DES MOINES, Iowa – The Drake Relays will kick off preparations for the 2026 edition of America's Athletic Classic by hosting two in-person officials training sessions in January. Open to all officials, including those not working the Drake Relays and those who would like to simply learn more about track and field officiating, the sessions are designed to improve officiating consistency, expand technical expertise, and provide event-area training for the upcoming high school, collegiate, and elite track & field seasons.
Training sessions will be held Sunday, January 11, 2026, and Sunday, January 25, 2026, featuring instruction from Drake Relays Head Officials and event-area leaders. Both dates will offer hands-on demonstrations, situational review, and shared best practices across multiple levels of competition.
These training initiatives are made possible through the leadership of Jim Walczyk, USATF Iowa President and Drake Relays Officials Coordinator. Walczyk's longstanding commitment to education and community development continues to elevate the standard and consistency of officiating at the Drake Relays.
"Jim Walczyk's leadership and tireless efforts continue to elevate the professional conduct that defines America's Athletic Classic," said Blake Boldon, the Franklin P. Johnson Director of the Drake Relays. "We are incredibly fortunate to work with such a dedicated and knowledgeable community of officials from throughout Iowa and across the country. Their commitment ensures that athletes at every level, from high school competitors to Olympians, experience the fairness, precision, and world-class environment that distinguish the Drake Relays as a global destination."
JANUARY 11 TRAINING HIGHLIGHTS
Active Threat Training — Scott Law, Drake University Executive Director of Public Safety & University Operations.
This essential session equips staff and volunteers with the skills needed to respond during an active threat using the Run, Hide, Fight model. The program emphasizes situational awareness, rapid decision-making, and coordination with law enforcement to ensure the safety of participants and spectators at major events such as the Drake Relays.
Total Station Training — Randy Baker & Mark Tigges, long-time members of the Drake Relays Electronics Crew with extensive experience in total station operation and electronic officiating systems.
Weights & Measures — Jon Turner, Drake Relays Head Weights & Measures Official for more than 35 years and brings extensive experience from USATF Championships, NCAA events, conference championships, and three U.S. Olympic Trials.
JANUARY 25 TRAINING HIGHLIGHTS
Throws Training — Doug Johansen, widely regarded as one of Iowa's premier throws officials and has officiated multiple NCAA Championships and Olympic Trials. He currently serves as the Drake Relays Head Throws Official.
Jumps Training — Curt Broek, a former Drake Relays athlete and long-time Head Jumps Official, Broek has served for over 20 years and is the current USATF Iowa Officials Certification Chair.
Running Events Training — Carolyn Hill and Ryan Elsbernd. Hill retired from a career in track and field meet management serving as the Assistant Athletic Director for Relays Operations. She is a Master-level USATF official with extensive national championship experience. Elsbernd serves as Head Umpire for the Drake Relays and is a Master-level USATF official with significant experience across NCAA Championships and Olympic Trials.
Para Athletics Training — Ryan Elsbernd is a national leader in Para Track & Field officiating and will focus the training on expanding the pipeline of certified officials in this growing discipline.
Immediately following the January 25 training session, all attendees are invited to join the Drake Relays community at the Drake Women's Basketball game as the Bulldogs host Murray State at 2:00 PM.
Individuals interested in learning more should contact
Tre Stanton at tre.stanton@drake.edu
