Prefontaine Classic: What to Know Before You Go

It draws top sprinters hurdlers jumpers and distance runners from the U.S. and around the world every year. Hayward Field sits on the University of Oregon campus and creates a loud intimate competition atmosphere for fans. This quick guide helps you plan attendance buy tickets travel and find ways to watch live online today.

When and where

The meet typically runs in late May or early June as part of the Diamond League schedule annually. Session times vary yearly with morning qualifying heats and an evening session that often features headline finals races. Buy tickets from the official Prefontaine Classic site or authorized sellers to avoid risky resale scams and fees. Premium seats near the finish line sell so book early if you want close views of race finales. Eugene has a small regional airport but many visitors fly into Portland or Seattle and drive down south. Plan accommodations near downtown or the university to cut travel time and enjoy the local running culture scene.

Tickets and travel

Use event shuttles public transit or rideshares on meet day to avoid limited parking and long lot lines. Broadcast rights change each year so check Diamond League partners World Athletics and local sports networks for coverage. Follow the meet social accounts for start lists live updates and instant video clips during competition and awards. Hayward Field offers close sightlines but bring layers since Oregon weather can switch from sun to wind rain. Arrive early to clear security find seating visit merchandise and see athletes warming up on nearby practice tracks. If you want photos sit near the finish or sprint straight for clearer action shots of decisive moments. Expect a mix of established stars and rising talents with tactical distance races and explosive sprint showdowns too. Many athletes use the meet as a tune up for World Championships Olympics or national trials each year. Meeting records national or world have fallen at Hayward Field thanks to strong competition and fast surfaces often. Check the start lists to see headline races and plan your viewing around stars you want to watch. Bring a backpack with water a light jacket sunscreen and a charged phone or power bank for safety. Families should check kid friendly sections and early entry options to make the day smooth and stress free. If weather delays happen expect patience from officials and updated schedules pushed to apps and public address announcements. Local food trucks and vendors offer quick meals but bringing snacks works if you prefer specific dietary options. For budget travelers attend earlier sessions which are cheaper and still include high quality prelims and solid entertainment. Support the sport by learning event basics like starting blocks exchange zones and crowd etiquette to keep safe. Use public transportation apps and map to time your arrival and avoid missing headline races due to delays. After the meet follow results sites athlete feeds and interviews to catch context behind fast times and outcomes.