Linkbelt Oval, Sports stadium in Aiwo District, Nauru.
Linkbelt Oval is a stadium in Aiwo, Nauru, built by the Nauru Phosphate Corporation. It consists of a playing field and small grandstands; no grass grows on the field, whose surface is entirely phosphate dust. It hosts Australian rules football matches and is also called Aida Oval, as the Aida athletics club trains and competes here.
The stadium was built in 1924 by the Nauru Phosphate Corporation to provide sports facilities for people living on the island. It is one of the oldest remaining sports venues in Nauru.
The venue brings together athletes from the region for regular competitions in Australian rules football and track events. Local sports organizations use the grounds to host matches that draw spectators from across the district.
The grounds are open during sports events, and the concrete stands give a clear view of the field, though shade is limited. Bringing water and sun protection is a good idea given the warm, sunny conditions on the island.
No grass grows at Linkbelt Oval: the playing surface is entirely phosphate dust and dirt, which makes football matches hard to play. The markings on the very light surface are painted with oil, and visiting teams usually wear elbow and knee pads. Nauruan players treat their wounds with seawater after games.
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