Race Committee

Alone, we are individuals attempting to give back to the community in which we live.  Together, we offer a combined level of expertise that ensures a racing atmosphere for our athletes that is beyond comparison to anything else in the state of Iowa.

If you have an interest to learn more about the IMT Des Moines Marathon Race Committee, please Contact us at the IMT Des Moines Marathon office or call 515.288.2692.

Who We Are and Why We Are Here
We asked members of the IMT Des Moines Marathon Race Committee: What motivates you to volunteer your time?

Running is my passion.  Helping others achieve their goals is very rewarding.  An average of 1-2% of people complete a marathon; seeing that percentage cross the finish line is priceless.  You can be part of that percentage and I'll be there to see you!
-Jan Atchison – Athlete Shirts

Watching others achieve their dreams. Everyone can't be runners, otherwise who would be out there cheering them on?
-Amanda Austin – Finish Line Food

It's great to see all the people who made the commitment and followed through-the look on their faces at the finish line.
-Steve Bobenhouse - Fitness Sports Awards Ceremony

I love to support my fellow runners by giving my time and promoting the IMT Des Moines Marathon and its growth!
-Heather Brunk - Speaker Series

The discovery of the sport of running was life changing for me personally and I enjoy watching that same discovery on the faces of others as they cross the finish line.
-Chris Burch - Director of Racing and Events
 
Over the past decade, the IMT Des Moines Marathon has gained a tremendously strong following and has earned nationwide recognition as a premier running event.  I am honored to be involved as a runner and as a volunteer race committee member.
-Melinda Ellwanger - Going Green

I organize the Bankers Trust Kids Run presented by Iowa Kidstrong because I feel very strongly about making physical activity, running in particular, fun for kids so they make it a habit.
-Cindy Elsbernd - Bankers Trust Kids Run presented by Iowa Kidstrong

It is very satisfying helping others have a great experience running the IMT Des Moines Marathon.
-Andy Goodman - Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield Sports & Fitness Expo

Health promotion and wellness is the key to preventing illness in the next 20 years. I can't think of an event that embodies the concept of physical and mental health better than the IMT Des Moines Marathon.
-Rich Green – Mercy Medical Center First Aid Stations

I am very appreciative of the people who volunteer for the races in which I compete, and this is my way of giving back to the running community.
-Paul Grinvalds - Principal Financial Group 5K Road Race

I love being out on the course watching the runners as they test themselves. I don't know which thrills me more; the first place finisher or the last place finisher.
-Steve Halsted - Course Marshals

As a marathoner, I benefit from the countless hours that hundreds of race volunteers give each year. The IMT Des Moines Marathon Race Committee provides me an opportunity to give back.
-Dennis Haney – Finish Line

I volunteer in several genres in Des Moines and Ankeny to give back to the communities. It is also a great way of business and social interaction.
-Julie Hugo – Bike Iowa Bike Support

I am excited that Des Moines hosts its very own marathon, and I want to see it continue to thrive.
-Tim Ives - Elite Athletes

The running community in Des Moines has given so much to me that I wanted to give back so that others might enjoy also.
-Rae Letourenau - Aid Stations

It's a great way to give back to the running community. Races don't happen if people don't step up to volunteer. Plus I love interacting with all of the runners and supporters.
-Keith Lyles - Registration

I enjoy helping others achieve their goals.
-Rob McGrath - Bankers Trust Marathon Relay

Polk County Amateur Radio Emergency Services use events like this to practice our skills in order to be prepared to provide communications support during emergencies.
-Dan Miller, KC0FRL - Course Communications

I enjoy helping races and runners. It's a lifelong passion for the last 30-plus years. There's nothing better than the thrill of a great race.
-Cal Murdock - Finish Line

IMT Insurance Company is proud to be the Title Sponsor of this great event! I am honored to be part of the Race Committee and want to promote IMT as well as a healthy lifestyle to everyone!
-Troy Neil, Marketing Manager, The IMT Group - Marketing

Being a runner for over 30 years and having run in many races, this is a way to give back to a sport that has provided me with years of enjoyment and innumerable lasting memories.
-Dr. Kirk Neustrom - Finish Line Medical Tent

I started helping in 2002. It's been a great experience to see how much it has grown. I've met some great people being part of the Race Committee, and this year I'm going to be a participant, too, and do the 5K!
-Marshall Norfleet – Elite Athlete Hospitality

Des Moines has such a great running community. I enjoy making it even better through volunteering with the IMT Des Moines Marathon-it's a great group a people and a lot of fun!
-Andy Roat - Course Marshals

I love the way runners take care of each other, especially how serious athletes cheer and inspire newbies. This is my way of returning that support.
-Elizabeth Keest Sedrel – Athlete Packet Pick Up

I am a runner and appreciate others who have organized marathons as well as other races for me. Besides, it's a really cool event that brings a lot of people to central Iowa.
-Matt Smith – Lint Van Lines Baggage Claim

Passion for an active lifestyle. As coordinator of bicycle course support, I enjoy helping runners along the course.
-Scott Sumpter – Bike Iowa Bike Support

It doesn't matter if someone is running their first marathon or their 100th, there is an energy that is contagious. I never cease to be humbled by pacers who give up their own race to help other runners achieve their dreams.
-Tara Thomas – Van Meter Industrial Pace Team

It is inspirational to see the faces of the athletes crossing the finish line. That is the 'Big Prize' for all the hours they have sacrificed, and it's uplifting to share that moment.
-Tom Vasquez - Heatsheets

My goal as entertainment director is to provide as much entertainment as possible for all the athletes who have made the commitment to participate in the IMT Des Moines Marathon.
-Lori Williams – Course Entertainment