The 2021 IMT Des Moines Marathon exceeded all of my expectations! This race management, course, community support, and swag are truly top-notch.

Pre-Race
The communication from the race director was fantastic. I knew where to go, when to be there, and what to expect.

Race Weekend
For starters, the city of Des Moines is amazing - so much to see and do! And there were so many great food options that I was bummed I couldn't try them all. On the Saturday of race weekend, there was a farmers market that was seriously the largest farmers market I've ever seen. Blocks and blocks of food, crafts, coffee, food, and more food! And I learned later that this happens EVERY Saturday in Des Moines. I thought it just happened to be perfectly timed with race weekend. So fun!

The Course
Let's get this out of the way - yes the course has hills but I promise you that they are nothing to fear. It's not pancake flat, but the hills are manageable, particularly if you live and train in an area with an elevation change whatsoever. If you live where it's flat, just put the treadmill on incline every now and again or do some extra squats. Do not worry about these hills

Post-Race
What a party! Great food, drinks, and camaraderie! I am a vegetarian but I will tell you that the pork BBQ sandwiches served to finishers were seriously tempting! There was plenty of good stuff for vegetarians too as well as massage tables, Truly, and other fun stuff.

Overall
I can't recommend this race enough. I signed up on a whim and I'm so glad I did! I will be back in 2022 for sure!