Road Relay Races MANCHESTER October 15 TO From BLACKPOOL Belle Vue 11a.m.
EDINBURGH November 19 From TO St. Andrew's Sq. GLASGOW 11.30 a.m. Athletic Notes by JOE BINKS EX-HOLDER MILE RECORD 60 YEARS IN ATHLETICS
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Our SUBSCRIPTION RATES arc Photo by Andrew Prydc. 6 months 3/6 (post free) ; 12 months 6/6 (post free). TWO CHAMPIONS: J. STEWART PETTY ihc Scottish Half-Mlle — — Champion, with G. W. NANKEVILI.E, British Mile Champion. To "THE SCOTS ATHLETE." 69 ST. VINCENT STREET, GLASGOW. C.2. Please send "THE SCOTS ATHLETE " starting with issue.
Name JOHN EMMET FARRELLS Club (if any). RUNNING COMMENTARY. Address, TRAINING SCHEDULE FOR CROSS-COUNTRY. AUSTRALIAN ATHLETICS. EDINBURGH HIGHLAND GAMES. Ienclose...... being 6 months/12 months' subscription. Published by Wilier J. Ross. 69 St. Vincent Street. Glasgow. C.2. Printed by Lawn 6 Miller. Ltd.. 21 York Street. Glasgow. C.2. PERTH-DUNDEE ROAD RACE By WINIFRED HOLMES-ROSS. THE SCOTS ATHLETE J-JOW fortunate I was to have followed Meanwhile the warmth of the day and TO STIMULATE INTEREST IN by car the Perth-Dundee race at the the distance was beginning to show SCOTTISH AND WORLD ATHLETICS invitation of Mr. Lyons, former active effect. G. Gordon, possibly pa/i.:g the Glasgow and Dundee athlete, recently penalty of too fast a stait. had to retire returned from teaching duties in Sudan. as had local lad J. Montague (Dundee EDITED BY - WALTER J ROSS Those who know this 22 miles stretch Th. H.) and J. Lawsan (Irvine Y.M.). to Dundee need not be told of its charm Bob Fail and another Dundee man. Editorial Offices—69 St. Vincent Street, Glasgow. C.2 Tel.-CENtral 8443 on especially a beautiful sunny Septem¬ Peter Taylor, were battling it out in 2nd ber's day. and 3rd positions. Stewart Vance the SEPTEMBER. 1949. Vol. 4. No. 6. Annual Subscription, 6/6 The race started promptly at 2.30. remarkable 64 year-old from South The field of 16 starters included local Sydney. Australia, was moving well and man and favourite Charlie Robertson. by no means last. the marathon champion 1948, of who had Reaching Ninewells, at the Dundee much to do with pushing namesake EMMET his city boundary with 3 miles to go. Charlie JOHN (the late Donald McNab) to his 1947 was still inside the previous best, but his FARRELL'S Perth-Dundee record of 2 hrs. 3 mins. tremendous bid had taken its toll, too. 25 sees. ; and Bob Fail of Gosforth H. and he wilted over the last Cross¬ who had travelled from mile. across the border ing the tape in 2 hrs. 5 mins. 49 sees.. with the reputation cf having finished 2 mins. 24 sees, over Donald's best, but 2nd in this year's Morpeth famous race nine minutes ahead of the next man. being runner-up to none other than the great Jack Holden. Three other Scottish With excellent judgment Gordon Internationalists included Willie Kennedy Porteous came through over the last few (Kilbarchan A.A.C.), Gordon Porteous miles to take 2nd place easily. Fail, (Maryhill H.). and Harry Howard another 2 minutes behind was 3rd. a (Shettlcston H.), who all have previously good showing for his first trial at the gained honours for road-running with the distance. latter still having records at lesser Details distances to his credit. I. C. D. Robertson (Dundrr T.) 2h. 5m. 19s. 2. G. Poiicou, (Maryhlll H.) was a ... 2h. Mm. 26». It brisk start and the field broke 3. R. Pali (Gosfonh 16m. «», H. 2h. Pat Ogilvie. Could there have up right away. Out in front was G. 4. J. Bell (Kirkcaldy Y.M.)...... 2h. 17m. 39,. A noteworthy feature of a glori¬ Gordon (Kirkcaldy Y.M.) with the 5. P. Taylor (Dundee T.) ... 2h. 18m. 15,. ous and colourful Athletic been some special quality in the 6. W. Kennedy (Kilbarchan A.C.) Gosforth man giving him company. 2h. 21m. 25s. season in Scotland has been the atmosphere favourable to the 7. H. Howard (Sbettleslon H.) ... 2h. 26m. 50s. vaulter's trade ? For while the Charlie Robertson and G. Porteous were 8. W. J. Rom (Gamcube H.) ... 2h. 30m. 12*. huge success of the various High¬ unruffled and content to let their running 9. K. D. McKlnnon (Kilbarchan) 2b. 3Jm. 47s. land Games promotions. Scottish champion was soaring over come at first, and it was noticeable, 10. S. Vance (South Sydney) ... 2h. J7m. 27«. of all there was Glasgow's the bar at Dunoon down in England too. II. A. (MoniBeth Y.C.) First Mcintosh 2h. 51m. 20s. T. Anderson was doing ditto with a how Harry HowaAl. usually rather im¬ 12. Robert Donald (Glasgow Y.M.) 2h. 42m. 02s. great initial success in May while petuous. was restraining himself and 13. J. R. Scott (Glasgow Y.M.) ... Jh. 08m. 07,. in August. Bute, Milngavie and grand vault of 12 ft. 10 ins. which running at the rear. Cowal also surpassed previous efforts beat F. A. M. Webster's 1938 native figures by the narrow margin of It was almost at the 6 miles' stage at and now we have Edinburgh's effort record Glencarse before Robertson took the FOUND. which must rank among the great meet¬ $ inch. initiative in easy style. A silver medal was found outside the ings of the year. The grand weather MurrayBcld a Picture Olympic Stadium has been a vital factor in these successes. If there is a venue for an athletic From jhen on it was just a case of last year and somehow better to All athletic galas do of course depend meeting, particularly a Highland Games piling on the lead out on his own. was passed on Mr. Gilbert. Hon. Secy.. but none more gathering than Murrayfield Ishould like Running very strongly he passed Half¬ S.A.A.A. Through our columns the largely on good conditions than do the Highland Games where to know of it. With its spacious stand. way House ( 1 1 miles) in 57 mins. 20 owner was contacted and the medal was so spirit of compact ground, bright sward sees. The timekeepers observed here duly returned. there is such a traditional its green colour. its general surroundings and atmosphere that he was in touch