He could have had the services of half a dozen seniors to fasten on his skates, but he preferred to do it for himself.
Clamps adjusted, and skates tested, Dick struck off leisurely, going up before the starter and judges.

These were grouped near the starting line.
"Standing start," announced Ben.

"Each man exactly to the line.
Pistol signal.

False starts barred, and the usual penalties for fouling.

Get on line, all!" Then the starter moved forward, pistol in hand.
"On your marks!" "Get set!" Bang! Dick, at the left end of the line, crouched forward somewhat.
Nearly the whole of his right runner rested on the ice.