Sooners in running as host of Gridiron Classic

Friday, February 18th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

TULSA, Okla. (AP) -- Oklahoma is a finalist to host the Gridiron Classic, a new season-opening game that would benefit the Hispanic College Fund. Adam Chavarria, national director for the fund, told the Tulsa World on Wednesday that OU is under strong consideration because the Sooners sold out all of their home games last season. "That would be one of our preferred venues," he said. "We have heard some very good reports about their support."

He declined to reveal other schools under consideration. He said a firm has been hired to help in the selection of the two teams and the game site. The game would be played Aug. 26. The NCAA approved adding the early season game to the Kickoff, Pigskin and Eddie Robinson Classics. Athletic director Joe Castiglione has said previously that Oklahoma would be interested in one of the early season classics if the Sooners could be the host. Chavarria said a decision on the teams is only a few days away.