with the course We are glad to give this free service carnival and Murrayfield looked a picture. Add to record and no doubt Charlie had now an when athletes attire, etc.. has been found. Stratosphere Calling this a huge, appreciative incentive more than winning the race. Organisers should co-operate by bringing warmly crowd. " Cowal had a record crowd of some a host of athletic personalities headed by Running Lost Property " to our notice. with abandon and power he 31.000 (against the previous best of Olympic champions Fanny Blankcrs- was as as sees, inside the much 46 28.000). In a grand day's sport the out¬ Koen and Arthur Wint as well as the previous best at the 15 miles stage and it A silver propelling pencil was found standing feature was Norman Gregor's real Highland Games atmosphere and looked as if a new record was on the in the dressing room at Rangers F.C. pole vault of 12 ft. ins. which beat you have the ingredients of a real feast way. Sports. Owner should contact the Editor. the previous Scottish record of 12 ft. by of sport. 4 THE SCOTS ATHLETE THE SCOTS ATHLETE 5
A Bouquet for Edinburgh comer's Irish record and earned the dis¬ until the unorthodox Zatopek rather gave Barry the race of his life was his stole his thunder by literally running peak effort. Subsequently his perform¬ W. Carmichael who was the guiding tinction of running the fastest mile in him off the at Wembley in the ances tailed off somewhat though he con. light in this promotion once again proved these islands of the year or .2 of a track second faster than Bill Nankevillc's time 10,000 metres Olympic event. tinued to run in his customary artistic his great flair for organising and it was fashion. grand to see such a resounding success. in winning the A.A.A. championship. On the present form of both men The hard-working Eastern District The fairly heavy track conditions and a another race between them at this dist¬ Duncan Clark might have been the secretary has the gift of imagination and comparatively slowish 2nd lap ruined ance could be a classic. Scots athlete of the year but J. G. M. believes in doing things on a big scale. any chances of John Joe getting to grips Hart might be said to be the best in a Brief Review of Scottish Track For example the appearance of Fanny with the 4 min. mile. Nevertheless it comparative sense, as the Scot showing Blankers Kocn and Arthur Wint would was a brilliant climax to an amazing Season the greatest improvement in form. alone have drawn the crowd. But an season for the colourful Irishman. It is generally accepted that the athletic The 6 feet, bespectacled Edinburgh invitation was also extended to a select Popular " Billy " is a splendid season now drawing to a close has been Morton student not only proved himself second British team of athletes and cyclists ; and one of the most successful on record and organiser but has in addition the quality only to maestro Don Finlay over the what a team Crump had with him imagination. arrangements noteworthy for the exceptionally high Jack of His for high set up a new native including the great Welsh sprinter Ken standard of performances. This applies hurdles but Barry's attempt were colourful as well record of 15.3 Jones, quarter-miler Lewis, half-miler not only to Britain as a whole but to seconds as well as putting as efficient. Barry had the courtesy of up a personal of 15 seconds dead Tom White and 3 great milers in L. which Scotland also. best running on the inside all the way which of course not being achieved on Eyre. A. B. Parker and Douglas Wilson. for even running while makes rhythmic The exceptional brilliance of some of Scottish soil cannot stand as a In addition there was Ron Pavitt one of native the flags and whistles at given points our stars tends to blind us to other grand record. This year he rather stole the England's and Britains great 2 new high kept him informed of the progress of his efforts and many other promisingathletes. thunder of wonder Birrcll Jumpers and a charming bevy of Britain's boy Joe and it attempt. Barry, Paterson, looks at moment merely best Lady athletes including Dorothy John Joe Alan Duncan the a question of time before he Manley, Sylvia Cheeseman, and new Hcino Beats Zatopek's New Record Clark. S. O. Williams. Andrew Forbes wins an A.A.A. and G. M. Hart were all of real British championship. hurdle discovery Miss Deforges. During the summer, Emil Zatopek of J. class. Their deeds are fresh in our Czecho-Slovakia trained specially for an Fanny Blankcrs-Kocn did not dis¬ mind and need not be recalled in detail. Petty attack on Viljo Heino of Finland's great leads Grand Bunch of appoint. She was a colourful and re¬ Barry the most consistent high-class 10,000 metre world record of 29 mins. Ilalf-Milers splendent figure in her flaming orange athlete in Britain this year made practi¬ sees. he duly accomplished But it is in the mile event that un¬ track-suit. Equally so as she stepped on 35.4 This cally every performance a high-light. J the sensational time of 29 mins doubtedly the highest general standard to the mark in white blouse and orange with Among his best are his world's best and promise prevails. Present champion trunks and once more as she moved 28.2 sceonds. figures for 1 ! miles of 6 mins. 33.8 sees. J. Stewart Petty (St. Modan's) has come gracefully robustly Recently to on but over the hurdles I referred the old truism his 3 miles grass in 13 mins. 56.2 sees. on by leaps and bounds and his latest and later over the flat. The broken Dutch girl, that records were made to be but an amazing run, and his all-comer's Irish performance at the Edinburgh Highland has the solid robust qualities of the little did I think that Zatopek's figures mile record of 4 mins. 8.6 sees. Games in beating 1.56 on a grass track allied to the grace would be of such duration. Dutch housfrau elfin brief Despite a later recurrence of his leg shows