RAAF's "Olympic Games" in Vietnam

Members of No. 2 Canberra Squadron RAAF band at Phan Rang South Vietnam, decided that they needed something special in the way of a diversion. They decided on a sports day with a difference. For an international flavour the events were chosen as follows: a carry-the-beer-can race would represent Australia; tossing the caber for Scotland; a marathon to represent the Greeks; and a full scale chariot race to take care of the Roman element. Eighteen chariots lined up for a race run over 500 yards. Each section of the Squadron dressed their chariots and riders in authentic garb. This item shows an inspection of games competitors by the Commander of RAAF forces in Vietnam, Air Commodore F.S. Robey and the U.S. Commander of Phan Rang air base, Colonel Galligan; caber tossing contest and a sequence on the chariot race.