TRACK AND FIELD To save money and conserve space, many university track facilities—including those at N.C. State and Carolina—are simply ovals built around soccer fields. But ECU’s new eight-lane track will surround an area for throwing events—javelin, hammer and discus. A tall gatelike structure rises in the infield to protect spectators and other athletes during throwing events. The last of the three playing fields to open, the track facility is expected to begin hosting matches next spring. ECU has been unable to hold conference events on campus because the school’s facilities, which were unlighted and did not meet NCAA standards and specifications. Coach Curt Kraft says ECU will have the “nicest track and field facility in North Carolina.” Looking at the entire Olympic Sports Complex—and its close proximity to the baseball stadium—he adds, “I think you’d be hard-pressed to find four better facilities in one package within the league. It takes us to another level in Conference USA.”
Matthew McConaughey, javelin Curt Kraft, head coach Tynita Butts, sprinter/jumper Maegan Lewis, hammer
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