OBSTACLLE RACLES.

will know this, even if the reflection never occurs to him that a broadside-on obstacle probably mecans more behind i awkward positions, with a chance of falling between. After this perhaps a net, and then the finish. The net 1s not a vast difficulty, hav- mmg only to be dived under or, casier still, lfted. But 1t gives a check to the mercly fast swimmer m his rush home, and prevents the oncoming competitors from sccing exactly how the race 1s go- mg In front, and makes them peg away to the end. Also, the head-

long voung man, coming

as hard as he

-

MISCELLANEOUS

OBSTACLES,

can with the side-stroke, is apt to run foul of this net, to his utter confusion and entanglement, and the “letting up” of some slower competitor maintaining a better look-out.

And of such are the ways of the obstacle race—a thing good in that it gives play to something more than speed alone, whether on water or dry land, and teaches prompt

resource, ac- e tivity, and address ; and provides vast diversion for unventure- some On- lookers, who revel 1n the

misfortunes of those bolder than them- selves.

THE FINISH.