BLANDFORD STADIUM

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 55, 27 May 1927, Page 11

BLANDFORD STADIUM

PLAYGROUND OF CITY WILL BE OPENED NEXT OCTOBER TN conversation with the president of the Blandford Park Stadium Company yesterday, he stated that it was definitely decided to open the Blandford Park Stadium next October. r jMTIS is news that all athletes in Auckland will be pleased to hear, as this central sports ground, remaining closed last season, caused cyclists and runners great disappointment. It will also stop the rumour that was going around, that the B.P.S. Company had made up their minds to discontinue the holding of sports meetings on Blandford Park. A GOOD SEASON AHEAD

The ground is gradually being put back into shape, and given fine weather, the slip that caused the trouble, and the cycle track, can be made ready in a few weeks. The number of competitors who competed during the five meetings held there last year, was 167. This is undoubtedly a great entry, but what will this ground do when in full swing next season? The management look forward with confidence to seeing 250 to 300 competitors at the stadium every night, competing in the different events on the programme. The cash runners topped the entry list last year, the amateur runners being next. Cycling was last.

This season cycling has improved wonderfully. All over the world riders are being sought after —both in the amateur and professional ranks —to appear in different countries. Showing that their presence is a distinct draw to any promoter. This branch of sport is experiencing a wonderful revival all over the world at present, and is undoubtedly the best drawing card on any programme at present. FAST TRACKS

The stadium management intend to secure the best talent available both in cycling and running, so that the Auckland public may have a chance of seeing our best in action jvith them. The grounds have never looked better the 3.ooyds and 440yds running tracks have been specially top-dressed for speed, and when rolled and made ready for racing on they should be very fast. The 440yds will be in use for the first time this coming season. The lighting on this particular track is on the Caterery System, and is most effective. The track itself is specially designed for fast times, there being no corners to contend with. This season will see 220, 440, BSO and 1,760 yds being run, and they should be a welcome innovation. Ladies’ races will also receive attention, and it is in this department, that the management will specially cater. CONTESTS FOR ALL The programmes to be submitted this year, will be of the stadium’s best, and with the inclusion of longer running races, and a race every few minutes, patrons will have some exciting nights to look forward to. Given fine weather, it is hoped to see boxing, wrestling, band contests, vocal and instrumental concerts staged, either during the day time, or under electric light at night. With seating accommodation available for 5,000 or 6,000, this ground provides a unique opportunity to spend a night in the open air, enjoying a good smoke and watching Auckland’s best athletes ill action.