Nine women and 15 men from the University of Oregon qualified for next week’s NCAA Track and Field Championships at Hayward Field. The meet, which runs June 9th to 12th will be the first at the new stadium to invite ticketed fans.
Head coach Robert Johnson said he heard some athletes wondering about the fans, whether they would clap and be excited. He said, “So I was like, ‘Hey, for you rookies that have never experienced the Hayward Field magic, that’s the last thing you need to be worried about. These are some of the most knowledgeable fans out there. They will do their part if they’re allowed in.’”
Johnson emphasized how close Lane County is to reaching “Low” risk status, which would allow even more spectators. He urged Oregonians to spread the word about getting vaccinated, to help more people enjoy the event, and bring more visitors to Eugene.
Olympic-Hopeful NCAA Athletes Due for Quick Turnaround
Just six days after the NCAA Championships, the Olympic Trials begin in Eugene. A few Ducks, like sprinter Micah Williams, hope to compete in both events, and athletes from other universities have Olympic hopes as well.
Head Coach Robert Johnson said, as for the athletes from out of town, “I’ve talked to a gazillion coaches and they’re telling me that they’re not going to leave. So they’re talking about being in Eugene for three weeks.”
From the competitors’ point of view, Johnson said the quick turnaround will be tough, but everyone has known the schedule, and those who were hopeful of qualifying for the Trials have prepared accordingly.