ATHLETICS

Hokitika Guardian, 31 January 1931, Page 2

ATHLETICS

JAMES CARLTON’S VISIT

Writing on January 22nd a Sydney correspondent stated: —

“The invitation to race in New Zealand has put the champion Australian sprinter, J. Carlton, in somewhat of a quandary, and incidentally it has opened up a big question of great interest to athletes generally. It so happens that the meeting at Wellington in which it is hoped that the Australian star will meet the United States track champion, Simpson, clashes with the Victorian championships. The Victorian Association is extremely anxious that Carlton should visit Melbourne. “it was announced last week that a permit would he issued to Carlton to visit New Zealand, but a tour of the Dominion would lie out of the question. Carlton is anxious to defend liis titles in Sydney on February 2Stli, and the Australian and New South Wales Associations rfre even more anxious that lie should be here for that occasion. The issue of the permit has annoyed the Victorian Association, which has suggested that no permit should bo issued to an.v athlete to leave the country when the championships are ahm. due, It was not fair to the local Associations, it was claimed, that they should not have the benefit of such a great drawing card. Carlton, Victor-

ia says, should he loyal to Australia, and should regard the New Zealand

invitation as of secondary importance

‘‘Another section of the athletic community says that a man should have a free hand to go where lie likes. Carlton, they sa.v, has much to gain by a visit to New Zealand, for there Is none in Australia who approaches the prowess of Simpson. Carlton is convinced that on his present formlie is better now than he has ever been —lie could heat the American, and he is keen for the contest. “Carlton lias made no secret of tin 1 fact that lie would prefer to go to New Zealand, even if he were limited to one race, as seems likely: but tin l \'ictorian Association will leave no stone unturned to have him discinlined, so that he will remain in Australia.'’