As Groundhog Day approaches, a new twist on the age-old tradition is set to emerge from the heart of Iowa. Drake University is preparing to unveil its own weather-forecasting ritual, “Griff-Hog Day,” on Monday, February 2. This unique event will center around Drake Stadium, where the Griff-Hog will offer its own prediction for the upcoming 116th Drake Relays.
Since 1925, the mysterious Griff-Hog has been a well-kept secret beneath Drake Stadium, only consulted by the “Griff-Hog Inner Circle” each year. This February, however, the forecasting ceremony will be open to students, alumni, and fans, marking a public debut for this tradition. The Griff-Hog, believed to possess predictive abilities, will reveal whether the Drake Relays will experience fair weather or a mix of spring showers and cooler temperatures.
The event signifies the unofficial commencement of the Drake Relays festivities, which are celebrated as a significant series of track and field events, road races, and community gatherings. The 2026 Drake Relays will kick off on April 18 with the Drake Road Races, drawing participants from all over the country to the renowned Blue Oval.
Event Details
WHO: The Griff-Hog Inner Circle and Drake University officials
- Griff II, Drake University live mascot
- Griff-Hog (AKA Griff III, Drake’s next live mascot)
- Jerry Parker, Vice President and Dean of Students
- Blake Boldon, Senior Associate Athletics Director/Franklin P. Johnson Director of the Drake Relays and Director of Cross Country and Track & Field
- Steve Berry, Master of Ceremonies
WHAT: Drake University’s inaugural “Griff-Hog Day,” where the Griff-Hog will forecast the weather for the 116th Drake Relays.
WHEN: Monday, Feb. 2
- 7:30 a.m.: Media arrival
- 7:45 a.m.: Program begins, featuring opening remarks, the Griff-Hog story, and the weather forecast by Drake’s Griff-Hog (Griff III).
WHERE: Drake Stadium – Southwest Corner (2719 Forest Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311). Parking is available in the Studio Arts parking lot next to the plaza.
MEDIA INTERVIEWS
Blake Boldon will be available to discuss the 116th annual Drake Relays plans in these formats:
- Following the February 2 event conclusion (around 7:55 a.m.)
- In-studio appearances for morning shows (before or after the event)
- Additional times/formats upon request
Contact: Media wishing to attend can reach out to Dave Shindelar at david.shindelar@drake.edu.
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