Charles M. Ruter Track and Field Complex

The Charles M. Ruter Track and Field Complex at Western Kentucky University was completed in May 2008 at a cost of $2.5 million. Highlighted by an eight-lane Defargo track surface, the facility houses a number of amenities to give Hilltopper and Lady Topper athletes, as well as the WKU and Bowling Green communities, a top-rate track and facility for practice and competition.

The complex features a pair of dual-pit parallel jump runways for the long and triple jump events along the home stretch, allowing men and women to compete at the same time while also taking advantage of wind direction. Similarly, the facility has a pair of dual-pit parallel pole vault runways in one D-zone. In the opposite D-zone, space exists for two high jump areas, also allowing for time efficiency in a meet situation. All throwing events at the Charles M. Ruter Track and Field Complex can be contested on the infield. The facility features a 30-foot UCS hammer cage that can also double for the discus, providing optimal safety for all contestants while also highlighting the throwing events by allowing them to be contested inside the track. Three discus circles and two javelin runways allow for flexibility dependent on the wind direction. Also, a pair of shot put circles on the infield and one pit outside of the track oval provide additional flexibility for competition. For the sprint and hurdle events, the backstretch contains a pair of chutes to allow maximum flexibility for varying wind conditions.

Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium has had a direct impact on the WKU Track and Field programs, as the teams’ new locker rooms, training room and weight room are all housed there, including coaches offices and athlete lounges.

The facility allows WKU Track and Field to host its annual Hilltopper Relays outing during the outdoor season which includes the Fastest Kid in Bowling Green races.