Drake Relays time

“Pole Vault in the Mall” is a Drake Relays tradition. Presented by Hy-Vee, it will take place at Jordan Creek Town Center on Wednesday, April 24 at 6 p.m. Photo courtesy of Jordan Creek Town Center.

Once again we find ourselves rounding the curve and getting ready for another exciting weekend of track and field at the famous blue oval. This year’s Drake Relays, presented by Hy-Vee, is shaping up to be one to remember, especially since the announcement of several 2012 London Olympic Games rematches to be featured during the event. In its 104th year, the Drake Relays remain an important Iowa tradition in entertainment and athleticism.

The inclusion of Olympic talents such as 2012 triple jump gold medalist Christian Taylor, women’s pole vault silver medalist Yarisley Silva, women’s high jump silver-medalist Brigetta Barrett and bronze medalists Zuzana Hejnova (women’s 400-meter hurdles), Maryam Jamal (women’s 1,500 meters) and Mutaz Essa Barshim (men’s high jump) doubles the number of 2012 Olympic medalists previously confirmed to compete at the Relays. All 22 Olympians and numerous other elite athletes will compete for the biggest prize purses on American soil — a $50,000 purse in each running event and a $25,000 purse in the field competitions.

The London Games Rematch event is scheduled to take place on Friday, April 26. There will be 16 Olympic medalists competing under the lights in three events: the men’s 110-meter hurdles, the men’s 400-meter hurdles and the women’s pole vault. Each event is scheduled to feature the gold, silver and bronze medalists from the 2012 London Games.

Jenn Suhr, the reigning Olympic gold medalist and 2012 Drake Relays women’s pole vault champion, will headline this year’s “Pole Vault in the Mall” competition on April 24. Joining Suhr will be the current Olympic silver medalist women’s pole-vaulter, Yarisley Silva. The men’s lineup includes both gold and silver medalists from the 2012 Olympics, Renaud Lavillenie and Bjorn Otto. Men’s American record-holder, Brad Walker, is also scheduled to compete.

Afraid of running with a really long stick? Consider running in one of the Hy-Vee Road Races scheduled for April 28. The Races will be held on Sunday this year so everyone has the opportunity to take in the events Friday and Saturday, while also giving amateurs the opportunity to finish like the athletes do — with a memorable run around the blue track. CV

The Drake Relays will take place April 24-28. Ticket packages for the full weekend range from $65-$95. Single session tickets are $35 for adults on Friday; $20 for under 18. Saturday the cost is $40 for all attendees.

The Hy-Vee Road Races feature three running events anyone can compete in. All athletes will receive a gear bag and tech shirt at packet pickup and a medal at the finish line. Race week registration runs through April 26.

The 6K Race starts at 10 a.m., with a two-hour cut-off. Strollers are allowed: Race day fee is $30.

The 10K Race starts at 8 a.m.: $35 by April 26; Race day is $40.

The Half-Marathon Race starts at 8 a.m.: $60 by April 26; Race day is $75.