Hobart has a newly upgraded $300,000 throwing zone at the Domain Athletic Centre for javelin, discus and hammer throwers.
The Hobart City Council contributed $50,000 towards the revamp, while the state government provided $250,000 through the improving the playing field grants program.
The upgrade means athletes will no “longer need to compete with pieces of cracked and ruined tarmac and can now just focus on their sport in a safe manner,” Hobart Acting Lord Mayor Helen Burnet said.
“This is a significant investment in Tasmania’s premier athletics centre and the future of our track and field athletes, from Little Athletics all the way through to Masters Athletics.”
Councillor Zelinda Sherlock said numerous athletics events had been canceled at the domain due to ‘serious erosion and surface cracking’ in the throwing surface area.
“The old surface was full of potholes and cracking that made the area difficult to negotiate for all athletes, and especially those with mobility issues,” Cr Dr Sherlock said.
“This major upgrade to the Domain Athletic Centre has created a safe area for athletes of all ages who train and compete in shotput, javelin, discus and the hammer throw.”
“We want Tasmania’s premier athletics centre to be a field of dreams for our young athletes, one where anything is possible.”
