Greater Des Moines CVB Sports Press Releases

Des Moines set to host 2013 USA Outdoor Track & Field Championships

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 12:17:14 CST

USA Track & Field on Wednesday announced its intent to host the 2013 USA Outdoor Track & Field Championships in Des Moines, Iowa, on the campus of Drake University.

The championships will be hosted by the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Des Moines Area Sports Commission and Drake University.

The USA Outdoor Track & Field Championships were previously held in Des Moines in 2010, where the five-day event produced two American records in women’s competition - Chaunte Lowe in the high jump and Kara Patterson in the javelin.

Des Moines is best known for hosting the annual Drake Relays for more than 100 years where a sell-out crowd and more than 8,000 participants gather for one of the greatest traditions in track and field. The city has recently hosted the NCAA Outdoor Championships in 2008 and 2011 and is set to host the 2012 event. In 2004, the 14,467 seat facility at Drake underwent a $15 million renovation, including the creation of the Track Central USA Fan Zone.

"We are proud to once again welcome USATF to Track Central USA in Des Moines,” said Greg Edwards, Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau President and CEO. “We are thankful to have a strong partnership with Drake University and the Athletic Department. It is their dedication that helps ensure the athletes, coaches and fans have the experience of a lifetime at the great Drake Stadium.

“The community support for track and field in our city is phenomenal. We couldn't host events like this without city support, local fan involvement and corporate backing.”

“We are happy to announce our return to Des Moines,” said Mike McNees, Interim CEO of USATF. “We look forward to capitalizing on the community’s energy for track and field evident in the ever popular Drake Relays, and we are excited to grow the championships in Des Moines.”

More information on the championships will continue to be added to www.usatf.org. Information is also available at www.SeeDesMoines.com and www.TrackCentralUSA.com.

Greater Des Moines Wins Big with NCAA Division I Womens Basketball Regional Championship

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 15:02:43 CST

The NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Regional Championship has wrapped up in Des Moines, leaving behind an economic impact of $2 million on Greater Des Moines.

“The community-wide support made this event a big win for our region,” said Greg Edwards, President and CEO of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau. “We put out the call to residents, corporations and visitors to support this sport in our community and the response has been overwhelming.”

Hotel staff wore “Welcome to Des Moines” t-shirts and “Welcome NCAA” buttons. Businesses around the metro hung signs in their storefronts and lobbies welcoming NCAA student-athletes, coaches and fans.

“We’ve heard great feedback from visitors and locals. Hosting NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Regional Championship in Greater Des Moines was a slam dunk,” said Edwards.

The Des Moines Regional Championship led the other regions in ticket sales on Saturday, with a total of 7,941 tickets sold. Last night, 9,068 tickets were sold. Final ticket numbers from other regions will be available later this week.

NAIA Wrestling Impacts Greater Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 09:19:16 CST

The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) 2012 Wrestling National Championship is in Des Moines for the first time in the event’s 55-year history. The event brings 500 wrestlers, coaches and staff to the Iowa State Fairgrounds Jacobson Exhibition Center March 1-3. An estimated 10,000 attendees are expected over the course of the event, resulting in a near $1 million economic impact on Greater Des Moines.

Grand View University is the local host of this event, along with the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau and Des Moines Area Sports Commission.

NAIA announced the qualifiers for the 2012 NAIA Wrestling National Championships last week. The first of six sessions is set to get underway at 11 a.m. on March 1. Brackets will be posted February 29 by 9 p.m.

Among the 320 qualifiers are 24 returning All-Americans, including two defending national champions and two runner-up finishers. Searching for a second-consecutive title will be Great Fall’s (Mont.) Anthony Varnell at 141 pounds and Evan Hinebauch of Montana State-Northern at 184 pounds. Hinebauch, along with Campbellsville’s Tommy Pretty, enter the championships as the only three-time All-Americans. Pretty claimed the 133 pound individual title in 2010, before moving up to the 141 pound class in 2011.

Each weight class will have at least one returning All-American in action in Des Moines, with both 141 and 165 pounds featuring four All-Americans.

Grand View enters the tournament as the team favorite. The Vikings qualified 12 individuals and have held the top spot in the NAIA Wrestling Coaches’ Top 20 Poll for four consecutive weeks.

NeuLion will stream live all 10 individual weight class championship bouts on March 3 and will be available to view starting at approximately 6:45 p.m. A fee of $9.95 is set to view the finals. For more information visit www.naia.org.

Des Moines Wins National Sports Award from Event Planners

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 13:33:03 CST

The Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), under the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) umbrella, has been awarded the 2012 SportsEvents Media Group Readers’ Choice Award.

The award recognizes the DMASC for exemplary creativity and professionalism toward the groups Greater Des Moines has hosted throughout 2011. Sports event professionals nominated and voted for DMASC to win this award.

“We are thrilled to receive this honor and share it with all of the communities we represent and partners we work alongside,” said Greg Edwards, President/CEO of the GDMCVB, which is the parent organization to the DMASC. “Our team works diligently to ensure our visitors have a pleasant experience and successful event each time they’re in Greater Des Moines. We couldn’t continually receive accolades such as this, without strong community support.”

The sports division of the GDMCVB is made up of Mark Kostek, Vice President of Sports Development; Scott Koch, Senior Sports Manager; and Katie Jessen, Senior Sports Event Manager.

SportsEvents will list all 2012 Readers’ Choice Award Winners in the January 2012 edition of the publication. A complete list of award winners is available online now at http://www.sportseventsmagazine.com/2012-readers-choice-awards/.

About SportsEvents Media Group
SportsEvents Media Group, publisher of SportsEvents magazine, is the industry leader in providing products and services designed to connect sports events organizers with sports commissions, CVBs, hotels, insurance companies and other sports events industry suppliers.

Greater Des Moines Sees Increase in Expenditures

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 09:50:32 CST

The number of visitors to Greater Des Moines remained strong in 2010, while the dollars spent by those visitors increased to $1.6 billion, one quarter of the entire state’s expenditures.

Throughout the year, Greater Des Moines hosted more than 2.9 million visitors who spent nearly $1.6 billion between Polk and Dallas counties, according to the Economic Impact of Travel Study released by the Iowa Economic Development Authority’s Iowa Tourism Office.

“We anticipated the number of visitors to remain strong, based off of the number of event bookings we had throughout 2010,” said Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) President/CEO Greg Edwards. “The increase in expenditures is good news for the Metro’s hospitality professionals – made up of 16,000 hospitality jobs.”

Polk County travel expenditures were at $1.5 billion in 2010, while Dallas County brought in $141 million, bringing the total expenditures for Greater Des Moines to $1.6 billion, an 8.5 percent increase over 2009. Total expenditures in the state of Iowa were $6.6 billion.

Greater Des Moines travel expenditures were driven, in part, by conventions and sports events secured by the GDMCVB and the Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), under the umbrella of the GDMCVB. In 2010, these events included the USATF Outdoor Track & Field Championships, World Pork Expo and the Gold Wing Road Riders Association Wing Ding 32.

Event Held in Des Moines Wins National Sports Award

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 09:15:16 CST

The 2011 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships held in Des Moines June 8-11, 2011 has been named the Best Collegiate Multi-Sport/Multi-Discipline Event in the country by SportsTravel Magazine.

Award winners were nominated and voted upon by readers of SportsTravel, the sports world’s event magazine. To be eligible, events had to occur between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011 and must have met the following requirements:

Superior organization of and attendance at the event
Superior experience for competitors/spectators
Host city/venue served to enhance the event

“This is a tremendous honor for everyone involved with this great event,” said Greg Edwards, President/CEO of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB), which is the parent organization to the Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC). “Our team worked closely with the NCAA and Sandy Hatfield Clubb and her team at Drake University to make the Track and Field Championships successful for the local community and memorable for the athletes, coaches and fans. It’s invigorating to have others notice our teams’ exemplary work.”

“Recognition by SportsTravel Magazine is a testimony to the collaborative efforts of many people and it confirms that Des Moines is indeed Track Central USA,” said Sandy Hatfield Clubb, Drake University Athletic Director. “The NCAA Track and Field Championships provides an excellent platform to show off Drake Stadium and the passionate engagement of the Des Moines Metro community on a national scale.”

SportsTravel Magazine announced the winners of all 2011 SportsTravel Awards at the TEAMS 2011 Conference and October on October 6 in Las Vegas. For a complete list of all winners, visit http://sportstravelmagazine.com/teams11/Winners_of_the_2011_SportsTravel_Awards.pdf.

Hy-Vee Triathlon Brings New Dollars into Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 10:12:52 CST

The 2011 Hy-Vee Triathlon is expected to have a $3 million economic impact on the area, according to the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB).

“We’re extremely fortunate to host an event of this stature in our community,” said Chris Coleman, GDMCVB Chairman of the Board. “Sporting events continue to be a big draw for visitors and groups. The Hy-Vee Triathlon 5150 US Championship gives us the opportunity to further market Des Moines nationally through athletes, and media, from all over the country.”

Of the 2,200 participants, 1,700 are visitors – some from other countries. The visiting athletes, coaches, families and fans are spending dollars at area hotels, restaurants, attractions and on transportation within Greater Des Moines for, on average, five nights.

The Hy-Vee Triathlon events run this weekend, September 2-4. For more information on the event, visit www.hy-veetriathlon.com.

Des Moines' Sports Success Continues

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 11:59:08 CST

Des Moines, IA - Des Moines has been chosen as the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Wrestling Championship host city for 2013. The event will be held at the Jacobson Exhibition Center at the Iowa State Fairgrounds on February 21-23, 2013.

