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The Iowa Photo: A quieter approach at Drake Relays
As this year’s Drake Relays approached, I kept a careful eye on news releases and media guidance. I’ve covered the Relays several times, so I had a good sense for sight lines, and went into the week with visual problem-solving and the historic record in mind. We had a clean line of sight for classic finish line photos and more abstract graphic compositions of hurdles, but I also sought to make photos that told the story of the Relays with coronavirus restrictions in place by capturing fans outside the fence, socially distanced seating in the stands, and a quiet stadium during the steeplechase. Shot put posed a unique challenge without access to the field. Positioning myself behind the ring with a 400mm lens, I was pleasantly surprised by the clean background that allowed me to make this image of Keiara Williams’ quiet concentration.
Runners compete in the inaugural women’s 3,000 meter steeplechase special April 23 during the Drake Relays at Drake Stadium in Des Moines. (Liz Martin/The Gazette)
Officials reset the hurdles between heats of the shuttle hurdle relay April 22 at Drake Relays in Des Moines. (Liz Martin/The Gazette)
Iowa State’s Keiara Williams prepares to throw in the women’s shot put April 23 at the Drake Relays in Des Moines. Williams placed fifth with a best throw of 15.28 meters. (Liz Martin/The Gazette)
Fans watch the Drake Relays from outside the fence April 22 at Drake Stadium in Des Moines. Ticket sales were limited this year due to coronavirus-related precautions. (Liz Martin/The Gazette)
Fans watch from the stands as college division events begin April 23 at the Drake Relays. (Liz Martin/The Gazette)
Wartburg’s Joe Freiburger collapses at the finish line of the men’s 5,000 meter open April 22 at the Drake Relays. Freiburger placed second in 14:00.69. (Liz Martin/The Gazette)
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