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Scotsdoun Stadium have been given a major revamp as the Games’ athletics competition gets underway today<\/h2>\n <\/p>\n\n
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<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nA general view of Scotstoun Stadium(Image: SNS Group)<\/cite><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/button><\/p>\n
Commonwealth Games athletes have praised the “amazing” transformation of Scotstoun Stadium, as the venue prepares for its first events of Glasgow 2026.<\/p>\n
The revamped facility, which boasts a new state-of-the-art track, two new stands, fresh floodlights, and seating areas which are closer than ever before to the stars – has been significantly upgraded for the athletics competition, which kicks off on Monday.<\/p>\n
A key feature for fans is undoubtedly the proximity to those competing – allowing for a new, more immersive experience. Australian athlete Mia Gross, competing in the 200m and 4x400m mixed relay for her country, said it was brilliant for the athletes, providing a unique atmosphere for both fans and athletes alike.<\/p>\n
“I think it’s great,” said the Olympian. “The stadium is really close and intimate which will be good for that personal experience – especially on the start line.<\/p>\n
\u201cI’ve actually been really looking forward to being closer to the fans. I think it will make the experience much better. I love that feeling. You can interact with the crowd so much more, and when you come to a Games, you want to be part of it, singing, talking, doing high-fives.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt will make for a really great atmosphere.We might get some really fast times here as well. As a sprinter, the winds might actually be really good for us. I do think it will be perfect for the 100m on Monday. “<\/p>\n
Bringing fans closer to the action was a key objective for Games organisers, bringing athletes and spectators together in a way very few international championships can.<\/p>\n
Gross’ teammate Abbey Caldwell said that Glasgow 2026 delivered on its promises from an athlete\u2019s point of view. “Every loves that. It just gives an amazing atmosphere,” said the Mile runner.<\/p>\n
“You want to have people as close as possible to you, and to feel that energy. It protects the Glasgow wind onto the track as well, so that’s always good.<\/p>\n
\u201cBut yes, the intimacy of the stadium will be really cool. I’m very impressed by Scotland picking this up, we’re so grateful for what they’ve done and it has gone beyond all expectations. What they’ve done in less than two years is incredible.\u201d<\/p>\n
The DYNAMIK MONDO surface both will compete on is widely recognised as one of the most advanced in the world. It offers a different look to the stadium more traditionally associated with rugby, but its innovative technology has already been widely welcomed by the athletes taking part.<\/p>\n
“I’m really impressed with it,” added Gross ” the track looks phenomenal and it’s a MONDO, which is quite hard to come by. The whole stadium is a lot bigger than what I was expecting.\u201d<\/p>\n
In some ways, the intimacy afforded by the stadium transformation speaks profoundly to the general sense of community already being felt at these Games.<\/p>\n
“Glasgow has been so much fun, said Caldwell. “Everyone here has been amazing, from staff to volunteers.<\/p>\n
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\nAbbey Caldwell of Australia(Image: Walter Cunha\/NurPhoto\/Shutterstock)<\/cite><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/button><\/div>\n
\u201cWe take a lot of pride in the Commonwealth Games. I’m just so glad and grateful this is happening at all. They’re really special. My whole family and friends are coming over for it and I’m just really excited to get started.”<\/p>\n
It’s a feeling echoed by hammer thrower, Angela McAuslan-Kelly, who makes her Commonwealth debut for Scotland. The last time she was in Scotstoun was 11 years ago, when she was just nine years of age. Scotstoun’s transformation, she believes, has been “remarkable”.<\/p>\n
She said: “I haven’t been here for a few years, but I was here when I was nine,” she explained. “It didn’t look like this before. That was 11 years ago in a Scottish championship.<\/p>\n
“Being here now is almost like a full circle moment for me. When I walked into the stadium, I couldn’t believe it was real. It’s amazing. I never thought I’d get to this point in my career and to be here is just great. The stands are really nice. If I was a runner, I bet it would be great, running on that track they’ve got here.”<\/p>\n
Like McAuslan-Kelly, other youngsters will now follow in her footsteps, when the Games comes to its conclusion.<\/p>\n
The track will be gifted to the city of Glasgow, leaving a lasting legacy for those coming through the ranks in Scottish athletics.<\/p>\n
“I had half an idea to start rowing when I was a bit younger ” admitted,McAuslan-Kelly, \u201cbut trying out for athletics gave me opportunities.<\/p>\n
“I never thought I’d get to this point,” she admitted. “I have worked really hard, and I’m so proud to be competing for Team Scotland.<\/p>\n
“Hopefully lots of people will come to the athletics, fill up the stands, and really enjoy the moment.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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