CHAMPAIGN, Ill.- The home of the Fighting Illini track and field team was officially dedicated as the Gary R. Wieneke Track this morning at Demirjian Park. Joining Coach Wieneke and his wife, Peggy in the celebration were a large group of extended family, former athletes, current student athletes and DIA staff. The dedication featured comments from University Chancellor Robert Jones, Director of Athletics Josh Whitman and Coach Mike Turk joined by current Illini Olivia Howell and Jonathan Wells to honor the legendary coach. Following the speaker session, a 'Victory Lap' took place on the track, led by Wieneke and his family. Today also served as an open house for invited guests to tour the newly-renovated Demirjian Park facility.

One of the most decorated track and field coaches in Illinois history, Gary Wieneke continually had his Illini teams competing for and winning Big Ten championships during his 36 years as a coach of the track and cross country teams. During his tenure, Wieneke tallied 13 Big Ten titles (six indoor, six outdoor, one cross country) and four NCAA indoor team trophies. His best run at the helm came from 1985-95 when the Illini placed in the top three 20 times in 22 Big Ten meets.

As a result of putting Illinois track in the national spotlight, Wieneke played a major role in the UI twice hosting the outdoor NCAA Championships meet at Memorial Stadium in 1977 and 1979. Known as the "Einstein of the 800 meters," Wieneke made the Illini a Big Ten and national power in the middle distances, most noticeably in the half-mile and mile. He coached 11 different half-milers to 27 Big Ten titles. Before taking over as head coach of the track and field and cross country programs, Wieneke spent seven seasons leading the Illinois cross country program.

In addition to their success while donning the Orange and Blue, Wieneke guided four of his athletes to Olympic appearances: Craig Virgin (1976, 1980, 1984), Marko Koers (1992, 1996, 2000), Mike Durkin (1976, 1980) and Bobby True (2000). In 1989, Wieneke coached the U.S. Junior National Team. Retiring at the end of the 2002-03 season, Wieneke was a nine-time NCAA District IV Coach of the Year, was named the NCAA National Indoor Track and Field Coach of the Year in 1987 and garnered three Big Ten Outdoor Coach of the Year honors. Wieneke has been inducted into the U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Association (USTFCCCA), Drake Relays, Illinois Track and Cross Country Coaches Association and the East Moline High School Halls of Fame.