Hayward Hall

Hayward Field is one of the most storied track & field venues in the world. It’s where Pre put his heart on the line, where Nike was born and where barriers are constantly broken. There’s something about the place that brings out the best in those who run, jump and throw there. When athletes from around the globe come to compete at Hayward Field, the unexplainable and unimaginable tend to happen. No time is safe, no height is unreachable and no record is unbreakable.

While the new Hayward Field was under construction, I led the storytelling efforts in Hayward Hall. During the two-year labor of love, I researched, wrote and went on artifact-finding missions. The 4,000 square-foot museum sits at the main entrance of Hayward Field and tells the story of Oregon Track & Field’s rich history and heritage, Bill Bowerman’s impact as a teacher of athletes and world-class innovator and highlights Hayward Field’s most iconic moments. Visitors can pay homage to Prefontaine, find easter eggs in the waffle sole-wall of Bowerman’s recreated basement workshop, and learn about how Eugene came to be the birthplace of Nike. The museum also features a theater, complete with original Hayward seats, that plays an Oregon Track & Field film and documentaries.