Drake Relays pole vault to return to West Des Moines mall

The Drake Relays returns to a West Des Moines mall on April 20th when the pole vault returns to the Jordan Creek Town Center. The event was last held in 2024.

That’s Drake Relays director Blake Boldon. The women’s field will be highlighted defending Olympic champion Katie Moon and American record holder Sandi Morris on the women’s side. The men’s field includes American record holder KC Lightfoot and reigning U-S indoor champion Zach Bradford.

Two years ago Lightfoot won with an eye popping vault of 19-feet, eight and a quarter inch.

Drake athletic director Brian Hardin says taking events to the public is a great way to promote the relays.

Hardin feels it is a way to attract new fans to track and field.