TrackTown, USA: We were up early to exercise as the temperature was predicted to climb into the 90's, and arrived at the track in time to watch the Decathletes compete in their first event, the 100m.
A very quick update from Historic Hayward Field:
It was a beautiful day at Historic Hayward Field - and our seats were in the shade.Adored decathlete, Ashton Eaton, the World's Greatest Athlete, is not required to compete in this decathlon to make the American team as he has an automatic entry into the World Championships as reining Champion. He is required, however, to compete in at least one event at the US World Championships before America will let him on their team. Just compete, not place first, second, or third. In reality, an athlete wearing a current World Championship crown only need enter an event, take off their sweats and throw, jump or run once and they are automatically on the team. Of course, Our Mr. Eaton is a gentleman and a competitor so entered the long jump (one of his best events) and competed through the conclusion. He finished 14th.
It was a great day to be a Duck or Duck alum, or anyone living and training in Eugene. Local athletes did extremely well - with the knowledgeable fans cheering extra-loud for local favorites.
We remained in our stadium seats until late in the evening, then moved to the hospitality tent to view the final two events - the women's and men's 10,000m. A huge race. No heats. You place 1, 2 or 3, or will not represent your country in Beijing at the World Championships.No pressure there.
I was most anxious for the race, because a runner I have met several times and have come to really admire, Hassan Mead, was entered and had a great chance of making the team.
I watched the 10000m with my pretty friends
Duck Alum Galen Rupp (in black) placed 1st, Michael Rutt (orange) was second... and look at my very happy friend (white top) crossing the finish line in third and making the team! (By the way, the dudes still running? They have been lapped/passed and still had another lap - or two - to go before finishing their six miles.)
The Victory StandMolly Huddle, Shalane Flanagan and Emily Infield will represent the US for the women's 10000m team in China.
We will back at the track all day tomorrow... when the temperature is predicted to reach 99. I'm not complaining, just concerned for the athletes.
At the finish lineUntil my next update, I remain, your happy correspondent.
RV PARK: Premier RV Park. I-5, exit 199. Large paved pull-throughs. Back-in sites line a small lake. Laundry, fitness center, club house, bath house, recycling, small store. 50 amp, free wifi. This park is very popular with campers in the area for repairs/maintenance at the many nearby RV facilities. We paid $51 per night (and had one night free via our frequent-flyer punch-card).