Games Postponement Thought Unlikely (Press, 25 August 1976)

Mr A. W. Barrett, the executive director of the New Zealand Games Organising Committee, expressed strong opposition to the idea of postponing the 1977 New Zealand Games, scheduled for late January, in light of the Montreal Olympics boycott. His comments followed remarks by Mr H. C. Blazey, a senior committee member, suggesting a delay might be wise until the boycott's long-term effects are clearer. Barrett stated that delaying the Games would not provide any advantages and could potentially harm the event. He highlighted that no countries had, as yet, expressed intentions to boycott or withdraw from the Games due to concerns over sporting ties with New Zealand. Barrett voiced worry about the logistical difficulties the committee would face if they were to halt their preparations and then try to regain momentum after a year. He noted that deferring the Games could push them too close to other significant athletic events, like the Edmonton Commonwealth Games and the world swimming championships in Berlin, which might diminish international interest in the Christchurch Games. Barrett further emphasised the importance of capitalising on the heightened public attention surrounding New Zealand athletes such as Walker, Dixon, and Quax, who were performing well at the time. He remarked that financial concerns presented a more pressing challenge than the fallout from the Montreal boycott, drawing attention to the committee's pending request for the government to increase its financial backing, which currently stood at $50,000. Despite the uncertainties, the committee's meeting was set to occur soon, where a decision would be made regarding the Games. The committee’s chairman, Mr M. F. Hunter, indicated he saw no justification for postponement, suggesting that unless Blazey could present convincing arguments to change that viewpoint, plans would proceed as scheduled. A major publicity campaign was about to launch, with tickets set to go on sale the following month. Ongoing speculation regarding the Games' status could negatively impact ticket sales, which are crucial for the event’s funding. In a related sporting context, notable tennis player Margaret Court indicated her willingness to compete against transsexual player Dr Renee Richards, provided Richards passed a sex verification test. Court specified she would only participate in a tournament against Richards if her gender was formally validated and recognised by the tournament authorities.

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