"The Jacobson Center is the ideal location for NJCAA," said Gary Slater, CEO/Manager of the Iowa State Fairgrounds. "This is a major national booking for this new facility."

Des Moines hosted the event in 2010.

"We're proud to host NJCAA again. This is further proof that Iowa is a wrestling state," said Greg Edwards, Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau President and CEO. "From NCAA to Junior College to Youth, the national governing bodies know Des Moines can and will deliver fans and excellent venues."

Scott Koch, Senior Sports Manager at the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau, made the pitch to NJCAA and ultimately solidified Des Moines being selected. Proposals from each potential future host were reviewed and approved by the NJCAA Championship Events Committee and Board of Directors at their 2011 annual legislative meetings in Tampa, Florida.

Iowa Soccer Olympic Development Program Team Wins National Championship

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 16:18:21 CST

Iowa Soccer Association News Release
Contact: Jenny Wood, 515/252-6363
jwood@iowasoccer.org

On Sunday, March 6, Iowa Soccer‟s 1994 Boys Olympic Development Program (ODP) team captured the state‟s first-ever National Championship of any kind at the youth soccer level by defeating California-South, 4-1. The win comes on the heels of taking down another warm-weather state, Florida, 3-1 in Friday‟s semifinal at the Reach 11 Sports Complex in Phoenix, Ariz.

To put into perspective the outstanding achievement, the team not only defeated teams that have been training outside during the winter, but also that come from state associations that have among the highest numbers of registered players in all of US Youth Soccer. “For a state the size of Iowa to beat Florida and Cal-South in the National Finals, and win a National tournament that started last summer with state teams from all 55 State Associations is a phenomenal achievement,” said Iowa Soccer Director of Coaching Ian Bradley.

Coached by Andrew McKnight of Iowa City, the squad totaled seven goals in two matches, while giving up only two. In the victory against Florida, Gabe Christianson scored the opener at the 27th minute, with Tyler Chavez following at the 54th to open up a 2-0 lead. Florida scored in the 90th minute, but Iowa responded within seconds when Chavez struck gold a second time.

In the Championship, Danton Irelan put Iowa ahead with a tally 26 minutes in. Christianson scored what ended up as the game-winner with 20 minutes to play on a penalty kick. Cal-South struck with 13 minutes to go to pull within 2-1, but Irelan and Quint Wickett shut the door on a comeback with goals in the final five minutes. Patrick Bunting tended goal for Iowa in both matches.

McKnight shared his post-game reaction, “What a special moment at the final whistle, having the opportunity to see the reaction of the players, knowing how badly they wanted to succeed and knowing how hard they had to work to do it. It was very special.”

The Iowa team is no stranger to the National Championships, having competed there in 2010 after winning the 2009 Region II ODP Championships -- or to international competition – taking on Brazilian youth teams during a two-week tour there in 2009. The team also won the 2008 Region II ODP Championships, but at that time, no National competition was conducted for that birth year group.

Age group winners from each of the four US Youth Soccer Regions (Regions I, II, III and IV) are determined in summer preceding the National Championships. The ‟94 Boys‟ bracket was rounded out by Eastern Pennsylvania, another “large state” association.

Team members include Austin Bergstrom (Cedar Rapids), Patrick Bunting (Ankeny), Tyler Chavez (Iowa City), Gabe Christianson (Cedar Rapids), Joshua Dicken (Johnston), Juan Carlos Espinal (Muscatine), Chad Gilmer (Cedar Rapids), Ryan Hall (Tiffin), Danton Irelan (Ottumwa), Cody Jacobson (Johnston), Paris Martins (North Liberty), Austin Reutzel (Swisher), Muengnenshime Sunday (Iowa City), Konnor Tranoris (West Des Moines), Jonah Waldron (Adel), Quint Wickett (Bettendorf).

Of the players, McKnight stated, “The players were very aware that they were representing their families, their club coaches and the state of Iowa. They represented you all very well in every department.”

Iowa ODP teams are formed when players try out and are selected to compete on their age group team that represents the state at ODP events. Various additional competitions and training offers those players exposure to the nation‟s best coaches, trainers and facilities, as well as opportunities to advance up the ODP ladder. Last July, Bunting, Chavez, Christianson, Dicken, Irelan, Reutzel and Sunday all were selected to the Region II „94B ODP pool.

For more about the program, visit iowasoccer.org or contact Iowa Soccer Director of Coaching Ian Bradley, ibradley@iowasoccer.org.

Central Iowa Sports Awards Winners Announced

info@seedesmoines.com — Sun, 27 Feb 2011 22:00:18 CST

The Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), under the umbrella of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB), has announced the winners of the Central Iowa Sports Awards, recognizing athletic excellence with honor in 2010. The winners were named Sunday, February 27, 2011 at The Meadows Ballroom, Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino in Altoona.

Video of the awards banquet will air on Mediacom Connections Channel 22 on a date that is still to be determined.

Central Iowans cast their votes for individuals and teams who have pursued athletic excellence with honor in 2010, within a 75-mile radius of Principal Park. The Central Iowa Sports Awards' Honor Committee reviewed the nominees and asked the public to vote for their top choices via the DMASC website in February. From those votes, the Honor Committee named the following winners.

Professional/Motorsports/Other

Athlete of the Year

Jeremy Hellickson, Tampa Bay Rays
Event of the Year

USA Track & Field Outdoor Championships

College/University
Game of the Year
Iowa State vs. Texas Football
Team of the Year
William Penn, Football
Female Athlete of the Year
Lisa Koll, Iowa State Track & Field
Male Athlete of the Year
Shane Wong, Central Football

High School
Game of the Year
Dowling vs. Iowa City High Football
Team of the Year
Carlisle, Softball
Female Athlete of the Year
Katie Flood, Dowling Cross Country
Male Athlete of the Year
Tim Olejniczak, Ankeny Christian Academy Football

Lifetime Achievement
Bob Feller, Bob Feller Museum

The Central Iowa Sports Awards' Honor Committee is made up of: The Des Moines Register Sports Editor Bryce Miller, ABC5 Sports Director John Walters, KCCI NewsChannel 8 Sports Director Andy Garman, WHO-TV Channel 13 Sports Director Keith Murphy, 1460 KXNO's Ken Miller and Iowa Sports Connection's Mike Rickord.

Mark Kostek Named VP of Sports and Development

info@seedesmoines.com — Sun, 27 Feb 2011 22:22:04 CST

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) is proud to name its newest team member, Mark Kostek. Kostek will take the helm as Vice President of Sports and Development of the Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), which is under the GDMCVB umbrella, March 7.

Kostek has been the Assistant Director of Athletics for Annual Fund and Special Events at Drake University since September 2008. Prior to that role, he was the Associate Director of Athletics for External Operations and Relays from February 2005-September 2008 and the Drake Relays Director and Assistant Director of Athletics from September 2000-February 2005 at Drake. During his time with the University, Kostek played a key role in directing special events, such as the NCAA Track and Field Championships and the USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships. He also supervised and supported the Drake Relays Director, among other additional duties.

Before moving to Des Moines in 2000, Kostek was Track and Field Coordinator at the University of Nebraska from 1980-2000.

"It's clear that Mark's no stranger to the world of sports," said GDMCVB President and CEO Greg Edwards. "He has strong relationships with many track and field experts throughout the country, which will no doubt assist the GDMCVB and DMASC in maintaining and developing sports-related bookings in Greater Des Moines. His devotion to the city and the sports arena, in particular, will serve our community very well."

"We're happy that Mark will still be active in the Des Moines sports scene. He has been a huge asset to the Drake Athletics program," said Drake University Athletic Director Sandy Hatfield Clubb. "We work closely with the DMASC and having Mark in his new role will continue to enhance our collective ability to attract major sporting events to the Greater Des Moines area."

Outside of work, Kostek was assigned as a technical official to the U.S. Olympic Trials in 2004 and 2008, and is one of only 12 U.S. National Technical Officials. He has also acted as a referee at the NCAA Championships from 2001-2006 and 2009-2010, among many other track and field-related activities and distinctions.

Kostek has a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Drake University and a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from the University of Nebraska.

Kostek replaces Al Lorenzen, who left the DMASC to head up Wildwood Hills Ranch in early February.

Vote Now for the 2010 Central Iowa Sports Awards

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:47:22 CST

The Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), an organization under the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) umbrella, is asking Central Iowans to vote now for their favorite local sports performances of 2010. Online voting is open now through February 18 at SeeDesMoines.com/CISA.

The Central Iowa Sports Awards (CISA) will be given to individuals and teams who have pursued athletic excellence with honor in 2010. The calendar year activities must have occurred within a 75-mile radius of home plate at Principal Park. Award winners will be named at the CISA banquet Sunday, February 27, 2010 at 6 p.m. at the Meadows Ballroom, Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino in Altoona. Tickets are available for $85 per seat, or $650 for a table of eight at SeeDesMoines.com/CISA.

"The Central Iowa Sports Awards are an opportunity for all of us to honor excellence and achievement in athletics," said Al Lorenzen, DMASC Vice President of Sports and Development. "We need everyone to vote for their favorite athlete or team today!"

Central Iowa Sports Awards will be awarded in the following categories:

High School

Female Athlete of the Year
Male Athlete of the Year
Game of the Year
Team of the Year

College/University

Female Athlete of the Year
Male Athlete of the Year
Game of the Year
Team of the Year

Professional/Motorsports/Other

Athlete of the Year
Event of the Year

Lifetime Achievement

To vote and to find more information, visit SeeDesMoines.com/CISA.

