TrackTown USA Welcome to TrackTown, USA! Eugene is the heart and home of track and field, and Hayward Field on the University of Oregon’s campus is hallowed ground for athletes and fans. Olympians and world-record holders from around the globe compete in events like the Prefontaine Classic in May and the NCAA Track & Field Championships, the Nike Outdoor Nationals and the U.S. Olympic Team Trials – Track & Field, all held in June. Visitors can explore Hayward Hall, an interactive exhibit spotlighting the area’s contributions, including Steve “Pre” Prefontaine, the legendary distance runner who broke 14 American records during his short career. On the tower, look for the silhouette of Bill Bowerman — University of Oregon’s track and field coach between 1948 and 1972, famed inventor of the waffle-sole shoe and co-founder of Nike. RUN LIKE A LOCAL Eugene’s Iconic Road Races For those who enjoy a little friendly competition, check out the Oregon Track Club’s All Comers Meets. These low-key, all-ages events have been offered each summer since the mid1950s and invite competitors of all abilities and paces. This year is the 50th anniversary of the OTC Butte to Butte, a fun and popular road race between the city’s two iconic buttes, Skinner and Spencer, traditionally held on the 4th of July. Ready for a challenge? Sign up for the Eugene Marathon, which takes place every year in April. LOCAL RUNNING TRAILS Another way to experience TrackTown is to take to the trails. A good place to start is the Prefontaine Memorial Running Trail, a 4-mile (6.4-km) bark path known as “Pre’s Trail,” located in Alton Baker Park. Trail runners love the North Amazon Running Trail, which connects with the South Amazon Running Trail to create a 5.5-mile (8.9-km) jogging path. The paved 14-mile (22.5-km) Ruth Bascom Riverbank Path System is an ideal way to mix fresh air with stellar riverfront views along a route between Eugene and Springfield. Or check out the 12-mile (19.3-km) Ridgeline Trail System in South Eugene, which offers 12 trailheads and incredible valley views from the top of Spencer Butte. A COMMUNITY OF RUNNERS If you prefer community, there’s no reason to run solo in Eugene – local running shops can connect you to community runs and events all year long. Both Run Hub Northwest and Eugene Running Company offer much more than just quality shoes and gear. Friendly, knowledgeable staff are on hand to share some of their favorite trails and invite you to join the shops’ running groups. Top Things to See in TrackTown Eugene, Cascades & Coast Visitor Center | 754 Olive St, Eugene 8 FROM TOP: MELANIE GRIFFIN; EUGENE MARATHON The Prefontaine Classic at Hayward Field Eugene Marathon
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