Winder-Barrow High School has a storied history when it comes to its track program.
Even today, athletes qualify every spring for the state meets in Albany and Jefferson. Considering the program’s history, it’s great to see the track at W. Clair Harris Stadium receiving a makeover this summer.
“Getting a new track is something that WBHS was in desperate need of,” said Jennifer Blevins, who helps guide the school’s track program. “The track was worn down to the concrete in several places, the lines were difficult to see, the surface lost its cushioning and many runners were experiencing injuries due to running on such an awkward surface. The high jump area was slick and many jumpers would slip on their approach causing falls and scaring some athletes out of a strong performance.”
Current budget restraints had hampered the effort in recent years, but the WBHS coaches were thrilled to see what has been transpiring this summer. Athletic director Justin Grant quickly received input from the track coaches on what needed to go into the track renovation.
“We wanted to make sure that the surface was thick enough, that all the track, the high jump area, the pole vault area and jump runways were surfaced and that all of the markings were exact and that it would hold up long enough,” Blevins said. “Another concern is that the usage dramatically decreases so that the track can be taken care of. There was a lot of misuse and abuse on the previous track and with such a huge investment, the track needs to be protected.”
The revamped track could signal a return of the Rotary Relays.
“We are looking forward to reviving our partnership with the Rotary Club,” Blevins said. “Coaches lost interest in the meet due to the conditions of our facilities. Why would people want to run at our track when there were so many excellent facilities with a 20-25-mile radius including Mill Creek, Peachtree Ridge and Flowery Branch?”
Overall, the track resurfacing is a dream come true, Blevins noted.
“We will be able to draw more teams to our facility, revive the Winder-Barrow Rotary Relays and start building back the reputation of a fabulous facility and program that WBHS was once known for.”
One final step which will still need addressing is the restroom facilities at the stadium.
“I know that is not the track, but it is an important part of the facility,” Blevins said. “I think the stands are acceptable. The press box is very usable and the concession stand is fairly nice, but I hear more complaints about the bathrooms than the track. I am not sure if those will be fixed, but I hope something will be done soon.”
Credit is due to those who have helped make the necessary improvements to the track surface happen. It shows a committment to the student-athletes and shows them that the school system and community are behind them in their efforts.
Chris Bridges is sports editor of the Barrow Journal. Send comments about this column to cbridges@barrowjournal.com.
