Budget Slash Called Cause For Track Cut

A $100,000 slash in the 1958-9 athletic budget was cited by Thomas D. Bolles, Director of Athletics, as the reason for reductions in the size of the varsity cross country team.

Bolles was commenting on criticisms made by James V. Hoagland, undergraduate manager of cross country, when the H.A.A. announced that, in the future, it would support only a seven-man varsity squad instead of the usual 12 runners.

Bolles admitted that the reduction might detract from the performance of the team, but asserted that this risk was more than offset by the savings it represented of about $600.

Although the IC4A Rule Book does not decree a 12-member team minimum, Cornell has announced its intention of sending a seven-man team to the triangular meet at Harvard next year.

Cross country coach William W. McCurdy stated last night, "I would certainly prefer a 12-man team, but the reduction will definitely not damage their morale. In fact, it will probably strengthen their determination."

In addition to the cross country changes, the H.A.A. has withheld financing of teams and equipment for lacrosse and golf (the latter has been a Harvard team-sport since 1896). Travel budgets for existing varsity squads are being reduced, and major renovations, including badly-needed resurfacing of the tennis courts, are being deferred. College support for the sailing, skiing, rifle and pistol teams is also being cut.

Tom Courtney, Olympic 800-meter champion, was named assistant track coach yesterday, following approval by the Faculty Committee on Athletics. A former Fordham ace, presently in his second year at the Harvard Business School, Courtney will work as a middle distance specialist.

John Richard '54, former varsity captain, was also appointed as an assistant coach.

Track coach William W. McCurdy said last night he is "real pleased to have both of them." "Courtney used Harvard as a training base last year. He is interested in many of our runners, has his own stimulating ideas, and I hope he'll impart them," McCurdy said.