A grassroots fundraising effort to build an international-calibre track and field facility at the University of Guelph’s Alumni Stadium has reached its $1-million goal.

The University has approved construction of an eight-lane International Athletic Federation-certified track in Alumni Stadium.

“I have been overwhelmed by the response to the call for support,” said Brenda Whiteside, associate vice-president (student affairs).

“This has become an extraordinarily exciting project. Hopefully by this fall, the stadium will have a whole new look, with a turf football field surrounded by a high-quality track. The enhancements will be a benefit not only to Gryphon athletics but also to the community. The new facility will allow the city and University to host internationally accredited events.”