Hershberger track construction nears end
By STEVE SHRIVER
Kansan Sports Writer
Currently under construction in Memorial Stadium, the Jim Hershberger all-weather Tartan track is expected to be completed within a week.
The new track will have eight lanes with each lane measuring $ 3^{1/2} $ feet across. That's about two miles of Tartan track one lane wide.
The Tartan, which is being laid by the 3M Company, is a reddish, cement-type solution. It is spread out about one-quarter of an inch thick from behind a truck. A trailer then spreads a confetti-type material and the substance
8 KANSAN Sept. 19 1969
dries to form the finished product, a pinkish, solid sponge-like surface.
Construction provides for a new drainage system plus permanent markings and curbing.
The disc plow, rakes, steam rollers and the butane-burning flame thrower pulled by a tractor—all necessary to rehabilitate the muck produced by the torrent that seems to come with each Rebays—can now be eliminated.
According to head track coach Bob Timmons, the all-weather surface is a fantastic improvement to the KU track program. "Kansas has such a terrible record for bad weather, especially in the spring. The Kansas Relays have been all but rained out for the past five years in a row," he said.
The new track will insure foot.
ing and will give each lane the same performance potential. Meets may be held anytime through a longer fall and earlier spring season with use on warm winter days.
attract more big name athletes and teams." In addition, the University will be able to attract more prestigious opponents for dual and triangular meets and, with the extra two lanes, will be eligible to host the NCAA outdoor championships.
James W. Hershberger. 37-
Timmons agrees that with the advantages of the new Tartan track, the Kansas Relays "should
year-old Wichita oil man and former Jayhawk runner, donated $125,000 toward the track.
Athletic director Wade Stinson is also jubilant over the improvement and said that upon completion it will be called Jim Hershberger Track.
JOIN IN THE FUN JOIN A HILLEL HAPPENING
Membership Party (Free)
Where: bleu Mont Lake When: Sat., Sept. 20, 1969, 8:00 p.m.
Refreshments, Dancing, Boating Hootenanny, Volleyball, Beer, etc., etc.
For Transportation: Call AI, VI 2-9100, #741 Nancy, VI 2-5085