Ducks Team to Visit the White House

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The University of Oregon national championship men’s cross country team has been invited to the White House, President George W. Bush’s office announced Friday. The Ducks’ day in the nation’s capital will be next Tuesday, June 24.

The members of the team who won the 2007 NCAA Championship last November in Terre Haute, Ind. -- Galen Rupp, Shadrack Kiptoo-Biwott, Diego Mercado, Kenny Klotz, Daniel Mercado, A.J. Acosta and Scott Wall -- will be given a special tour of the White House on Tuesday before meeting with President Bush later in the day.

“It is an incredible honor to have the opportunity to visit the White House,” said Oregon associate athletic director Vin Lananna. “We are so proud to be able to represent the University of Oregon and the city of Eugene as national champions.”

The Ducks will have a photo opportunity with the President, at which time they will present him with a specially designed pair of Nike running shoes with the word “Prez” inscribed on them.

Oregon’s visit is part of NCAA Sports Champions day at the White House. After the photo opportunity, the President will address 20 NCAA championship teams from throughout the 2007-08 academic year on the South Lawn.