New Tires

Track Town, USA: Could any title be less exciting than "New Tires"? I think not. Still, safety first and all that, so today was the day the Magna Peregrinus received her first pedicure. Had to happen. That giant sucking sound you heard this afternoon was our bank account being drained.

The motorhome was delivered to the Les Schwab store in Junction City at ten o'clock and we had to occupy our time in Eugene until nearly four o'clock.

First stop was to petit dejeuner at Marche, where the "seasonal fruit plate" consisted of apples (?) and grapefruit (?), but I forgave them their seasonal oversights when they also presented lovely Oregon Hood strawberries on the plate. Next, the Duck Shop at Autzen Stadium to see what we could see. If you need a green and yellow tee shirt, this is the place. Then, we headed over to Historic Hayward Field:

The University of Oregon is again host to the NCAA Track & Field Championships (men & women), because the athletes want to compete at Historic Hayward Field and the stands will be full every day.

Next month, the University of Oregon will host another huge meet, the IAAF World Junior Championships. Flags from countries competing in the World Junior event were being installed along the concourse this afternoon. Are you getting the idea that if it's a track meet, it will be held in Eugene, Oregon?

We watched Arizona's Lawi Lalang being interviewed by the Track Town Live crew. Lalang won the 5000m and the 10,000m (DT gave Lalang his 10k medal) last year, but this year Lalang is tackling the 1500m and 5000m. Wimp. (Just kidding, I love this kid... but, oh my goodness, eat a sandwich already - so skinny.)

The track was simply a bee hive of activity today. Not only were the athletes swarming the oval with their last pre-competition work-outs, crews were busy with last minute preparations. Drills. Hammers. Saws. So much work, and so much detail involved hosting a quality meet, but no one does it better than the University of Oregon. From the most professional officials in the sport (athletes rave about the knowledgeable officials at Hayward Field) to the helpful volunteer selling programs - This is The Place for The One True Sport.

We returned to Junction City to see how work was progressing on the tire replacement.

It looked as if someone had stolen our tires. 54,000 pounds on jacks.

The tires on our motorhome are massive. They come up to my chest... which really isn't
saying much as I am very short... not to mention... my chest isn't exactly where it used to be.

Eight tires, replaced in 6 hours.

The friendly and professional service we received today from the team at Les Schwab was outstanding. Except, they are always outstanding. As a matter of fact, they will be out-standing-by-your-car when you pull into the shop, waiting to help. Love this Oregon company!

This evening, DT and I were honored to be included in the Coaches Reception, a party to welcome all the coaches from the NCAA teams participating in the championships this week. We were honored to be invited because 1) we are not coaches 2) we enjoy talking about track and field 3) it was fun. Imagine a room filled with hundreds of coaches, assistant coaches, AD personnel, etc. Everyone talking about track and field. Everyone knowledgeable about track and field. Maybe heaven is like this?

Matt Knight Arena

The reception was held on the basketball court of the fabulous and shiny-new Matt Knight Arena. Actually ON THE COURT, as the hardwoods had been taken-up due to graduation ceremonies. So many coaches attended, the basketball court was completely filled with bodies. Such fun. Pfeiffer Vineyards donated wine and Hop Valley Brewing donated beer, appetizers were passed and everyone had a great time.

The NCAA's start tomorrow. Check your local listings.

Until my next update, I remain, your super excited correspondent.

RV PARK: Premier RV Resort - Large RV park on I-5 (exit 199). Long pull-through sites with full hookups, 50/30 amp, bath houses, laundry, pool & hot tub (in season), fitness center, cozy fireplace lounge with TV, store, ice, newspaper delivered to your door six days per week. Freeway noise and a lot of live-ins. Premier RV Resort is conveniently located near the many RV repair/service businesses located in Coburg or Junction City. We are paying $50 per night.