Hayward Field

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For other uses of "Hayward", see Hayward (disambiguation).

Hayward Field

Hayward Field at University of Oregon is one of the most well-known historic track and field stadiums in the United States.^{[citation needed]} It has been the home to the University of Oregon Track and Field teams since 1919. The 15,000 seat facility is also the home track of the Oregon Track Club and the Eugene Running Club of the USATF Elite Running Circuit. Hayward Field was named after the Oregon Ducks first coach, Bill Hayward, who ran the Ducks' program from 1904 to 1947.

Hayward was originally built for the school's football program. In 1921, a six-lane cinder track was added. In 1970, the track was widened to eight lanes and converted to an all-weather surface.^{[citation needed]} The track converted to the metric system in 1988, its length changing from 440 yards to 400 meters. In addition, a 200-meter warmup track was added to the south of the main track, along with a new hammer throw area and a weight room facility. One of the most modern scoreboards of the time was added in 1991, which gave unofficial times and places of competitors seconds after they finished.

Spectators watch the 110-meter hurdles

After a donation by Bill Bowerman, UO's longtime track coach, the 15,000 square foot Bowerman Building was added to the northeast of the track, housing locker rooms, U of O track memorabilia and the university's International Institute for Sport and Human Performance.^{[citation needed]}

Another major renovation began in 2004, adding a new entrance named Powell Plaza, moving the practice track and expanding it to 400 meters, and replacing the aging fencing bordering the complex, among other improvements. With news that Eugene would host the US Olympic Trials in 2008, Hayward Field underwent more renovation in 2007. Eight light poles were installed, allowing for televised night events. A walkway behind the west grandstand and a new scoreboard will also be installed.

The new entrance to Hayward Field, completed in 2005

Hayward Field has hosted NCAA Championships, USATF Championships, USATF Elite Running Circuit events, and the stadium hosts the Nike Prefontaine Classic annually in June. It hosted the US Track and Field Olympic Trials in 1972, 1976, and 1980, making it the only site to host three consecutive trials. It will again host the Trials in 2008. ^[1]

Nike released the "Air Zoom Hayward" running shoe, in honor of Hayward Field.