ATHLETIC SURFACES
turf that state that shot put and discus do not cause damage , but that hammer and javelin can . In order to preserve the playing surface , therefore , some events may need to be shifted around during meets and competitions in order to be held on grass .
Facility owners can expect to hear some complaints from spectators who do not want to have to move from their seats ; however , outside of facilities designed for extremely high levels of competition , there is little chance of having all events in the same place — and doing so safely .
KEEPING THE TRACK INTACT One of the most challenging aspects of track ownership is safeguarding the surface from incorrect use . Tracks that are open to the community when athletes are not using them can quickly sustain damage from visitors using incorrect footwear , as well as from parents who come to walk or run on the track and who allow their children to bring tricycles or scooters to play with while they get their exercise . Equally worrisome , said Fisher , is when the school staff perpetrates the problems . “ I think one of the most distressing things about our business is all of the care that goes into building the track , all of the accuracy required , only to turn around and find that the track is really nothing more than a picture frame for the football program . It is literally abused by UTVs , golf carts , etc ., in preparation for the big game .”
Vehicles such as mowers that are used on the field , as well as utility vehicles and other equipment , can damage the track surface beyond repair . Track builders recommend putting down mats on a track , followed by boards , to create a pathway for vehicles to enter the field to perform maintenance without damaging the track .
“ Obviously , the durometer , tensile strength , and return of energy are designed for the track athlete , and not designed for turning and twisting tires against the rubber surface ,” said Fisher . “ The groomers for synthetic turf also are using the track surface to pivot in some cases , and that causes damage as well .”
Fields that are used for purposes other than sports , including hosting graduations , festivals and other events can also lead to damage of the track surface .
“ We have seen more damage this year than any other on tracks from July 4th fireworks celebrations ,” said Fisher . “ I realize it ’ s a great place to bring people into a stadium for viewing . Some are actually doing the fireworks in the stadium and , in some cases , it ’ s the viewers letting off fireworks on their own while waiting for the big show .”
BE PROACTIVE Track builders recommend that athletic directors , coaches , facility managers and others walk the track on a regular basis in order to keep an eye on its condition . Look for areas where surfacing may be crumbling , cracked or loose ; for areas that seem high or low ; or places on the track where water collects . Markings on the track that seem worn should also be addressed .
Contact the track builder with concerns like these ( or any others ) and send photos of what might be problem areas . Remember that catching issues early can mean less extensive repairs — and that can help create a facility that remains safer overall , providing enjoyment for athletes and spectators , year after year . SFM
Photo courtesy of Fisher Tracks , Inc .
Mary Helen Sprecher wrote this article on behalf of the American Sports Builders Association ( ASBA ). ASBA publishes Running Tracks : Construction and Maintenance Manual , which contains user-friendly information on running track design , construction , maintenance , renovation and equipment . It is available by visiting the ASBA website at sportsbuilders . org . sportsfieldmanagementonline . com February 2025 | SportsField Management
29