ATHENS, Greece –  Members of the Augustana track and field team recently headed abroad for a week of companionship, international competition, and visits to ancient Greek sites.

The team trip, which took place December 27 through January 4, began with a competition at the Agios Kosmas training center against the Greek Federation team. Events ranging from the 60m dash to the 1500m run, and including field events like shot put, javelin, hammer throw, high jump, long jump, triple jump, and pole vault highlighted the competition's unique indoor and outdoor components, allowing athletes to participate in a number of events outside of their norms, including a straight-only 150m dash and a mixed 4x400m relay.

With their remaining time in Athens, athletes, coaches, and parents participated in a guided bike tour of the city, visits to the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum, a day cruise of three Greek islands, Hydra, Poros, and Aegina.

Following the cruise, the Vikings headed to the coastal city of Nafplio where they took part in a guided walking tour of the city and historic fortress, Palamidi, and enjoyed free time at the beach.

A small group of travelers opted to visit the city of Ancient Olympia, home of the first Olympic games - a fitting location for track and field fanatics to experience. These Vikings had the opportunity to see the original Olympic stadium, a dirt straight roughly 200m in length, beginning with several carved marble blocks where ancient athletes would place their feet for leverage ahead of their races. Augie visitors took to the track for a friendly race against their peers.

The Vikings returned home January 4, just ahead of Augustana's J-Term start. Augie will travel to St. Ambrose on January 18 for their first regular season competition.