ATHLETICS at PARKTOWN

I was a member each year of the Athletics team (1957-61) and was appointed Athletics Captain in 1961.
We were allowed to enter a maximum of 4 events each year. I varied my entries to include 100 yards, 220 yards, 440 yards, 880 yards, High Jump, 100 yards Hurdles, Long Jump, Discus, and Shot Put.
Shot Put was the only event I entered each year, and I won every time. This was largely a result of being coached by Mr Smeets, the swimming master. He showed me how to optimise my movements and grip. To this day, I seldom see top shot putters using their baby finger for extra leverage.
Mr Smeets knew me as the boy who didn’t swim and who didn’t require a parent’s note. Instead, he allowed me to practice shot put.