Women's Hammer

The real battle shouldn't be for first place, since Dawn Ellerbe should easily win her third consecutive and sixth overall national title, but will most likely pit Ellerbe against her own American Record, 231-8, which she set at the Penn Relays.

But just as in yesterday's men's hammer, where the winner was clearcut but the next five or so places were a logjam, the women's competition for the final two World Champs spots should be a back-and-forth battle.

Anna Norgren could be the best of the rest, as she should make her first World or Olymic squad. Look for the fast-improving Christina Tolson of UCLA to challenge for 3rd, along with Jesseca Cross and Melissa Price.

In Eugene, like in most venues, the hammer is relegated to an outside field. However, throws enthusiasts always pack the metal bleachers and make for an exciting competition.
/Dan Lilot/