Kyle Kepler, in his 18th season as head coach at University of Utah, after previously competing and coaching at Northern Iowa, joins DyeStat editor Erik Boal to discuss the Utes competing April 27-29 at the 113th Drake Relays, presented by Xtream and powered by Mediacom, at Jim Duncan Track and Drake Stadium in Des Moines, Iowa. Kepler, a graduate of Webster City High in Iowa, reflects on his first time competing in "America's Athletic Classic" as a high school sophomore in the 3,200 meters, earning the final entry into the field and placing fifth overall. He went on to produce a pair of runner-up finishes in the 3,200, along with securing sixth place twice in the 10,000 meters in college at Drake Relays, in addition to earning a pair of road 8-kilometer victories. Kepler reminisces about coaching Northern Iowa to victory in the men's 4x1,600-meter relay in 2000 by a 16:21.53 to 16:21.58 margin against Stanford, highlighted by Balazs Csillag producing a 4:01 split on the anchor leg to rally the Panthers to the win. After taking over at Utah in 2006, Kepler reflects on Alyssa Abbott winning the women's 1,500 meters in 2010 at Drake in 4:23.48, as well as contributing to the distance medley relay title in 2011 in 11:17.09. He also reminisces about the Utes securing another DMR victory in 2016 in 11:12.10, anchored by Sarah Feeny. Utah added a win in its 4x400-meter section last season, but this year, the Utes have the potential to challenge for the prestigious Drake Relays Cup with entries in the 4x100, 4x200, 4x400, 4x800, 4x1,600, 1,600-meter sprint medley relay and DMR. Kepler expresses gratitude for the support of Blake Boldon, the Franklin P. Johnson director of the Drake Relays, along with the previous meet directors, in addition to acknowledging the presence of veteran lead announcer Mike Jay in elevating the event to a global destination for several competitors. Kepler also speaks about how valuable it is to give several student-athletes the opportunity to compete in relay events ahead of a more individual focus at the Pac-12 Championships and NCAA Division 1 West Regionals, both in May in California.

WATCH THE 113TH DRAKE RELAYS PRESENTED BY XTREAM LIVE APRIL 27-29 ON USATF.TV