Modern Athletics 1868

22 MODERN ATHLETICS. Each competitor usually hatshree throws (seven feet run and "no follow" beingallowed), and then the two best men three more each. Crossing either line in an attempt counts as a " put."All throws to be measured fromthe nearest point of the scratch, continued in astraight line on either side,until opposite thepitch. Throwing thHeammer. —No preparation as regards the ground is required for this, as the distance is measured from the nearest foot-print indelivery, to where the head of the hammer pitches. The head of the hammer should be globular inshape, and the length ofthe handle from 3 feet to 3 feet 6 inches.Each competitorusually has three thiows, and then thetwo best threemore each. Throwing the Grichet Ball. —For this a straight distance of 100 yards should be measured out, as by so doing the measurement ofeach individual throw is much facilitated. Sometimes it is stipulated that straight throws only should count, all thoseoutside certain bounds being "no throws." Each competitor usually has threethrows, and then the two bestmen three more each. The fairest test is to compel the competitors tothrow each way, add to­ gether each man's besthrow in eitherdirection, and then take the average. _ By this means less aid is obtained from any wind which may be blowing. Frizes. —The prizefosr all eventsshould be of as valuable and varied a nature as the funds will allow.There is one point which may be brought before the notice of running men, and that is the monotonous character of the trophies ot victory. As a rule, nothing but cupsare at present offered. This is a mistake. Numerous souvenirs are to be found which will answer the purpose satisfac­ torily, without panderingto the universal rage for "pot hunting." The chief drawback to many meetings is the expenses attached to the prize fund; no prizes atrheought worth offering unless they are of silver, and the example of many opulent clubs in giving prizes of large value foopren races, reflects to a certain extentvery invidiously on other societies, and prevents amateurfsrom enteringfor ordinary contests whichwould afford pleasure and sport to them­ selves and others. Accommodation for Competitors. —If there is rneogular dressing-room on the ground, a tent should be erected close to thegoal, intowhich competitors mayretire directly a race is over in order to escape cold. Every requisite