Regarding his defeat in the 100-meter race at the Olympiad in Amsterdam this summer, Frank Wykoff, who returned here yesterday, had the following to say:

"I believe the failure of the American athletes is due to several factors.  The one that stands out in my mind was the absolute lack of training facilities and the refusal of the coaches to let us work out prior to the races.

"I did not have one opportunity to stretch my legs in a trial or a race from the time I left Boston until the first heat at Amsterdam.  The others were in the same condition.

Boat Life Also Hurt

Photograph - Wykoff files - source unknown -

 1928 / SS Roosevelt Steamship - departing New York City - U.S.A.

En-route to Amsterdam July 15, 1928

"Living on the boat undoubtedly cut down the efficiency of the Americans. We had to climb up and down stairs all of the time.  Stairs are not good for a runner's legs.

"In the final of the 100-meter I believe that I faced as fast a field as was ever assembled.  (Percy) Williams (Canada), (Jack) London (British Guiana), and (George) Lammers (Germany), who defeated me, are great sprinters.  So were the others.

"The race was so close that it is hard telling who could win were the same six to meet again.  I would like to have an opportunity of  running against these men again some time.  It is my hope to do better if possible the next time."

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  OTHER NEWSPAPER ARTICLES

Concerning USA Athletes Complaints against

the 1928 Olympics at Amsterdam

1.  Athletes Harmed by Boat Quarters

2.   "Lack of Training Facilities"  at Amsterdam

3.  Track not ready for Athletes in Amsterdam

4.  Training on a voyage difficult