Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2011
DES MOINES, Iowa--Drake Relays officials announced Tuesday a strategic partnership with Endurance Sports Marketing Corporation for the management of the annual "On The Roads" 8-kilometer road race and half-marathon, with Chris Burch serving as race director.
"With all aspects of the Drake Relays we constantly challenge ourselves to be innovative in our approach," said Drake Associate Athletic Director and Drake Relays director Brian Brown. "Our goal is to elevate the level of the entire event while maintaining the integrity and tradition that make it so special."
The "On The Roads" events have been for 43 years a popular part of the Drake Relays, giving the community a chance to take part in a Relays event on the morning of the final day of competition. The 103rd Drake Relays take place April 25-28, 2012 at Drake Stadium in Des Moines.
"I'm thrilled about the partnership with Endurance Sports Marketing and the opportunities on the horizon for the 'On the Roads' races," Brown said. "Chris Burch brings a terrific amount of experience and success with road races. I look forward to working with Chris as the race director to implement his vision, along with the race committee, for the future success of this event."
Endurance Sports Marketing Corporation was formed in 2005 to direct the IMT Des Moines Marathon. Burch has served as Director of Racing and Events for the event, which has grown from 2,700 to 7,700 athletes during that time. ESMC provides event consultation to a variety of other events in the Des Moines area including the Iowa Cubs 5-Mile Fun Run, Scheel's 10K, and the Drake Relays Grand Blue Mile.
"I am honored by this opportunity to take the 'On The Roads' races to a new level," Burch said. "The Drake Relays can solidify this road race as one of the premiere half marathon races in the United States, showcasing some of the fastest athletes in our country."
The 2011 "On The Roads" 8K men's race was won by Dan Kremske of Champaign, Ill., in 24:09, while the women's champion was Juliane Masciana of West Terre Haute, Ind., in 27:51. The men's half-marathon winner was Jason Flogel of West Des Moines, in 1:09:07, while the women's race was won by Robyn Friedman of Lamb's Grove, Iowa in 1:15:59.
"Fans and participants can continue to expect a tremendous race-day experience," Brown added, "consistent with the reputation of the Drake Relays-America's Athletic Classic."
