met in Napier for the purpose of reviving the sport of amateur athletics in this locality. The first meeting lapsed for want of a quoruin. Nothing daunted, a second was called and the movement launched by a handful of men who had vision and faitli. With a few reinforcements those same enthusiasts are still carrying on, williugly giving their time and services to foster and develop tlie hest qualities of clean sport among the youiig folk in our midst. The establishinent of a sub-centre in the district is evidence tliat much has been accomplished during this period. Tlie advance, however, has been made in spite of an appalling apathy on the part of the eommunity as a whole. In spite of the splendid fare offered last seasou tlie public support was so meagre that the local club faced a financial defieit at the end of the year. On Wednes-' day evening the second club night of this season was sfcaged in perfect weather. Sixty-six athletes competed in 16 events (lieats and finals), and keen compe titi on, with exciting finishes, was witnessed by 120 people wlio paid sixpence each for tho privilege. "What is the matter? Is sixpence too much? We have magnificent talent waiting to be developed. Lindsay's shot putting was supei'b, tlie three heats of the men's sprint were a treat to watch. I am writing tliis letter because I aiji keenly interested in our fine young athletes and I am sensitive of the honour of our fair city. May it never be said that we let our athletes down hy our indifference. They are worthy of our interest and support and _ I appeal 011 their behalf. _ The training and discipline necessary in the amateur code is a decided factor in character building for the hest type of citizenship. T trust that this S.O.S. will meet with response from many lovers of clean sport and that a greater measure of interest may be shown in the futnre activities of amateur athletics in our city. — I am, etc..

Napier A.A. and C. Club. Napier, Nov. 21, 1929.