Home Alumni Drake to host NCAA Track and Field Championships

Drake to host NCAA Track and Field Championships

If you missed Relays, don’t fret. You still have a chance to see some of the nation’s top college athletes compete at Drake this year.

Photo by Chris Donahue

Drake will host the NCAA Track and Field Outdoor Championships June 8-11.

“I am extremely excited for the many track and field enthusiasts and devoted Drake Relays fans in and throughout the Midwest, as they will again be treated to our nation’s best track and field student-athletes competing in Drake Stadium,” says Brian Brown, Drake Relays director.

Since the $15 million renovation of Drake Stadium was completed in 2006, Drake has hosted numerous national event — solidifying its reputation as one of the best track and field venues in the United States.

Drake hosted the 2008 NCAA Track and Field Outdoor Championships in 2008, the AAU National Junior Olympics Track and Field Championships in 2009 and the USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships in 2010. Drake will host the NCAA Track and Field Championships again in 2012.

“Athletes and teams have come to know the friendliness of our staff, officials and volunteers and are aware that we run a fantastic meet because of the Drake Relays,” says Carolyn Hill, assistant director of Relays/sports information. “That reputation, coupled with the stadium renovation, has made Drake one of the top venues for hosting national level track meets. We also benefit from a base of supportive and knowledgeable track fans that are drawn to Des Moines for these elite level events.”

Tickets for the NCAA championship meet are on sale now. Single day tickets for Wednesday and Thursday sessions are $20; for Friday and Saturday, they are $30. All-session tickets are $85. Order them online.