To the editor:
Each day I watch our old track of over 40 years being torn up, and the beginning of our new track takes shape and it brings a flood of memories from when I trained and competed on this oval in high school.
I was told early on by Coach Alden and Mr. Hunter how fortunate we were to have a track in Caribou, as we are only one of two schools in Aroostook County to have one. Having this resource was a driving factor to the success I had throughout high school, and I am certain Viking Harriers would agree.
It’s also a source of pride, because Caribou is the standard to how a track and field meet is run. Watching opposing schools in awe of our facility made me excited to compete for my team and school. This pride is shown by the numerous state track and field champions we have had over the past 40 years. A new track complex will surely inspire the new generation of athletes who will benefit from this project.
A new track does not just benefit the students and athletes of RSU 39; it is a community space. Our local recreation department has a fantastic early track and field program with high numbers of youth participating and we hosted the Maine Park and Recreation state meet the past eight years. I often see community members walking for fitness in the early and late hours of the day. The Aroostook Musterds lead track workouts for local runners in summer, and for 10 years Relay for Life has been held on our track with more than 1,000 people remembering loved ones who lost their fight with cancer, celebrating those who won their battle and raising over $140,000 for cancer research. Other communities in Aroostook can’t have these events because they don’t have a track facility.
Our coaching staff and athletic department have piecemealed short-term fixes trying to keep the track usable and safe. The old track has served its purpose and lasted longer than it was intended to. RSU 39 takes pride in its facilities and reflects the community’s values and expectations.
PJ Gorneault
Caribou
