It was a boisterous weekend as competitors saw sunshine, wind, rain and a good crowd of supporters in Eugene. The same weather conditions occurred for the women despite being more than a few hundred miles away from each other.
Hayward Field, known for its terrific atmosphere for track and field meets, was the site of the Oregon Relays, an event drawing teams from across the country. Nearly 7,000 attended the event and most displayed the passion and enthusiasm that has earned Eugene the name of Tracktown U.S.A.
Distance runners were cheered on as they came down the straightaway that runs alongside the main grandstand. Fans started a synchronized clapping sequence with each jump or vault completed. The chorus of cheers was particularly enthusiastic when Oregon athletes were participating.
The definitive duo of Nick Trubachik and Westin Morrill finished first and second in the B section of the Javelin throw. The two have been producing good marks all year and are currently the only two on the team with a regional qualifying mark. Both athletes seemed especially hyped to compete at the meet, one of the most prestigious in all of collegiate track and field.
While the men enjoyed the competitive atmosphere of Eugene, the women headed to Berkeley, Calif., for the Brutus Hamilton Invite.
The strong field and favorable conditions helped several athletes set career bests. Senior Jermise Saunders ran an explosive 100-meter dash and established herself as the premier female sprinter in the Big Sky Conference.
Saunders performance was more impressive considering it was her first meet back since recovering from an injury.
Distance runner Adriane Wai also had a career best performance as she ran the 800-meter in just 2 minutes, 14 seconds. Throwers Tiffany Bigham and Rachel Garcia both improved their best throws in the shot put.
“I’m very pleased with the results the women put up this weekend,” said head coach Ronnye Harrison who was preparing the Vikings for their one final tune-up—the Pacific Relays in Forest Grove this weekend—before the Big Sky Championships.