The 2017 edition of this race did things backwards - literally. In a much-needed shakeup, the latest edition of the Kansas City Marathon changed the logo, the expo, and restructured the course, taking the 2016 race and running much of the course in reverse, and adding a scenic, (much welcomed), downhill finish. The course still winds through the downtown, through the Power and Light District, past the Sprint Center, a leg through the 18th and Vine area, then a long lope along the Paseo, then turning past the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, through the Plaza and Westport areas, and cresting with the view of the downtown area, a gorgeous sight in the early morning. For those who have never run in Kansas City, be warned, there are hills, and are not to be taken lightly.
This race was a revitalization of prior editions. The 2016 race seemed tired and worn out, like a race shirt that's been worn too many times and is beginning to wear out. The expo site was moved to Union Station, a great Kansas City landmark, there was a new logo and more publicity, and a new RD, who really started using social media to get the word out. Garmin is the new sponsor, and they brought in three of their athletes as well. The resulting jolt of energy really produced a more vibrant and interesting race experience. The RD has plans to make this a signature event, and the pieces are in place for this to happen with a couple more years like this one.

The IMT Des Moines Marathon weekend is a comfortable, classic race with loads of local support. This is my fourth time, and the experience has consistently been top-notch. The course has minor changes from year to year (often as a result of construction, but, also runner feedback), but what keeps me coming back is the organization, with outstanding aid stations and post-race celebrations/food, The course was mainly flat this year, as the ascent around the capitol was removed from the 2016 version, and still encompassed loops around the water works park and the adjacent lake, the heart of the course. Runners are on trails during these portions of the race, free to concentrate on running and not worry about traffic. The layout also allows for spectators (the town really does turn out for the race) and features themed aid stations. I missed the bacon station from 2016, but the luau team represented strong in the park, as usual.
The race finishes on wide, open streets, with music and crowds towards the end. Once you finish and claim your medal, the post-race spread begins, This year's edition was in several blocked-off blocks of downtown Des Moines, which made it a little hard to find all the food, but there was plenty of it, from a variety of local sponsors.
I look forward to the Des Moines race every year. Not just because of being part of the I-35 Challenge with the Kansas City Marathon, but because of the course, the people and the post race party. I urge you to put this race on your 'to-do' list.