The Central Iowa Sports Awards' Honor Committee is made up of: Des Moines Area Sports Commission Vice President of Sports and Development Al Lorenzen, The Des Moines Register Sports Editor Bryce Miller, ABC5 Sports Director John Walters, KCCI NewsChannel 8 Sports Director Andy Garman, WHO-TV Channel 13 Sports Director Keith Murphy, 1460 KXNO's Ken Miller and Iowa Sports Connection's Mike Rickord.

NCAA Basketball in Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 16:34:41 CST

UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN IOWA SELECTED TO HOST 2012 NCAA DIVISION I WOMEN'S BASKETBALL REGIONAL AT WELLS FARGO ARENA IN DES MOINES

Des Moines, IA - The NCAA Division I Women's Basketball Championship Committee announced Tuesday, October 26 that the University of Northern Iowa has been selected as one of four hosts for the 2012 NCAA Division I Women's Basketball Regional Championships at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, IA. The NCAA Committee awarded Fresno, CA; Kingston, RI; and Raleigh, NC as the other Regional sites in 2012. Tickets for the 2012 Regionals will go on sale at a later date.

The Des Moines Local Organizing Committee (LOC) was comprised of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB), Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), University of Northern Iowa (UNI), Global Spectrum and Polk County.

"Anytime we can land an event with the NCAA, it proves that Des Moines is becoming well-known in hosting high impact, national events," said Greg Edwards, President/CEO of the GDMCVB. "Plus, it's a perk for local basketball fans as they can see, in person, one of the teams that will advance to the Final Four."

"We're thrilled to be selected as one of only four host institutions for the 2012 Division I Women's Basketball Regionals," UNI Athletics Director Troy Dannen said. "Hosting the games in Des Moines at Wells Fargo Arena will provide our fans a chance to travel to Central Iowa and for UNI to partner with the NCAA, Wells Fargo Arena and the City of Des Moines on one of the NCAA's most celebrated events."

Wells Fargo Arena last hosted the NCAA Division I Women's Basketball First and Second Rounds in 2008 and had the highest attendance out of all eight sites. This is the first time the Regional rounds have been awarded to Wells Fargo Arena. Des Moines hosted the 2008 NCAA Division I Track and Field Championships at Drake Stadium, with return trips scheduled for 2011 and 2012. This past June Wells Fargo Arena was awarded the 2013 Division I Wrestling Championships.

Des Moines has become a city known for executing high level sporting events in previous years, including the AAU Junior Olympics, Drake Relays, USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, High School Girls and Boys State Basketball Championships, High School State Wrestling Championships and the World Disc Golf Championships.

"We are excited that the NCAA has selected Wells Fargo Arena as one of four sites for the 2012 NCAA Division I Women's Basketball Regional," said Global Spectrum's Matt Homan, General Manager of Wells Fargo Arena. "We felt after the success of hosting the 2008 first and second rounds that we would be a strong host site for the Regionals. We thank the NCAA for their confidence in us, and look forward to working with all of our partners on this prestigious event."

For more information, including a press release from NCAA, visit http://www.ncaa.com/sports/w-baskbl/spec-rel/102610aab.html.

Wells Fargo Arena Press Contact:
Adam Flack, Wells Fargo Arena
(515) 418-2618 cell
(515) 564-8031 office
aflack@iowaeventscenter.com

University of Northern Iowa Press Contact:
Colin McDonough
(319) 415-4059 cell
colin.mcdonough@uni.edu

Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau/Des Moines Area Sports Commission:
Tiffany Tauscheck
(515) 491-9350 cell
tiffany@desmoinescvb.com

World Premiere of Emerica Skateboarding Video "STAY GOLD" on August 21 in Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 17:30:24 CST

Contact: Des Moines Regional Skatepark Steering Committee
Jan Hill, President
(515) 979-6336
jhill821@msn.com
A Mid-Iowa Organizing Strategy (AMOS)
Paul Turner, Lead Organizer
turnpr@msn.com

DES MOINES, IA - New York, Los Angeles, and Des Moines, Iowa, have been chosen by Emerica to premiere “Stay Gold,” a skateboarding video featuring the entire Emerica team, prior to the September 1 release.

The world premiere in Des Moines will be this Saturday, August 21, in front of the new Subsect Skateshop at 309 E Walnut.

Autograph signing with the entire Emerica team, including pros Andrew Reynolds, Heath Kirchart, Bryan Herman, and Leo Romero, will begin at 5 p.m. Seating for the video premiere will begin at 7:30 p.m.; the video will be shown at dusk. Food and beverages will be available. The showing is free. Preferred seating is available for $5 (200 seats available), with all proceeds going to the Des Moines Regional Skatepark Fund. The Regional Skatepark, planned to be the largest in the USA, will be located along the west bank of the Des Moines River, north of the new pedestrian bridge. For more information about the premiere, go to www.subsectonline.com or www.emerica.com, or call Subsect at 276-4365.

Donations to support the Des Moines Regional Skatepark should be directed to the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, 1915 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50309. Write Des Moines Regional Skatepark Fund in the check memo line. To donate online, visit www.desmoinesfoundation.org, click Donate Online, Community Betterment Funds, and select the Des Moines Regional Skatepark Fund from the drop down menu.

Sleepy Hollow Launches New Go-Karts Today

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 12:27:51 CST

Sleepy Hollow Sports Park is proud to announce that they are rolling out brand new Go-Karts today, July 16. They have replaced their entire fleet. The new carts will begin operation today at 1 p.m.

Max Kenkel, General Manager for Sleepy Hollow said, “The new carts are designed for our track, which is a ¼ mile Grand Prix style. People should notice right away a big difference in the way they handle.”

Go-Karting at Sleepy Hollow is open daily. Hours are 1-9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday and Noon - 8 p.m. Sunday.

For more information on Sleepy Hollow visit sleepyhollowsportspark.com or call 515.262.4100.

Iowa State University Selected to Host 2013 NCAA Division 1 Wrestling Championships at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 17:48:15 CST

For more information contact: Tiffany Tauscheck
Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau
Direct: (515) 699-3433
Cell: (515) 491-9350
ttauscheck@desmoinescvb.com

Des Moines, IA - The NCAA Division I Wrestling Committee announced Friday, June 25 that Iowa State University has been selected to host the 2013 NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, IA. The NCAA Committee also awarded the 2014 Wrestling Championship to Oklahoma City, OK.

The Des Moines Local Organizing Committee (LOC) spent nearly two years working through the bid process, with input from the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB), Des Moines Area Sports Commission, Iowa State University, the Big 12 Conference, Global Spectrum, and Polk County.

"Booking this event was truly a collaborative effort and one that the whole community can now celebrate," said Greg Edwards, President/CEO of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB). "We're proud to continue bringing quality events into Greater Des Moines to benefit the local economy."

"We are thrilled that the NCAA Championship is coming back to Central Iowa and to Wells Fargo Arena for the first time," Iowa State athletics director Jamie Pollard said. "This was a joint effort between Iowa State, Polk County, the Big 12, the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Des Moines Area Sports Commission, and Global Spectrum to bring this great event back to our state for the first time since 2001. Iowa State hosted the first NCAA Championship in Ames in 1928 and this will be the eighth time that ISU has hosted the event. Iowa State wrestling fans and our Cyclone wrestling student-athletes and fans of the sport throughout our state are the biggest winners in this successful NCAA bid."

While this will be the first time NCAA Champions are crowned inside Wells Fargo Arena, it's not the first time the NCAA has held successful events in Des Moines. In 2008, the Division I Women's Basketball first and second rounds were hosted at Wells Fargo Arena, and the 2008 NCAA Division I Track and Field Championships was hosted at Drake Stadium, with return trips scheduled for 2011 and 2012.

"This is another example of a major event again putting Des Moines on the map with sports enthusiasts," said Al Lorenzen, Vice President of Sports and Development with the Des Moines Area Sports Commission, an organization under the GDMCVB umbrella. "This showcases our community's commitment to health and wellness."

Des Moines has become a city known for executing high level sporting events in previous years, including the AAU Junior Olympics, Drake Relays, USA Track and Field Championships, High School State Wrestling Championships and the World Disc Golf Championships. When Polk County officials made the decision to build Wells Fargo Arena, events like this were on the list of those they hoped to attract.

"Showcasing the NCAA Wrestling Tournament at Wells Fargo Arena is exactly the type of national event that was envisioned for the Iowa Events Center since it was first conceived. This event will provide a huge economic development impact and allow us to share with thousands more all that Des Moines and Polk County have to offer," stated Polk County Supervisor Angela Connolly.

"This is a tremendous accomplishment for everyone in the State of Iowa," said Global Spectrum's Matt Homan, General Manager of Wells Fargo Arena. "We look forward to exceeding the NCAA's expectations for the 2013 Wrestling Championships and providing a first-class facility and city for wrestling fans to enjoy."

Wells Fargo Arena Press Contact:
Adam Flack, Wells Fargo Arena
515-418-2618 cell
515-564-8031 office
aflack@iowaeventscenter.com

Iowa State University Athletics Press Contact:
Tom Kroeschell
515-294-3372
tkroesch@iastate.edu

Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau/Des Moines Area Sports Commission:
Tiffany Tauscheck
515-699-3433
ttauscheck@desmoinescvb.com

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to promote Greater Des Moines as a fun, vibrant and affordable destination statewide, nationally and internationally. Our focus increases visitors to our community through meetings, conventions, sports events, leisure travel, and group tours, thereby contributing to the local economy.

