Athletics:

From 1922 to 1925 the Athletic Shield was held by Otago, but this year we managed to wrest the coveted trophy from them. A particularly strong team was sent to Dunedin by Victoria, so that the victory was by no means an unexpected one. Last year misfortune dogged our footsteps, but this year, despite one or two surprises, the Shield came to Wellington.

The points for the Shield were as follows:—Victoria, 20; Otago, 14; Canterbury, 8; Auckland, 0.

Easter Monday dawned fine, but a cold wind was blowing across the field. Some very fine performances were witnessed, and considering the state of the ground, which was on the heavy page 26 side and the weather conditions generally, these were all the more meritorious. The University record of 10 secs, for the 100 Yards was equalled by Leadbeater. Jackson won the Mile Walk in 6 mins. 16 2-5 secs., breaking Mackenzie's record made at Christchurch last year. With the high jump bar at oft. 7 ins. Sceats was successful in lowering the High Jump record..

The starting in the sprint events left much to be desired, everyone except the V.U.C. men attempting to get a flying start; at least one was successful in the 100 Yards. Leadbetter captured both sprints, while Eastwood ran second in the 220 yards.

The middle-distance events provided two thrilling races. Our representatives, Smith and Allan, appeared to be out of the picture. However, both came away with beautiful bursts of speed about two hundred yards from home. Allan won the half and Smith the quarter mile.

The mile and three miles races provided rather a surprise for the Victoria supporters, for Priestley, going to the mark a hot favourite, ran second to Jordan in both events.

In the hurdles misfortune befell V.U.C. In the 120 yards Kalaugher fell when his chances of winning were very bright. Sceats ran second in the 440 yards event.

The relay race was a sore disappointment. We had held the cup for four years in succession, and required only another win to establish a record, but Otago opened up a big lead in the half mile, and although this was considerably reduced, we coult not get within striking distance.

We were somewhat consoled, however, by the fact that for the first time since the inauguration of the Tournament we won the tug-of-war. Otago beat Auckland and Victoria beat Canterbury. In the final pull Victoria beat Otago in two out of three pulls.