what high class competition can of a Peter Pan. Picturesque too was Astounding is perhaps the best term for injury Alan Paterson had a most satis¬ do. Petty is a stylist and has a superb chocolate-coloured Arthur Wint from the the latest news that Heino had recaptured factory season. Jumping with tremend- finish. Nevertheless he appears to be of time he warmed in his white 10,000 metres record if the up creamy the only by verve and confidence he regained his the greyhound type that requires careful starter narrow margin one — track-suit till he faced the and of second. A.A.A. title as well as clearing heights nursing so I was pleased to hear from more demonstration of once gave us a This is a sensational and unexpected of 6 ft. 6 ins. and 6 ft. 7 ins. his coach that his splendid form was a that lazy effortless stride which deceives come-back on the part of the " flying natural development and that his re¬ eye not Duncan Clark was perhaps the most the but docs deceive the " out training sources were not being 1 Finn who had been of outstanding Scots athlete of the year. over-taxed. opponents who strive to hold his pace. following the sad bereavement of his twice breaking the British record. If his Ex-champion Jim Smart despite being But at crtd of in wife. the the day attempting effort of 178 ft. lj ins. had been dupli¬ slightly shaded by Petty is running per¬ to recapture once more the high-lights of Recently he had returned to running cated in the A.A.A. championships Clark haps better than ever and has been a most striking the meeting, perhaps the and had shown promising form but was would have given even' Nemeth the tower of strength for Edinburgh Southern feature of all was the magnificent regarded as merely a pace-maker for up- Olympic champion something to think in the medley relays. He too ran with enthusiasm of the spectators. The warm and-coming younger Finns. about. great elan at Murrayfield recently. sportsmanship of this Edinburgh audience Heino's latest devastating form shows S. O. Williams cast somewhat in the Tom Begg of Glasgow University is the remains a fragrant memory. strong-going that he is running better than ever. At Adedoyin mould revealed himself a type of runner who can sustain 36 years of age this is extraordinary brilliant, consistent and versatile jumper. a hot pace all the way and is a Barry Succeeds and Fails really dangerous even for the Finns who reputedly mature In the long jump, his speciality, he cleared opponent from whom In his specially prepared mile at over 24 feet but also managed over 6 no liberties can be taken. than late. • Dublin, John Joe Barry ran faster feet in the high jump. he has ever run before but not fast Heino. a pupil of Nurmi and the first Shettloston's W. Speirs also proved enough to beat Gundar Haegg's World man to run 12 miles in an hour was re¬ Next to Barry. Andrew Forbes proved himself a grand half-miler particulary in record of 4 mins. 1.4 sees. By clocking garded as one of the phenomenal runners himself our best track distance man. His the relays where he often excelled him¬ 3 4 mins. 8.6 sees. Barry made a new all- of the age as well as a supreme stylist miles in 14 mins. 18 sees, where he self. THE SCOTS ATHLETE THE SCOTS ATHLETE 7
But who is to say that Maryhill's new both the Inter-Scholastic and Scottish That strong virile sprinter Robin Ward to deceive perhaps through the excitement discovery H. M. Dove Is not the equal Junior championships at this distance. I of Glasgow University added consistency of the big occasion or some other cause. or superior of any of the above have a feeling that he might prove even to his other virtues and was a worthy But he revealed enough to show that mentioned ? Admittedly the tall ex- better over the country. champion in the straight sprint reminding the latent ability is there. Kolvinsidc Academy boy ran " green " in us in some ways of that other great Scotland come some of his earlier races but he is Now that has into line sprinting Robin of not so long ago obviously learning pace-judgement each with England, with the institution of 3 Grand Running Went Unnoticed. time out and his win in the British Army separate National championships. Youths His runner-up H. J. Scott of Jordanhill The steady consistent running of championships in around 1.57 was superb. (under 18). Junior (18-21) and Seniors T. C. proved himself one of the finds of Sprinyburn Harriers in the 2 mile team What a pity he had to rejoin his unit 1 would not be surprised to find Coleman. the season however especially as he was races was a feature. Jim Morton and before the Scottish championships were Adamson and Reid strong contenders a comparative unknown. company certainly demonstrated that due. He may not have won but he most for individual titles in their particular Swiss Olympic representative, the blue- good team running can very often defeat decidedly would have shaken up the spheres. clad. white-shod Oscar Hardmeier run¬ brilliant individualism and a weak tail. field. Of the others Ilike the possibilities ning for Edinburgh Southern had just In the 3 miles Scottish Championship, of extra-tall R. C. Buist of "Q" club Another Donald McLean ? too much pace for our representatives in Tom Tracey and Jim Morton ran above and strongly-built Sorbie of Hamilton the furlong. He proved himself a neat themselves to finish 3rd and 4th and J. In Ken Sigrist. Glasgow Police would Harriers whose handicap is steadily be¬ colourful runner with a smooth and handsomely beat the standard time into ing reduced in the face of repeated suc¬ appear to have another Donald McLean rhythmic style. the bargain. Sometimes the championship cesses. (Bellahouston). in the making. Not yet possessed of the itself has not Bob Climic Fred Geo. McDonald of Victoria Park been won in standard time. (Garscube), B. Hendry (Hamil¬ versatility of the old Maryhill Harrier. but the exceptional