Social Diary — Friday:

...went along to the Blues Dinner on Friday night, and had a very nice evening. Mr. A. Wright was in attendance, looking very dapper in a light blue ensemble and tramping boots. Cocktails began at 7.30pm, and just after 8pm everybody moved off to dinner.

Mrs Levenbach, a rather haughty woman, made her presence felt early in the piece, but was soon quietened. On the whole, the meal was rather pleasant. Had a very delicate seafood cocktail, soup, fish, chicken with the most delectable legumes, 'Kirsch Parfait' and coffee.

Mr Philip Kear, of the VUW Sports Committee officiated as chairman of the gathering. It was by the way, quite a large group, about 130 people I believe. This gentleman told a rather tasteless joke about Lord Nelson's brown trousers which quite upset the tone of the evening. Then Mr-Malcolm McLaw spoke, prior to the Presentation of the Blues Award Certificates.

Guest speaker was Mr Barrie Trueman, the National Soccer Coach. A charming and witty man, but decidedly lower-class accent. However he did give us some home truths about New Zealand sport, namely, that we New Zealanders excel more at strength sports than skill sports. On the whole, an amusing and interesting speech.

This was followed by the presentation of Trophy to the Sportsman of the Year. Mr John Gibbons, of Rugby Senior A's and an Olympic rower, countered Mr True-man's comments on the New Zealand sporting scene rather abruptly I fear, but went on to present the very handsome trophy to Mr Phillip Kear. A deserved title for this young man, who has shown courage and dedication throughout his athletics career, and is at present national 400m champion.

Throughout the dinner I was fortunate in sitting next to a Mr Horsly and his party - Charming old gentlemen, all of whom won blues in the 40's. One thing which emerged from our discussion was that perhaps the system of awarding blues should be revamped, to ensure that only those who really deserved blues received them. Thre were some who missed out this year but should have got one apparently. One member of the Karate club who has spent much time coaching his fellows, won distinguished black-belt status this year, but has received no recognition from his university. This is only one example. A sorry state of affairs indeed.

Messrs Dave Howman, Richard Orgias and Andrew Wright should be congratulated on their running of this year's Blues Dinner. A most enjoyable time was had by all, especially me. Arrived home pissed at 3.30am!

Salient Social Reporter