2026
Drake Golf Classic
Benefitting the Bulldog Club
Behind the Blue Jacket
Celebrating Years of Commitment to Our Cause
The Drake Golf Classic is a long-standing tradition supporting Drake Athletics through the Bulldog Club. Nearly 20 years ago, the event was created to bring together alumni, supporters, and members of the Drake community around a shared purpose: investing in student-athletes. Today, the Drake Golf Classic has grown into the Bulldog Club’s largest fundraising event of the year, generating critical support that helps Drake student-athletes succeed on the field, in the classroom, and beyond.
Each year, the event is hosted at the renowned Talons of Tuscany, offering participants the opportunity to play one of Central Iowa’s premier golf courses. The day blends competition, hospitality, and connection, drawing Drake alumni, business leaders, and community partners from across the region. A hallmark of the Drake Golf Classic is the chance to interact with Drake coaches and student-athletes throughout the event, giving participants a firsthand look at the impact of their support.
More than a golf outing, the Drake Golf Classic plays a meaningful role in advancing the mission of the Bulldog Club and Drake Athletics. Funds raised directly support scholarships, program excellence, and the overall student-athlete experience. The event reflects Drake’s strong sense of tradition, its deep ties to the Des Moines community, and a shared commitment to developing leaders who represent the University with pride long after their playing days are complete.
Everything You Need to Know About the Classic
Where
Talons Golf
1505 NE 36th Street
Ankeny, Iowa 50021
When
June 16, 2026
Registration & Lunch: 11:00 AM
Shotgun Start: 1:00 PM
Dinner & Awards: 6:00 PM
The Drake Golf Classic offers players a complete tournament-day experience that blends great golf, premium hospitality, and meaningful impact. In support of Drake Athletics and the Bulldog Club, the event is played in a four-person best shot scramble format, making it enjoyable and competitive for golfers of all skill levels. The day begins with lunch prior to tee-off and features on-course contests, entertainment, and interactive experiences throughout the round.
Following play, golfers come together for a hosted dinner and awards program to celebrate tournament results and recognize standout performances. From the format of play to the amenities offered, the Drake Golf Classic is designed to deliver an engaging and well-rounded golf outing. The combination of friendly competition, social connection, and first-class hospitality creates a memorable experience for players while directly supporting Drake student-athletes.
The Impact We Make
Join Us to Celebrate and Support 18 Athletic Programs That Transform and Create Lasting Impact for Student-Athletes and Des Moines
Supporting Drake student-athletes is an investment that extends well beyond competition and into the future of the Des Moines workforce. Through the Bulldog Club, resources provided to student-athletes help develop skills that translate directly to professional success, including leadership, discipline, teamwork, and accountability. These experiences prepare student-athletes to contribute meaningfully in the workplace while building strong ties to the region during their time at Drake.
As student-athletes graduate and enter the workforce, many choose to build their careers in Des Moines, strengthening the local talent pipeline and helping employers attract and retain high-caliber professionals. By supporting student-athletes today, the Drake Golf Classic plays a role in shaping future business and community leaders who are invested in Central Iowa’s long-term growth and vitality.
Click here to read about past and present student-athletes.
