Track Talk, September 12, 2013

TRACK TALK

By Pete Petty

Pictured here is the latest photo of construction at the track.  The second story of the 3000 square foot building is on the way up.  With electricity on site now, the framework may be complete by press time!  This second floor of the new building will be used as a meeting space for the board of directors of the nonprofit MCTF organization and will also be available to other groups and organizations.  It should prove to be an excellent complement to the facilities at the Aaron and Marie Jones Community Field in Blue River.

 Volunteers have also been assembling the framework for the two new sections of bleachers.  When that work is completed the seating capacity will increase to 220 spectators.   Plans are underway for a dedication of the new building next spring, possibly during the Aaron and Marie Jones Invitational Track Meet in April. It’s already shaping up to being a busy year ahead, as plans are in the works for the track to play a part in some of the activity associated with the International Junior Track and Field Competition hosted by the U of O next July. That will be in addition to the regular schedule of meets, which always begin with the 16K two person relay in March. Stepping back now before going on with next year at the track, there are still some events remaining on this year’s schedule.

The McKenzie Cross Country team will be hosting this year’s District 4 meet in October and in preparation for that, there will be a preview meet held on Monday, September 30 at 2pm at the track in Blue River.  The District meet itself will take place on Saturday October 26th beginning at noon.  

Also in October will be the Harvest Run, the annual 5/10K Run/Walk that benefits the student athletes of the McKenzie schools.  Everyone is invited to join in. The event will start at 9am on Saturday, Oct 12 at the track. Information about these and all other events at the track are always available on the website (www. McKenzieTrack.com) and the Facebook page.

I close by offering congratulations to all those taking part in last weekend’s 50K McKenzie Trail Run.  That event also raises funds for the athletes of the McKenzie Schools and was started by Jeff Sherman some 26 years ago.  It certainly had to be very gratifying for both Jeff and Mary Sherman, as their son David finished ahead of the pack of 200 runners and completed the course in the 8th fastest time.  Kudos to him and to all taking part and thanks for the inspiration you give to us.