The Enduring Legacy of University of Oregon Track and Field
Eugene, Oregon, rightfully known as "Track Town, USA," boasts a rich and deeply ingrained history in the world of track and field. This legacy is intricately woven into the city’s culture and identity, transforming it into a global hub for athletes and fans alike. From its humble beginnings to its current status, Eugene has become synonymous with running excellence, thanks to its legendary figures, iconic venues, and an unwavering spirit of innovation.
Early Foundations of Track and Field in Eugene
The origins of track and field in Eugene can be traced back to the early 20th century, a period when the University of Oregon began to distinguish itself as a formidable force in collegiate athletics. The university’s strong dedication to sports, particularly track and field, laid the essential groundwork for the vibrant running community that would eventually flourish.
A significant milestone in this development was the construction of Hayward Field in 1919. Initially intended as a football venue, it quickly evolved into a premier stage for track and field events, setting the stage for Eugene’s future prominence in the sport. Fifteen years into Hayward’s career, in 1919, the storied original track was erected in his name.
Hayward Field: The Heart of Track Town
Hayward Field has played a central role in Eugene’s track and field history, hosting countless significant events, including NCAA Championships, Olympic Trials, and the Prefontaine Classic. The stadium is the only site to host four consecutive US Olympic Trials (2008-2021), and it has helped place Eugene at the center of the running universe. Named after legendary coach Bill Hayward, who was instrumental in elevating the University of Oregon’s track program to national prominence, the stadium is more than just a venue; it embodies the spirit of the sport.
“What I like the most is how the design reminds you of all the people who have come before you, from the tower with medalists to school record holders around the stadium." The electric atmosphere during meets, the roar of the crowd, and the sheer energy of competition have made Hayward Field a sacred site for track enthusiasts around the world. It’s where records are broken and dreams are realized.
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But the UO also needed somewhere for its athletes to compete. Two years later, in 1921, a six-lane cinder track was laid down around the outside of the field. The football and track teams shared Hayward Field until 1967. In 1970, the cinder track was replaced by an all-weather surface, and six lanes became eight. In 1975, the west grandstand was completely rebuilt. While the look of Hayward Field may have evolved over the years, the feel never has.
“It's like a mixture between the Bird's Nest and the Rose Bowl." “I think the coolest part is how they’ve integrated so much history into it."
Many items salvaged from Historic Hayward Field were incorporated into the new facility showcasing the rich heritage of the original stadium through graphics and signage as well as exhibits in Hayward Hall. The University of Oregon made a collection of remaining salvaged materials available to benefit the community. Befitting its world-class status, Hayward Field is hosting many major events, even before the World Athletics Championships Oregon 22. As part of its highly anticipated outdoor schedule, the Oregon track and field team has already hosted three meets at the newly reimagined Hayward Field. “Seeing the student-athletes competing at Hayward Field again is a special moment for this program. (DL Young/Emerald). I remember seeing it for the first time. It was the new Hayward Field in all of its glory. Goss was key in creating an exhibit about Oregon track and Hayward Field.
The Enduring Influence of Steve Prefontaine
No account of Eugene’s running culture would be complete without acknowledging the profound impact of Steve Prefontaine. A University of Oregon standout in the early 1970s, Prefontaine transcended the sport to become a national icon, celebrated for his relentless competitive spirit, extraordinary endurance, and unwavering advocacy for athlete rights.
His influence on American distance running was profound. He inspired a generation of athletes and brought national attention to the sport. Today, his legacy lives on through the annual Prefontaine Classic, a world-renowned meet held at Hayward Field that continues to draw elite competitors from across the globe. In 1972, a kid from Coos Bay named Steve Prefontaine took to the starting line in the first Olympic Trials of Hayward Field’s 53-year history. Prefontaine was one of three Ducks to advance to the Olympic Games that year in Munich.
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The Birthplace of Nike and the Waffle Sole
Eugene’s running legacy also encompasses the origin story of Nike. In the early 1970s, University of Oregon track coach Bill Bowerman famously poured rubber into his wife’s waffle iron to create a sole that was both lightweight and high-traction. Born from Eugene’s running culture, Nike’s rise started with a simple idea: better shoes make faster athletes. That spirit of innovation still echoes on the trails and tracks of Track Town, USA.
Track Town, USA: A Title Earned and Endured
Eugene officially earned the designation of "Track Town, USA" in 1975, a recognition of the city’s extensive athletic history and its standing as a premier training ground for elite athletes. The community’s enthusiasm for running is evident year-round, from local races and training camps to youth programs and elite competitions.
The city has produced numerous Olympic athletes and world champions, solidifying its place on the global stage. Conveniently located near the University of Oregon and Hayward Field, it provides easy access to Eugene’s rich running culture.
Key Moments and Milestones at Hayward Field
The history of Hayward Field is marked by numerous significant moments and milestones that have contributed to its legendary status:
- 1919: The original West Grandstand is built, and the field is named after UO athlete and coach, Bill Hayward. UO football calls Hayward Field home until 1967.
- 1921: A six-lane cinder track is installed. The UO track and field program begins competing at Hayward Field, having previously competed at Kincaid Field.
- 1925: The East Grandstand is completed, designed by architect Lawrence & Holford.
- 1928: Students contribute to covering the bleachers on the East North end.
- 1944: The Pacific Coast Athletic Conference and Olympic tryouts are held at Hayward Field.
- 1970: Hayward Field is designated solely for track and field use after the football program moved to Autzen Stadium in 1967. The track is widened from six to eight lanes, and a weather-proof surface is applied.
- 1975: A new West Grandstand is completed. The restoration project received substantial support from gifts and a special fundraising track meet in which Steve Prefontaine ran.
- 1982: Mary Decker breaks the women’s 5,000-meter record at the Prefontaine Classic in June, then returns one month later and breaks the women’s 10,000-meter record at an Oregon Track Club all-comer’s meet.
- 1988: Renovations of Hayward Field include a 400-meter track and updated facilities. The East Grandstand is moved thirty feet east to make room for the enlarged track.
- 1991: A new scoreboard is added.
- 1992: The Bowerman Family Building is completed.
- 2005: Powell Plaza is created as a new gateway to Hayward Field for the National Track and Field Championships.
- 2011: At the Pre Classic, Moses Mosop broke two men’s world records in one race.
The Reimagined Hayward Field
One hundred and two years after its original construction, Hayward Field’s legacy takes on a new look, with striking tributes to its past. “The tower is an incredible showcase of our program’s history. The tower features a lobby filled with interpretive exhibits, an observation deck, viewing areas, and an elevator and staircase to the top."
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But just as records are made to be broken, so too do the venues themselves change. The paddock had a creek that needed to be filled in before it could be converted into an athletic venue.
“It definitely still is rare that a track team has its own dedicated stadium,” Goss said.
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