Even though most vulnerable have had the opportunity by now to be vaccinated, the Oregon governor has put much of Oregon into a big lockdown yet again. She seems focused on the number of Covid cases, as deaths and hospitalizations aren't going to be nearly as high as several months ago when Covid cases rose.
I'm thinking about what does this mean for the Trials? It seems clear to me that only a tiny number of fans will be allowed to do attend. Does anyone know how the finances work with the Trials between USATF?
Here are my thoughts not really knowing what the contract is.
1) If the lack of many fans isn't going to hurt USATF's finances as the local Eugene committee / Uncle Phil will make USATF whole, I think I'm fine with the Trials staying in Eugene. I think it will suck for the athletes that they wont' get to make an Olympic team in front of a roaring crowd but it isn't easy to change things at this point and if money isn't a big issue then let's keep them in Eugene.
2) If ticket revenue is a big deal and Unlce Phil/Eugene isn't going to make USATF whole, then it's time to move the Trials.
It seems like the most logical spots would be Texas or Georgia. They are both allowing full fans for MLB games.
Austin has hosted NCAAs and could host with a decent size crowd.
Are there any good size tracks in Georgia? It seems like the Atlanta Track Club could pull this off?
Does anyone know who is going to take the financial hit if only a few fans are allowed to show up? Local organizers or USATF or both?