TUESDAYS IN TRACK TOWN

As I was driving down Agate St. last Tuesday evening, I could see the glow coming off of the track. The new outdoor lighting was so intense that it seemed as if daytime light forgot to leave Historical Hayward Field. It was very exciting! I was just attending the very first "Tuesdays in Track Town" meeting held at Hayward Field. This monthly forum is intended to share information regarding various track and field topics, and specifically the 2008 U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials. Over thirty people showed up from all walks of life. U of O track coaches, local high school coaches, track athletes, track fans, and media were all there to gain information, ask questions, and "talk track". I was really glad that I had the opportunity to attend. U of O Head Track and Field Coach, Vin Lananna, gave a short briefing on all of the facility improvements for the 2008 Olympic Trials. As a hammer thrower, I was glad to hear that temporary seating would be added around the hammer cage to seat up to 800-1000 spectators. Though the hammer will not be thrown inside the track (but just off to the side) the men's and women's hammer competition will take place during prime time television hours and also be broadcasted on the new big screen result boards on the track. The upcoming Olympic Trials in Eugene will be receiving more that eleven hours of live TV coverage (more than any Olympic Trials before). A direct course of action is taking place to make these 2008 Trials the most media covered, spectator friendly, and the largest promoter for the sport of Track and Field. I think that "Tuesdays in Track Town" is a great way for Track fans and community to come together and rekindle the fire that has kept Eugene known across the nation as Track City. I can't wait for next months meeting. I hope to see you there!
~Brittany Hinchcliffe