Nestled in New York City’s Washington Heights neighborhood, The Armory stands as a testament to resilience and transformation, evolving from a historic military structure into a venerated cathedral of track and field. This iconic NYC Landmarks building, once a crucial site for the New York State militia, now serves as a dynamic center where individuals of all ages engage in athletic training and personal growth through sport.
The Armory’s rich Sports History traces its origins back to its days as a wartime structure, housing military troops and tanks on what is now the legendary indoor track. In the 1980s, the facility underwent another significant shift, briefly serving as a homeless shelter before its acquisition by the city. It was in the early 1990s that Dr. Sander, inspired by the transformative power of Track and Field in his own life, envisioned its future as a beacon for Youth Development and education.
Today, The Armory NYC is renowned globally for its fast track, beneath which the original wooden floor remains visible, connecting present-day athletes to a storied past. Annually, it hosts over 100 Track and Field competitions, witnessing numerous high school and professional American records shattered. With more than 220,000 athletes passing through its doors each year, it truly epitomizes a vibrant hub for competitive and recreational sports.
For young athletes, the experience of competing at The Armory is profound, offering the unique opportunity to train on the same hallowed ground as world record holders and Olympians. This direct connection to greatness fosters inspiration and instills a sense of purpose, contributing significantly to their Youth Development both on and off the track. The foundation emphasizes that this environment provides an unparalleled foundation for aspiring athletes.
Recognizing Track and Field as an incredibly accessible sport requiring minimal equipment, The Armory Foundation operates as a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering participation. Beyond hosting prestigious competitions, it extends its mission through various after-school educational programs designed for elementary, middle, and high school students across Upper Manhattan and the South Bronx, ensuring holistic Youth Development through sport and academics.
A flagship initiative, The Armory College Prep High School Program, showcases the foundation’s commitment to academic excellence. For eight consecutive years, this program has boasted a 100% acceptance rate into four-year colleges, with many participants securing vital financial aid. Students receive comprehensive support in preparing for standardized tests and advanced placement courses, often spending summers immersed in programs at Columbia University.
Beyond its primary function as a Track and Field venue, The Armory also serves as a vital community resource, hosting a diverse array of events. It is the long-standing home of the Millrose Games, a premier indoor track event, and regularly facilitates athletic programs for participants aged six to ninety-six. Additionally, the facility accommodates community events such as early voting and Halloween celebrations, alongside paid events like the New York State Bar Examination and corporate gatherings, which contribute to funding its extensive programs.
The Armory masterfully blends its significant Sports History with cutting-edge technology, drawing parallels to legendary venues like Fenway Park and Wrigley Field. While preserving original elements, such as re-bronzed gates and visible sections of the historic wooden floor, the facility continuously integrates modern upgrades, including state-of-the-art LED boards and sound systems, enhancing the experience for athletes and spectators alike. This strategic approach ensures its longevity and continued relevance as an NYC Landmarks institution.
With an estimated one million miles run on its track annually and continuous plans for innovation, including the recent installation of a blue track and upcoming custom pacing lights, The Armory remains at the forefront of Athletic Training and sports development. Its enduring legacy, combining rich history with a forward-thinking vision for personal and athletic growth, ensures its legend continues to expand with every record broken and every life transformed within its historic walls.
