Refurbished warm-up facility at Hasely Crawford Stadium

The new surface was unveiled and ceremonial sod-turning conducted Thursday by Darryl Smith, Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs and Fitzgerald Hinds, Minister of Public Utilities.

A group of about 30 young athletes from the Cougars Track Club, led by their coach Kelvin Nancoo, were among the first to test the brand new surface.

The warm-up track, which comprises a straight and run-up lane for throws, was resurfaced using the same materials as the main track, with both the track and field to be illuminated by eight 1500watt light structures.

Speaking ahead of the sod-turning, Hinds congratulated his colleague on the initiative and commended the motivated and enthusiastic athletes who will now enjoy full use of the facility.

Hinds assured the lights would be installed by TT EC in five to six weeks.

Smith also shared that as many as 10 track and field clubs use the track, and Pro League and national football teams make use of the football pitch.

At a cost of $3.5 million, Smith reiterated the tremendous savings to the State as the wear and tear on the main track will be alleviated. Smith also mentioned plans to expand the amenities to include a pavilion, gym/physio rooms and dormitory to accommodate teams that can host live-in camps.

Multiple Olympic medallist Richard Thompson was also on hand at Thursday’s event, as he brought the track condition to the Minister’s attention over a year earlier. Thompson was pleased that the relaying was made a priority. “This surface is perfect for training as it relieves pressure on joints and muscles.

It also eases the burden on the main track, preserving it for competition.

The lights also mean that athletes who have work commitments during the day can access the facility outside of regular working hours,” Thompson said.

He also thanked Smith and Hinds on behalf of all athletes who use the facility.