For 125 years, Track & Field has been a foundational part of McGill University’s athletic and academic identity. It is one of the institution’s longest-standing and most consistently successful programs, showcasing the dedication and talent of our students and contributing significantly to the vibrant culture of sportsmanship at McGill. Dismantling it represents not only the erasure of an important chapter of McGill’s history but also a significant departure from the university’s stated commitments to excellence, student development, and community engagement.

This unexpected decision to discontinue McGill's Varsity Track & Field Team has left students, alumni, staff, and community members in disbelief and disappointment. For generations, this team has not only excelled in sports but also exemplified leadership, perseverance, and unity, playing an intrinsic role in shaping well-rounded graduates. Sadly, this decision appears to have been made without adequate transparency, consultation, or due consideration of its broad impact.

McGill houses one of three banked indoor tracks in the entire country, making our facility a central hub for competition and development in Quebec and across Canada. Our program has operated 125 consecutive seasons - a legacy that predates many of the University's modern sports structures. We serve as a pipeline for provincial and national-level athletes and contribute significantly to the health of McGill's broader athletics community.

The McGill administration owes the community a full and transparent explanation of the rationale, data, and analysis that led to this decision. We believe that an open dialogue is crucial to understanding the factors at play and to exploring feasible and sustainable solutions. Such discussions could reveal alternative ways of addressing the concerns motivating this decision without dismantling a historic and cherished program.

We urge the administration at McGill University to reconsider the discontinuation of the Track & Field program. Let us engage in a collaborative process involving students, athletes, coaches, and alumni to preserve this hallmark of our university legacy. By doing so, McGill can maintain its commitment to fostering an environment where academics and athletics thrive harmoniously and continue building a legacy of excellence and community spirit.

We call upon all stakeholders and community members to sign this petition and stand united in advocating for the reinstatement of McGill’s Varsity Track & Field Team. Together, we can ensure that McGill's heritage continues to inspire future generations.

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