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During this season, I have had the opportunity to run several local virtual races in Texas, but none of them compares to the IMT Des Moines Virtual Event. Did you notice that the title said "event" because it was more than a race. For this event, you had the opportunity to run 26.2 miles; 13.1 miles, a Relay; 5-miler, 5-mile combo, or 3.10 miles.

When I first signed up to run the IMT, I had my sights on the half marathon 13.1 miles. After weeks of training with a few weeks before race weekend, I suffered an injury that didn't allow me to run any miles leading up to the race. With this new development and still in recovery as race weekend approached, I reduced my race to the 5k. The customer service department was very accessible and accommodating. Although this was an out of state event, the communication leading up to race day was exceptional. There was a monthly newsletter keeping participants informed and a race app showing all the race amenities. Remember, this is an event, not a race.

With everything being at your fingertips, all the runners focused on running and designing their racecourse, unless you choose to run your race on the treadmill. The treadmill is not an ideal race day situation but a handy option for injured runners or inclement weather. I chose to run my course on the treadmill to avoid pounding pavement. Just like a live race, I woke up early before sunrise, put on my Bibrave gear, laced up my shoes, jumped on the treadmill, and completed the race.

Some runners chose to run without music, but that is not me. The perfect playlist is what I need to keep the energy flowing. Making the perfect playlist is not an easy task, but the IMT race event had that also covered; runners were able to open the IMT runner's playlist from the app or open it on iHeartRadio. Remember, this is an event, not just a race.

You've planned your course; you've downloaded the playlist. The only thing missing is a cheering crowd. Did I say this was an event, not a race? The IMT race found a way for runners to receive cheers during the race by utilizing the Motigo app. Motigo allows your family, friends, and fans to pre-record cheers that you can play during the race. I have used this app with other races, and it's excellent! There is nothing better than hearing some motivational words or your sister singing you a song during those moments of doubts on the course.

With all of these extras, you know the swag was awesome. Athletes participating in the IMT Des Moines Marathon Virtual Event received a short-sleeved tech shirt, race wrap (buff), and finisher medal.

If you're looking for a race, look somewhere else, but If you're looking for an event, sign up for the next IMT Des Moines Marathon Event, I can only imagine what the live event offers.