Stade d'athltisme Richard-Garneau is a professional athletic track located in Sainte-Thrse, inaugurated in August 2013. The track features 10 lanes in straight lines and 8 surrounding lanes, making it an ideal location for various athletics disciplines. Situated next to Polyvalente Sainte-Thrse, this international-level sports facility is open for the residents of Sainte-Thrse and Blainville free of charge upon presentation of a valid citizen card.
The track's address is 401 Boulevard du Domaine, Sainte-Thrse, Quebec, J7E 4S4, and can be contacted at 450-434-1440, extension 2301. The track operates from May 1st to October 31st, with closures during thunderstorms, heavy rain, and competitions. Seasonal subscriptions can be purchased at Maison du citoyen, while daily passes can be obtained at the track entrance for non-residents at a fee of $5 for individuals and $50 for families.
The technical details of the track are impressive, with construction by Tapitec in 2013 using materials from Regupol AG that meets International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) standards. The track comprises a 400m rubberized surface made from recycled materials, providing shock absorption, superior traction, and longevity in extreme weather conditions. The top layer consists of 3 mm EPDM granulate with polyurethane coating over a 10 mm base layer of prefabricated rubber granulate with polyurethane coating, all installed on an asphalt base.
Stade d'athltisme Richard-Garneau is the result of over 25 years of infrastructure development planning by Loisirs Laurentides, aiming to provide a top-level athletic track in the region. Prior to its establishment, local athletes had to travel to Montreal for training and competitions, while the renowned Corsaire-Chaparral Athletic Club lacked a suitable facility to pass on their expertise to aspiring athletes. In April 2010, the City of Sainte-Thrse submitted its candidacy to create this exceptional sports venue, which now stands as a testament to dedication to athletic excellence in the community.