Hayward Field record falls on first day of US Olympic Track and Field trials

(BEIJING, June 29) -- The only final on the first day of the US Olympic Track and Field trials in Eugene, Oregon, saw a Hayward Field record broken. Shalane Flanagan crossed the finish line of the 10,000 meter run in 31 minutes and 34.81 seconds.

She was followed by Kara Goucher (31:37.72) and Amy Begley (31:43.60), forming the first group of runners qualified for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games from America.

According to sports.cn, this was not the first time Flanagan has proven her talent; earlier this year, she set a new American record in this same event, coming in at 30:34.49.

After the race, the champion told reporters that she wants to show the world that she can run faster at the Olympic Games. Although she doesn't think she will be the favorite in Beijing, as Goucher already has one world championship medal under her belt, she thinks the Games will be very interesting. "I'm excited to be in this position," said Flanagan.

Flanagan is also slated to run in the 5,000 meters, the final of which is scheduled for July 4.