A busy month at Drake Stadium concludes this weekend with the NCAA track and field Midwest Regional. It will be another test for meet officials as the stadium will host the 2008 NCAA track and field championships.
Drake Associate Athletic Director Mark Kostek says they have a great cast of individuals who’re very knowledgeable in track and field along with 250 volunteers. Kosteck says hosting an event like the Drake Relays is much different than a championship meet.
He says the Drake Relays are very fan friendly in allowing athletes to get on an off the field. Kostek says there are more stringent rules about getting onto the infield and in the various areas during the NCAA meet.
The crowds this weekend won’t approach those of the Drake Relays but Kostek says they have been happy with the response. He says they’re in a position to say they’re sold more tickets than any other region at any other time. Kostek says this is the sixth year for the region and they’re excited and hope to set a standard that will make people take notice for years to come.
The meet is Friday and Saturday and competitors are hoping to qualify for the NCAA championships June sixth through the ninth in Sacramento, California.