I am pleased to report that Hourigan Construction will begin
constructing Virginia Wesleyan’s new 400-meter track and field complex
today. A significant addition to our athletic facilities, the track will
be located at the northeast corner of campus near the intersection of
Wesleyan Drive and Baker Road.
The eight-lane track, in
accordance with NCAA regulations, will include a rubber athletic
surface. The facility will also feature discus and hammer throw, high
jump, long jump/triple jump, pole vault, shot put, and steeplechase. The
project is expected to be completed by September 8.
This
wonderful initiative has been made possible through gifts from two
donors, one who wishes to remain anonymous. Through additional financial
and in-kind support from Bill S. Shelhorse, a member of the Board of
Trustees and a graduate from Virginia Wesleyan’s first class in 1970,
and from his company, Chesapeake Bay Contractors, the track will be a
reality for the 2017-2018 academic year.
The facility will be
known as the Betty S. Rogers Track and Field in memory of Bill’s late
sister. Bill shared that Betty was a freshman in college when he was
born and served as a strong maternal figure in his life. Betty was a
lifelong educator, teaching English and physical education in the
Virginia Beach Public Schools for more than 23 years before retiring.
The
Betty S. Rogers Track and Field demonstrates again the importance of
philanthropy at Virginia Wesleyan. Recent and planned improvements to
academic, athletic, and student-life facilities have benefited from the
leadership and generosity of alumni and friends. They recognize that a
vibrant institution such as Virginia Wesleyan University is a living and
growing organization, nurtured by financial commitments to its future.
We're
pleased that our outstanding men's and women's track and field program,
featuring three-time All-American Marissa Coombs, will now have a home.
I look forward to keeping you informed of the progress of this exciting
new project.
