The new “Super Dirt” track is being used in its first big race this week at the Golden Gate Fields in Berkley California. The new surface is one of three artificial tracks that are competing to become the dirt track of choice. The artificial surface is made up of the same silica that’s used in computer chips, then covered with a polymer coating. This provides a cushioning effect for the horses and jockeys, which will prevent countless injuries that occur every year on natural track surfaces.

It’s not required to spray down the tracks in dry conditions, which is estimated to save 30 million gallons of water per year. It’s able to filter water and never gets muddy. There are some issues with keeping it clean because certain organic materials will not break down in it. Besides that, it looks like it will be the surface of choice into the future.