Ole Miss Track and Field Shut Down for Testing

The Ole Miss track and field team has canceled its last meet at home on April 26. The Duals meet was canceled while the facility undergoes testing on cavities that were recently discovered.
The university states that officials suspended the use of the Ole Miss Track Complex while the surface of the facility is being investigated, according to a recent press release.
Athletic Director Ross Bjork talked about the issues facing the complex in the April 3 press release.
“Safety and security are our first priorities,” Bjork said. “As soon as we recognized potential issues at the facility, we sought immediate testing and have discovered potential cavities under the surface.
“Engineering experts are being brought in for further research and to help determine the best course of action for the short and long term. Under Coach O’Neal’s leadership, we are building a championship program, and we are committed to providing our student-athletes with the best resources for success.”
Joey Jones, associate director of Media and Public Relations for Ole Miss Athletics, said there is a concern about collected moisture on the surface around the facility, in a recent interview with the Daily Mississippian.
While the Ole Miss complex is closed, a team of geotechnical consultants are working with Ashton Pearson, the director of the Physical Plant Department. The team will dig down to look for any sinkholes or other problems that could cause the surface to collapse.
The track teams will move into the Manning Center, and will continue training at the the Oxford and Lafayette schools’ facilities.
The men’s and women’s Rebel track teams will return to action this Friday with a meet against Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Ala.