Javelin Champion Back

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31089, 18 June 1966, Page 11

Javelin Champion Back

r pHE return to Christx church of the New Zealand javelin champion, R. G. Ball, should considerably strengthen men’s field events in Canterbury next athletics season. Not only is he an expert in the main field events—he was run-ner-up to R. Williams (Auckland) in the national decathlon championship earlier this year—but he also has the ability to pass on his vast knowledge to others. Ball left Christchurch at the beginning of 1965 to take up a position at Rathkeale College, Masterton, and last season represented Wellington at the New Zealand championships. He is now relieving at Hagley High School, and there is every chance that he will settle permanently back in Christchurch. However, it seems unlikely that he will return to

his old Christchurch club. High School Old Boys. He will probably join the club most closely associated with the school at which he is teaching.

When asked what his intentions were for next athletic season, Ball said that he might not be competing as seriously as he had in the past but “once you start training, you never know.” At any rate, he should be able to capture the Canterbury shot, discus, javelin and decathlon titles with comparative ease. He has previously held all four titles.

On the national front, he has won many javelin titles and is a former decathlon champion, an event he was runner-up in last season. He has also been runner-up in the national shot put championship.

Ball has already made an appearance in Christchurch sport since his return. He has been one of the key players in the Hagley Old Boys* men’s basketball team for the last two weeks. His ability to score goals, and his sound knowledge of the game have proved extremely valuable. Another prominent Canterbury athlete, M. B. Walls, who was transferred to Wellington at the end of last season, is now back in Christchurch. However, it is doubtful whether he will be competing in Canterbury next season for it is possible that he will again be transferred to another centre before then.

Walls is the New Zealand 120 yards hurdles champion. He is at present playing for Toe H in the inter-club men’s basketball competitions.