The summer of 2024 has hosted a variety of sporting events, but none with the fame and history of the Olympics. From popular sports such as volleyball and swimming to less known sports such as speed walking, the Summer Games provide entertainment to all who tune in. Everyone who competes are among the world's finest, and strive to bring them and their country glory. Usually, all sports are decided by moments, but perhaps none more so than sports on the track. Requiring photo finishes for everyone without the last name "Bolt", the athletes that compete on the track are truly athletic gods among athletes. The combination of speed, precision, and power these runners must have, whether it be on the bend or straightaway, is sure to entertain the masses regardless of who wins. Humanity was lucky enough to witness the fastest man alive, but since his retirement it is fair to say that every race has become much tighter. Even in the last couple of days, two American athletes have dug deep to win gold for their country, including Noah Lyle's .005 of a second victory in the 100m and Quincy Hall's incredible come-back victory to claim gold in the 400m.
Regardless of the victor, the track events are some of the most intense competition in sports, and athletes push their bodies beyond what was previously thought possible to get their names etched into history. On the big stage, the crowd smothers most of the noise, making the sport look easier than it really is. However, where they start training and running is a different story. By themselves, the pounding of their shoes on the rubber-lined track and the quick exhalation of their breath is the only thing that fills the venue, and it is here, alone, with just them and the two white lines that enclose them is where real champions are made. Finding a love for track is difficult for many, after all, it is just running, but high school is usually where the dedication to the sport is found, whether it be from the friends made on the track team or the thrill of being the fastest in a meet. Whatever the reason, there is no doubt that these athletes are among the fittest and most tenacious of any athlete in the world.
Track stars compete with more than just the other lanes, however, and for some their biggest competition is themselves. Being one of the rare sports where it is tangible to see progress or regression in time, these athletes are constantly trying to outdo themselves along with the other racers. A prime example would be in Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, who shattered her own 400m hurdle run on August 8, dusting her competition in the process to claim gold as well. However, to birth these stars, schools and venues need to make sure these athletes have the tools to be successful, and part of that is making sure the ground they run on is in top shape. Throughout time, the track will quite literally burn rubber, becoming uneven in some places and a potential hazard to those who run on it. Track resurfacing, or the act of peeling back the rubber without touching the base layer and layering a new rubber layer on top, ensures smoothness in all areas and protection of the athletes against debilitating injuries. The town of Holliston, Massachusetts, is looking for vendors to resurface their track to protect the athletes of their town and maybe have their own Olympic track star. This is an important task that not only helps present athletes but can bring success for the careers and health for them in the future.
For those interested, click on the link to learn more. The last day to submit a bid is August 23, 2024 at 10:00 AM ET.
