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Des Moines Recognized as Track Central USA

March 3, 2010

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

February 21, 2010

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 College/University Professional/Motorsports/Other Lifetime Achievement
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

February 15, 2010

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
College/University
Professional/Motorsports/Other
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

January 26, 2010

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

January 13, 2010

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 College/University Professional/Motorsports/Other Lifetime Achievement

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

December 15, 2009

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

November 24, 2009

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: "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

November 24, 2009

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 College/University Professional/Motorsports/Other 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

October 2, 2009

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

September 14, 2009

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

September 14, 2009

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

September 1, 2009

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

August 5, 2009

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

July 21, 2009

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

July 16, 2009

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

June 29, 2009

 

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

May 27, 2009

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

April 14, 2009

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

March 12, 2009

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

January 14, 2009

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

December 3, 2008

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.