The innovative decision to move away from the standard green pitch colour will provide high levels of contrast with the white ball and lines for players, officials and spectators. The pitches at the Hockey Centre on the Olympic Park will also feature pink run-off areas, creating a striking and unique look.
Debbie Jevans, LOCOG Director of Sport, said: 'As we look to be innovative as well as providing first-class facilities, we are pleased to be working with the International Hockey Federation and installing blue hockey pitches in 2012. We have carried out research with athletes and broadcasters and are looking forward to world-class hockey being played at a bespoke venue on a blue pitch.'
GB hockey international Alex Danson said: 'Having been involved in the colour test, the London blue pitch is great. It provides a really strong contrast for players against the white ball and white lines and I quickly adapted to the change. It will certainly make Hockey stand out in 2012.’
The two training pitches at the Old Loughtonians Hockey Club in Essex – a Games-Time Training Venue – will mirror the pitches at the Hockey Centre, using the same blue and pink colour combination.
Historically played on natural grass, hockey made the move to synthetic turf pitches in the 1970s. The colour green was originally adopted to replicate the traditional playing environment, but now a wider range of colours are being used.
Over 380 competitors are set to take part in the Hockey competition at London 2012, with all 76 matches taking place at the Hockey Centre from 29 July to 11 August. The venue will also be used to host both the Paralympic 5-a-side and 7-a-side Football competitions.
