Merrimack completes track renovation inspired by Oslo's Speed Oval design

The Merrimack Valley School District's recent meeting highlighted the successful development of a new track and field facility at Mastercola High School, a project that began in 1994. The initiative was sparked by community interest and collaboration among parents, particularly Pat McGrath, who played a pivotal role in rallying support for the project.

During the meeting, McGrath recounted the early days of the project, which involved renting a track at Souhegan High School and gathering ideas from local coaches, including John Snell. The vision was to create a state-of-the-art track inspired by the renowned Speed Oval in Oslo, Norway. McGrath emphasized that the engineering principles from Oslo would help Merrimack achieve the fastest track in the state, attracting athletes aiming to break records.

The project not only included the construction of the track but also renovations to every field on the high school campus, including the lower field now named after Joe Raycraft. This development provided a much-needed regulation soccer field, addressing long-standing concerns from the community.

A significant financial aspect of the project was revealed during the meeting. McGrath noted that the original $500,000 budget for the track was eligible for state building aid, which reduced the cost to the district by $150,000. This unexpected funding opportunity, highlighted by Snell, showcased the importance of community engagement and strategic planning in educational projects.

Overall, the meeting underscored the collaborative efforts of parents, coaches, and the school district in enhancing athletic facilities, ultimately benefiting students and the broader community. The successful completion of the track and field project marks a significant milestone for the Merrimack Valley School District.