brilliance of the Jewell during though just lacking the speed of the ton) and Robert Bow (Glasgow Univer¬ Sigrist has made rapid strides his • Barry—Forbes duel somehow stole the short period at the game. He has Swiss flyer gave points to no one in style sity) stepping from the 'quarter' had all and fluency. thunder of grand running by the Spring- a good season. proved a useful half-milcr but since burn duo. turning to the mile has achieved even Former youth star Jim Hamilton (Vic¬ better results. His win in the open mile " Breezy " Running by Bill Christie. Harry Haughie of the same club toria Park)showed signs hitting of the at Cowal off the back-mark was one of Bill Christie of Victoria Park had deserves mention for his splendid 3rd in headlines again. the best of the season. some notable successes throughout the the Scottish Marathon championship. season from low marks. Towards the incidentally being the first home Scot to West Kilbride Stars. Jimmy Fleming of Motherwell Y.M. end of the season he was sprinting as finish. The slow times in this race were The Ayrshire club may be modest in C.A. started training rather late but to¬ well as anyone in Scotland, and his largely due to the excessive heat and do numbers, but they arc strong in enthusi¬ wards the end of the season he showed double at the Bute Games off the low not give full Justice (oactual performances. asm. and they have three stars in Jim glimpses of his real form and is eagerly marks of 1 and 2 yards was a particularly Sbettleston Carried Reid, Gilbert Adamson and Trevor looking forward to the beginning of the virile bit of running. The handicappers Tradition On. Coleman. After his epic race and cross-country season. What an ever have now paid him the " compliment " By winning the Steeplechase champion¬ narrow defeat by Jim Fleming in last improving and great little miler is Walter of placing him off j yard in the " 100." ship Ben Bickerton carried on the season's cross-country championship it traditions of colleagues Ross and Lennie (Vale of Leven). With great That other Victoria Park athlete W. Jim Jim was almost poetic justice to find Reid finish he snatched Stuart. Bickcrton is also an excellent Jim spirit and a sweet Curtis proved himself an athlete of great winning the mile championship. Ad¬ on occasions. performer at 1 to 3 miles on the flat. victory several versatility. He was a distinct to J. mittedly the time was slowish. but this asset Bond, originally a quarter-miler has his club, particularly in inter-club con¬ was hardly Reid's fault as the race was Curiously enough however the best graduated to the mile where a little more tests where his sprinting cum-long-jump- run to suit him. Actually having trained put up by a home-Scot during the current bite and devil would improve a very ing and hop. step and jump ability primarily for the half-mile he employed season was that by 3 miler Andy Forbes promising debut. proved a useful points gatherer. sound tactics in trailing his field and who earlier in the season showed 4 mins. Lindsay's coming away with a fast last lap. 19.4 sees, off 15 yards ! In the longer sprints. D. K. Gracie of Grand Finale. Larkhall Y.M., the mile British Subsequently he has showed, as in his J champion, is Olympic representative Alistair regarded as a most promising athlete. It I.indsay lost his hop. step and Jump recent defeat of Fleming that he is a The Sprints—A Transformation title much better miler than his Hampden was felt in some circles that he was to Jamaican student W. N. Laing during Last year in the shorter sprint we had merely the best of a rather the summer but at Murrayfleld in running appeared to show. lean lot. the a finish so close that it appeared to though admittedly with plenty of time to last meeting of the season it must have ran prominently in Gilbert Adamson be a triple dead-heat. This year none mature and develop. Yet I felt that his been a tremendous compensation to him just losing the steeplechase championship, of the heroes of that dose race was even running in the scratch "300 " at the to find the magnificent form that enabled second place by a last-minute bid from placed. D. D. McKcnzie of course is Edinburgh Highland Games was • most him to set up a new native and all¬ nowhere on the part of W. McMillan of now in Canada, while Alan Watt never impressive. He made established top- comers' record. Springburn Harriers. In the Rangers' seemed to show year's fitness. Much liners Lewis and Ken travel right last Jones Scottish fields events in general are steeplechase, where incidentally he was fancied McLaughlin of Maryhill to the tape lacking J. only that bit of distinctly on the upgrade and no longer treated over-generously in the handicap. and strength for the Harriers flattered to deceive seemed final thrust. the " Aunt Sally " of athletics. he won with consummate ease. to be worried by leg trouble, although Just W. C. O'Kanc of Garscube Harriers think of these names. Alan Paterson. Trevor Coleman proved himself a he did on select occasions reveal his ran some impressive races for his club Duncan Clark. Norman Gregor and and tenacious miler winning class. strong by early on in relay races but later flattered Lindsay himself to mention only a few; THE SCOTS ATHLETE THE SCOTS ATHLETE school, and let's not forget these two brilliant a winning lead until blisters intervened national field of the old and by BARGAIN OFFER young men Norman Kane of " Q " club and he was forced to retire. With that Imean the over 35's. The sport is and W. Piper of Kilmarnock. Paterson keen to come up to Scotland full of new " bright young men " like REPEATED. next year to defend bis laurels and W. Williamson (Greenock Glenpark), We are glad to state that there has Kane and Piper. Robertson probably more prepared for Tom Tracey (Springburn), J. Ellis been a great demand for the bargain These two not only won their Scottish the full