Cleveland School District to Revamp Its Only Track for 2024
The Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) has a storied history in track and field, having produced legendary athletes such as Jesse Owens and Harrison Dillard. However, despite this rich heritage, the district currently has only one track, and its deteriorated condition is unsuitable for training. That’s about to change.
New Investment to Revitalize Robert “Bump” Taylor Field
Last week, CMSD’s board of education approved a $763,000 expenditure to resurface the outdoor track at Robert “Bump” Taylor Field. District CEO Warren Morgan anticipates that the track will be ready for use by the spring season. This upgrade is a significant development for the district’s athletics program.
A Game Changer for East Tech High School
The resurfacing project is especially crucial for Michael Hardaway, a coach dedicated to reviving track and field at East Tech High School—alma mater of Owens and Dillard. Hardaway highlighted the importance of the new track, noting that the district currently lacks usable tracks on school property.
Current Training Challenges
Hardaway’s team has been practicing at Cuyahoga Community College’s track, but the facility often becomes congested due to multiple teams using it simultaneously. This situation forces his runners to train on concrete three days a week, which heightens the risk of shin injuries common among athletes running on hard surfaces.
Positive Impact on Cleveland’s Track Scene
The new track surface will provide a much-needed space for athletes to train safely and improve their performance. Hardaway believes this investment will offer valuable opportunities for local runners. The Cleveland track scene remains strong, with Glenville High School, the closest to Bump Taylor Field, consistently performing well. Glenville’s track and field team won Division II state championships in 2022 and 2023 and secured second place in 2024.
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