Diamond League takes over day two of Prefontaine Classic

EUGENE, Or -- Track and Field fans worldwide returned to Hayward Field for the second day of the 51st Prefontaine Classic. Day two of the Prefontaine Classic has a number of Diamond League events and more athletes with Oregon ties. Many athletes hope Hayward's magic continues. "I think it's just this feeling of invincibility when you go out there," Jessica Hull said. "As a Duck or someone that has competed here at Hayward a lot and has been able to lean into that crowd, I think its one of those things you learn. You feel like youre capable of more than you anticipated. When the gun goes, you give it everything, and I think you rely on and trust that magic will carry you when it gets hard." Hull saw Hayward's magic come to life last year during the 50th Prefontaine Classic in the women's 1500 meter when she set a season's best of 3:52.67, placing third behind Faith Kipyegon's world record. Nikki Hiltz also delivered a season's best in the 1500 meter last year, with a time of 3:55.96. Hull, Hiltz and Klaudia Kazimierska return to Hayward to compete in the women's mile. Former Ducks Jorinde Van Klinken and Jaida Ross are competing in the women's shot put. Former Duck Jenna Prandini competes in the women's 100-meter. Mykolas Alekna competes at Hayward Field for the first time this season after dealing with a tear in his left pec, looking to deliver another win in the men's discus throw. "I opened up the season with a victory so I want to continue that path," he said. "Throw more than 70 (meters), hopefully. That's the goal, to win just like last year." Former Duck Alaysha Johnson competes in the women's 100 Meter Hurdles. Former Duck Raevyn Rogers competes in the Mutola 800 Meters. The 51st Prefontaine Classic concludes with former Duck Cole Hocker competing in the Bowerman Mile. "I'm surrounded by the best runners in the world," Hocker said. "I'm excited. This sport is all about testing your limits." Hocker said he hasn't felt like he has gotten his best out of the Bowerman Mile and is hopeful that changes on Saturday. "Never really felt like I was firing on all cylinders," Hocker said. "I feel like this year I can take a jab at the win ... Personally, I want to win it so I can win at home and continue my season as I want to." Oregon's Simeon Birnbaum, who was originally scheduled to compete in the Bowerman Mile, was scratched from competing.