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Des Moines Hosts Junior Olympic Archery Development National Championships

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 15:45:58 CST

Junior Olympic Archery Development - A Program of USA Archery
Contact: Diane Watson, JOAD National Coordinator
(727) 389-3264
dwatson@usarchery.org

Event Will Also Select U.S. Archers for Youth Olympic Games in Singapore

Des Moines, IA – The Cownie Soccer Complex in Des Moines will be home to a new group of young athletes this weekend: archers aged 8-20, from across the United States, competing for the title of Junior Olympic Archery Development National Champion, at the Easton JOAD National Championships.

Junior Olympic Archery Development (JOAD) is a program of USA Archery, the National Governing Body for the Olympic sport of archery in the United States. JOAD clubs are located across the country, and offer young people the chance to learn the sport of archery in a group setting, and the opportunity to compete in state, local and national tournaments. Registrations for this year’s Easton JOAD National Championships are indicative of strong growth in the national JOAD program, with over 200 archers expected to compete this weekend.

The competition, in addition to determining the JOAD National Champion, also serves as a primary qualifying tournament for those hoping to be part of the Junior United States Archery Team, and, new in 2010, also serves as the selection event to determine the one girl and one boy who will represent the United States at the Youth Olympic Games in Singapore this August.

“It’s wonderful to see young archers from all over the United States coming together to compete,” states Denise Parker, USA Archery CEO. “With the first-ever Youth Olympic Games Trials as part of this event, it promises to be an exciting weekend.”

This weekend’s tournament will open with a practice day on Thursday, June 24, for all competitors, followed that afternoon by the Youth Olympic Games Qualification Round, which will rank archers according to their score. The top four boys and top four girls attempting to qualify for the Youth Olympic Games will then shoot head to head matches later in the weekend.

On Friday, June 25, archers of all ages will shoot 72 arrows for score, the first half of their qualification round for the weekend. That afternoon, archers will take to the field once again for Team Rounds, during which shooters will work as part of a team in a fun and fast-paced competition to determine the top team for each age and gender group.

On Saturday, all archers will shoot their final 72 arrows, the overall score of which will determine their seeding for elimination rounds. On Saturday afternoon, those participating in the Youth Olympic Games selection event will also participate in exciting match play, which will narrow the field to the single girl and boy who will represent the United States at the Youth Olympic Games. Sunday is the final day of JOAD National Championships, during which all archers will participate in elimination matches, using the same format used in the Olympic games, to determine the JOAD National Champions in each age group.

USA Archery and the JOAD Program extend thanks to the city of Des Moines and its Convention and Visitors Bureau, as well as to the Des Moines Sports Commission, for their assistance with this event. For more information on USA Archery and on Junior Olympic Archery Development, visit usarchery.org.

Scott Koch Recognized as a Certified Sports Event Executive

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 05 May 2010 12:31:07 CST

Scott Koch, Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC) Senior Sales Manager, is now a Certified Sports Event Executive (CSEE). This prestigious, national program and training is only available to National Association of Sports Commissions members.

The program includes continuing education to provide participants with cutting edge knowledge to increase their efficiency and effectiveness in the sports event industry while enabling them to earn the designation of CSEE. Koch is one of 85 new graduates of this program.

Koch has been with the DMASC, serving under the umbrella of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB), since August of 2004. In his position, he recruits sporting events to the area to help create economic impact.

Prior to joining the DMASC, Koch attended graduate school at Florida State University while working for both their athletic department and men's basketball team. He received his master's degree from Florida State University in Sports Administration and Marketing and Sports Management degrees from Iowa State University.

Koch is an Urbandale native and now lives in West Des Moines.

Des Moines Recognized as Track Central USA

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 16:20:05 CST

Greater Des Moines has a long and storied legacy as a track and field destination. That legacy is being honored and solidified for generations to come with the unveiling of Track Central USA.

With the $15 million renovation of Drake Stadium in 2006, Drake University and Greater Des Moines have become a mecca in hosting high caliber track and field events in the United States.

In addition to serving as home of the Drake Relays, with more than 100 years of rich tradition, Greater Des Moines and Drake University, have hosted the 2007 NCAA Midwest Regional Outdoor Track and Field Championship, the 2008 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championship and more recently the 2009 AAU Junior Olympics.

Drake University and the Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC) will combine efforts in hosting the 2010 USA Track and Field Outdoor Championships at Drake Stadium June 23-27. Drake was also awarded the 2011 and 2012 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships.

Track Central USA is a comprehensive branding strategy that will forever change the fan experience at future track and field events in Greater Des Moines. The DMASC, an organization under the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) umbrella, and Drake University are proud to make this collaborative announcement.

The cornerstone of this exciting new initiative is an innovative and interactive Track Central USA Fan Zone adjacent to Drake Stadium. This area will include interactive video kiosks, a “hands on” track and field exhibit space, an area designated for fitness/wellness, a stage for athlete interaction, improved merchandise exhibit area, food and other vendors.

“One hundred years of the Drake Relays and our success in recent years landing and hosting world class track and field events has cemented our place in the world of track and field. The Track Central USA initiative allows us to take it to the next level as we pursue the Olympic Trials for track and field in the future,” said Greg Edwards, GDMCVB President and CEO. “Our community, with the guidance and leadership of Drake University’s Athletic Department, continues to gain nationwide attention as a premiere track and field destination. Track Central USA and the Track Central USA Fan Zone capture the essence of our commitment to track and field in Greater Des Moines.”

"Drake University, in partnership with the Des Moines Area Sports Commission, is excited to unveil the Track Central USA Fan Zone at Drake Stadium," said Drake Athletic Director Sandy Hatfield Clubb. "This project will build on a well established track and field tradition and has tremendous synergy with other initiatives within our department focused on enhancing the fan experience."

Central Iowa Sports Awards Winners Announced

info@seedesmoines.com — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 22:33:24 CST

The Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC) has announced its first winners of the Central Iowa Sports Awards, recognizing athletic excellence with honor in 2009. The winners were named Sunday, February 21, 2010 at The Meadows, Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino in Altoona.

Central Iowa Sports Awards have been awarded to the following:
High School

Female Athlete of the Year: Katie Flood, Dowling Cross Country
Male Athlete of the Year: Harrison Barnes, Ames Basketball
Play of the Year: Morgan Hoeg, Waukee, Walk-off Homerun against Valley
Game of the Year: Marshalltown Football, Marshalltown vs. Dowling
Team of the Year: Dowling Catholic Cross Country

College/University

Female Athlete of the Year: Alison Lacey, Iowa State Basketball
Male Athlete of the Year: Craig Brackins, Iowa State Basketball
Play of the Year: Jesse Smith, Iowa State Football, Interception vs. Nebraska
Game of the Year: Iowa State University Football, Iowa State University vs. Nebraska
Team of the Year: Drake University Men’s Soccer

Professional/Motorsports/Other

Athlete of the Year: Justin Hartwig, Pittsburg Steelers
Event of the Year: Nationwide NASCAR Race

Lifetime Achievement

Jim Williams, Dowling Football

Video of the awards banquet will air on Mediacom Connections Channel 22 on a date that is still to be determined. Photos will appear on DesMoinesSports.com in March.

Central Iowans cast their votes for individuals and teams who have pursued athletic excellence with honor in 2009, within a 75-mile radius of Principal Park. The Central Iowa Sports Awards’ Honor Committee reviewed the nominees and asked the public to vote for their top choices via the DMASC website in early February. From those votes, the Honor Committee named the above winners.

The Central Iowa Sports Awards’ Honor Committee is made up of: Des Moines Area Sports Commission Vice President of Sports and Development Al Lorenzen, The Des Moines Register Sports Editor Bryce Miller, ABC5 Sports Director John Walters, KCCI NewsChannel 8 Sports Director Andy Garman, WHO-TV Channel 13 Sports Director Keith Murphy, 1460 KXNO’s Ken Miller and Iowa Sports Connection’s Mike Rickord.

Central Iowa Sports Awards Tickets Now on Sale

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 12:23:45 CST

Tickets to the first Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC) Central Iowa Sports Awards banquet are now available.

Central Iowans have cast their votes for individuals and teams who have pursued athletic excellence with honor in 2009, within a 75-mile radius of Principal Park. The award winners will be named this Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 5:30 p.m. at The Meadows, Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino in Altoona. Tickets are available for $85 per seat, or $750 for a table of 10 at DesMoinesSports.com.

Central Iowa Sports Awards will be awarded in the following categories:

High School

Female Athlete of the Year
Male Athlete of the Year
Play of the Year
Game of the Year
Team of the Year

College/University

Female Athlete of the Year
Male Athlete of the Year
Play of the Year
Game of the Year
Team of the Year

Professional/Motorsports/Other

Athlete of the Year
Event of the Year

Lifetime Achievement

To find more information, including the list of nominees and complete official rules, visit DesMoinesSports.com.

The Central Iowa Sports Awards’ Honor Committee is made up of: Des Moines Area Sports Commission Vice President of Sports and Development Al Lorenzen, The Des Moines Register Sports Editor Bryce Miller, ABC5 Sports Director John Walters, KCCI NewsChannel 8 Sports Director Andy Garman, WHO-TV Channel 13 Sports Director Keith Murphy, 1460 KXNO’s Ken Miller and Iowa Sports Connection’s Mike Rickord.

Zipflbop World Series Race Brings European Competitors to Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 16:22:18 CST

Sleepy Hollow and the Des Moines Winter Games are proud to announce one of their newest events, the Zipflbop World Series Race.

