Cross Country

The N.Z.U. race was this year held over the One Tree Hill Domain alongside Auckland's Cornwall Park. The 4 lap course which consisted of fairly undulating country was relatively firm underfoot which ensured a fast race.

As expected Euan Robertson from Massey took the individual honours. This was his fourth win in the past five tournaments. This win, coupled with his 7th placing at the National Cross Country Champs, makes Robertson one of the best University cross-country runners of all time.

Second home was Martin Everton of Lincoln who competed for Canterbury at the Nationals. Third was John Le Grice of Auckland who was the 1968 National 3 mile Champion.

First home for Victoria was Ian Stockwell who gamed 7th place. This placing enabled him to gain a position in the N.Z.U. team. Second Vic man was Eric Cairns (12) and third was Ian Hunt (15).

Auckland won the teams race for the Dixon Trophy with 21 points followed by Lincoln (45) and Victoria (50). Otago who have won the trophy for the past 8 years sensationally collapsed and won the Wooden Spoon.

The competition for the top North Island University (Shakleford Trophy) saw Victoria with 67 points finish second to Auckland (37).

The emergence of Lincoln as a force to be reckoned with in N.Z.U. Cross Country was one of the features of this year's tournament. Lincoln took the Carmalt Jones trophy for the top South Island University. This was Lincoln's first win for 40 years.

Highlights for Vic's Cross Country reps were the dinner at the Leopard Tavern and the joke telling session which was followed by a visit to one of Auckland's famous.