The race has a 5k, 10k, and a 15k distance, although the 15k is just the runners' combined times from doubling the 5k and 10k. It's the same price if you run one race or both, so you might as well just run the double, right?

Packet pickup can only be done the day of the race at City Hall, which is where the race starts as well. You get a bib, shirt, and a timing chip for your shoe. The chip is really just there for your finishing time, as everyone is gun timed for this event. Packet pickup/the expo also has old race shirts available, as well as a shoe sale from Fitness Sports, a local store in Des Moines. The shoes are definitely cheap at the sale, but most are two models old.

The 5k in 2015 (and every year preceding it) is a short loop around downtown Ames, and then an out and back where you head out to Iowa State's campus, and return to Main Street. There is a decent hill (read: steep) on the course, and you get to run up that bad boy twice. The finish is a long straightaway that you can see for about a quarter of a mile, so bring that finishing kick.

The 10k, however, is the main event. Starting an hour after the 5k, this is where the top runners line up. And by top, I mean you'll see some 30 minute or 29 minute 10ks run in the men's race. The race itself is the exact same as the 5k, except you run the course twice.

Awards are given for age group in the 5k, 10k, and the combined 15k. The post race party is also worth sticking around for. A free pasta meal for runners, and free beer as well. Typically the after party will run at least until midnight, so stick around for a little while at least.

All in all, this one is worth your time to travel to Ames for. A night race with top notch runners? What more could you want?

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