The race, taking place Saturday, February 6, will showcase over 40 competitors from Europe and the United States. The race is open to anyone to compete. The complete race schedule is as follows:

Friday, February 5
6 p.m. - Registration - Registration is $15
7 p.m. - Family Races - get your family team together and compete against other family teams - the family with the most points wins.

Saturday, February 6
9 a.m. - Registration
10 a.m. - Amateur races - open to anyone
1 p.m. - World Series Race - open to anyone

The Zipflfbop World Series Race at Sleepy Hollow will be the first ever on US soil. Competitors will be able to compete in two races while in the US, as Sleepy Hollow has partnered with Sunburst Mountain in Wisconsin to provide a second race the following weekend. Other stops include Germany, Sweden, Italy and Austria.

We also received word that the current World Champion, Paul Steinbach, will be traveling to the US to compete in the event at Sleepy Hollow.

For more information on the World Series of Zipflbop visit zipflbop.net, or call Max at (515) 262.4100. For more info on the Des Moines Winter Games visit dmwintergames.com.

Nominees Named for Central Iowa Sports Awards

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 12:49:46 CST

The Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), an organization under the Greater
Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) umbrella, has announced the nominees for the first Central Iowa Sports Awards. The awards recognize those who have pursued athletic excellence with honor in 2009. Activities must have occurred within a 75-mile radius of home plate at Principal Park and occurred during the 2009 calendar year.

Online voting of nominees is taking place now through February 4, 2010. The award winners will be named on February 21, 2010. More information and complete official rules are available at DesMoinesSports.com.

Central Iowa Sports Awards Nominees in:

High School

Female Athlete of the Year
- Amanda Zimmerman: Ballard of Huxley Basketball
- Jordan Gronewold: Carlisle Basketball
- Katie Flood: Nike Cross Country National Champion
- Miranda Leek: Youth World Archery Championships
- Sammy Snygg: North Polk Softball
Male Athlete of the Year
- Chanse Creekmur: Marshalltown Football
- Charlie Caris: Roosevelt Tennis
- Harrison Barnes: Ames Basketball
- John Meeks: Roosevelt Wrestling
- Louis Dalany Wickett: Madrid Football
- Matthew Phillip Dermody: Norwalk, Four-Sport Athlete
Play of the Year
- Chanse Creekmur to Jared Carlson: Marshalltown, Defeats Dowling in Football State Semifinals
- Harrison Barnes: Ames, Dunk in State Championship
- Morgan Hoeg walk off homerun: Waukee, Defeats Valley in Softball State Semifinals
Game of the Year
- Ames versus Linn Mar: Boys Basketball State 4A Championship
- Ames versus Linn Mar: Girls Basketball 4A Semifinals
- Earlham Softball versus Newell-Fonda: 1A State Softball
- Marshalltown versus Dowling: 4A State Football Semifinals
- Waukee versus Valley: State Softball Semifinals
Team of the Year
- Ames: Boys Basketball
- Ankeny: Volleyball
- Ballard of Huxley: Girls Basketball
- Ballard of Huxley: Wrestling
- Dowling Catholic: Cross Country
- Earlham: Softball
- Johnston: Softball
- Marshalltown: Football
- Norwalk: Baseball
- Roosevelt: Boys Tennis
- Roosevelt: Wrestling
- Southern Cal: Football
- Waukee: Track & Field

College/University

Female Athlete of the Year
- Allison Lacey: Iowa State Basketball, Elite 8
- Kaylee Manns: Iowa State Volleyball, Sweet 16, NCAA All-American
- Lisa Koll: Iowa State Cross Country and Track & Field
Male Athlete of the Year
- Craig Brackins: Iowa State Basketball
- Garrett Webb: Drake Soccer, NCAA All-American
- Jake Varner: Iowa State Wrestling, NCAA Champion
- Titus Bland: Grand View University Football, 1st Team NAIA All-American
Play of the Year
- Jesse Smith’s Interception: Iowa State Football
- Luke Gorzyca’s Shot: Drake Soccer
Game of the Year
- Drake versus Boston College: Soccer
- Iowa State versus Michigan State: Women’s Basketball
- Iowa State versus Nebraska: Football
- Iowa State versus Nebraska: Volleyball
Team of the Year
- Central College: Football
- Drake: Men’s Soccer
- Iowa State: Volleyball
- Iowa State: Women’s Basketball

Professional/Motorsports/Other

Athlete of the Year
- Brett Moffitt: NASCAR (17-year-old Johnston student)
- Justin Hartwig: Pittsburgh Steelers
- Michael Annett: NASCAR
- Terry McCarl: Knoxville Nationals
- Zach Johnson: PGA
Event of the Year
- Dam to Dam: Iowa’s Distance Classic
- First Nationwide NASCAR Race at Iowa Speedway
- Hy-Vee Triathlon
- Knoxville Nationals
- Principal Charity Classic

Lifetime Achievement

Coach Tom Davis: University of Iowa, Drake University
Deb Stetson: Roosevelt Tennis
Jim Williams: Dowling Football
Randy Hinkel: Madrid Football

The Central Iowa Sports Awards’ Honor Committee is made up of: Des Moines Area Sports Commission Vice President of Sports and Development Al Lorenzen, The Des Moines Register Sports Editor Bryce Miller, ABC5 Sports Director John Walters, KCCI NewsChannel 8 Sports Director Andy Garman, WHO-TV Channel 13 Sports Director Keith Murphy, 1460 KXNO’s Ken Miller and Iowa Sports Connection’s Mike Rickord.

NCAA Announces Site Selections for 2011-2014 Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:47:32 CST

CONTACT:
Kristen Jacob Smith
Assistant Director of Online
Properties and Media for Championships
(317) 917-6222

The NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s Track and Field Committee has selected Des Moines, Iowa for the 2011 and 2012 NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s Outdoor Track and Field Championships and Eugene, Ore., for the 2013 and 2014 championships. The 2011 and 2012 championships, hosted by Drake University, will be held at Drake Stadium. The University of Oregon, who will also serve as the host for the 2010 NCAA Outdoor championships will hold the 2013 and 2014 competitions at Hayward Field.

“The committee has worked really hard over the last several months to ensure we were awarding the championship to the best sites possible,” said Holly Sheilley, chair of the Division I Men’s and Women’s Track and Field Committee and assistant athletic director for student development and championships at the University of Louisville. “Drake and Oregon have shown in the past they put on world-class meets and we are confident they will do a great job hosting our future NCAA outdoor championships. The committee felt strongly about having the championship in two different sites within the four-year period to enhance the student-athlete experience.”

“It is an honor for Drake University to host the 2011 and 2012 NCAA track and field national championships,” said Sandy Hatfield Clubb, Athletic Director at Drake. “The record attendance coupled with the positive feedback that we received for hosting the 2008 NCAA meet contributed to Drake receiving strong consideration to host future meets. Our gratitude goes out to the NCAA selection committee.”

“With the commitment from University President Richard Lariviere and Athletic Director Mike Bellotti for not only this June’s NCAA Track & Field Championships, but also for 2013 and 2014, we are poised to create a truly spectacular experience for the student-athletes, the fans and the national television audience at Hayward Field,” said University of Oregon associate athletic director Vin Lananna.

For more information on the NCAA Division I Track and Field Championships, log on to NCAA.com.

Principal Charity Classic Ranks #1 on Champions Tour

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:59:04 CST

The Champions Tour has selected The Principal Charity Classic as its "Best Event" in 2009. The announcement was recently made by Champions Tour President, Mike Stevens, at the Champions Tour Tournament Association annual awards dinner in San Antonio, Texas.

"To be recognized as the best event on the Champions Tour says a lot about the Des Moines community," said Larry Zimpleman, chairman, president and chief executive officer, the Principal Financial Group®. "In just three short years, The Principal Charity Classic has distributed nearly $1.7 million to the five "FORE our Kids" charities in Iowa and has attracted record-breaking crowds. We are thrilled to be able to bring this outstanding event, and all the benefits that come with it, to the area."

The Champions Tour annually awards its events for outstanding performances based on several categories including:

On-site presentation and staging
Community support
Attendance
Charitable impact

"Being named the number one event on the Champions Tour would not be possible without our staff, board, sponsors, fans and over 1,000 volunteers," said Jamie Alt, tournament director. In addition, The Principal Charity Classic also received two "Brassie Awards," for advertising and marketing; first place for outdoor advertisement and runner-up for Web site marketing.

The 2009 Principal Charity Classic tournament was played May 26 - May 31, 2009 at Glen Oaks Country Club in West Des Moines, Iowa.

New Awards Honor Central Iowa Athletes

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:58:26 CST

The Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), an organization under the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) umbrella, has established the first-ever Central Iowa Sports Awards. The awards recognize those who have pursued athletic excellence with honor in 2009.

Awards will be presented in four categories:
High School

Male Athlete of the Year
Female Athlete of the Year
Team of the Year
Play of the Year
Game of the Year

College/University

Male Athlete of the Year
Female Athlete of the Year
Team of the Year
Play of the Year
Game of the Year

Professional/Motorsports/Other

Athlete of the Year
Event of the Year

Lifetime Achievement

Nominations for the first Central Iowa Sports Awards can be made now through December 18, 2009 at DesMoinesSports.com. Nominees’ activities must have occurred within a 75-mile radius of home plate at Principal Park and the activities must have occurred during the 2009 calendar year. Online voting of nominees will take place from January 4, 2010 to February 4, 2010. Complete official rules are available at DesMoinesSports.com.

