Architectural technologist Suzanne McCormack "is the mastermind behind plans" to build the world's first running track built entirely on stilts at Glasgow, Scotland's National stadium, according to Alan Campbell of the DAILY RECORD. Using "ground-breaking" techniques, McCormack "will have the world’s fastest men and women running on a track that will be six and a half feet above the pitch" to be used during the 2014 Commonwealth Games. McCormack: "This has never been done before. Steel stilts have been used for temporary 110m straight tracks in Newcastle and Manchester, as well as the ice rink in George Square and the equestrian course at the London Olympics -- but it’s completely new for a 400m track." The facility is "due to be completed" on May 16, 2014 -- shortly before the Games get under way on July 23. Even the Glasgow 2014 CEO David Grevemberg "has conceded the plan is challenging but, if successful, could save a fortune on dedicated athletics stadiums at future Games." The 400m track installation is going to cost between £12M-£14M ($18M-$21M) and "will be dismantled after a few months" (DAILY RECORD, 5/12).
