A World Athletics inspector is set to evaluate the newly resurfaced track at Jamaica’s National Stadium in Kingston. This assessment comes as part of the process to determine the track’s certification level, which is crucial for hosting international athletic events.
The track, recently resurfaced with a Rekortan surface, is expected to receive a Class 2 certification from World Athletics. This classification is a step below the prestigious Class 1 status, which the stadium previously held. The downgrade is largely due to the resurfacing process, which may have introduced inconsistencies in the track’s physical properties, such as shock absorption and surface hardness.
Class 2 certification indicates that the track meets basic safety and usability standards, including accurate lane dimensions and compliant track markings. While a Class 2 track can host significant regional competitions, it may not be eligible for major international events like World Championships or Olympic trials.
The upcoming evaluation by the World Athletics inspector will provide a definitive assessment of the track’s capabilities and limitations. This visit is particularly timely, as Jamaica prepares to host several key events, including the 2025 ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls’ Championships and the Grand Slam Track Series.
The inspector’s findings will be crucial in determining the future of Jamaica’s National Stadium as a venue for high-level athletics competitions. Despite potential limitations, the stadium remains a vital hub for regional athletics, and its certification will influence its role in the global sports calendar.
