Beyond the Field

Growing up as a competitive athlete, I learned to take pride in everything. Whether it was dominating on the soccer field or beating my sister in a hamburger eating contest. I always wanted to win.

So here at Carolina I have had no problem expressing my pride for the Tar Heels (or against Duke) at any sporting event or any other occasion. And why not? I have every right to have pride in being a Tar Heel. I mean we do have somewhat decent basketball, soccer, community service and academic programs right?

The Bronze Statues of “athletes in motion” display this type of pride. The statues, made of (you guessed right) bronze, display a girl throwing a javelin, a guy jumping over a hurdler and a sprinter crossing the finish line.

They are conveniently in the heart of the athletic fields by the scoreboard of Fetzer Field and Belk Track. Richard Hallier brought together many photos to create these realistic looking sculptures. However, it was Irwin Belk, a former UNC athlete and current businessman, who donated the statues to UNC. Belk also donated The Ram located outside of Kenan Stadium.

With my athletic background, I immediately thought about sports pride and athletic accomplishment as I first glanced at the Bronze Statues. However, as I began to look closely and really think about what the figures portray, I realized that these statues go far beyond the Belk Track.

When you look at each individual statue they are all striving for some sort of goal whether it’s throwing the javelin as far as they can, getting over the hurdle or reaching for the finish line.

As a Tar Heel, you are not only able to strive for any type goals but you can also reach them with the provided resources. You are given the ability to experience and accomplish anything you desire.