Athletics

5° ATHLETICS. ought to be left for each runner. If possible the sprint ought to be run in the centre of the ground (seePlan A); if it has to be down the straight, the strings must be removed immediatelyafter the trial heatsof the sprint. Winning Posts. —These ought to be firmly fixed, about 4 ft 6 in. high, with a nail ontop, roundwhich the worsted (a plentiful supply of which must be provided) can be wound. A tape is a relic of the dark ages, and should never be used; for cycle races a broad band of whiteshould be marked onthe ground between the posts, as the machines are judged by the wheel touching it. Order ofEvents. —Always difficult to arrange with fairness to every one. But never let events overlap, i.e. if there is a sprint and aquarter, getthe final of the sprint soon after the trials, so that it may be done with before thequarter is commenced. Ditto withthe cycle races;let each handicap be completed before a different one is begun. Allow fair breathing time,and above allmake the clerksof the course discharge theirduties smartlyin getting the men out to the times statedon the programme for each event. Distribution of Prizes. —Ask some popular lady to perform this pleasing ceremony, and have a handsome bouquet to present her with at the close of what ought to be a successful andenjoyable day. CHAPTER III. SPECIAL EVENTS. THROWING THE HAMMER. "The hammer shall be thrown from within a circle of 9 ft. in diameter. The head ofthe hammer shall be ofiron and spherical, and the handle shall be of wood. The head and handle shall weigh together 16 lbs. The total length of the hammer shall not be more than 4 ft. Each competitor shall be allowed three throws, and the