My UO Freshman Year

Steve Bence: 1971 Zaragoza HS, Spain Senior Year (left) ... 1972 UO Freshman Year (right)

In June 1971 I graduated from Zaragoza American High School in Spain. I was an 800/1500 meter runner. Three months later I arrived at the University of Oregon to start my college career. Bill Bowerman and Bill Dellinger coached a very talented group of teammates which included my soon-to-be friend, Steve Prefontaine.

Below is a short story, including workouts, of how I went from a 1:55 high school half-miler to a 1:47 all-American during my UO freshman year.

Life of my mother, Joan: "Factfulness"

In reading this book, I realize I had early in life analyzed and learned whose word I could trust, how to observe bad behavior's consequences and decide not to copy other's behaviors, and that most news should be avoided.

Examples: (that you may already know)

Life of my mother Joan: "Was my birth unusual?"

REACHING OUT TO GRASP LIFE

I was born to two mothers Dorothy and Blanche. Both were present at my birth but it was Blanche who saw me reach out, ready to grasp life in this new environment. Dorothy was too preoccupied with the immediate after effects of having given birth to witness my first adventure.

My Hood to Coast Experiences

I'm a runner

I still call myself a runner even though I haven't been able to run for almost 20 years. My knees are shot.

1972 Olympic Trials 800 meters  (I'm the Oregon half-miler on the left)
Dave Wottle (in the hat) set a world record at the Trials and won the 1972 Olympic gold medal

However my Hood to Coast experiences have taught me that running is more than just a physical activity. Running is also a mindset which has been an important thread throughout my life.

What follows are my favorite Hood to Coast experiences and lessons.

Day #24: Saigon to Portland

Fake sushi on display at Tokyo's Narita Airport.

Day #23: Mekong River to Saigon

Graphic of Cu Chi Tunnels

Day #22: Mekong River

Our "travel family" photo in front of Buddha.

Day #21: Mekong River

Incense and a card for family good luck.

Mary and I filled out a card for the family which is high in the "basket".  The incense will burn for two weeks.

Day #20: Phnom Pehn to Mekong River

Bird Sanctuary