It’s now less than three hours until the Kansas State High School Activities Association’s 2015 edition of mass hysteria, otherwise known as the state track and field championships, commences at Wichita State.

The 3,200 meter races in Classes 1A, 2A and 3A get the program started on the track, while several field events get underway at 8 a.m. The first preliminary heats start at 9.

I like the idea of running the 3,200 races at the beginning and end of the day Friday. It saves a lot of time Saturday, and it is much better for the runners, since many are running the 1,600, and possibly the 800 and/or the 4×800 relay as well. Prior to 2007, the 3,200 followed the 200-meter dash on Saturday, and not only did it lead to very long days for athletes (especially those who had to run in the 4×400 relay), coaches, fans and meet officials, it also meant the runners were to the point of exhaustion, especially on days where it was brutally hot. And the last day of the 2006 meet, the last time the 3,200 was run on Saturday, was brutally hot.

I didn’t do my due diligence when packing for the trip to Wichita. I forgot one of my camera batteries, which I left in the pocket of my parka. I wore the parka for the second half of the regional meet at Beloit because it got chilly and the coat is water repellent. Second, I didn’t bring my portable keyboard for my computer, so I’m using the regular keyboard, which I’m not too used to. That can be resolved with my Bluetooth keyboard for my iPhone. That keyboard has three device settings, so I just turn the dial and I’m in business. The only problem is it doesn’t have a numeric keypad. That really won’t be too much of a problem until Sunday when i’m doing the bulk of my typing.

It rained pretty hard in Wichita at 2 a.m. There is no rain on the radar as of now, but it could come back later today. It’s not going to be too hot, with highs in the mid-70s, or 24 Celsius.

My usual routine on state track days is to stop at a QuikTrip and pick up some ice for my cooler, plus a cold drink to consume on the way to Cessna Stadium. If the mercury isn’t going to rise to 80, hydration may not be such an issue, but I won’t take any chances. I also do not eat until after everything is done. I won’t eat a large meal tonight. That won’t be the case tomorrow night.

Gotta shave and get organized. Goal is to be out of the hotel parking lot by 6 a.m. I’m going to make it.