distance there should be a rare (Victoria P.). Ben Bickerton (Shettleston) offer published last month and which is junior championships at high Jump and set to : for though Robertson may appear Alex. Kidd (Garscube) and W. Gallagher again repeated. It is very gratifying to of whom pole vault but went down to Birmingham potentially the classier man, Paterson is (Vale of Leven), some may note the keen interest shown in this to prove themselves the best youths in also a dour and determined fighter and keep even established stars like Bobby athletic record. We regret that No. 7 of Britain at their specialities. will not give up easily. Alec. McLean Reid, Andy Forbes, Jim Reid and Jim Vol. I. as well as No. 3 is now com¬ and upset the Fleming from loitering. The former has jumped 6 ft. and the is also expected to try pletely out of print and cannot be apple cart by concentrating on the latter has vaulted 11 feet. What a pity 4 One veteran who may defy the included. Marathon. Kane is handicapped by lack of size ! inevitable K.O. handed out by Father Complete sets of the first 3 volumes Up till now the standard may not be Time is Flockhart who may again Jim of The Scots Athlete " (excluding Vol. —And the Ladies. so high as-in the palmy days of Dunky earn selection and has indeed a special " ( 3) covering the period April, 1946 Considering ladies Wright and the late lamented Donald double incentive. If successful in making I. No. the fact that the -March, 1949, have been neatly collected. have not long restarted their activities Robertson, but nevertheless the rivalry a 12th appearance Flockhart will beat making up a total of over 700 pages and they too have had a remarkable season. is there and this will tend to improve the record he at the moment holds jointly will be sent every enthusiast who Miss Sheila Burns of Edinburgh Univ. the standard. with Duncan Wright of having repre¬ to appreciates this sporting offer for the has again proved a most consistent Marathon men is sented Scotland at cross-country more Enthusiasm among low sum of (postage 8d. Aberdeen than any other athlete. Again should unbelievable 4/6 sprinter. Miss Quita Shivas of proverbial, and in that connection the extra). also had success especially over hurdles. keenness of the Kirkcaldy Y.M.C.A. he be successful he would be visiting road runners, Bell, I. Peacock and G. Brussels, scene of his great personal However pulled out by a classy and Joe Just think of this gesture for one minute. Gordon, In full dis¬ victory in 1937, where he would be classic field at Murrayfield Miss deserve praise. the Each annual S.A.A.A. and A.A.A. Jean assured of a tremendous welcome. Thomson of Dumfries, though finishing tance Marathon, Bell in particular, has Senior and Junior Championship is re¬ some really dogged displays. Sentiment favours and hopes for his only 3rd. managed to set up a new native given corded in full as well as all the Scottish success, but stern logic demands caution. Cross-Country (International. National record for the 80 metres hurdles of 12.5 " of Mists and Mellow Season Flockhart will not find it easy to earn Junior) sees. Miss Marion Russell of Bellahous- Fruitfulncss." and District Senior and race his place with aspiring youth eager to details. Accounts of all the outstanding ton Harriers also revealed grace and pace of we say au With the end summer be in the saddle, and recognising this the races and personalities in that period. in the sprints. to the track with its keen com¬ rcvoir old maestro has wisely started his pre¬ In short a complete record of athletics in petitive urge and the applause of the Patcrson and Robertson. paration early, this country and covering also all the Autumn brings the athlete to multitude. high-lights of world events. Anglo- Scot Jack Paterson (Poly. H.) thoughts of field and fen and a cooler My own opinion is that his class and and Charlie Robertson (Dundee T. H.) experience and flair for the big occasion and more exhilarating atmosphere. Did you see our first issue 7 were the two stars in the longer distances. Nothing could be more pleasant and will pull him through. former Scottish every issue covering The showed that his soothing for an athlete to run leisurely The other near veteran Alex. McLean Do you have championship no fluke by years ? Marathon was across country in a seasonable September should also stake a claim if he cares to these three winning again over the full distance at and October. With the air clear and bid. for the Greenock man has shown Do you have them neatly gathered so Edinburgh defeating in the process such with crisp and the landscape suffused that he is running as fast as ever. that you can refer to them with ease ? distinguished distance experts as Cecil and vibrant colour, unutterably rich However, alike for those who have a Ballard and J. A. Henning. With a 4th lovely with shades that technicolour can Do you know that the reading in the job to do, a goal to be achieved, and in the Poly, and a 6th in the A.A.A. merely imitate these are surroundings early issues make just as, if not more. those enthusiasts whose more modest championship Paterson showed a splendid can provide— full compensation for interesting reading to-day 7 that endeavour is just to enjoy themselves consistency. The Polytechnic man is a the roar of the crowd and the prizes to and pick up a few crumbs, the stage is If not. then what a wonderful offer faithful disciple of Arthur Newton and be won on the track. believes in plenty of slow easy running set. this represents ! For cross-country running remains over long distances, a programme that The curtain will soon be up on the essentially a pastime and a means of Because we want to further interest in has given him much success. initial performances, the Victoria Park, keeping superbly otherwise the our sport, this exceptional offer is made. fit. •Kingsway and News of the World