This race is held annually — for the last 34 years — and is perfect timing leading up to the IMT Des Moines Half Marathon (if you're signed up for that; and if not, it's still a great race to add to your calendar!). I heard rumors that this was a fast course, and it was! I really enjoyed running through downtown and around the Drake and Ingersoll neighborhoods. The sprint down Locust at the finish was awesome. A portion of the race proceeds assist Iowa Kidstrong, Inc. — promoting healthy, active lifestyles among children. Some of the students and their mentors were also out racing the 10-miler.

Cost: Super inexpensive for a 10-mile race; Capital Striders members can save $5 on registration.

No Expo for this race, but bib pick-up was at Fitness Sports in Clive the day before the race; there was also an option to pick up on race day. No bag check or transportation for Capital Pursuit.

Swag: Long-sleeved blue tech shirt with the Capital Pursuit logo.

Start Line: Kybos & a DJ. Runners lined up at Locust & 15th Street at Western Gateway Park, heading straight into the city. The weather wasn't perfect this year, thanks to the humidity.

Finish Line: The announcers call out the finisher names when they approach the finish line, which I LOVE. There's also medals! Back toward Western Gateway Park was a tent set up with a BUNCH of post-race snacks — the usual bananas, chocolate milk, and an additional spread of bagels and orange slices and more. There was an after party with, supposedly, a bunch of food and free drinks for participants at Exile Brewing, but it didn't start until 10:30am.

I LOVED this race, and I will definitely run it again.