Champ Ready: Stadium Track Gets A New Surface

Kenji Nakamura

4 min read

Post on May 11, 2025

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The Need for Resurfacing

The old track surface at City Stadium had reached the end of its lifespan, presenting significant challenges for athletes and raising serious safety concerns. Years of use led to noticeable track degradation, resulting in a worn track surface that impacted performance and increased the risk of injury. The deterioration manifested in several key areas:

• Increased risk of injury due to uneven surface: The unevenness of the old track created tripping hazards and increased the risk of ankle sprains, hamstring pulls, and other injuries.
• Reduced performance capabilities for athletes: The inconsistent surface compromised athletes' ability to achieve their best times and hindered optimal training. Athletes reported difficulty with acceleration and maintaining momentum due to the inconsistent surface.
• Aesthetically unappealing and outdated appearance: The old track's faded colors and visible wear and tear detracted from the overall aesthetic appeal of the stadium.
• Non-compliance with international athletics standards: The deteriorated surface no longer met the standards required to host major athletic competitions, limiting the stadium's potential. This ultimately affected the city's ability to attract significant sporting events.

Choosing the Right Surface

Selecting the right material for the new synthetic running track was a crucial step in the resurfacing process. We carefully considered various running track materials, including different types of polyurethane and rubber, evaluating their durability, performance enhancement capabilities, and environmental impact. The selection process involved:

• Comparison of different track materials: We compared polyurethane and rubber surfaces, analyzing their resilience, shock absorption, and overall longevity. Polyurethane, known for its superior performance characteristics, emerged as the leading contender.
• Factors considered: Key factors in our decision-making included the initial cost, long-term maintenance requirements, performance characteristics (traction, elasticity, and responsiveness), environmental impact, and compliance with IAAF standards.
• Specific material chosen and its key features: Ultimately, we chose a high-performance, IAAF-certified polyurethane surface renowned for its exceptional durability, consistent responsiveness, and superior shock absorption. This ensures a safe and optimal running experience for athletes of all levels.

The Resurfacing Process

The track installation process was a meticulous undertaking, involving several key stages:

• Removal of the old track surface: The existing surface was carefully removed to prepare for the new installation. This involved specialized equipment to ensure complete removal without damaging the underlying base.
• Base preparation and sub-base construction: The underlying base was thoroughly inspected, repaired as needed, and prepared to provide a stable and even foundation for the new track. This included compacting and leveling the sub-base material.
• Application of the new track surface in layers: The new polyurethane surface was applied in multiple layers, each carefully cured and inspected before the next layer was added. This multi-layered approach ensures optimal durability and performance.
• Curing and drying time: Adequate curing and drying time was allowed between layers to ensure proper adhesion and the development of the track's full strength and resilience.
• Final inspection and quality assurance checks: Rigorous quality control measures were implemented at every stage, culminating in a final inspection to ensure compliance with all specifications and standards. This included surface evenness tests and measurements of track elasticity.

Benefits of the New Stadium Track

The new all-weather track offers significant benefits for both athletes and the community:

• Enhanced athletic performance due to improved traction and surface evenness: The consistent, smooth surface provides optimal traction and reduces energy loss, leading to improved running times and overall performance.
• Reduced risk of injuries for athletes: The even surface minimizes the risk of trips, falls, and other injuries, providing a safer environment for training and competition.
• Increased usage by athletes and community members for training and recreation: The upgraded facility is now available for a wider range of users, promoting fitness and community engagement.
• Improved aesthetics and overall appearance of the stadium: The vibrant new track has dramatically improved the visual appeal of the stadium, creating a more welcoming and modern atmosphere.
• Potential to attract major athletic events: The world-class running surface makes City Stadium a prime candidate to host major track and field events, boosting the city's profile and economic activity.

Conclusion

The stadium track resurfacing of the City Stadium track represents a significant investment in our athletes and the wider community. This upgraded facility provides a world-class running surface, promoting better performance, increased safety, and enhanced recreational opportunities. The new stadium track resurfacing has transformed the stadium into a premier location for athletic competition and community engagement. We encourage athletes and community members to experience the benefits of this improved running track and look forward to welcoming you to the newly resurfaced stadium!