I just got back from the newly renovated and resurfaced Billy Hayes Track (the outdoor track at IU).
All I have to say is, wow.
If you thought the NEZ and Cook Hall were boosts to IU facilities, this new outdoor track is surely worth mentioning in that list. Walking on the Polytan surface provided great resistance and is definitely built for speed.
This track is the Ferrari of outdoor facilities in the United States and has the potential to attract some big events and names in the coming years. It is already scheduled to host the Big Ten Outdoor Track and Field Championships in a couple weeks on May 14.
Coach Ron Helmer thinks it is feasible to see world-class athletes compete at IU because of the new track.
"If you build it, they will come," he said.
Look for a more complete article on the track renovation and all IU track and field news this summer at Hoosier Hype.
