2024-2025 NEPSTA Information
NEPSTA Executive Board:
DIY XC directional stakes |
An inexpensive way to make XC directional stakes is to use appropriately colored pool noodles and driveway markers (plow stakes). Cut each noodle in half, stick it onto a driveway marker and you have a 6 ft tall directional flag/stake. The driveway markers are fiberglass so they are light and easy to push into the ground (most of the time). Last fall when we hosted the D3 NE Championships, I used a cordless drill and an appropriately sized masonry drill bit to make it easier to place the stakes in some areas (dirt/gravel road and frozen ground). The driveway markers cost just under 2.00. The noodles vary in cost depending on the season – anywhere from 1.50 to 3.00 per noodles, but remember you get two flags from each pool noodle! You might have to search a bit, but they do come in red (left), yellow (right), and blue (straight). |
Hurdle Repair! |
Often hurdles with round tube uprights have damaged or lost spring buttons. I have found an inexpensive solution. If you go to a T&F supplier they will charge round 5.00/spring button. These can be purchased at Grainger.com, item number 3DPZ9 for a price of 6.50 per package of 10. They are the exact same spring button as a T&F supplier offers. To install them, carefully remove the hurdle slide tubes with the hurdle gate still attached. Now look down the barrel of the hurdle upright – sometimes you can see the missing spring button in the barrel. If so, take a long needle nose plier and pull the spring button into place. if it’s missing completely (it may have broken and fallen to the bottom of the barrel, then carefully insert a new spring button clip by sliding it down into the barrel, being careful to align the button hole in on the interior of the barrel. It should then snap into place. Replace the gate with the side tubes and you should be all set! |