The Central Iowa Sports Awards’ Honor Committee is made up of: Des Moines Area Sports Commission Vice President of Sports and Development Al Lorenzen, The Des Moines Register Sports Editor Bryce Miller, ABC5 Sports Director John Walters, KCCI NewsChannel 8 Sports Director Andy Garman, WHO-TV Channel 13 Sports Director Keith Murphy, 1460 KXNO’s Ken Miller and Iowa Sports Connection’s Mike Rickord.

National Lacrosse League Takes Wells Fargo Arena By Swarm

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:46:36 CST

The National Lacrosse League will visit Des Moines for the first time at 7 p.m. December 5, 2009 as the Minnesota Swarm take on the Colorado Mammoth in an exhibition faceoff.

The two teams will prepare for the 2010 season with this Western Division matchup at Wells Fargo Arena. Tickets for the game, priced at $41, $31, $21, and $11, can be purchased through the Wells Fargo Arena Ticket Office, all Dahl's Foods locations, online at dahlstickets.com, or by phone at 1-866-55-DAHLS. Interested groups of 10 or more can receive a $5 off discount on all price levels. For more information on group discounts, contact Jason Evans at (515) 564-8146 or jevans@iowaeventscenter.com.

Professional lacrosse is a high intensity sport that combines the action of football, hockey, and soccer all in one. Its fast pace and high hitting environment has made lacrosse one of the fastest growing sports in the country. The National Lacrosse League, compiled of 13 teams throughout the United States and Canada, features the world's best lacrosse players. Each NLL team is scheduled for 16 regular season games.

Headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, the Swarm finished the 2009 season with a record of 6 - 10. They will look to newcomer Zack Greer, former Duke University standout and all-time NCAA Division I leading scorer, to be the "offensive star power they've been looking for" this season. The first regular season game for the Swarm will be January 10 against defending league champions, the Calgary Roughnecks.

The Mammoth, located in Denver , Colorado, finished the 2009 season with a 7-9 record, making it to the Western Division Semifinals before losing to the Calgary Roughnecks. In the National Lacrosse League Entry Draft earlier this September, the Mammoth stuck to their roots, choosing University of Denver products as their first three selections. Crowned the NLL Champions in 2006, the Mammoth open their regular season on the road against the Washington Stealth on January 9.

Lacrosse fans can also expect to cheer on their local lacrosse teams throughout the night, as the University of Iowa Hawkeyes and Iowa State University Cyclones Men's Lacrosse Teams will go head-to-head for the first time at Wells Fargo Arena. This will be the second match up between these two teams this season; the first took place September 11, 2009 where the Cyclones won 13 - 9.

For more information about the National Lacrosse League visit nll.com.

For more information about the Minnesota Swarm, visit mnswarm.com.

For more information about the Colorado Mammoth, visit coloradomammoth.com.

Des Moines Area Sports Commission Wins Award for Bureau Innovation

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 16:59:33 CST

The Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), under the umbrella of The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB), has won the Bureau Innovation Award at the Upper Midwest Convention and Visitor Bureau’s Fall Conference in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

In memory of the late Bruce Riley McDaniel, the prestigious McDaniel Awards honor tourism industry professionals that achieve and exemplify greatness. The DMASC was recognized as an innovative organization with a budget of over $75,000.

The DMASC is under the direction of GDMCVB President and CEO Greg Edwards. The DMASC sports department is under the direction of Vice President of Sports and Development Al Lorenzen.

“We’re honored to be recognized with the Bureau Innovation Award and proud to continue to promote Greater Des Moines as a premiere destination for sporting events,” said Edwards. “We look forward to future successes in Greater Des Moines with the DMASC in place.”

The DMASC was formed in 1991, originally called the Greater Des Moines Sports Authority, changed names and became part of the GDMCVB in 2008. The purpose of DMASC is to meet the needs of larger-scale events coming into Greater Des Moines. DMASC supports and assists events such as the AAU Junior Olympic Games, the largest amateur sporting event in the country, with the planning, promotion and operation from start to finish.

The DMASC took the lead on creating TEAM Iowa, a corporation of sports commissions and conventions and visitors bureaus across the state dedicated to promoting common good and social welfare of Iowa. It also strives to attract amateur sporting events through the state, thereby promoting tourism to Iowa as well. Their specific stated purpose is to promote Iowa as a premier destination for amateur sports activities.

The overall impact of the DMASC extends beyond boosting dollars flowing into Greater Des Moines. DMASC has also worked to develop a team of volunteers and community support for major sporting events such as the NCAA Division I Track and Field National Championship, the North American Fast Pitch World Series, US Taekwondo National Qualifier and the NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball 1st and 2nd Rounds.

For information on the Des Moines Area Sports Commission visit DesMoinesSports.com.

Former UCLA Coach to Lead Coaches Clinic

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 12:01:39 CST

Sue Enquist, former head coach at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), will hold a softball clinic this weekend at Raccoon River Softball Complex in West Des Moines.

“Don't miss this rare opportunity to see former UCLA Coach Sue Enquist,” says Mary Thompson, I-Club Softball Director. “Sue is one of the most successful college coaches in history.”

Enquist, who has won 11 National Championships, will lead a coach’s clinic, recruiting seminar and player hitting academy. High school, college and travel coaches are welcome to attend the Coaches Clinic from 9 a.m. to Noon Saturday, September 19. Cost is $30 per person. A college recruiting seminar will follow from 4:30-6:30 p.m. for parents, coaches and players. Cost for this event is also $30.

The Player Hitting Academy will be held from 9 a.m. - Noon Saturday, September 20. Cost is $35. All levels of players are welcome. For those who wish to attend two of the sessions, a combo rate of $50 is offered.

Enquist is one of the most successful collegiate softball coaches of all time and has more than 1,000 wins in her coaching career.

For more information or to register online, visit http://iclubsoftball.com/SueEnquistClinics.htm.

Ten Certified Regional Sports Authority Districts Announced

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 17:21:49 CST

Today, Iowa Department of Economic Development Director Mike Tramontina announced the certification of 10 Regional Sports Authority Districts.

Ames, Cedar Rapids, Council Bluffs, Des Moines, Dubuque, Ft. Dodge, Mason City, Sioux City, Quad Cities and Waterloo/Cedar Falls were all named as certified districts.

"Sporting events draw in more than just participants," said Tramontina. "Coaches, judges and fans stay in hotels, dine in restaurants and shop while they are here, making a significant impact on Iowa's economy."

Created during the 2007 Legislative session, the Regional Sports Authority District program was designed to certify up to 10 districts for the promotion of youth sports, high school athletics, the Special Olympics or other non-professional sporting events. Each certified district will receive $50,000, an equal distribution of the $500,000 appropriation.

Convention and Visitors Bureaus across the state were eligible applicants. Districts could include more than one city and more than one Convention and Visitors Bureau. The certification process was conducted by the Iowa Department of Economic Development.

Tourism is a $6.3 billion industry in Iowa, employing nearly 65,000 people statewide and generating nearly $308 million in state taxes. The Iowa Tourism Office is part of the Iowa Department of Economic Development. For more information about Iowa tourism, visit traveliowa.com, call (800) 345-IOWA or stop at any Iowa Welcome Center.

Olympic Gold Medalist Shawn Johnson to lead State Fair Parade

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 15:05:40 CST

Iowa native and Olympic Medalist Shawn Johnson will serve as Parade Marshal for the 2009 Iowa State Fair Parade, set Wednesday, August 12. The parade will begin at 6:15 p.m. in downtown Des Moines. The Parade is the state's largest and the annual kick-off to the Fair, which runs August 13-23.

Shawn Johnson of West Des Moines competed at the 2008 Olympic Games and earned an individual gold medal along with three silver medals. Johnson also became the youngest ever contestant on ABC's "Dancing with the Stars," where she danced her way to becoming the champion of season eight.

Spectators will be able to watch over 100 floats, animals, vehicles, novelty and performing units during the parade on August 12. Staging will take place at the State Capitol Complex. Parade entrants will then travel west on Grand Avenue to 13th Street. Dispersion will take place between 13th and 18th Streets.

A viewing area accessible to disabled persons is located at the northwest corner of Sixth and Grand Avenues.

Highlights of the gala event will be re-broadcast on parade night throughout central Iowa on FOX 17 beginning at 10 p.m.

The 2009 Iowa State Fair runs August 13-23 - "State Fair Time." The Fairgrounds are located at East 30th Street and East University Avenue, just 10 minutes east of downtown Des Moines and are open 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. each day of the Fair. Exhibit hours vary. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or check out www.iowastatefair.org.

Volunteers Needed to Assist Thousands of AAU Athletes

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 17:01:29 CST

With the largest annual premier multi-sport event for amateurs now just days away the Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC) is making a final push for volunteer support for the 2009 AAU Junior Olympic Games that will be taking place from July 27- August 8, 2009.

“The AAU Junior Olympic Games are a superb opportunity for Greater Des Moines locals to show thousands of athletes, coaches and spectators our strong support for major sporting events,” said Al Lorenzen, DMASC Vice President of Sports and Development. “We encourage all Central Iowans to consider being a part of this top-notch event.”

