What Nike Zoom Camp Taught Me About Running

Last month, Nike hosted coaches and members of the media from all over the world for the iconic Prefontaine, or “Pre,” Classic at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon Nike called the weekend of glamping “Zoom Camp,” which was all about showcasing the magic of Hayward Field; the history of Bill Bowerman, co-founder of Nike; the legacy of Steve Prefontaine, one of the most influential American track athletes of the 20th century; and the ability for every runner to “find your fast” through guided workouts and drills over the course of two days. It all culminated in a one-mile race around the track. Nike fully immersed us into the great pride behind their brand in its hometown, where one employee stated “we were founded on a handshake.” From preview of the hottest new gear, to intimate stories of some of Nike’s star athletes, to witnessing records fall over a night and day of Pre Classic action at Hayward Field—18-year-0ld Alexa Efraimson smashed Mary Cain’s 1,500-meter American junior record, finishing seventh in 4:03.39!—the entire Zoom Camp experience left more than 20 attendees in awe of the magic of the running culture surrounding the greatest track and field in the country. Here are 14 things—reminders, if you will–about running that Zoom Camp handed to me over two days in Oregon. Photos: John Jefferson