338 



PARKS 



"It is generally conceded that a running track measuring four laps to a 

 mile is the most popular size for outdoor sports. In addition to the track 

 events proper, pole vaulting and the jumps may be contested without inter- 

 ruption, while the field competitions javelin, discus, shot, hammer and the 

 heavy weight can be carried on within sight of the spectators and with 

 safety to contestants and officials. A very satisfactory baseball diamond 

 can be laid out within the limits of the track, and the space is ideal for inter- 

 collegiate and soccer football. Outdoor basket ball is practicable, while 

 permanent tennis courts also can be included. 



"The expense of construction of a running track has deterred many 

 establishments from attempting to build one, while others have been failures 

 from the first, owing to faulty construction. A glance at the cross section 

 will call attention to the inexpensive and light, springy nature of the track 

 as against the heavy, macadam construction so often employed. An all cinder 

 track is absolutely worthless. The cinders will not pack, they tear up easily, 

 and it is the hardest kind of a track to keep in condition. 



"The infield, from curb to curb, is 212 feet wide, about 30 feet wider 

 than the track in the famous Harvard Stadium. The turns are not as sharp 

 as in the latter and the tangents are about 108 yards long. The entire track, 

 which is spirit level throughout, except for the slight banking on the turns, 

 is 24 feet wide, permitting six lanes for the sprints and five regulation width 

 hurdles. It has a 22O-yard straightaway, the 440 yards was run with one 

 turn and the 880 yards with two turns. The main seating accommodations 

 are along the 22O-yard straightaway. The jumping pits are located directly 

 opposite the stand and about fifteen feet inside of the curb, affording the 

 greatest number of spectators an excellent view. This arrangement is pref- 

 erable to having all of these events crowded at one end of the infield. The 

 locations of the weight events are distributed about the infield and do not 



T&/7CX. 



Of CONCZETL CUC> 

 AZOUNP TI2ACK. 



PLATE No. 139. CROSS SECTION OF RUNNING TRACK, WAUKEGAN, ILLINOIS 



