Drake Stadium Centennial Campaign: A $6 Million Investment in a Historic Landmark
Drake Stadium, a cornerstone of Des Moines‘ athletic and community life, is poised for a notable upgrade. Drake University recently launched a $6 million capital campaign to revitalize the iconic stadium as it celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2025. But this isn’t just about celebrating the past; it’s about securing the future of a venue renowned for hosting world-class events.
Are you a Drake Bulldog fan,a track and field enthusiast,or simply curious about this exciting project? This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Drake Stadium Centennial Campaign,detailing the planned renovations,the impact on the community,and how you can contribute to the next century of greatness.
A Century of Memories: The Legacy of Drake Stadium
Opened in 1925, Drake Stadium has become synonymous with athletic excellence and community spirit. It’s more than just a sporting venue; it’s a living testament to a century of memories,records,and unwavering pride. The stadium proudly hosts:
The Drake Relays: Arguably its most famous event, the Drake Relays are a world-renowned track and field competition attracting athletes and spectators from across the globe. https://www.drakerelays.org/
Drake Football: Home games bring together students, alumni, and the Des Moines community to cheer on the Bulldogs.
National Championships: Drake Stadium has hosted numerous prestigious events, including USA Track & Field Championships and NCAA Outdoor Championships.
AAU Junior Olympics: Providing a platform for young athletes to showcase their talent.
The last major renovation occurred in 2006. Now, a new chapter begins with this aspiring campaign.
What Does the $6 Million Campaign Fund?
The Drake Stadium Centennial Campaign focuses on crucial infrastructure upgrades designed to enhance the experience for athletes, spectators, and the university community. Here’s a breakdown of the key improvements:
Track and Field Surface Replacement: A state-of-the-art track surface is essential for attracting top-tier competitions and ensuring athlete safety.
Competition Runways: Replacing the long jump, triple jump, and pole vault runways will meet the stringent requirements for hosting NCAA championships. This is a significant investment in the stadium’s ability to secure future national events.
Permanent hospitality space: Creating a dedicated hospitality area will provide a more comfortable and accommodating experience for guests, sponsors, and VIPs. This will also enhance revenue-generating opportunities for the university.
A generous $600,000 leadership gift from Prairie Meadows has already provided significant momentum to the campaign.This demonstrates a strong commitment from the local community to support Drake University and its athletic programs.
Why are these Renovations Crucial?
These upgrades aren’t simply cosmetic. They are vital for maintaining Drake Stadium’s position as a premier athletic venue and a significant economic driver for the Des Moines area. Consider these benefits:
Enhanced Athlete Performance: Modern surfaces and facilities contribute to improved athlete performance and safety.
Increased Event Hosting Opportunities: meeting NCAA championship standards opens doors to securing more prestigious events, boosting the local economy.
Improved Spectator Experience: Comfortable and modern facilities enhance the overall experience for fans, encouraging greater attendance and support.
Continued Community Impact: Drake stadium serves as a gathering place for the community, fostering a sense of pride and connection.
“Drake Stadium is more than just a facility – it’s a century of memories, records, and community pride,” said Drake University President Marty Martin. “With the support of partners like Prairie Meadows and the commitment of our alumni and fans, we’re building the next 100 years of greatness.”
how can You Get Involved?
You can play a vital role in shaping the future of Drake Stadium. Here’s how:
donate to the Campaign: Every contribution, no matter the size, helps bring the vision to life. [https://news.drake.edu/2025/08/28/drake-university-launches-6-million-campaign-to-celebrate-100-years-of-drake-stadium/](https://
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