The Prefontaine Classic, named after the legendary American middle-distance runner Steve Prefontaine, is one of the most prestigious track and field events in the world. Athletes from around the globe gather at the iconic Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon, to compete against each other and push the limits of human performance. As we look ahead to the 2023 edition of the Prefontaine Classic, anticipation is building for another thrilling showcase of speed, endurance, and breathtaking athleticism.
The event will take place over two days, September 16 and 17, and is the first time the iconic stadium in Eugene will play host to the Diamond League final. The season-ending event has historically been held in Zurich or Brussels, however moving forward, will rotate among the 14 Diamond League host cities in order to give them the opportunity to hold the championship event, with the Pre Classic the first of the newly minted rotation.
To determine who has earned the right to compete at the final, athletes accumulate points across the Diamond League’s series of events. From the official rules, “At each of the 14 series meetings, athletes are awarded 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2 or 1 points for ranking 1st to 8th respectively. The top six in the field events, top eight for 100m-800m and the top ten for 1500m and long distance events will qualify for the Final. Those who have qualified compete in a winner-takes-all competition at the final to be crowned Wanda Diamond League Champion in their chosen discipline.”
Star Athletes to Watch
The 2023 Prefontaine Classic is expected to draw a star-studded lineup of participants. While it’s still early to predict the exact roster, fans can expect to see some of the biggest names in track and field. Sprinting sensation, the reigning world gold and bronze medalist in the 100m and 200m events, respectively, Sha’Carri Richardson, will likely dominate headlines with her blistering speed and charismatic personality. Eyes will also be on Noah Lyles, coming off a three-gold performance at the World Championships in Budapest in the 100m, 200, and 4×100 relay, as he aims to continue his winning streak.
Jakob Ingebrigtsen will undoubtedly be looking to toe the line in the 1500 meters, seeking redemption following his being edged at the line for a second consecutive silver medal at the World Championships. Josh Kerr, the current world champion in the event, is firmly situated in the points and likely to be on the invite list.
Grant Holloway and Mondo Duplantis headline the 110m Hurdles and Pole Vault standings, respectively, with Fred Kerley and Erriyon Knighton leading the points for the 100m and 200m showdowns. CJ Allen is looking to continue his incredible 2023 campaign with a Diamond League trophy, currently ahead of world gold medalist Karsten Warholm in the points.
On the women’s side, Femke Bol has to be the favorite in the 400m Hurdles, with Shericka Jackson earning a place to compete in both the 100m and 200m. Pole Vault World co-Champions Katie Moon and Nina Kennedy each have earned enough points to find themselves on the runway in Eugene. Faith Kipyegon, fresh off her 1500m/5000m double-gold in Budapest, has the ranking to run for the title in the 1500m.
Current points standings for all events are available on the World Athletics website here: MEN | WOMEN
Schedule of Events
September 16 Events
- 100m: Men & Women
- 400m: Men
- 1500m: Women
- Bowerman Mile: Men
- 400m Hurdles: Men
- 3000m Steeplechase: Men & Women
- Triple Jump: Men & Women
- Javelin: Men & Women
- High Jump: Men
- Pole Vault: Women
- Shot Put: Women
September 17 Events
- 200m: Men & Women
- 400m: Women
- 800m: Men & Women
- 3000m / 5000m: Men & Women
- 100m Hurdles: Women
- 110m Hurdles: Men
- 400m Hurdles: Women
- Long Jump: Men & Women
- Discus: Men & Women
- High Jump: Women
- Pole Vault: Men
- Shot Put: Men
The Prefontaine Classic has a rich history dating back to its inception in 1973, when it served as the Hayward Restoration Meet, intending to raise funds for the renovation of the West Grandstands at Hayward Field. At that first meet in ’73, Dave Wottle bested Steve Prefontaine 3:53.3 to 3:54.6, clocking the second fastest mile ever by an American at the time.
After the event showed itself to be a success in raising the funding needed to renovate the grandstands, the 1975 showcase was intended to be named the Bowerman Classic. However, eight days prior to the event, the world lost Pre in a tragic car accident, which led to the renaming of the meet to The Prefontaine Classic.
More on this event’s rich history can be found at preclassic.com/history.
For decades, the Pre Classic has been a platform for both established and emerging athletes to shine. Hayward Field, with its passionate crowd and renowned track, provides the perfect backdrop for the competitors to showcase their skills.
