Join The USA Track and Field Outdoor Championships at Drake Stadium, By Leroy Worley

Greater Des Moines has a long and storied legacy as a track and field destination. That legacy is being honored and solidified for generations to come with the unveiling of Track Central USA. Drake University and the Des Moines Area Sports Commission, DMASC, are joining forces to host the upcoming USA Track and Field Outdoor Championships at Drake Stadium June 23-27. Drake was also awarded the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships coming up over the next two years.

With the $15 million renovation of Drake Stadium in 2006, Drake University and Greater Des Moines have become a mecca in hosting high caliber track and field events in the United States. In addition to serving as home of the Drake Relays, with more than 100 years of rich tradition, Greater Des Moines and Drake University, have hosted the 2007 NCAA Midwest Regional Outdoor Track and Field Championship, the 2008 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championship and more recently the 2009 AAU Junior Olympics.

Fans joining events at Track Central USA will also be able to experience the innovative and interactive Track Central USA Fan Zone adjacent to Drake Stadium. This area will include interactive video kiosks, a “hands on” track and field exhibit space, an area designated for fitness/wellness, a stage for athlete interaction, improved merchandise exhibit area, food and other vendors. "Drake University, in partnership with the Des Moines Area Sports Commission, is excited to unveil the Track Central USA Fan Zone at Drake Stadium," said Drake Athletic Director Sandy Hatfield Clubb. "This project will build on a well established track and field tradition and has tremendous synergy with other initiatives within our department focused on enhancing the fan experience."

“One hundred years of the Drake Relays and our success in recent years landing and hosting world class track and field events has cemented our place in the world of track and field. The Track Central USA initiative allows us to take it to the next level as we pursue the Olympic Trials for track and field in the future,” said Greg Edwards, GDMCVB President and CEO. “Our community, with the guidance and leadership of Drake University’s Athletic Department, continues to gain nationwide attention as a premiere track and field destination. Track Central USA and the Track Central USA Fan Zone capture the essence of our commitment to track and field in Greater Des Moines.”