Volunteers and/or volunteer groups may sign up for one shift, a day or for an entire event at www.DesMoinesSports.com or contact Angela Brodersen, Volunteer Coordinator, at (515) 699-3465 or abrodersen@desmoinescvb.com

Liukin, Peszek highlight field for �09 CoverGirl Classic

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 19:04:46 CST

Live Universal Sports TV, Web coverage at 8 p.m. ET/ 7 p.m. CT

July 16, 2009 – 2008 Olympic all-around champion Nastia Liukin of Parker, Texas, and 2008 Olympic team silver-medalist Samantha Peszek of Indianapolis, Ind., are among 132 women expected to compete in the CoverGirl Classic at Veterans Memorial Auditorium in Des Moines, Iowa. The CoverGirl Classic is the last opportunity for women to qualify for the 2009 Visa Championships in Dallas, Texas, and its field features a combination of gymnasts vying for spots in the Visa Championships and qualified gymnasts using the event as a tune-up for Dallas. For the first time in event history, fans across the country may watch live coverage of the CoverGirl Classic, July 25 on Universal Sports. The television and Web simulcast begins at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT.

“I know fans across the country will be excited that Nastia and Sam are beginning their return to competitive gymnastics and that they will have the opportunity to see the CoverGirl Classic, either in person, on TV or on the Web,” said Steve Penny, president of USA Gymnastics. “We are proud to partner with Universal Sports to make this event available to fans around the country and throughout the world.”

"When a superstar gymnast returns to competition in a post-Olympic year, it's a tremendous boost for gymnastics," said David Michaels, Universal Sports' Executive Producer. "The new emerging stars can gauge their progress against Olympic Medalists in a competitive situation. The Cover Girl Classic is a tune-up for the Visa Championships in August when a new national champion will be crowned. For Universal Sports, the Cover Girl classic is an historic step in original programming."

Liukin, who won a total of five medals during the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China, is using the CoverGirl Classic as preparation for her return to competitive gymnastics at the 2009 Visa Championships, Aug. 12-15 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas. Liukin, who trains at WOGA, is expected to perform on the balance beam. The CoverGirl Classic is also the first competition since the 2008 Olympic Games for Peszek, who now trains at Sharp’s Gymnastics.

This will be the first live event produced unilaterally by Universal Sports with its own facilities, talent and production team at a remote site. Previously, live events have been produced in conjunction with NBC and other TV entities. "Bringing our audience fresh, new live gymnastics programming is a major goal for our network," said Michaels, who is also a Senior Producer for NBC Olympics and Director of the Gymnastics coverage. "This event opens new horizons for USA Gymnastics and Universal Sports."

U.S. Olympians Tasha Schwikert and John Roethlisberger will call the action for the Universal Sports simulcast, which will run from 7-9 p.m. CT, and Liukin will join the broadcast team following the first rotation as a correspondent on the floor. Universal Sports is available in 56 million homes nationwide. To find Universal Sports in a specific area, go to http://www.universalsports.com. On the Web, live coverage will be available on both usa-gymnastics.org and universalsports.com.

Formerly known as the U.S. Classic, the CoverGirl Classic has competition for international junior and senior levels, as well as the challenge level. Tickets are now on sale: international junior session (1 p.m. on July 25), $20; international senior session, $25; a daily ticket that includes both international sessions, $35; and an all-session ticket that includes both international and the challenge sessions, $50. Tickets may be purchased at the Wells Fargo Arena Box Office, all Dahl's Foods locations, charge by phone at 1.866.55.DAHLS, or online at www.dahlstickets.com. All tickets are general admission. Visa is the preferred method of payment. For more ticketing information, visit www.usa-gymnastics.org/covergirlclassic.

The 2009 Visa Championships, USA Gymnastics’ national championships, are Aug. 12-15 in Dallas, Texas. The U.S. champions for men’s and women’s artistic gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics, acrobatic gymnastics and trampoline and tumbling are determined at the Visa Championships. Artistic gymnastics will be held at American Airlines Center, with rhythmic and acrobatic gymnastics and trampoline and tumbling at the Dallas Convention Center. The USA Gymnastics National Congress and Trade Show, held in conjunction with the Visa Championships, will also be at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel. For complete information on the Visa Championships, log on to www.usa-gymnastics.org.

About Universal Sports
Universal Sports, a partnership between NBC Sports and InterMedia Partners, serves as the preeminent multiplatform destination for Olympic-related and lifestyle sports programming available on television and online. Universal Sports is available in 56 million television households, and is now available in nine of the top 10 DMAs including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, Dallas-Fort Worth, San Francisco, Atlanta, Washington D.C., Houston, Seattle and Denver. Major world championship and Olympic qualifying events found on Universal Sports range from track and field, skiing, swimming, gymnastics, marathons and cycling, to volleyball, rowing, triathlon, fencing, speed skating and martial arts. UniversalSports.com delivers an immersive experience via live and on-demand competition coverage, interaction with top athletes through blogs and in-depth access to Olympic sports news and information year round. For more information on the availability of the Universal Sports 24-hour television channel, please visit UniversalSports.tv.

USA Gymnastics
Based in Indianapolis, USA Gymnastics is the national governing body for gymnastics in the United States. Its mission is to encourage participation and the pursuit of excellence in the sport. Its disciplines include men's and women's artistic gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics, trampoline and tumbling, and acrobatic gymnastics. For more information, log on to www.usa-gymnastics.org.

Local Des Moines Fencing Club Members to Compete

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:03:49 CST

All fencers qualified through tournaments held earlier in the season. Leading the charge will be Heartland Circuit champions Preston Kirkpatrick and Bethany Dorin. Kirkpatrick, of Des Moines, will compete in Division II men's sabre on July 8 and and Division III men's sabre on July 10. Dorin, of Pleasant Hill, will compete in Division II women's foil on July 9.

Also representing DMFC:

·         Jack Fitzpatrick of Des Moines, 12-and-under men's foil, July 4

·         Reid Wade of Des Moines, 12-and-under men's sabre, July 6

·         Allison Crawford of Granger, Division III women's sabre, July 9, and Division II women's sabre, July 12;

·         R. J. Lesch of Adel, veteran's men's sabre, July 12;

·         Nile Engelhardt of Waukee, who will join Kirkpatrick and Lesch in the men's sabre team event, July 9.

For more information, visit the Des Moines Fencing Club website at http://home.mchsi.com/~dmfc.

Celebrate National Trails Weekend June 5-7

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 27 May 2009 13:35:41 CST

The Des Moines area boasts one of the best trail networks in the nation. Celebrate all that this area has to offer by participating in one of several Trail Daze events that have been scheduled for the weekend of June 5-7, National Trails Weekend!

Des Moines River Water Trail Designation
Prospect Park, Des Moines
Friday, June 5, 5 p.m.
Kick off National Trails Weekend by celebrating the Des Moines River Water Trail official designation. Following a brief ceremony, paddle or drive the Historic River Bend Home for snacks and refreshments, then to Birdland Park, then to the John Anderson White Riverboat.
Prospect Park (1225 Prospect Rd., DSM) Sponsored by: Friends of Central Iowa Trails

Bike United Against Cancer Ride
Saturday, June 6, 7 a.m.
Ride either a 44-mile or 22-mile bike loop for cancer awareness. A $20 registration includes a t-shirt, breakfast in Water Works Park, lunch in Principal Park, and ticket to the I-Cubs game.
Begin at Water Works Park Sponsored by LiveStrong Army/DM & Cityview

Register at bikeiowa.com.

Farmers' Market Bike Ride
Saturday, June 6, 8 a.m.
Ride to the Downtown Farmers Market from Ankeny or Clive. Meet at either Kyle‚s Bikes in Ankeny (1840 SW White Birch Circle) or at the Clive Aquatic Center (1801 NW 114th St.).
Sponsored by Des Moines Cycle Club.

More details through Dan Kruzic at dkruzic@deezee.com or dmcycleclub.com.

Trails & Trills Ride
Saturday, June 6, 10 a.m.
Enjoy live music up and down eight miles of the Raccoon River Valley Trail between Jefferson and Cooper.
Meet at Jefferson Depot Sponsored by Raccoon River Valley Trail Association
More details at raccoonrivervalleytrail.org.

Marathon Prep Run or Walk
Saturday, June 6, 6 a.m.
Runners and walkers training for marathons and half marathons can take a 4 or 8 mile route.
Clive Trail & 86th St. (behind Grease Monkey) Sponsored by Team in Training/IA Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

More details from Kara Vannordstrand at kara.vannordstrand@lls.org or (515) 270-6169.

Iowa Geocachers Event
Saturday, June 6, 10:30 a.m.
Twenty caches will be hidden in Raccoon River Park in West Des Moines for a enjoyable day of geocaching. Bring food for grilling after the event. Sponsored by Iowa Geocachers.

More details by emailing president@iowageocachers.org.

Canoe/Kayak Float
Saturday, June 6, 10:30 a.m.
Paddle from the Sycamore boat ramp to Prospect Park. Bring your own boat and lunch.

More details by emailing Bill Graham at wsgraham3@gmail.com.

Rowing Novice Day
Saturday, June 6, 8-2 p.m.
Novice rowers are encouraged to learn rowing basics from members of the Des Moines Rowing Club. Meet at the steel building just west of Gray‚s Lake Beach.

For more details, contact Angela Price at angela_price@adp.com.

Family Skate
Saturday, June 6, 11 a.m.
Meet at B Bop's in Windsor Heights (1105-73rd) for a 6-8 mile family skate. Stick around for lunch or ice cream after the skate (at your expense).

More details by calling Quentin Huston at drquentinhuston@hotmail.com or (515) 288-8058.

Adult Skate
Saturday, June 6, 6 p.m.
Meet at Pal Joey‚s Lounge near 62nd and Grand in Des Moines for a 12-15 mile adult skate on the Walnut Creek Trail. Social afterward at Pal Joey's.

More details by calling Quentin Huston at drquentinhuston@hotmail.com or (515) 288-8058.

