Friday, Nov. 09, 2007

Share the blame

Editor:

The lesson apparently was not learned. About a month ago, at about 7 a.m., I encountered numerous Keller High School cross country runners as I was driving south on Elaine Street. The runners were completely blocking the southbound lane. What was worse was that several runners were suddenly cutting across the street to the northbound side.

It was still dark outside. Only a few runners had reflective clothing. There was a lot of northbound traffic on Elaine Street as people were leaving for work. It is a narrow, two-lane street with blind curves and no shoulders. It was a dangerous situation and I wrote to Superintendent James Veitenheimer about it.

Athletic Director Bob DeJonge called me a week later in response to my letter. He agreed that it was a dangerous situation and said he would talk to the coaches about it.

Then, last month, unfortunately, Central High runners were struck by a driver at Ray White and Shiver roads about 7 a.m., where there are narrow roads and rush-hour traffic. While there is no excuse for a hit-and-run, the cross country coaches and runners must share the blame for this incident. Having runners practice on narrow roads during the rush hour is dangerous and irresponsible.

Peter J. Donnelly

Keller