The lavender-hued tracks of Stade de France, the athletics venue for the Paris Olympics, is surely a treat to the eye. A refreshing change from the usual red-orange or blue tracks seen at almost every athletics venue. The change in colour is just a part of the intrigue.
The technology used can lead to more records at the Paris Games and the nature of the track can also be helpful to Neeraj Chopra, given his style of throwing.
Why purple?
The answer is simple. It matched the blue, green and purple theme that the local organisers chose for the Games. These colours will be prominent across all venues at the Games. At the tracks different shades of purple will be visible: a lighter tone for the track, darker for the service areas, and grey for the turns at the end of the bend. “We have never done this colour before. It’s a light mauve and darker violet. It recalls the landscape of France.” the organisers told AP.
Who designed the Paris tracks?
At the Tokyo Games, three world records and 12 Olympic marks were re-written. And without taking away any credit from the athletes, there was a common factor – the Mondo track. The Italy-based Mondo group has been the track provider for the Olympics since 1976 in Montreal.
Designed in consultation with top track and field athletes, Mondo tracks are considered the fastest in the world. (AP Photo)
What is a Mondo track?
At first appearance, a Mondo track looks like a hard carpet but there is more to it than meets the eye. The Mondo track has two layers. The surface is made of vulcanised rubber, offering better grip and elasticity. Below the outer surface lies a layer of air-filled cavities that act as shock absorbers and also, in simple terms, give the right bounce. Designed in consultation with top track and field athletes, Mondo tracks are considered the fastest in the world.
Do we have a Mondo track in India?
India’s first and only indoor track and field facility at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, which was inaugurated earlier this year, features a Mondo track. India still doesn’t have an outdoor Mondo track facility yet and Neeraj Chopra has on several occasions raised the issue. JSW’s Inspire Institute of Sports has a Mondo track at the jumps section where Jeswin Aldrin set the long jump national record of 8.42m last year.
Can we expect more records in Paris?
As per Mondo manufacturers, it’s a big yes. Mondo has been taking feedback from top global track and field stars and has developed granules that are more elastic and cohesive for the outer layer at Paris. Minute details such as the shape of air cells and dimensions in the air pickles inside the track have been optimised. All this in simple terms means the Paris track on paper is the fastest track ever at the Games.
The purple track 💜
No more red-brick clay color, our Olympic & Paralympic track is going purple for the first time ever in the Stade de France. This new one is supplied by Mondo, Official Supporteur of #Paris2024. Records are made to be broken. Hope this track will help ⚡ pic.twitter.com/0Pr1EGHo7a— Paris 2024 (@Paris2024) May 21, 2024
Will Paralympians also benefit?
The rubber granules on the surface are likely to provide more grip and resistance to wheel-chair athletes. Athletes with prosthetic extensions will benefit from the grip and sturdiness of the track. “Mondo track surfaces are ideal for wheelchair racers because they have a high level of energy return into the push equating to less wasted energy and sinking into the track, thus minimising the fight against drag,” the Athletics Canada 2008 Paralympic Games head coach explained.
Will Neeraj Chopra gain from the Mondo surface?
Neeraj Chopra trains and competes on the European circuit extensively and has often pushed for a Mondo track to be built in India. Neeraj is not a power thrower, meaning he doesn’t solely rely on big muscles on the top half of his body. He employs what is called a rotational technique where he generates pace off the track and unwinds his body in a way to create maximum impact. A fast track like Mondo is ideal for his technique. The grip that Mondo provides will also be a positive factor.
