The Robert S. Shumake Relays

The Robert S. Shumake Scholarship Relays is a premier class A track and field competition for high school students across the nation.   Its unique model is unprecedented in that it has a dual focus. The Shumake Scholarship Relay competition highlights both athletic ability and academic achievement. Prizes are awarded to the athlete on each team with the highest grade point average. From the 1st annual meet in 2005 to the present, over 2,000 athletes (boys and girls) have participated in this track and field event.

Historical Event Highlights

• Implemented Acutrak technology for photo finish in 2006
• Awarded more than $10,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors in 2006
• Raised in excess of $40k in sponsorship dollars
• Sponsored a legislative bill to change 350 mile rule
• Teams from Ohio competed for the first time in the relays
• Doubled the number of team participants
• Presented over 100 academic awards to student athletes
• Received media coverage – NBC, CBS, ABC
• Received strong political & community support from local officials- Kwame Kilpatrick, Detroit Mayor , Councilwoman Alberta Tinsley Talabi, Representative Martha Scott, Former Pontiac Mayor, Willie Payne, Wayne County Sheriff Evans, and Congresswoman Kilpatrick
• Largest independently sponsored HS track meet in MI
• ls in OH, IN, WI and IL to compete in 2008's “Showdown in Motown”