The Relays Team is a small but extremely important and valued team. Each year, they work to put on the Drake Relays—one of the biggest events in the state, currently in its 113th year.

On behalf of the University, this group proudly serves as a primary point of contact for thousands of athletes and coaches, hundreds of volunteers, our dedicated Relays Committee, and countless others who come together each April to celebrate the century long tradition of America’s Athletic Classic alongside Drake students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

The team led an effort to rethink the Drake Relays competition format to better benefit the collegiate athletes. This culminated in the successful announcement at the US Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association Convention in December, placing Drake Relays at the center of the National Conversation.

You may have noticed the #RelaysResolution campaign—encouraging those across the state of Iowa to make a healthy resolution in 2023. We have hundreds who registered for the Drake Road Races during this campaign and ensured the event will host thousands of walkers and runners on April 23, 2023. The team did all of this while the rest of the University was closed for winter holiday. Completely dedicated to the event, this team, this campus, this community, and the ever-evolving art that is track and field.

There have been big updates over the last few years to the Drake Road Races and the Grand Blue Mile. The Drake Relays team worked diligently at these events for two years before seeing them come to life in their new, full form.

The team really exemplifies the Drake Relay vision of generating a unique experience for athletes and spectators while honoring athletic achievement. They really drive home the mission of delivering thrilling and memorable events, all within the rigid federation protocols by educating, entertaining and inspiring. A constant Commitment to Mission, a continuous All in This Together attitude and an abundance of Generosity of Spirit.

There is a lot of work that goes into putting on any athletic event, let alone one of the top track and field events in the United States. Drake University Recognition Committee would like to celebrate the Drake Relays team for all the determination and perseverance they exhibit every day to ensure a successful event is held. Your time, effort and daily commitment are genuinely appreciated!

— Trevon Smith, On Behalf of All Staff Council