Athletics

I treat athletics first because it comes first in the alphabet and for no other reason of precedence. The athletes are not happy about the present Blues system, as the standards (strictly adhered to as they are) take no account of track conditions, etc.

This strict adherence to standards is directly opposed to clause 59 of the Blues regulations, which states "The panel shall have power to fix standards in any sport, but these standards shall not be binding on the panel and shall be for guidance only."

Rob Irwin a few years ago won the 100, 220 and 440 at Tournament all in times just outside the Blues standard, but no Blue was awarded, yet another athlete the same year equalled the Blues standard in one event and was awarded a Blue. Who was the better athlete?

The athletes are not satisfied with the present system. Ailsa McDonald won a number of titles this receive a Blue!

This year a Fresher at Victoria was awarded an N.Z.U. Blue—while year but, like Bob Irwin, did not this chap performed admirably at Tournament, and during the season (for another club), what has he done for university sport?

Why not either revoke the Fresher eligibility clause or leave the award of such Blues pending until the sportsman has proved himself as a Varsity man?