Parksville Qualicum Beach residents are invited to join in a once-in-a-generation milestone: the Oceanside Community Track Celebration Day.
The celebration of the opening of the new six-lane rubberized track at Ballenas Secondary School will take place on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The new, all-weather track, dubbed the ‘Track of Dreams’, was completed after years of community fundraising, planning, and partnership. Built to replace the crumbling surface laid in 1977, the new track offers a safe, modern space for students, athletes, walkers, and families in the region.
“This track belongs to everyone, and we want the whole community to come out and celebrate it, and honour everyone who made it possible,” said Mark Desvaux of the Oceanside Community Track Association (OCTA). “It felt like an impossible dream, but the track is now a reminder to all of us that anything is possible.”
The celebration will feature:
- Family-friendly races, relays, and fun runs for all ages.
- Special appearances by Olympians to inspire the next generation, including high jump champion Mike Mason (Beijing 2008, London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020) and Paralympic gold medalist Michelle Stilwell.
- Demonstrations and activities by local clubs including Oceanside Track & Field Club.
- Live entertainment, 50/50 draw and children’s activities to create a true festival atmosphere.
“Having our own Olympians return to celebrate its opening is a powerful reminder of the talent that has grown here — and the future possibilities this track creates. Moving forward, we’re excited to see the collaboration and support of future community events on the track,” said Jane Waite, president of Oceanside Track and for Field Club.
The creation of the Oceanside Community Track came to life through the leadership of the Qualicum School District, City of Parksville, Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN), Town of Qualicum Beach and Oceanside Track and Field Club. Funding came from all levels of government alongside private donations, businesses, local foundations, and many local fundraising events from generous community supporters. In total, $1.6 million was raised, along with $150,000 in donations-in-kind to turn the dream into reality.