December 09, 2025

Capital University to Debut Elite New Track Surface in Fall 2026

Sport Business Hero Students Cap Center Min

A significant enhancement for the entire athletics department, the University, and the Cap Center.

Capital University athletes will return in fall 2026 to a dramatically upgraded indoor track and field facility, thanks to a major resurfacing project using one of the top materials in the sport. The university has partnered with Beynon Sports Surfaces, a company known for building some of the nation’s premier collegiate tracks, including those at The Ohio State University and University of Oregon, to install its high-performance BSS 2000 RE surface.

"This project extends beyond indoor track – sports like tennis, pickleball, basketball, and volleyball will benefit from this state-of-the-art training surface,” said Darrell Bailey, director of Athletics. "In addition to supporting our student-athletes year-round, the facility will serve as a versatile venue for major campus-wide events, including commencement, the Undergraduate Research Symposium, and other programs that bring our entire community together."

Premier Competition Surface

Beynon’s BSS 2000 RE system is the same elite surface used at top collegiate venues like Ohio State and St. Olaf.

Championship-Ready Design

An 8-lane straightaway meets OAC and NCAA standards for championship-level competition.

Enhanced Safety & Performance

Greater durability and improved athlete safety, supporting both high-level training and competition.

The new surface is more than an aesthetic enhancement; it represents a strategic investment in safety, performance, and competitive opportunity. It also marks a comprehensive upgrade for the athletics department, the University, and the Cap Center as a whole. The resurfacing will allow Capital’s facility to fully meet Ohio Athletic Conference and NCAA hosting standards, including requirements tied to its eight-lane straightaway.

“This new surface elevates the standard of our training environment and enhances our capacity to compete and train at a high level. It’s a significant step forward for our program, and it reflects the commitment our institution and alumni have made to supporting Capital track and field,” said Ian Kellogg, director of Cross Country/Track and Field.

With the upgrade, Capital positions itself to host higher-level meets and championship-caliber events that were previously out of reach.

“Thanks to the generosity of our donors, this project represents a major upgrade for the entire athletics department and the University,” said April Novotny, vice president for Advancement and chief development officer. “From updated courts and a better practice facility for all sports that utilize it, to a significant facelift for the Cap Center overall, this investment positions Capital to provide one of the finest training environments in Division III. Their support not only strengthens the student-athlete experience but also ensures our athletes train on an elite surface and positions Capital to welcome more competitive opportunities in the years ahead,”

Highlights

1: Six-lane oval

2: Eight-lane straightaway

3: Two pits for long jump or triple jump

4: Two pole vault runways

5: Four Comet-branded courts in the middle of the oval

Athletes will also see daily benefits. The BSS 2000 RE surface will deliver greater durability and shock absorption, creating a safer training environment while elevating performance potential. University officials say the project will give Capital one of Division III’s premier training sites and will support the long-term development of the program’s runners, jumpers, and throwers.

Construction on the new track is scheduled for completion before the 2026–27 athletic season.

Want to learn more?

For Cross Country/Track & Field, contact:
Ian Kellogg
Director

For ways to give to Capital, contact:
April Novotny
Vice President for Advancement and Chief Development Officer