Hayward Field, Track and field stadium at University of Oregon, Eugene, United States
Hayward Field is a track and field stadium on the University of Oregon campus in Eugene, with a nine-lane 400-metre track around a grass infield. The 2018–20 rebuild added a transparent roof and a nine-storey tower shaped like an Olympic torch at the north-east end. The west grandstand, first built in 1925 and redesigned by architect Ellis F. Lawrence, faces the finish line.
The stadium first opened in 1919 as a football venue and was converted to a track and field facility in 1921 under coach Bill Hayward's direction. This shift established the beginning of its long history as a center for running and field sports at the university.
The stadium's name honours Bill Hayward, the Ducks' track coach from 1904 to 1947; it was given during a season opener's halftime while he worked as team trainer, and he learned of it the next day. The Prefontaine Classic, a Diamond League meeting, began in 1973 as the Hayward Field Restoration Meet to fund a new west grandstand and is named for runner Steve Prefontaine.
The infield runs north–south, with the Pacific about 50 miles (80 km) west beyond the Coast Range. The site sits roughly 420 feet (130 m) above sea level on the University of Oregon campus. Competitions are organized by the nonprofit TrackTown USA, so check their listings for event days.
The 2018–20 rebuild added a nine-storey tower shaped like an Olympic torch at the north-east end of the complex, and a transparent roof over the seating. Phil Knight, a University of Oregon alumnus, was the main donor; private donations covered the costs.
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