The Capital Striders organize and host several races:
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5 & 10 Trail Race |
However, we assist with and/or sponsor several other key races in the Des Moines area. Whether it be through funding, volunteerism, or other race services, the Striders support these races and encourage our members to participate in these events.
Red Flannel Run
A mostly flat, 3 or 5-mile course through downtown Des Moines.
Red Flannel Run website
online registration
Friendly Sons of St. Patrick
A St. Patrick’s day 10K and 2-mile fun run.
more information(PDF)
online registration
Hy-Vee Road Races at the Drake Relays
New name and new distances in 2013. Runners can choose from 6K, 10K and half marathon distances. The runs will still take place the Saturday morning of the famous Drake Relays. In past year, this fast half-marathon distance has been a spring training favorite. Striders’ members receive a $5 discount when using the discount code: bulldogs.
more information
Sycamore 8
Capital Striders’ newest event; an 8-mile trail run held in Johnston on the Sycamore Trail.
online registration
Dam to Dam
One of the Midwest’s premier running events. One of the largest 20K road races in the country and a flat/fast 5K make this a destination race. One of the best post-race parties around too!
more information
Clive Running Festival
This mainstay in Central Iowa boasts of fast and fairly flat 10K and 5K races and especially pleasant for those who enjoy braving the warm temperatures of late June. In addition, a 1-mile run and tot trot truly make this a family event.
The Des Moines IMT Marathon & Half-Marathon
The Des Moines IMT Marathon & Half Marathon are becoming a tradition for bringing people together. It has earned well deserved praise as one of the best venues for running 26.2 miles.
more information
Living History Farms Off-Road Race
30+ years and still going strong. The Farms Race (as the locals call it) is the largest off road running race in the country – and getting bigger. Runners from all over the country flock to Central Iowa for the unique race through creeks and over fences.
Steve Bobenhouse – 800.529.7684
more information
Market to Market Relay
Jefferson to Des Moines: 75 miles. A premier day-long team running relay race starting in Jefferson and ending in Downtown Des Moines and covers 75 miles. Starting at sun up, seven runners and a van take on diverse and scenic courses as they make their way to the downtown finish shindig before sun down. Combine running in beautiful landscapes, outrageous costumes and memorable van rides with your friends and it all adds up to one unforgettable day. Limited to 250 teams, so sign up today!
more information
Leprechaun Chase 10K
A St. Patrick’s Day run with a twist, where ladies get a head start and the guys chase them at Principal Park and Gray’s Lake. Striders’ members receive a $5 discount when selecting the “Capital Striders Running Club” team and using the password “LUCKYSTRIDERS.”
more information
register
The Run to Exile
The Run to Exile is a one of a kind excuse to drink delicious craft beer disguised cunningly as 3 course, 3 distance run, including a half marathon, 10K and 5K. All roads lead to Exile Brewery on June 8, 2013 at 3 p.m. Striders’ members receive a $5 discount when using the code: “capstriders.”
more information
register
Blank Park Zoo Rhino Rampage
Get ready for a revamped Blank Park Zoo 5K Race & Obstacle Challenge plus an all new Kids Dash! In celebration of the new African exhibit, this event will honor the zoo’s black rhinos. Participants will have the option of enjoying a 5K run/walk or participating in an action packed obstacle course that will start and finish on Zoo grounds. The run is on June 15 and Striders’ members receive a $5 discount when using the code: RHINO13.
more information
Member of Facebook?
Join the Capital Striders group page and stay in touch with other members. Discuss training plans, setup carpools to remote races, or just see what the rest of the membership is saying.
Information about training runs is sent weekly; join that mailing list by sending an email to training@capitalstriders.org
New Year’s Day Run & Potluck The Striders start the new year off right with our traditional January 1st mid-morning run followed by (the most important part) a feast of goodies brought by the members.
We meet at 10:00 a.m. at the Lions Park shelter house in Urbandale (just south of the High School), with the potluck lunch beginning at 11:00 a.m. Runner have their choice of distance, from 1 to 6 miles, and the routes wind through the streets of Urbandale. However, small groups break off and often do less or more than the mapped route. This is an un-timed and casual fun run – no racing on this day, at least officially.
We ask attendees to bring kid-sized mittens, gloves, scarves, stocking hats, boots, etc. to donate to The Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Iowa. They distribute our donations to those in need.
So please bring new (or gently used) children’s winter clothing for donation. Yes, cash and checks will also be accepted.
Members bring all sorts of great dishes for the pot luck. There’s usually a good mix of lunch and breakfast items and if you go away hungry, it’s your own fault. The Striders provide beverages and your table service – all else is brought by members.
Hook up with old friends or make a few new ones. Consider joining us next New Year’s Day for exercise, fun, friends, and food.