February 23, 2023
The Durham Public Schools board heard urgent pleas from student-athletes and parents demanding funding to repair Hillside High School's track, which athletes say is causing preventable injuries. Maya Sutherland, a Hillside track co-captain, described underperforming at the National Championships due to pain from the worn latex surface. Her mother, Dr. Kim Singletary, called the situation "a shame and a disgrace" and "a disservice to our ability and our effort." Track coach Omar Beasley and a podiatrist's letter documented shin splints, ankle injuries, and stress fractures among students, noting the latex track is banned in 22 states. A polyurethane surface replacement was recommended to protect developing athletes' bodies.
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