(An Iowa Capital Dispatch report) -Drake University is honoring 100 years of Drake Stadium and preparing for another century of operations with a $6 million fundraising campaign, already kicked off with a grant from Prairie Meadows.

The Des Moines private university announced Thursday in a news release the launch of the Drake Stadium Centennial Campaign, which will raise funds for renovations to different aspects of the space, including its track, technology and more. The campaign received a $600,000 grant from Prairie Meadows this summer for the updates.

(Photo: Drake University has announced a fundraising campaign for its 100-year-old stadium. (Photo courtesy of Drake University)

“Drake Stadium is a place where legends compete and communities gather,” said Gary Palmer, president and CEO of Prairie Meadows. “We are proud to support its next chapter and help keep the Blue Oval shining bright.”

Both the track and field surfaces of the stadium are scheduled for replacement under the campaign, the release stated, as well as upgrades to lighting and the video and score boards. The release stated the campaign will also put donations toward updating the stadium press box and adding “two reversible long jump/triple jump and pole vault runways.”

Funds from the campaign will also go toward construction of a “permanent hospitality space” for guests coming to the university for events hosted at the stadium. According to the release, these enhancements will ensure the stadium meets different competition and broadcast standards and improves guest experiences.

First opened in 1925, the release stated the stadium hasn’t seen renovations since 2006. In addition to the annual track and field event the Drake Relays, the stadium has hosted multiple USA Track and Field Championships, NCAA Outdoor Championships and AAU Junior Olympics. It is also home to the Iowa High School Track and Field Championships, Drake football and other community events.
“Drake Stadium is more than just a facility—it’s a century of memories, records, and community pride,” Drake University President Marty Martin said in the release. “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.”