Using the Track
Good parking locations
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Hutchesons’ Grammar
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Bellahouston Harriers
Nil Desperandum
Welcome
An Introduction
This is a brief overview of how best to use our Track facility. Located at:
Hutchesons’ Grammar School 21 Beaton Road, Glasgow, G41 4NW It is predominantly used as a base of training on Thursday nights, but it can be booked out to support our events throughout the year.
Venues - Track
1. Introduction
1.1 Introduction
Our Thursday night sessions at the track provide members with a dedicated space for speedwork, intervals, and more structured training in a safe, controlled, and well-lit environment, free from many hazards associated with training on roads and in parks.
A standard running track is 400 metres in length, measured in Lane 1, and features key distance markings at 100m, 200m (half a lap), and 300m. These markers enable runners to easily calculate distances for training efforts, such as completing 1.5 laps for 600m or 2 full laps for 800m intervals.
To ensure we maintain a safe and productive environment, this report outlines key protocols for using the track facilities effectively and respectfully towards other users.
This document serves to:
+ Provide detailed guidance on using the track facilities.
+ Address track etiquette and ensure everyone can enjoy the sessions.
+ Highlight any restrictions and key booking details.
2. Times
2.1 Times Of Use
We have a confirmed booking for the track every Thursday evening from 6:50pm to 8:00pm. To ensure everyone can make the most of the track and facilities, please follow these key guidelines:
Arrival and Departure:
Please do not enter the track area until directed by the session coach, as the track may still be in use by other groups, and we do not have access until our designated time.
Please be prepared to leave the track by 8:00pm to allow the janitorial staff to lock up and switch off the lights, particularly during the darker winter months.
Shared Facilities:
The track is shared with other training groups within our club (Seniors and Juniors), as well as athletes from other clubs. Please be mindful of those using adjacent facilities like the long jump pit, and field events area.
Respect for others, particularly in communal areas, is crucial to maintaining a harmonious environment. Please ensure you are courteous and aware of other users during your training session, especially when moving between areas or during transitions in and out of the track.
3. Track Etiquette and Guidelines
To make the most of our time at the track, it’s important that all members follow certain protocols to ensure safety and fairness. The following guidelines apply to all track users:
3.1 Track Etiquette:
1. Lane Usage:
Inside lane (Lane 1) : Reserved for all faster running (efforts). Always run in single file, unless overtaking.
Overtaking: Use lanes 2-3 to overtake, then return to lane 1.
Outer lanes for Juniors: The outer two lanes (5-6) are reserved for our Junior divisions. These lanes must be kept free at all times. Do not recover or cool down in these lanes.
2. Direction of Running:
Counterclockwise running: The default running direction is counterclockwise.
3. Warm-ups, Cool-downs, and Recoveries:
Warm-up: There will be a coach-led 10min warmup carried out in the infield of the track, starting at 6:50 pm.
Cool-downs: Perform cool-downs in lane four or in the infield. The outer two lanes must be kept free for the Juniors’ use.
Static recovery: If standing, step off the track to your left-hand side to avoid blocking overtaking lanes.
Jog recovery: Jogging in lane 1 is fine. Always keep a single file. Or jog in lane 4.
4. Starting and Finishing a Rep:
Start with care: Always wait for a gap in traffic before starting your rep, even if it shortens or extends your recovery time. Jog into your rep to avoid sudden starts.
Run past the finish line: Maintain your speed past the finish line and slow down gradually to avoid disrupting other runners.
5. Group Training:
Training in groups: Members are encouraged to train in groups based on pace or session type. Rotate turns leading at the front while running in a single file to ensure smooth flow and efficiency. This approach not only maximises track usage but also strengthens community spirit by sharing the effort.
Follow coach instructions: Always adhere to the coach’s directions on session format, lane usage, and safety.
6. Communication and Awareness:
Shout “Track”: Shout “Track” only in situations of immediate safety risk , such as avoiding a collision. It’s not a substitute for addressing proper lane use or pace through conversation, even if someone is slower or in the wrong lane.
Check before entering: Always look for oncoming runners before stepping onto the track or crossing lanes. Move off the track quickly if you stop.
7. Respect for Others:
Shared track: Be considerate of other groups or athletes using the track. Respect their space and time.
Support new runners: Be patient and offer guidance to less experienced or younger runners while ensuring a safe environment for all.
Venues - Track
4. Facility Highlights
4.1 Changing Rooms:
The venue provides separate male and female changing rooms before and after training.
Each changing room is equipped with: Toilets & Showers.
4.2 Toilets:
Toilets are available in the changing rooms within the main sports building. See the plans attached.
4.3 Security and Storage:
There are no dedicated storage areas within the venue. Personal belongings can be left at the side of the infield near the start/finish line or, in case of wet weather, under the overhang of the sports building.
4.4 First Aid
A defibrillator and first aid kit are available in the Janitor’s office for use if needed.
We are currently exploring ways for our coaches to carry a First Aid kit during training sessions to ensure rapid access. Once these kits are ready, they will be stored in the club container for convenience.
4.5 Janitor Assistance
A janitor is available during our training nights to provide general support, e.g. switching on floodlights etc.
Issues with Facility
If you experience any issues or require assistance with the facility, please let a committee member know first so they can raise the matter directly. If no committee member is available, please speak with a member of the coaching team.
Floodlighting: The Janitors control the floodlighting during the winter months. If the lights are not on before the session, simply ask before the session starts.
4.6 Parking and Access:
There is very limited parking within the Venue itself, and members should not park in the Clydesdale cricket parking area.
Instead, members should park in the surrounding streets such as Dolphin Road, Kirkcaldy Rd, Fotheringay Rd or Terregles Ave.
When planning your journey, it’s important to consider the traffic conditions in the area. Dumbreck Road and the M77 junction can experience heavy congestion, especially on nights when football matches or other events are on at Ibrox or Hampden. To avoid delays, members may wish to allow extra travel time or consider alternative routes
4.7 Meetings:
Coaches or groups needing to hold brief meetings or debriefs after training can gather in the lobby area inside the main entrance of the sports building. During warmer months, the picnic benches outside the entrance are also available.
Main Entrance
4. Plans - Sports Building
Janitor’s Office
Raising issues & Storing valuables.
Female Toilets & Changing
Toilets, showers and changing, accessed from foyer only.
Male Toilets & Changing
Toilets, showers and changing, accessed from external door.
Door not always open.
4. Plans - Track Venues -
Start line
One lap - 400m
Two laps - 800m
100m line
Venues - Track
5. Summary
5.1 Recommendations for Members
Track Sessions: Follow the coach’s instructions closely and adhere to the designated pace groups for an efficient training experience.
Track Etiquette: Stick to the correct lanes, be mindful of faster or slower runners, and avoid obstructing others during rests.
Plan Parking: Be mindful of local traffic and plan your arrival accordingly, especially on evenings with large nearby events.
5.2
Conclusion
This report provides essential guidance for making the most of our Thursday track sessions. By following these protocols, we ensure a safe and enjoyable training environment for everyone. Members are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the track’s layout and the etiquette outlined here for the benefit of all users.
For any questions or additional bookings, please contact the club Secretary:
bellahoustonharrierssecretary@gmail.com
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