Page 10 - Landscape-Issue148

PROJECT

NEW ATHLETICS TRACK AT

HOËRSKOOL STELLENBOSCH

An international standard athletics track has been constructed at Hoërskool
Stellenbosch, Cape Town. In addition to athletics, it can also accommodate other

sporting codes on the infield.

Project Team
Client: The ACE Trust (Athletics
Cycling Education Trust)
Project Management, Track
Construction and Installation:
Trompie Sport

The second bend of the track, before the home straight

unding for the project was supplied by prevent water accumulation and maintain include the following:
The ACE Trust, a youth development the longevity of the track; • superior shock absorption and force
Fprogramme that assists gifted athletes • compaction and base layer: a compacted reduction, minimising strain on athletes’
from disadvantaged backgrounds in South base layer, typically consisting of crushed joints;
Africa. The aim of the ACE programme is stone and asphalt, was laid to provide a • high performance acceleration properties,
to provide a quality education for athletes, strong and even foundation for the track making it ideal for competitive sprinting;
coupled with high level sports training, to system; • durability and weather resistance, ensuring
help them realise their full sporting potential. The track was designed according longevity with minimal maintenance;
to World Athletics standards, ensuring • a highly spike-resistant surface, providing
Ground preparation, design and compliance with lane widths, curvature and excellent traction for athletes;
installation measurement accuracy. The Rekortan M • line markings were done by a UK company
Trompie Sport was responsible for project system was selected for its high-performance which specialises in the marking and
management, design and construction characteristics that provide a fast, durable certification of athletics tracks to meet
and before installing the track, undertook and spike-resistant surface. international standards; and
extensive groundwork to ensure a stable The construction process involved a • the product is UV-stabilised and the system
and durable base. Key steps included the seamless installation of the synthetic surface uses pigmented, UV-resistant EPDM rubber
following: over the prepared base, ensuring uniformity granules which do not fade. Their vibrant
• excavation and earthworks: the existing and optimal performance. blue colour is maintained despite harsh
ground was assessed and levelled, and any weather conditions.
unsuitable soil was removed and replaced Track materials and characteristics
to establish a solid foundation; The track is made of Rekortan M, a 13.2mm Technology used
• drainage: an extensive, specialised thick, impermeable synthetic surface known The ACE Trust has invested extensively in
drainage infrastructure was integrated to for its speed and durability. Key features cutting-edge technology to enhance the

8 Landscape SA • Issue 148 2025 Check us out www.salandscape.co.za