MILITARY SPORTS

Every attempt to combine military training with sports deserves encouragement. At present, two distinct movements are being started to accomplish this bayonet combat and rifle practice. In both of these the keenness of athletic competition can be used to further development in the arts of war. Recreation and exercise are by no means checked, but rather turned in such a direction as to be more useful at the present time. As most of us must learn before long how to handle a bayonet, we can have no better chance to become practiced in the art than now. Not only is it possible to secure training oneself, but also to find out how it is done, with a view to instructing others later on. By gaining his knowledge today, the officer of tomorrow will be so much quicker and better equipped to secure his commission. Far more than recreation, military value is an important reason to bring out a large number of candidates.

Target practice, too, combines sport with experience, although the latter is its best feature. Sub-calibre rifles and short ranges cannot make anyone an expert, but they develop a true eye, a steady hand and a reliable trigger-squeeze. Shooting Boches requires more skill than can be acquired on Soldiers Field, yet beginners may learn the rudiments, and experienced marksmen may improve their aim. The student who practises with rifle or bayonet furthers his own military prospects, and, at the same time, obtains exercise and recreation.