Over the summer and after many set backs last spring , the final touches were applied to Choate’s new eight lane NCAA standard 400 meter long track, located above the SAC and WJAC driveway on the campus’ eastern periphery.

Construction of the track began in June 2006, and was delayed due to design disputes and weather problems. The outdated and somewhat worn old cinder track was replaced with a high tech PCV surfaced track that has excellent drainage for allweather running. The surface is specially designed to provide runners with better rebound and consequently faster times. The brand new throwing fields were moved from their former position inside the track to a new area above and adjacent to the track for the safety of the athletes. State of the art pole vaulting and jumping fields were constructed near the track. Also, the center of the track has a grass infield for field hockey in the fall, and it may even be used for hosting lacrosse games in the spring. There is also a new viewing area, so that all members of the Choate community can watch the always exciting home track meets.

The new track was constructed thanks to the generous donation of about $2.1 million by Bruce S. Gelb ‘45, a life trustee of Choate, and his wife Lueza, who cut the ribbon at the dedication ceremony on May 19th, 2007.

The new facilities will have numerous benefits for the track and field team. It will “make practices and meets easier,” said track coach Jim Davidson. He also suggested that it may “inspire” students to start running, improving and diversifying our track and cross country teams.

The new track will provide a substantial benefit for Choate’s entire Athletics program as well. All of the teams that include running outdoors in their practices can benefit from the new facilities by having a more thorough and efficient workout. In addition, the field in the center of the track will also benefit other sports that need extra fields. The new storage shed can be used to house the equipment of any of Choate’s athletic teams. The separate throwing and jumping fields will make the throwers feel like an important and valued part of the team. Regardless of their sport, athletes and all students can use the new facilities to get into the shape that they want.

The new track has many athletic and aesthetic advantages for the school. Choate has finally caught up with and surpassed most other prep schools in its track facilities. In light of the completion of the track, the athletic department plans to host Founder’ s League Championships.