Reno-Tahoe, Nevada Athletics to Host Indoor Track Meets
New indoor track slated to debut at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center in November 2024
Posted On: July 6, 2023 By :The Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority Board of Directors has approved the acquisition of an indoor track, which is expected to host indoor track meets as early as November 2024.
Colleges and universities as well as AAU, USA Track & Field, Masters and high school competitions are expected to utilize the new track over its lifetime. The portable track will be assembled in Hall 4 of the Reno-Sparks Convention Center and will act as the University of Nevada’s home track, allowing athletes to practice more frequently and providing the opportunity to host the first home indoor track meet in more than 15 years.
“After analyzing the feasibility study and speaking with knowledgeable track professionals and consultants, it became clear that indoor track could open the door to previously untapped opportunities,” said RSCVA Vice President of Sales Mike Larragueta. “Bringing additional competition to the destination during the winter months fills a need for the local tourism economy, while providing the Western U.S. with a world-class training and competition asset. This is a huge win for the University of Nevada, for regional athletics and for sports development throughout Northern Nevada.”
In 2021, the RSCVA commissioned a study into the potential of bringing indoor track to the region. The study found minimal competition throughout the West and indicated opportunities for significant economic activity, suggesting indoor track competitions could bring up to 24,000 room nights in year one and up to 50,000 room nights by year two.
“There are thousands of athletes who are in a reasonable travel distance to Reno,” said Pacific Association of USA Track & Field Executive Director John Mansoor. “This indoor track will be the most accessible indoor facility to the largest population bases in the Western United States. With only four indoor tracks west of the Mississippi, this represents endless opportunities for the destination of Reno Tahoe and also for Track & Field athletes across the country.”
The track will be a portable Mondo track which can be assembled and disassembled in a few days without screws or bolts. When disassembled, the track can be stored elsewhere, freeing up the space for other purposes. In addition to the indoor track apparatus, the RSCVA is purchasing portable bleachers and track equipment. The total cost of the track, bleachers and equipment is $5 million.
“This marks another positive step in our partnership with the RSCVA in promoting the sustainable growth of the Reno Tahoe community,” said Nevada Athletic Director Stephanie Rempe. “Bringing a world-class indoor track to Reno will enhance the preparation, performance and opportunities for our student-athletes as they compete for championships, and bolster Reno Tahoe as a premier sports destination. Having the opportunity to compete in front of a home crowd will be a gamechanger for our track and field student-athletes and we look forward to seeing the positive impact it will bring to the Reno Tahoe community.”
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