MASBACK IN BUSINESS: USATF TO STAGE EVENT AT GEORGE MASON

          USATF Exec Dir Craig Masback said that the DC
     Invitational will replace the Mobil Invitational at George
     Mason University Fieldhouse in VA on February 19, according
     to Kathy Orton of the WASHINGTON POST.  Plans for the meet's
     format "are still being finalized," but Masback said that
     organizers "hope" to switch the meet from an "all-day affair
     to a two-hour event at night."  Another change would feature
     the two winners of preliminary heats in the women's 60
     meters "face each other in a head-to-head race."  Also, the
     women's 1,000 meters, an event traditionally run more in
     Europe, would be added.  Masback: "We're in an entertainment
     business ultimately, and we're competing against any number
     of other sports."  The top six finishers in each event will
     receive cash prizes from $3,000 to $500 (WASH. POST, 1/20).