Athletics

44 ATHLETICS. should be engaged, as in case of a record being accom­ plished, it will be practically valuelessunless timed by an expert; beside which the distance will have to be certified. Science has wrought remark­ able improvements in horology, andno watch is fit to use unless it has flyback action and a minute recorder. The best watches are techni­ cally termed "treble-fly­ back Kew -certified" chronographs; all the highest class watches being sent to be tested at Kew Observatory. We give an illustration of one with split-seconds—made by Messrs. S. Smith and Son, TheObservatory, 9, Strand, London. Amongst time­ keeping expertsnot referred to in list of handicappers, are— G. P. Coleman (nineyears N.C.U. official timekeeper), 16, Charing Cross, W.C. E. A.Powell (timerof the chief cycle road records, etc.), 21, Hatton Garden, E.C. Tom Griffith (formerly Athletic Editor, Be/fs Life), 32, Havill Street, S.E. A. M. Barnard, Polytechnic Harriers, The Polytechnic, Regent Street, W. C. Val. Hunter, Wardrobe Chambers, Doctors Commons, E.C. Nat Perry (timer to L.A.C., Inter-'Varsity Sports, etc.), Stamford Bridge Grounds, Walham Green,S.W. Usual fee, 105. (id. or is. and travelling expenses. Starter. —Next in importance to the Timetaker comes the starter, and, asin that office,experience andan efficient