Medal Madness 5K, 10K, & 13.1M at Des Moines, IA (37)
Medal Madness offers a fast, out-and-back course in Des Moines with a focus on finisher medals.
Race Date
Sep 12, 2026
Location
Des Moines, IA
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, September 12, 2026
- Location
- Des Moines, Iowa
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Out & Back
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Medal Madness series in Des Moines, Iowa, provides a straightforward racing experience centered around earning your hardware. The courses, whether for the 5K, 10K, or half marathon, are designed as out-and-back routes, offering a consistent and potentially fast surface for runners aiming for personal bests.
The event is part of the US Road Running series, known for its focus on finisher medals and awards. While specific historical data like field size or repeat runner rates aren't provided, the series aims to draw participants with its accessible format and clear objectives. The typical race-day weather in Des Moines, with average temperatures ranging from 61–81°F, generally offers comfortable conditions for running.
Runners can expect a functional race day with clear course markings for the out-and-back segments. The 3.5-hour time limit accommodates a wide range of abilities, and the emphasis on finisher medals and costume awards adds a touch of fun to the competitive spirit.
Race-provided description
Race Information The race starts at 8:00 AM. Packet pickup starts 30 minutes before the race and ends 10 minutes before the race starts. All runners must register on RunSignup. No on-site registration. Additional Information Bathrooms https://maps.app.goo.gl/NMdTCVYMQfSgAAZp6 Parking near start https://maps.app.goo.gl/8uJvLqbPSFxA8Wke8 5K & 10K Course (1.56M) https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/6713230542/ The course is an out-and-back (3.11M) The 5K does the out-and-back one time. The 10K does the out-and-back two times. Half Marathon Course (1.64M) https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/6657429743/ The course is an out-and-back (3.28M). The Half Marathon does the out-and-back four times. Course Time Limit 3 hours and 30 minutes. Finisher Medals https://usroadrunning.com/FinisherMedals.php Best Costume https://usroadrunning.com/BestCostume.php Series Points https://usroadrunning.com/S.php Awards https://usroadrunning.com/Awards.php Frequently Asked Questions and Information https://usroadrunning.com/FAQ.php US Road Running https://usroadrunning.com
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, September 12, 2026
Start Time
8:00 AM
Start Location
2816 Shoreline Road, Des Moines, IA, 50320
Course Info
Course Type
Out & Back
Terrain
road
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Course Map
Quality Score
first year
no finisher counts yet
small race — neutral
needs a few years of results
limited extras
no finisher data yet
no winner time yet
typical high 81°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
61°
Afternoon (High)
81°
Hot conditions — adjust pace expectations, prioritize hydration
0.0"
Precipitation
10 mph
Wind
65%
Humidity
Frequently asked
When is the Medal Madness 5K, 10K, & 13.1M at Des Moines, IA (37)?
The Medal Madness 5K, 10K, & 13.1M at Des Moines, IA (37) is held on Saturday, September 12, 2026, starting at 8:00 AM.
Where does the Medal Madness 5K, 10K, & 13.1M at Des Moines, IA (37) take place?
It takes place in Des Moines, Iowa.
What distances does the Medal Madness 5K, 10K, & 13.1M at Des Moines, IA (37) offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the Medal Madness 5K, 10K, & 13.1M at Des Moines, IA (37) course flat and good for a PR?
The Medal Madness 5K, 10K, & 13.1M at Des Moines, IA (37) is a ultra-flat, out & back course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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