The state-of-the-art Raila Odinga International Stadium continues to grab headlines for adopting modern technology, with the latest being the use of hybrid grass stitching machines to enhance the playing surface.Download our Mozzart Sport app for more newsThe hybrid natural-grass system is the current trend in stadium playing surfaces, especially for multi-event venues, due to its durability and usability among others.Gor Mahia handed double injury boost as influential duo return to trainingIn this system, natural grass is combined with fibres, and as the grass matures, they are intertwined to form a single unit.At Raila Odinga International Stadium in particular, the playing surface has adopted the use of a Bermuda natural grass base, which is reinforced with millions of synthetic fibres which extend slightly into the root zone.##NAJAVA_MECA_9915578##In this stitched system, the playing surface remains predominantly natural grass with the fibres stitched to the root zone to offer reinforcement. In the end, the natural roots grow and intertwine with the fibres.To achieve the desired outcome, the stitching is done by a specialised machine, which is currently at the Raila Odinga International Stadium, as seen in various videos on social media.Stars Abroad: Sichenje, Ouma feature as Savio scores on Spurs debut against CharltonThe machine which has not been seen in Kenya before will stitch the fibres through small holes with the surface thereafter left to mature and cover them naturally.Some of the advantages of hybrid grass include reduced damage as compared to natural grass, with the fibres reinforcing the turf; it can accommodate more playing hours as compared to natural grass and also takes less time to recover.##NAJAVA_MECA_9915627##Hybrid surfaces are also more consistent under intensive use as compared to natural which varies based on weather and use.The playing surface of Raila Odinga International Stadium is expected to be fully mature and ready for use by the time the remaining works at the facility are complete with test matches expected from December.Stars Abroad: Ochieng starts against Real Madrid as Onyango, Otieno feature in midweek actionSome of the other modern technologies used at the 60,000-seater facility are medica facade lighting system and hydraulic tension cable roofing system.
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