We are blessed in Iowa to have so many people who could be categorized as friends of Track and Field or Cross Country. To be chosen as thee Friend of Track and Field by the IATO, means that you have gone above and beyond what was asked or expected of you and Rick Kuhlman has done just that for nearly 30 years.
Since his years as an outstanding multi-sport athlete, at Humboldt High School, which includes being a 13 foot pole vaulter, Rick has stayed involved in athletics. He credits his dad Whitey for being the athletic influence in his life. Whitey was a football letterwinner at Drake and an outstanding coach as well.
Rick received a scholarship to play football at UNI, graduating in 1986 with a degree in Education. He coached football at Iowa Central, coached Football and Track and Field while teaching at Fort Dodge Senior High and has been a starter and clerk for many meets in the Fort Dodge area.
In 1994 Rick started volunteering at the Drake Relays where he now holds the title of Head of Infield Meet Operations, not only for the Relays, but for USATF and NCAA meets held at Drake Stadium as well.
It is often said that Rick is the “first one there and the last one to leave”. He has been awarded a spot on the Drake Relays Wall of Honor for his dedication to America’s Athletic Classic.
