Article 1391

Some time back, you expressed interest in information about the early days of Masters in our area. I was the first President of the local USMS organization (Jim Forbes headed the Metro club - which had all the dues money). Masters was then part of the AAU which did zero to promote the sport. I used to attend meetings monthly at Flushing Y, where the age-group coaches ignored me. After the Supreme Court decision to open up sports reps, the USMS came into existence, and the national body was formed. I attended several of the National Conventions- mostly paying my own way because funds were scarce locally. My first natl meet was in '75, at the Hall of Fame pool in Ft. Lauderdale, and I believe I have the results from the first Nationals in '72 or so - about 80 swimmers competed, if I remember right. Let me know if you're interested, and I'll dig thru the files. Meanwhile, any info you have on Gus Langner would be appreciated. I've know Gus for several years, and always admired him. He was always lucid, with a sharp memory- an admirable guy. I've had to miss several meets lately; I'm having trouble shaking the after-effects of a bad cold that causes me some breathing problems. I've been improving, but believe I may still have to miss a few more. I look forward to hearing from you.

This message was sent from Dick Guido to Bob Kolonkowski.