All is quiet on the Blue Oval, but in just a month, world-class athletes will take over the track as they make the pilgrimage to Drake Relays. Adding to the excitement, this year’s Relays take place mere months before the 2012 Summer Olympics. However, as alumni will tell you, the athletic events are only part of the Relays experience. In fact, many people who take part in the Relays never set foot in the stadium. Fortunately, there are more than enough activities and festivities to keep non-spectators busy.
With so many activities to partake in, the Office of Alumni Relations created a one-stop shop for Relays attendees: www.drake.edu/relays. This website has it all: event schedules, ticket information, photos, accommodation listings and more. This should be your first stop when planning a Relays weekend to remember.
A variety of events bring together alumni, community members and students to celebrate the Drake Relays. The week kicks off with the Relays Parade, a chance for student and community organizations to help celebrate Relays week with a colorful float. The much-anticipated Beautiful Bulldog Contest is next on April 23. Pups large and small will strut their stuff in the hopes of donning the crown and cape and sitting on the throne reserved for the best looking pooch of the bunch. Next up is the Grand Blue Mile on April 24 — no matter your skill level, hit the pavement and join some of the world’s best runners for a quick jog. Wednesday will be a whirlwind day, complete with Downtown Street Painting and Pole Vault at the Mall at Jordan Creek Town Center. Finally, more advanced runners can take part in the Drake Relays On-the-Roads 8K and half-marathon on April 28.
Several events just for alumni will take place during Relays week as well. The 40-Year Reunion — celebrating the class of ’72 — and African American Reunion will kick off on Friday, April 27 and continue through April 29. The 10-Year Reunion and All Greek Reunion will take place on Saturday. The All Greek Reunion may be one of the largest affinity reunions ever, with more than 2,000 alumni expected to return to campus.
Throughout the Relays, the Office of Alumni and Development will have a tent set up directly across from Drake Stadium near Herriott Circle, a new addition this year thanks to Liberty Mutual. Alumni can stop by to update their information and reconnect with the University and old friends.
Along with visiting www.drake.edu/relays, “like” the Drake Relays Facebook page and follow us on Twitter @drakerelays for up-to-date information, fun contests and photos from all Relays events.