The drainage system in athletics tracks is not just an auxiliary infrastructure that removes rainwater. It is one of the basic components of the system in terms of protection of the track surface, athlete safety, continuity of field use and correct operation of application details.

The drainage system on an athletics track does more than remove rainwater. It protects the track surface, supports athlete safety, keeps the facility available for use and helps the installation details function correctly.

Water accumulating on the track can increase the risk of slipping, shorten the service life of the surface layers and cause problems at the junction between the track and the infield. The drainage line must therefore follow the track geometry and remain continuous and maintainable.

Since athletics tracks do not consist only of straight lines, it is not sufficient to use a standard linear drainage channel throughout the entire field. Straights, curves, sandboxes, manhole crossings and trackside curbs require compatible components.

Combined use of straight and arc drainage channels

Straight drainage channels used in straight sections of the track ensure that surface water is collected along an uninterrupted line. Placing the duct body at the correct level with the track pavement and surrounding ground helps prevent snagging points on the surface.

In curves, spring channels that can follow the track geometry are needed. Forcing the use of straight ducts in curved sections may lead to connection gaps, line irregularities and cover incompatibilities. The spring channel system allows the drainage line to follow the track curves in a more controlled manner.

SFS Drain athletics track drainage systemsaims to create a continuous drainage line around the track by considering straight and arc channel components within the same system approach.

Channel covers and track surface compatibility

The type of cover used is as important as the body of the drainage channel. While the covers protect the inside of the channel, they should allow surface water to reach the system and create a compatible transition with the track coating.

Depending on the application location, middle cover or top cover solutions may be preferred. When selecting a cover, channel type, end elevation of the track pavement, maintenance access and surface safety should be evaluated together.

Using covers with compatible geometries for straight and arc channels helps maintain line integrity, especially during bend transitions. Coordinating ducts and covers on the same layout throughout the project reduces the need for cutting or adapting on site.

Manholes and maintenance access

In long drain lines, water must not only be collected but also discharged in a controlled manner and the system must be accessible for maintenance. Composite inspection manholes enable channel lines to be checked at certain points and outlet connections to be arranged.

Manhole locations should not be determined randomly on the project. Line crossings should be placed taking into account direction changes, discharge points and maintenance requirements. Correct manhole placement makes it easier to access certain areas without dismantling the entire system.

Use of sand trap channels in sandboxes

In long jump and triple jump areas, not only rainwater but also sand carried to the track surface should be controlled. Transporting sand to the standard drainage line may cause accumulation in the channel over time and increase the need for maintenance.

Sand retaining channels help drain surface water while limiting the spread of material around the sandbox onto the track surface. The detachable grill or cover structure facilitates periodic cleaning of accumulated sand.

The sand retaining channel should not be considered independent of the main drainage line; The manhole should be designed together with the discharge direction and track perimeter channels.

Function of soft-headed curbs

The curbs used on the inner edge of the athletics track are important in defining the field boundary and regulating surface transitions. Solutions with safer edge geometries may be preferred instead of hard and sharp surfaces in areas where athletes may come into contact.

Soft-headed curbs complete the track edge detail and ensure a more controlled transition between the drainage system and the field. Curb height, channel location and track cover should be evaluated on the same cross-section.

Integrated product approach in project planning

For successful athletics track drainage, choosing a single channel product is not enough. Straight channel, spring channel, compatible covers, manhole, sand trap channel and curb components must work in the same layout logic.

SFS Drain product familyIt combines the following components developed for different application areas of athletics tracks:

• Straight drainage channels
• spring drainage channels
• Middle and top cover options
• Composite inspection manholes
• sand trap channels
• Soft-headed borders
• Technical sheet, installation manual and CAD drawings

When choosing a product, channel dimensions, field geometry, coating elevations, discharge direction and maintenance access should be evaluated together. Coordinating technical drawings by the project team before the application begins helps reduce incompatibilities that may be encountered on the construction site.

Conclusion

Drainage on athletics tracks; It should not be seen as a simple system consisting of channel, cover and discharge pipe. Straight and arc channels that follow the track geometry, manholes that provide maintenance access, channels that support sand control and safe edge solutions must work together.

A properly planned integrated drainage system ensures controlled removal of surface water, contributing to the protection of the track cover and the more orderly application of field details.