The event gives Drake a lot of fame and prominence. As Drake's greatest nonacademic endorsement, it is in the University's best interest to ensure the quality of Relays is equal to or better than the Penn Relays Carnival. The Drake and Penn relays are the two biggest college track meets in the United States at the end of April, Ehrhart said. However, he said they are also quite different. The Drake meet is composed of colleges and universities in the United States, and Iowa high schools, Ehrhart said.
Drake also invites professional athletes to compete in special events as a bonus for fans.
High school, college and professional track athletes compete at the Penn Relays. But high schools from outside the state also participate, Ehrhart said. History may also give the Penn Relays an advantage. Its university was founded in 1740, while Francis Marion Drake began funding the creation of Drake University in 1881. Added to this, Franklin Stadium holds 52,593 seats, and Drake Stadium seats 18,000.