Experience LANE
COUNTY
GETTING KIDS
At
On Track
THE 2016 U.S. OLYMPIC Team Trials - Track & Field, my family was taking a break at the fan festival when I suddenly realized we were sitting next to the legendary Frank Shorter, an Olympic gold medalist who was Steve Prefontaine’s training partner. Frank kindly signed my son Eli’s ticket, writing “Good luck with your running, Eli!” Those words are pinned on my now 15 year-old’s bulletin board, next to bib numbers, race flags, finish line tape and other mementos he’s collected from his own races and track events where he’s participated as an athlete, fan and volunteer. Growing up in Eugene means also growing up in TrackTown USA - and for kids, there are a lot of ways to get involved with the sport. As our community prepares to welcome the world for the World Athletics Championships Oregon22 this July, introduce your kids to the magic that makes Eugene the heart and home of track and field. Here are a few opportunities to inspire a lifelong love and appreciation for the sport.
1
A summer tradition since the 1950s, OREGON TRACK CLUB’S ALL COMERS MEETS are a great way for kids to try out track events in a low-pressure, fun environment. The meets are split over two days so that kids 12 and under can compete separately with their own age groups. In the fall, the OTC youth cross country program keeps kids moving — practices and (optional) races are short and focused on having fun, with the goal always being to keep kids having a good time.
2
If you’re new to the sport yourself, learn about the history of track and field in this area together with your kids. Celebrate the upcoming World Athletics Championships Oregon22 with MAKING
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ARTICLE BY EMILY FORSHA PHOTOS BY TRAVEL LANE COUNTY
O R E G O N F A M I LY . C O M
JUNE 2022
