Hayward Field – historical stadium description

Though it's hard to believe, Hayward Field was one of barely a few top IAAF category track and field stadiums across the US. Ironically, even this ground was built for American football back in 1919. Without grass until 1937, its field was based on dirt and sawdust. While common in this part of the country, such surface was highly problematic after rainfall, compromising its quality.

Though it was named after track coach Bill Hayward already in 1919, the stadium only received its first running track in 1921. This addition proved crucial especially when the football team outgrew the stadium and had to travel for crucial games to distant Portland. Even with new natural grass on the field (1937) it wasn't a satisfying football venue and eventually the footballers relocated to the majestic Autzen Stadium in 1967, leaving Hayward Field for track and field.

Structurally wood was the most prevalent element, as one would expect from Oregon and Cascadia. The first wooden grandstand was built on the west side in 1925 and lasted for almost half a century, until being demolished in 1973 and replaced by a new much stronger structure in 1975, this time mostly concrete. Wood was still present in the east stand, though.

The stadium's picturesque layout was completed with northern additions. In 1990 the north-western Bowerman Building was added, housing key facilities. Then in 2004 a new main gate with charming stone and grass terracing was added in the north-east.

For major events temporary terracing could expand the stadium's capacity almost twice.

In 2015, Eugene was awarded the right to host the Athletics World Championships in 2021. The decision was soon made to demolish the existing stadium and build a brand-new track and field facility in its place, the most modern of its kind in the entire United States. Demolition of the old stadium began in June 2018, with the opening of the new arena, delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, taking place in April 2021.