Hayward Field has always been known for proving ground for future Olympic athletes, but in recent years it has become a place for elite professional athletes as well.
Aside from the Prefontaine Classic, the second Road to Eugene ’08 will showcase Olympic medalists, world champions and American record-holders on Saturday and Sunday.
Last year, more than 5,600 spectators watched what is considered to be a preview of what fans can expect during the 2008 Olympic Trials hosted at Hayward Field from June 27 to July 6, 2008.
“We had a great crowd last year and anticipate that our community will again show its love of the sport and excitement for the Olympic Trials by filling the stands,” Oregon track and field director Vin Lananna said in a prepared statement. “The athletes return to Hayward Field again and again because of our fans – they feel inspired, they feel welcomed, and they know that nothing compares to the experience of competing in Track Town, USA.”
Competitors will vie for prize money exceeding $150,000, distributed among the 15 events.
Some of last year’s athletes included Olympic medalist Shawn Crawford, who owns the Hayward Field record in the 100m with a 9.88 second time in 2004 at the Prefontaine Classic. Last year, he edged out fellow Nike-sponsored teammate Jason Smoots by running a 10.15 to Smoots’ 10.17.
Also, former Oregon All-American Matt Scherer ran the 300m sprint in 32.77 seconds, placing fourth behind three Nike runners.
Current Ducks ran in the meet as well. Rebekah Noble and A.J. Acosta ran as part of the U.S. Junior Team in preparation for the U.S. Junior World Championships. Noble finished seventh in the women’s 800m with a time of 2:04.80, while Acosta finished 10th in the men’s 1500m in 3:47.48.
This year Sanya Richards, the 2006 World Athlete of the Year and American 400m record holder, highlights a group of professional athletes competing this weekend.
Maria Mutola, an 800m runner, Olympic gold medalist and a 12-time world champion will try to beat out a competitive field. Three Olympic medalist pole vaulters Tim Mack, Stacy Dragila and Toby Stevenson will also put their talents on display.
But the meet isn’t only about the runners, throwers and jumpers. Youth track and field aficionados will have the chance to run in the Kids’ Half-Lapper during the meet and practice their skills at the KidZone.
Meet organizers hope to “bring the fans and athletes closer together, including special opportunities for youth to connect with their track and field heroes.”
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