Volkssport Triathlon
Saturday, June 6, 8 a.m.
Meet at Valley View Park in West Des Moines for a casual triathlon (pool swim, trail bike, and walk) sponsored by the Greater Des Moines Volkssport Association and West Des Moines Parks and Recreation. Participants can complete one, two, or all three events.

For more details, contact Susan Pinneke at (515) 277-3653 or ava.org/clubs/GreaterDesMoinesVolkssportAssn.

Bird Walk
Sunday, June 7, 8 a.m.
Bring your binoculars and go on a bird walk with a trained interpreter.
Meet at Ashworth Pool parking lot in Greenwood Park. Hosted by Des Moines Audubon Society
More details by calling Jane Clark at jrclark@radiks.net or (515) 223-5047.

Sunday Greenbelt Run
Sunday, June 7, 8 a.m.
Out and back trail run (10 mile run) and adjourn for an hour of socializing after the run.
Clive Trail & 86th Street (behind Grease Monkey) Sponsored by Capital Striders Running Club

More details by calling Ed Bell at ed.bell@drake.edu or (515) 223-5959.

Geocaching 101
Sunday, June 7, 10 a.m.

Learn about what these GPS devices and caches are all about. Loners will be provided.
Meet at Ashworth Pool in Greenwood Park (Des Moines) Sponsored by Iowa Geocachers.

More details from Scott Mills at scott.mills@clarkliftdsm.com.

Bike Sunday School
Sunday, June 7 4 p.m.
Leisure ride and picnic to celebrate the French Trinity.
Meet at Gateway Market (MLK Pkwy. & Woodland Ave.)

More details from Mary Moore at mkmoore47@netzero.net or (515) 250-2796.

ISF Mud Run This Saturday

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 16:43:57 CST

The 2009 Iowa Sports Foundation Mud Run will be held this Saturday, April 18 beginning at 9 a.m. at Sleepy Hollow Sports Park in Des Moines.

Those wanting to have fun and get muddy can register online at IOWASPORTSFOUNDATION.org thru April 16 for $22, as well as on race day for $25 at participant check-in. The registration fee includes
a T-shirt, post-race refreshments, and an ISF Mud Run gift.

This unique event is sure to be fun and challenging for all participants and spectators. Racers of all
abilities will have a great time throughout the course, with mud, a few obstacles and the Mucky Mud
Pit! The course will feature a 3-mile trek to begin at 9 a.m. At the end of the race, participants will venture through the Mucky Mud Pit to the finish.

A 1-mile fun run is also offered, which travels through several mud pits and a few obstacles before
racers venture in the Mucky Mud Pit. This event will start at 10:30 a.m. following the Mud Run. All participants in the 1-mile run receive a finisher medal and a T-shirt.

Grab your buddies and get muddy at the 2009 ISF Mud Run. Visit IOWASPORTSFOUNDATION.org for online
registration and event information.

The Iowa Sports Foundation (ISF) is a nonprofit sports management organization that helps develop amateur sports in Iowa and promotes positive lifestyles and physical fitness through athletic events and health education programs. The ISF host the Summer Iowa Games, Winter Iowa Games, Live Healthy Iowa, Live Healthy America, Live Healthy Iowa Kids, Go The Distance Day, Hoopin At The Dome, Net Fest, Fish Iowa Games, the ISF Mud Run and the Iowa Games Golf Classic.

Drake Relays to be Televised on ESPN 2; Asics Named Presenting Sponsor of Drake Relays

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 15:54:55 CST

Besided the naming of eightadditions to the Drake Relays Athletes of the Century, Drake Relays director Brian Brown unveiled two major announcements regarding the 100th running of America's Athletic Classic April 22-25 during a Thursday news conference.

Doug Logan, chief executive officer of USA Track and Field, joined via a teleconference disclosing that the historic running of the Drake Relays will be televised on ESPN2.

Brown also disclosed that Asics will be a presenting sponsor of the Drake Relays.

The Saturday, April 25, session of the Drake Relays will be shown on a tape delayed basis on Sunday, April 26, tentatively scheduled for 1 p.m. Central time on ESPN2.

"We're delighted to be part of this celebration of a great sporting event in the Midwest," said Logan. "The 100th anniversary of the Drake Relays is part of the legacy of track and field history in our country.

"We see this event as being one of the important meets offered during the course of any given year and it caused us to take a look at our involvement in the two major events that take place during the course of the same weekend, that being the Drake and Penn Relays. USA Track and Field is designating the last weekend of April as Relays Weekend. We think it will be a great opportunity for our fans throughout the country to be able to follow what has traditionally been the announcement that spring and the outdoor track and field season have arrived."

Logan also disclosed that this year's Drake Relays will be part of the Visa Championship Series.

The Visa Championship Series is a prestigious series of nationally televised USA Track and Field (USATF) competitions featuring the very best track and field athletes from Team USA, the world's No. 1 track team. The 2009 Visa Championship Series also includes the USA vs. The World at the Penn Relays, April 25; adidas Track Classic May 16 in Carson, Calif., the Reebok Grand Prix, New York, N.Y., May 30; the Nike Prefontaine Classic, June 7, Eugene, Ore.; and the USA Outdoor Track and Field Championship, June 25-28, Eugene, Ore.

The top American male finisher and top American female finisher in each event of the Visa Championship Series will have their performances assigned a point total based on the IAAF Scoring Table of Athletics. The athlete whose performance has the highest point total at the end of the Visa Championship Series will be named the Visa Champion.

Gary Slayton, vice president of marketing and communications for Asics Americas, was exicted about the company's relationship with Brown.

"The Drake Relays has been an event that we have admired from a distance and now we're honored to establish this great relationship," said Slayton. "We have a desire to expand our present base and hope that as a global company working with the Drake Relays can be part of the solution in achieving that goal."

Several world-class athletes who compete for Asics will attend the Drake Relays including Lolo Jones, who finished seventh in the 100 hurdles at the 2008 Olympics; two-time Olympian Suzy Powell-Roos, who is the American record holder in the women's discus (222-0); and four-time Olympian Amy Acuff in the women's high jump.

Jones recently captured her third consecutive National Indoor Championship in the 60 hurdles with her winning time of 7.84 fast enough to win a second consecutive VISA Championship, an award given to the best performer for the men and women this indoor season.

Chow's Rising Stars Challenge Attracts 700 Gymnasts to the City

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 01:00:00 CST

Chow's Gymnastics in West Des Moines, home gym of Olympic Gold Medalist Shawn Johnson, is hosting the Chow’s Rising Stars Challenge. The meet, which will be held January 16, 17 and 18, 2009, at Veterans Memorial Auditorium, will bring approximately 700 gymnasts, their families and coaches to Greater Des Moines for the weekend.

Beginning Friday morning at 8 a.m. and ending Sunday evening at 9 p.m., this event promises ongoing women’s competitive gymnastics for 13 hours each day. The nearly 700 gymnasts registered to compete are traveling from throughout the Midwest and beyond to be there. Some gymnastics teams are coming from as far away as Indiana and Tennessee.

Owner of Chow’s Gymnastics in West Des Moines and Head Coach of the 2008 United States Women’s Gymnastics Olympic Team, Liang Chow, will be directing the meet.

“This will be the premier gymnastics event in Iowa this season,” says Chow. “The competition will be tough. It will be a good test for our optional team’s first meet and a great meet to watch.” The highest-level gymnasts, Levels 9-10, will be performing Saturday evening. Attendance is open to the public and tickets are available at the door.

A guest speaker for the event, Iowa State University’s Women’s Gymnastics Head Coach Jay Ronayne,will also be on hand to discuss collegiate gymnastics. Ronayne will present at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, January 18 in the Awards Room.

Other speakers include:

• Andrea Barnes, Gymnastics Recruiting Consultant

10 a.m. Sunday, January 18

Awards Room, Veterans Memorial Auditorium

Barnes will share the top 10 things you need to know to get started on your quest to earn a collegiate gymnastics scholarship.

• Guest Speaker: Don Zile, Former San Jose Track Coach

10:45 a.m. Sunday, January 18

Awards Room, Veterans Memorial Auditorium

Zile will discuss the keys to a great running stride. His analysis and insights can unlock speed for an explosive vault run and powerful tumbling.

Contact Deb King at (515) 720-7045 with questions.

Des Moines Welcomes 2009 Iowa State Dance/Drill Team Championships

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 01:00:00 CST

Nearly 5,000 participants will perform at the 2009 Iowa State High School Dance/Drill Team Championships Friday, December 5 and Saturday, December 6 at Veterans Memorial Auditorium and Hy-Vee Hall. The third annual Iowa College Dance Competition will also be held on Friday, December 5.

“Everyone loves to come to Des Moines for the State Championships,” says Kathy Enyart, Executive Director of the Iowa Dance/Drill Team Association. “We love all of the hotel accommodations available to us along with the many shopping malls and restaurants to choose from. Veterans Memorial Auditorium and Hy-Vee Hall facilities are ideal for our competition schedule.”

The 275 high school teams and 18 college teams will be judged by an expert panel of judges from across the Unites States in several categories including pom, jazz, novelty, lights, military, hip hop, lyrical, hoopla, prop, kick, show production, color guard, all-male and co-ed.

Teams will be awarded Division I, II and III ratings along with trophy placements for teams with the highest point totals. The two-day competition scores on appearance, choreography, execution, technique and general effect/showmanship, as well as academics, community service and sportsmanship.

Competition runs from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. both days and doors open at 7 a.m. Tickets are $9 per day or $16 for a two-day pass. No advance ticket sales. All seats are general admission.