They Chose Teams

With Eye To Future

It was no accident that the French Polynesian contingent had the big gest proportion of young competitors at the Games. The French planned it that way after deciding that the leal value of the Games was as a training ground for youngsters who could reach top form next time, or the time after that. The big team from American Samoa (99, including 22 officials ) also had the same idea.

MOST of the girls in the French Polynesian team were lithe 16year-olds, and many of the boys were only a little older.

Said the leader of the French Poly nesian contingent, pleasant Dr.

Pierre Cassiau: “The enthusiasm for sport in French Polynesia, encouraged by the Games, has been astonishing—it’s a real fever—and I would like to see the Games held every two years, and give all the youngsters a chance.

“We French know we can play basketball and soccer, but in Tahiti we have been realising as a result of the Games that we can produce athletes, too.

“Charles Tetaria. at 16, and after a month’s training, reached inter national class in Tahiti.

“Experience is what he wants, and so do others who can’t be expected to shine right now.

“But it doesn’t matter that they don’t shine right away, so long as they get their opportunity. And it’s good fun all round for every

body.”

Despite the French youngsters, the French didn’t hold the record for youngest competitor. This went to Fiii, with 13-year-old swimmer

Joan Herrington.