The Olympic Track and Field Team Trials kick off on Friday in Eugene, Oregon, but the action starts a day earlier and 111 miles north when the hammer throw final takes place on Thursday at the Nike World Headquarters in Beaverton. The decision to move the hammer away from the main event has stirred a bit of controversy since little was done to initially promote the event. Even within the last week there were three separate reports of Nike employees telling individuals and press that the event was not open to the general public. But a little controversy has been good as it pushed both the USATF and Nike to put out a last minute effort to publicize the event. A new hammer cagewas recently installed at Ronaldo Field and bleachers will be coming soon. By all measures things are coming into shape just in time.

Whether or not you are in favor of the idea, there are some definite advantages to the format. The event will be broadcast live on regional television and a large turnout is also expected since the event is free and open to the public. More information for spectators, including parking, directions, and more, can be found on the Track Town 2012 website.

The action wil also feature some of the best collegiate throwers from the 2012 season. NCAA leader Conor McCullough and NCAA Division II champion Ryan Loughney are the top collegiate men in the competition, while NCAA women's champion Jeneva McCall is hoping to make her second national team and first Olympics.

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