Bellaire Relays Moved to Shadyside Due to Floodwaters | Latest Updates on News, Sports, and Job Opportunities

The 69th annual Bellaire Relays will have a change of scenery this year due to unexpected flooding at Nelson Field. The historic field and surrounding track were submerged under 4 feet of water from McMahon Creek, forcing organizers to relocate the event to Shadyside at Fleming Field.

Bellaire head track coach Shawn Valloric explained that the decision to move the relays was made after projections indicated that the Ohio River would reach 38 feet, causing water to overflow onto the field. This marks only the second time in nearly seven decades that the event will not take place at Nelson Field.

Fortunately, the Shadyside athletic department stepped in to host the event on short notice, a gesture that Valloric greatly appreciated. Despite the last-minute change in venue, all meet schedules and events will remain the same, with teams from 24 schools expected to compete.

The field events will kick off at 10 a.m., followed by finals in various relays and hurdle events at 11 a.m. Defending champions include the Barnesville boys and Steubenville Catholic girls.

While the unexpected flooding may have disrupted the original plans for the Bellaire Relays, the spirit of competition and camaraderie among the participating schools remains strong. The event is set to take place on Saturday, April 20, at Fleming Field in Shadyside, promising an exciting day of track and field action for athletes and spectators alike.