It’s new, it’s pretty, it stands out, and even though it makes your shoes turn red, it gives you a spring in your step. After many years of athletes waiting, the new track was finally re-done in the summer of 2016 and Mason students have plenty to say about it.

“[The new track] is definitely an added benefit ” track and cross country coach Jeff Buck said.

And the athletes agree.

Senior cheerleader, Lissett Amaya said, “During [previous] friday night lights, you really couldn’t see us….with the red track [the team] really stands out.”

Among all the improvements, the color has been one of the most noticeable changes with the track this year. It went from the well know black and white to a more prominent red. The color not only helps the cheerleaders stand out but has also helped improve their practices.

“We really wouldn’t practice outside, because it’d be so hot,” said Amaya. “Now we can.”

“I think there’s definitely a heat difference, the old track used to be a lot hotter because of the black reflecting of the sun,” said senior cheerleader Kali Kemp.

Before the new track was installed, the cheerleaders focused their practices indoors, which decreased their time for practice on the track. Since this change, the cheerleaders have had more opportunities to train for events on the track.

Unlike the cheerleaders, the cross country athletes have some issues with the new track.

“The red of the track rubs off on your shoes and leaves a color on the surface,” said Spencer Marcus, a ninth grader on the cross country team.

Marcus isn’t alone in this observation, other students have the same concerns.

Jo Sevier, a ninth grader, had a different opinion.“I like the black track more, a little bit, just because of how dense it was when you were running, it wasn’t such a struggle to get somewhere.”

According to Coach Buck, the new track helps prevent injuries.

“With the old track we were always worried about kids getting injured with some of the holes that were in the track. The softer surface has helped out a lot in terms of injuries,” said Buck.

Student athletes also noticed a difference.

“For safety reasons, it’s okay to do tumbling…[there’s a] sense of security because it’s a new track,” Amaya said.

Julie Bravin, Athletic Director, said,  “When the track is old and done you need a new track… and it is time.”