relays Charlie Robertson was out on his own rewards are few. The opportunity is YOURS I And. and other races which prepare us for the over the "middle " road distances reveal¬ remember that every sale will go towards Selection for the cross-country Inter¬ top of the bill after the interval of the ing pace and stamina that no one could making even this a better magazine. national is however an exception and New Year—the National itself. cope with. His form was impeccable now is the time for the ambitious athlete The shrewd athlete will ponder over SEND NOW— except in the 6 miles track championship to make his plans to earn that award. when he was far from impressive and in the heavy winter programme strike a the championship Marathon where, Incentive for Flockhart. balance and attempt to reach his peak 4/6 despite his lack of training over the It seems likely that this season will sec at the right time. By doing so he will distance, he set up what appeared to be the final disappearance from the Inter- improve his prospects of ultimate success. (8d extra for postage) V
10 THE SCOTS ATHLETE THE SCOTS ATHLETE 11
than a second. His weakness is lack of runner-up George Avery's possible re¬ AUSTRALIAN ATHLETICS flat 440 pace. tirement. holds little hope of seeing classy By J. H. GALLI. Australia does'nt have many good distances. However. Fred Day (W.A.), Jumpers, but those she does have are of who topptd the list at 48 ft. 2\ ins. in world class. Olympic high jump champ¬ '48-49, and Olympian Leo McKeand, track and field stand¬ student, stands alone now that Morris AUSTRALIAN ion. Winter, needs no introduction : also a notable javelin performer, can ards arc going to improve consider¬ Curotta has gone to school in America. Jack for you all realise he is the only Empire perhaps get over 49 ably during the coming summer camp¬ ft. Carr established himself by beating athlete capable of tossing Britain's best aign. if the performances of 1948-49 are Brightest future prospect triple Herb McKenley under terrible conditions at Auckland. in the any indication. jump is Peter Cox. 16-year-old Sydney in 48 sees, at the Australian champion¬ The 24-year-old Perth bank clerk, who war's has pro¬ ; later, lad, who cleared 47 ft. 3 ins. this year. Since end. athletics ships a feat he repeated under holds our National record at 6 ft. ins, gressed apace " " even worse conditions, 7\ On that early form, he should eventually down under : much in the N.S.W. L is considered by one European coach, to more so than I had hoped, and records championships. j" be capable of 6 ft. 10 ins.—" if he either surpass Jack Metcalfe's record figures of have been shattered in most every event. 51 ft. 9 3/8 Ins. Half-mile times should be fast, when improves on his present style, or switches Pre-war, Australia's greatest weakness the stars get together. Last season pro¬ to the roll." Another record likely to be broken is was the throwing events, but now our duced four " hopefuls " in Dave White However, while Winter may well im¬ the number of competitors. Last season " heavies " have come into line with (W.A.) and Jim Bailey (N.S.W.). both prove on his own record this season, I there were something like 6000 of them, other Empire countries. (1 do not expect 19, who dead-heated for the National cannot see him topping such fabulous Victoria leading with half the total that they will be challenging U.S.A. and title in 1 min, 54.7 sees.. Merv Finlay heights ; for one thing, because there is number. Europe for quite a long time.) (N.S.W.) 1 min. 54.9 sees., and Don no-one to push him. . And so rapidly is the sport progressing Last track season all four National Macmillan, giant Victorian, who clocked Bruce, Is Theo ex-R.A.A.F. fighter in Victoria, that the State A.A.A. is throwing records were broken at least 1.55. pilot, and Olympic runner-up. fading ? ; seriously considering the appointment of once, top performers being Ian Reed. 21- And. if Olympian Bill Ramsay (Vic.), this question was asked last summer, when Victorian, a full-time secretary ! year-old who flipped the who holds the record at Imin. 52.8 sees., he failed to broad jump 24 ft. by ljins. discus 152 ft. IOJ ins., and Roy Parr has returned from abroad, and is in fine His best of 23 ft. 10J ins. was equalled With the impetus of the 1956 Olympic (N.S.W.), also a good broad jumper, fettle : then I look for something like by Roy Parr, a lad who should do better Games. Iexpect these competitors figures who tossed the javelin 194 ft. 2 5/8 ins. 1 min. 51 sees. this season. Outside these two. there to be doubled inside two years, increas¬ 1949-50 should sec all four records is'nt another Aussie showing form good ing to something like 25.000 by the time broken again. Australia's milers arc poor (4.19 was enough to indicate 24 ft. the Games come round. last season's best by Marks of Treloar of N.S.W., giant (6 ft. Jack Always a strong point in Australia, At least, that's what I am hoping to John Victoria), and neither are her 3 and 6 ins., st.) Olympic sprinter, missed the hop, step and Jump, with Olympic see. 3J 131 milers of great standing ; but in the most of last season through sinus trouble. hurdles it's quite another story. but now that he has fully recovered I am tipping new Australian records over Early in the year, Olympic finalist 100-220 yards. (5th place) Peter Gardner (Cic.). twice CITY OF EDINBURGH Treloar. 22-ycar-old Sydney University shattered the record with sizzling runs of HIGHLAND 14.1 and 14.2, while arch-rival, GAMES student, is co-holder of the 100 yards Ray Weinberg, did 14.3. With both at top SOME IMPRESSIONS AND REFLECTIONS. record of 9.6 sees., but his furlong mark 14 sees, surely too By D. A. of 21.2 was downed one-tenth by form. would not be JAMIESON. Melbourne University Bartram much to expect ? rival. John was in a scene of inspiring pageantry this experiment was entrusted by the (also an Olympian), at Australian and a executive JT the Gardner. 