Revisiting and repairing the Harry Jerome Track
WEST VANCOUVER, British Columbia — Named after a Canadian athlete with an inspirational story of perseverance, a major aspect of the community is underway with repairs. The Harry Jerome Track at West Vancouver Secondary School is due to be fully rebuilt in the new year.
This track is named in honour of Harry Jerome. He’s not only an inspirational Canadian athlete but also British Columbia’s Male Athlete of the 20th Century and recipient of the Order of Canada.
“Harry Jerome’s legacy goes beyond his many accomplishments as a Canadian Olympian; it stretches from coast to coast to coast,” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau explained in a letter about the dedication ceremony. “His incredible story is one of determination, resilience and success. He has inspired countless individuals with his passion for what he believed in. We can all learn from his lasting message of hope and inclusivity.”
Prime Minister Trudeau went on to share his hopes for the future.
“We know that more still needs to be done and we are committed to this work in order to build a society that works for everyone,” he wrote. “It continues to be a challenging time for hosting and planning events, and I would like to thank the dedicated organizers for making today’s event possible. On behalf of the Government of Canada, I offer my best wishes for a memorable ceremony.”
Starting in high school, Jerome constantly broke records in track. In 1959, he broke numerous sprint records at the annual Howe Sound track meet. This impressive display continued when he matched the sprint record of Olympic gold medalist Percy Williams. While he was still a teenager in 1960, he was considered one of the world’s fastest men. He continued to break records and expectations until his death at the age of 42.
Although he was known for being an amazing athlete, he was also discriminated against.
For both Jerome and his sister Valerie, track and field became a way to find acceptance and safety while they were training and competing.
“A fabulous oasis of peace, calm and of family,” Valerie said when asked about her track experience. “Here we were judged by the stopwatch and the measuring tape. This was our real home, where we were elevated and warmed from within by the camaraderie, love and respect of our coach and teammates.”
Located at West Vancouver Secondary School, the track was named in honour of Harry Jerome in February 2021. It’s become quite an important part of the community.
“This project will benefit the entire community,” Mayor Mary-Ann Booth said. “It will provide a vital recreation amenity for our students and sports clubs, and it will also be a place for residents to exercise, participate, play and train in a safe, central and accessible location.”
Using the track, West Vancouver Secondary students performed amazingly in the provincial cross country meet this last autumn. Congratulations to the winning teams which included West Vancouver Secondary’s senior girls cross country team who placed first, as well as the junior boys team that placed third.
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