Peterson’s Track Review Cited by New York Racing Association

UMaine Alert

Posted: April 19, 2024 - 1:32 PM

At approximately 9:24 a.m. on Friday, April 19, a University of Maine graduate student was struck by a university vehicle on Long Road at the University of Maine campus in Orono. The student reports that they are at a local hospital with minor injuries.

Emergency services, including the Orono Fire Department, University Volunteer Ambulance Corps, University of Maine Police Department, Orono Police Department and Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene.

The university vehicle involved in the incident was a Chevrolet Express van. It was being operated by a university employee.

Counseling services and support are available for students, faculty or staff who may have been affected. The Counseling Center can be reached at 207-581-1392 and the Dean of Students Office can be reached at 207-581-1406.

The scene has been cleared and Long Road is now accessible. An investigation is being conducted by the University of Maine Police Department with assistance from the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Unit. Any witnesses to the incident are encouraged to contact Lt. Noel Santiago at noel.santiago@maine.edu.

January 13, 2015 UMaine in the News

Mick Peterson, a professor of mechanical engineering at the University of Maine, was mentioned in an official New York Racing Association (NYRA) statement addressing the health and safety of equine athletes and jockeys at Aqueduct Racetrack. In December 2014, the NYRA secured an independent review of Aqueduct’s inner track led by Peterson, who returned in January 2015 to further evaluate the track, according to the release. “New York has set the bar for the standard of care of racetrack surfaces. What stands out in New York is the record-keeping and the ability to compare measurements from year to year,” Peterson said. “We owe it to the fans, the riders, and horsemen to ensure this safety and accountability.” Horse Racing Nation published the article. Peterson’s review of the Aqueduct Racetrack also was cited in Horse News report for NJ.com.