Farewell to Gags

Eugene, Oregon: It was a bittersweet day in Track Town, USA. One of America's best track coaches is retiring, taking his final lap and heading for the locker room. Frank Gagliano, one of the best 800m coaches of all time is turning his stop watch over to a new coach.

Frank has been coaching the Oregon Track Club Elite team for over six years. (The name "elite" isn't just an adjective. This club is so exclusive, it only has twenty members. Only the best American runners need apply.) OTC athletes are all post-collegiate, professional runners. Most of them live in the same apartment building and train together daily. Many were members of the US Olympic Team in Beijing. It is a sad day for track and field in America - but Frank needs to get on with his life and return (with his lovely wife, Robbie) to their home in New York.

The Faithful planned a lovely SURPRISE send-off for Gags tonight - with a "Godfather" costume theme (as Frank is the "Godfather" of US track & field) at the Eugene Electric Station restaurant. A good time was had by all. There were several emotional speeches and a wonderful video presentation. Many of Frank's athletes were in attendance, along with many US track and field supporters. Robbie & Frank's daughter, Nancy, flew in for the celebration.

Vin Lananna speaks to the crowd - Frank & Robbie look on


Robbie & Frank Gagliano


Frank poses with some of his past and current athletes


Frank Gagliano - The Godfather of US track & field

We will be home tomorrow. Until my next update, I remain, your "I love track & field" correspondent.