Indiana Wesleyan University will host the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Outdoor Track and Field National Championships for the third straight year. And IWU recently exercised an option to host the championships in 2013.
This year's championships, which will be May 24-26, are expected to attract about 5,000 student-athletes, coaches and fans to IWU's Marion campus.
"During the site selection process almost four years ago, IWU stood out as a site that could offer the total championship experience package," said Dustin Wilke, NAIA Championship Sport manager.
"IWU has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to NAIA track and field, including a broad investment in both their indoor and outdoor facilities. In addition, the host team is dedicated to creating a phenomenal experience for student-athletes, fans and the Marion community," Wilke said.
IWU Spent about $300,000 making improvements to the outdoor athletic complex before hosting the first NAIA national meet in 2010. The original contract called for IWU to host the event for three years with an option to add a fourth year.
"IWU is pleased and excited to extend our hosting of the event through 2013," said Mark DeMichael, athletic director. "As always, our goal will be to provide a first-class event that provides an experience for the student-athletes and coaches to remember for a lifetime. We want to thank the national office for the opportunity to partner with the NAIA to stage this great event."
More than 150 NAIA member institutions sponsor outdoor track and field, and more than 1,000 NAIA student-athletes will compete this season. The National Championship is considered the largest NAIA National Championship event based on the number of participants.
Tickets are $15 for the entire three-day event or $6 for daily tickets. Tickets may be purchased at the gate.