24 business and splendour that the Scottish amateur City Magistrates and Town Council the officer, championships in January. is so short sighted he can barely athletic season of 1949 made a dignified full flowering of their cultural efforts see the next hurdle from (Treloar clocked 20.9 at Melbourne in that he is clear¬ and impressive exit with the presentation must afford the keenest satisfaction and January. 1948. but the record was dis¬ ing. Although lacking in speed, he is a of the Third Annual City of Edinburgh pride. ft.) perfect stylist, which was improved by allowed because the track fell 2 Highland Games at Murrayfield Rugby Most his Olympic experience. sports-promoting bodies would Sprinters who may cause upsets are Union Ground, Edinburgh, on Saturday, shrink from the responsibilities of hold¬ Bill Wood (W.A.). who ran 21.2 sees. Weinberg. 23, is a furniture salesman. 3rd September. ing an athletic gathering on such a date in January: Bill de Gruchy (W.A.). an Tall, lithe and an even-time sprinter, he The genesis of this athletic gathering when the appetite of the Soccer football 18-year-old who twice returned 9.8 over inclines to be erratic. —which now bids fair to take primary public is being whetted during a period 100 yds., and Charlie Campbell, promis¬ Standout performer in the 440 yds. place in the athletic sports calendar of of restricted football fare, but this High¬ Sydney University student, who hit ing hurdles is 22-year-old Geoff Gcodacrc of the country—is to be found in the Holi- land Gathering is unique in respect that 21.5 over the furlong. N.S.W., who won the National title 6 days-at-Home sports promotions which' it wholly excludes football from its pro¬ But Trcloar remains my tip as the months after being discharged from the throughout the war years gave much spectus and makes a direct and absolute double Empire Games sprint champion. Police Force because of synovitus ! pleasure and welcome relief to the endeavour to submit entertainment of a In the "quarter," Edwin Carr. 21- Geoff's best last season was 53.9, but he people. To the small coterie of athletic thoroughly comprehensive athletic nature year-old Sydney University Medical confidently hopes to beat that by more enthusiasts to whom the development of combined with the introduction of inter- I
12 THE SCOTS ATHLETE THE SCOTS ATHLETE 13
missions both interesting and attractive. speaker that a now record for the Hop. entries. While it can be claimed that creator and director of all this pulse- In this bold departure the promoters Step, and Jump had superseded that there is no finer grass track in the stirring setting of athletic activity, and have met with signal success and richly other achievement in the same event country than Murrayfield provides with the fullest tribute must be paid to Willie deserve the congratulations of the Scot¬ which awaits ratification by the S.A.A.A. its highly resilient and perfect cover of Carmichael of the S.A.A.A. whose tish sports-attending public. Since the claim affects Lindsay's own turf, the fact that Lewis had three turns dynamic cmergies and flaming enthusiasm earlier performance it must be gratifying to negotiate in his progress to the tape has put the seal of quality upon this to review the actual In attempting to the Shotts A.A.C. member to be able acccnuates more keenly the groat merit Edinburgh Festival sports promotion. By within the arena at Murray- proceedings to substantiate still further his record of this run. virtue Qf his achievements in the sphere difficult to visualise field it is somewhat achievements. of athletic sports organisation he stands a picture, which An effortless win by Arthur Wint in and maintain clear beyond challenge as the supreme im¬ blurred by The participation by women in athletic the Half-Mile scratch race in the very inevitably becomes the multi¬ presario of Scottish sport. plicity of happenings within the circle. events at sports promotions is too often fast time of 1 min. 54.1 sees., came as a With the presentation of many field- watched by many spectators with a tepid kind of anti-climax to the apologia which But—and it is a necessary repetition events concentration upon any given interest and regarded in the nature of an had been broadcast to the spectators —there must be a curtailment in the list item becomes well-nigh impossible, and interlude. The first appearance, how¬ prior to the decision of this race. Hrre of events to ensure that patrons can even to the lay observer there will have ever. in Scotland of Fanny Blankers-Koen young Petty's effort is worthy of mention, take an intelligent interest in what is to be a drastic pruning to obviate the as a competitor in an 80 metres hurdles and the steady improvement in the transpiring on the field. More especially danger of this meeting drifting into a and 200 metres flat event aroused the Scottish Champion's pace must be ex¬ is this needed when one considers the state of wild undergrowth of foliage out keenest interest of the spectators. On tremely gratifying to his mentor as w-ell fact that the finest exponents of the in¬ of proportion to the blossom. both occasions she was opposed by the as to his club connections. formation conveyed through the micro¬ fleetest of Britain's women athletes, and phone that so-and-so has accomplished Of the running handicap events which Even more select than the 100 yds. Blankers-Koen's dual victory was warm¬ a certain feat in his given event in a figured on the card the greatest thrill was scratch event was that of the Mile race ly applauded. certain part of the sports arena leaves provided in the finish of the 1 Mile race, in which four runners took part but — with its hearer a certain sense of dis¬ the North of England entrant. True it is that the Hurdles item they were four of the best, including L. in which appointment that