"Come to Oregon!"

Jordan Hasay decided to go to the University of Oregon and everyone on letsrun has their panties in a bunch. How can you live vicariously through these talented young runners if they just won't listen to you?

Sure, she could have gone to Stanford. She certainly has the grades for it. She could have gone to the University of Washington to join the 2008 NCAA champion cross country team. Not to say Oregon doesn't have a history of achievement. Jordan Hasay is going to be a Duck. Accept it and move on.

Eugene is a great place to train. It's called "Track Town, USA" for a reason. The entire community is supportive of the Ducks. It probably didn't hurt when the crowds shouted "Come to Oregon! Come to Oregon!" to Hasay when she ran her 4:14.50 high school record at Hayward Field during the Olympic Trials.

Hasay stated that she gets along well with the coaches and her future teammates. There is also the Oregon Track Club in Eugene, which she can join when she runs professionally.

More importantly, Hasay considered her future when she made the decision to attend the University of Oregon. She said she plans to study physiology and work in athletic training or physical therapy. Where better than the birthplace of Nike?

What is the problem then?


(Photo by Joe Johnston, SanLuisObispo.com/The Tribune)