Where Memories Are Formed and Live On

I was born in 1971 and I grew up close to the Park. I always lived within a short bike ride of the Fitness Trail (and I remember when the fitness stations were new and peppered along the length of that trail). I consider myself extremely lucky to have been in this situation; because of it, the Park has had (and continues to have!) a profound influence on me. It holds so many core memories that it will always occupy a special place in my heart, even though I moved away from Owen Sound 30 years ago. On multiple days each week as kids, we would ride our bikes through the Fitness Trail to the Park. Once there, we would splash about in the river looking for crayfish, or conduct popsicle stick races in the river. In our pre-teen years, we discovered the trails leading up the river from the end of the Mile Drive, and discovered swimming holes to stay cool in on hot summer days. In high school I would go there for ice cream and walks with my girlfriend (now my wife!) and my dog. I still visit Owen Sound, and when I do, I always make a point of making a pilgrimage to this sacred spot. Many things have changed in Owen Sound when I come back to visit, but the Park remains a constant. Make no mistake about it - Harrison Park is a world class park. It's truly a jewel, and I look forward to seeing more incremental improvements like the ones that have been made over the past few decades.