WORCESTER—The EcoTarium saw record-breaking attendance earlier this week as more than 2,700 visitors participated in a free admission community day featuring the USA Luge Team. The event, sponsored by Norton | Saint-Gobain, included some hands-on science activities, nature exploration, and a unique opportunity to experience luge firsthand.
“The USA Luge Team and Norton | Saint-Gobain worked during the past few days to build a luge sledding track at the EcoTarium for children and adults,” said EcoTarium President and CEO Noreen Smith in an annoucement. “I took a fun ride on the luge sled and proved Newton’s Second Law of Motion—the bigger you are, the slower you accelerate,” she joked.
The event highlighted the intersection of science and sports, demonstrating how STEM careers contribute to athletic performance. “Through partnerships with local businesses like Norton | Saint-Gobain, we can showcase how science and engineering drive success in a variety of fields—including sports,” said EcoTarium Director of Education and Exhibits Katie Chappell. “The technology behind world-class luge equipment is a perfect example.”
Saint-Gobain, the lead sponsor of USA Luge, emphasized its commitment to youth STEM opportunities. “We are thrilled to support this community-focused event, combining our passion for STEM opportunities for youth and our love for the fastest sport on ice,” said Melanie Bonsu, community relations manager at Saint-Gobain Abrasives.
The Norton Luge Challenge allowed visitors to try the sport under the guidance of USA Luge Team medalists and coaches. Participants used plastic sleds on a safe, slope-side track, with helmets provided for safety. A DJ kept the energy high throughout the day.
In addition to the luge experience, guests explored the museum’s interactive science exhibits, attended planetarium shows, and participated in special Prehistoric Planet Vacation Week programming.
Have news, tips, or a story worth telling? A good recipe or a funny joke? Reach Editor Charlene Arsenault at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org—because good stories (and great scoops) deserve to be shared.
