Enhancing the experience for nearly 100 student-athletes in the Augustana track & field and cross country programs, Augustana University will soon start construction on the Larson Track & Field Complex on campus. 

An 8 lane Beynon surface track will be the centerpiece of the new Larson Track & Field Complex. The complex will also contain the Vance Butler Field Events Area for high jump, pole vault runways and long jump/triple jump space.  A nearly 100-yard artificial turf field will serve as a valuable space for not only the track & field program, but all 19 sport programs.  It will also give Augustana faculty and students a much needed training area. 

"I'm thrilled for our student-athletes who will finally have a training home, and we owe it to them and future Vikings to deliver this first class facility," said Augustana President Stephanie Herseth Sandlin. "The Larson Track & Field Complex has been years in the making and is a great addition to our campus footprint."

The nearly $2 million project is being funded through the generosity of donors from across the country and with a leadership gift from Linda Larson.  Larson's gift will name the track in honor of the memory of her late father William "Billy" Larson and her sister Kathie.  Giving opportunities still exist.

"We can't thank our donors enough because their gifts are making it happen," said Augustana Athletic Director Josh Morton.  "It will be quite a return on their investment when they see our student-athletes training on the track next August." Morton also noted the track & field and cross country programs been incredibly successful over the last few years, and have done so without a training facility on campus.

"Seeing the construction truck pull in was an amazing feeling," said Track & Field and Cross Country Head Coach Tracy Hellman.  "Our runners, throwers and jumpers will be counting down the days until the complex is complete.  There is no doubt this elevates our program."

Notes about the Larson Track & Field Complex:
*The 300 meter track is a state of the art Beynon track surface
*The complex includes a steeplechase area with a water pit
*Features Multiple pits for long jump, triple jump and pole vault
*Features training areas for shot put and discus throws
*The Astroturf artificial surface field will be used for football, soccer and other sports training activities
*The complex lies parallel to and just north of Morstad Field, home of Augustana Soccer
*The Larson Track & Field Complex is being built by Mid-America Sports Construction

Follow the track's progress at GoAugie.com