Why 'Super Track' invention puts Usain Bolt's World record under threat

‘s long-standing 100m world record could be threatened by the first ‘smart’ track that is expected to be introduced.

The digital running surface is being developed just outside Cambridge by Feldspar Sport. Sensors in the track provide real-time data for coaches and athletes according to .

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The technology can even give statistics and figures to fans in the crowd during events. Researchers believe the ‘super track’ could even allow a sprinter to run the 100m in less than nine seconds. The track gives a 20 per cent greater energy return to athletes than the surfaces currently used at an elite level.

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«We see how running shoes have evolved a lot, training methods and nutrition… but one thing that hasn’t changed pretty much is the track surface – that hasn’t changed for like 60 years, from the 1968 Olympics,» Feldspar founder and chief executive Alvina Chen said.  

«We believe we are creating the first major advancement. With our track, we anticipate that it will be 20 per cent faster than the Paris Olympic track, depending on athlete ability and external conditions. Our vision is to have the track become the universal standard all over the world. We have the world’s fastest running surface.»

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The project also has the backing of Darren Campbell, the head of sprints and relays at British Athletics. Campbell is an Olympic gold medallist himself as part of the victorious Team GB quartet in the 4x100m at the 2004 Athens Games.

He explained: «You can run away from technology … and kind of stay in the dark ages, or you can embrace change.

«We are going into an era when technology is at the forefront of every sport. When you start trying to immerse people into athletics, you are going to have to educate them and bring them on the journey. «I’ve always watched Formula 1 but now I can see how it is easier for someone to get into because there is so much data.

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«One of the only sports where I’d go, ‘Where is the technology?’ would be athletics. When did we last have some form of technology that isn’t a shoe? «This is the innovation I feel that athletics has been waiting for. All of a sudden nine seconds doesn’t seem crazy.»

set his 100m world record at the 2009 World Championships in Berlin.

The to claim gold ahead of Tyson Gay and Asafa Powell. His record has remained intact for almost 16 years, along with his 200m time set at the same event.

Bolt later achieved a world record time in the 4x100m relay at the 2012 London Olympics alongside Nesta Carter, Michael Frater and Yohan Blake.