
Race Date
May 30, 2026
Location
Polk City, IA
Iowa's Greatest Running Tradition. Since 1980, more than 135,000 runners have made running from the quiet and calm of the Saylorville Dam to the heat and high-rises of downtown Des Moines one of the greatest running traditions in central Iowa. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a first-timer, or a diehard this iconic running event is for you. SAYLORVILLE DAM There is something unparalleled about standing on top of the Saylorville Dam and looking out at the high-rise buildings on the horizon knowing that you will conquer the distance in between. After crossing the dam athletes will travel south through the fields and rural beauty of Polk County. DOWNTOWN DES MOINES Runners traverse I-35 at the Morningstar bridge and continue into the Northside Neighborhoods, along the Des Moines River at Birdland Park and enter into Downtown Des Moines. Athletes will finish their half-marathon journey by crossing the Des Moines River and passing the World Food Prize Building. With the finish line behind you, there's a huge party awaiting you at Cowles Commons across from The Des Moines Civic Center.
Race Day
Saturday, May 30, 2026
Start Time
7:00 AM
Giveaway
Official Race T-Shirt
Start Location
8250 Horseshoe Road, Polk City, IA, 50309
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
+1.80 m
Separation
68.9%
Also Offers
USATF Certified Course
IA19002MF · Expires 2029 · Dam to DSM
Net uphill grade — expect a more challenging race. Point-to-point course layout.
Start (Low)
55°
Afternoon (High)
76°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.1"
Precipitation
13 mph
Wind
64%
Humidity
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