THE University of the Philippines (UP) Mindanao has clarified that the track oval of the Davao City Sports Complex is compliant with the specifications of the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF).
According to a statement from the UP Mindanao, the specifications as published in the IAAF Track and Field Manual 2008 edition has been followed in the construction of the track oval. The installer of the synthetic track is certified as a service provider by the IAAF.
"Every phase in the site preparation and actual installation of the track oval has been subjected to rigorous measurements in line with the said standards," it said.
With regards to the observed slope in the oval track, the university quoted the IAAF manual that allows it.
For the competition area for track events, the following maximum gradients shall apply:
* 0.1 percent downward in the direction of running. Should the gradient of the sprint track as part of a Standard Track vary, the inclination is measured in a straight line between start and finish line for each event.
* 1.0 percent across the width of the track towards the inside lane. The traverse 1.0 percent gradient is primarily to ensure quick drainage of rainwater from the track surface. . . . (chap. 2, p. 33).
UP-Mindanao also defended the double bend track oval, saying it is permissible based on IAAF rules.
"It is normal for an athletics track to be used for other sports. Generally, this involves using the interior of the 400m tracks as a pitch for soccer, American football or rugby. Obstacle-free sports areas in the segments at the same level as the playing field without kerbs over which sportsmen could stumble can be included in the safety zones," it said.
According to UP-Mindanao, the manual provides specifications for "double bend" ovals, and the Davao City Sports Complex has complied with these specifications as evidenced by the plans available at the university's Campus Planning and Development Office.
Due to limited area and funding, the football field and the track oval was integrated. The adjacent throwing field is still under construction.
The university will wait for the completion of the throwing and jumping facilities for it to pursue IAAF certification. (PIA)