the deed has eluded Poxon, after a ding-dong struggle up quickly assumed a processionalcharacter. Eyre, the young Yorkshlreman whose R. his attention. the straight with a Borderer. R. Taylor yet such was the urge to greater en¬ name must now be added to that list of lass great milers who figure in history. literally threw himself at the tape, which deavour shown by the Scottish athletic It appears to be a chronic defect In — His winning effort in 4 mins. 16 sees. action gained for him the victory. This Jean Thomson, Dumfries—that whilst — athletic meetings of larger proportions a and making was Indeed a handicapping triumph If running into third place she created all his own running speaks that the arena should be crowded with sees., time for itself, and one would have to also a Judge's nightmare : but in the new native record of 12.5 liked individuals who are simply trespassers. have seen the young Irish student, Vic Youths' race over the same distance a which is still capable of further reduction and to whom repeated exhortation to get Milligan. no stranger to Edinburgh, test different picture was seen when a fifteen- by this talented athlete. off the track leaves stone cold. A glimpse year-old competitor—D. Stirk. Pilton. his paces once again against such sterling of what ideal conditions might be Stronger opposition was provided over running from the limit allow¬ runners this distance. achieved was A.A.C.— against the Dutch athlete in the 200 observable during the per¬ established a winning lead half-way ance metres race, but here again the supreme In the high Jump event, R. C. Pavitt formance given by the Alsation dogs. through race which he maintained the class of this Olympic star could not be gave a polished display, clearing a following which the ground was speedily easily to tape. meritorious again. the dented as she swept through the tape a 6 ft. 5 ins. cluttered up The Invitation events all attained that winner in the most impressive manner. Of some fourteen starters in the Again, during the massed Pipe Bands this great woman high standard of performance which is The appearance of Marathon Race there were eight sur¬ Display the number of amateur photo¬ inspiring in¬ expected of them. Although small in athlete is bound to have an vivors. and the finish in a relative sense graphers exercising their hobby was be¬ girls who are so number of starters the 100 yds. race was fluence upon those was very close. How galling the experi¬ yond reason. Incidentally it was amus¬ striving to restore to its pre¬ rich in the quality of its participants, and earnestly ence must be to a runner-up in a race ing to note the backward stepping of the Ken Jones, the Welsh Rugby Inter¬ war prestige in Scotland the cult of of this nature to be able to keep company " snappers " as the bands advanced. It women. nationalist found himself renewing athletics among its young with his opponent over a major part of suggested the title to a new pipe tune Murrayfield sward the distance acquaintance with the The incidence of a period of calm yet find himself in the final " The Retreat of the Camera-mÿyi." of athletic activity stage quite unable in yet another sphere which now prevailed gave ideal con¬ to make that little degree and with a similar of distinction. ditions for the decision of the 300 yds. effort which would yield him the fruits 10.2 sees, does not of victory— also His winning time of race and also the 1 Mile item. In the and the laurel wreath. CITY OF EDINBURGH truly reflect the merit of his performance. There was little signs of exhaustion in former race—one of the most testing MARATHON runners were sprinting up wind Patcrson's bearing when he reached the since the distances in the running schedule L. C. which had a considerable degree of — winning line a mere 5 sees, ahead of I. J. Pnlcrfon (Polytechnic H.) ... 2b. 16a. U. Lewis gave a brilliant performance when 7. C. H. Ballard (Surrey A.C.) 2b. Mm. 09. strength in its gusts. C. H. Ballard, confirming the wonder¬ ... winning from Jones in the fast time of 3. I. Henning (Durcmn N.) 2b. 52a. 35.. ful stamina and endurance shown by him ... Throughout the afternoon field events "31.1 sees. Although this is not an 4. J. Bell (Kirkcaldy Y.M.) ... 2h. 55a. 21.. in his S.A.A.A. title-win last July. 5. (Kdbarchaa AC.) were exclusively engaging the attention officially recognised distance for ack¬ W. Kennedy 3fc. 06a. 31a. 6. K. D. McKinnon (KdbMckan) Jfc. Ma. 2Sa. of competitors and of such specta¬ nowledgement on the list of records, yet Behind all this cavalcade of sport and both 7. G. Huntley (Bridlington) ... 3b. 70m. 16.. positioned to it will be classified as the fastest run spectacle looms the figure of man tors as were conveicntly the S. R. Donald (GUigow Y.M.) 3h. 21a. 31a. " Noteworthy Performance " who from the ... watch, and one heard through the loud¬ under the very outset has been the 9. W. J. R<*» (Gancube H.) ... 3b. 27a. 30a. i i 14 THE SCOTS ATHLETE THE SCOTS ATHLETE 15 Saturdays—7 to 8 Miles Country GREAT BRITAIN v. FRANCE A CROSS-COUNTRY TRAINING (Steady with fast 3 or mile finish). Detailes of the above congest held at SCHEDULE N.B.—Lengthening of Monday and the White City. London. 1st August, Saturday runs. Tuesday and 1949 : Prepared by J. E. FARRELL (Maryhill Harriers), Thursday faster. Guard against — chills at this period. If possible 100 Yard*.—I. L. Laing (GB.|. 9.7*.: 2. E. Scottish C.C. Champion, 1938 and 1948. McDonald Ballry (G.B.). 9.8s. : 3. A. Porlhaull get extra rest and relaxation. IF.). 10*. : 4. A. Carlen (F.). Internationalist, 1937-38-39-46-47-48-49. Run in training with long-sleeve 220 Yard*.—I. E. McDonald Ballry (G.B.). 21.5s. 2. K. Jones (G.B.), 22.2*. : 3. E Bally (F.). jersey. This period takes 22.6s. : 4. Y. Camus (F.). 22.6s. |In the February. 1949. issue (Vol. 3. NJ3.—An easy month to allow athlete athlete up to the New Year. 440 Yards. I. D. Pugh