IMT DMM FAQs
When and where is the IMT Des Moines Marathon?
Sunday, October 15, 2023. Registration opens on January 1.
The IMT Des Moines Marathon, IMT Des Moines Half Marathon, and Bankers Trust Marathon Relay start at 8 am, followed by the Principal 5K Road Race at 8:30 am. 300 Court Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50309.
The MercyOne Children’s Hospital Kids Run starts at noon at the Science Center of Iowa. 400 MLK Jr. Pkwy. Des Moines, IA 50309.
Make a plan to join us next year on Sunday, October 20, 2024.
How do I join the email list to receive race updates?
Once you have registered for any of our races, we will automatically add you to the subscription list.
Is there an official charity associated with the race?
Children’s Cancer Connection serves families affected by childhood cancer by providing opportunities that encourage relationships and strengthen the community. We do over 600 families living, treating, or being diagnosed in Iowa annually. We offer Hospital-and-Clinic based programs, Support Programs and Outings, and Camps. All of our programs are provided at next to no cost!
Children’s Cancer Connection is excited to partner with the IMT Des Moines Marathon as the event’s official charity partner through 2023. Together with IMT Insurance, we have raised more than $58,000 for CCC.
Team CCC is a network of runners who raise money for Children’s Cancer Connection to benefit families across Iowa affected by childhood cancer. Members earn special swag, prizes, and perks for their fundraising. The more money you raise, the more incentives you’ll receive. All you need to do is register, share your fundraising page, and get running! Sign up.
Does the event offer registration cancellation insurance?
The IMT Des Moines Marathon does not offer refunds once the race registration is complete.
However, Get Me Registered Event does offer Secure Fee registration cancellation insurance for the ticket holder. It must be purchased at the time of race registration. Click here to read how it works and learn more about what is covered and not covered.
How many athletes participate in the race?
More than 5,700 athletes registered for IMT Des Moines Marathon races in 2022.
1,105 completed the IMT Des Moines Marathon. 2,547 completed the IMT Des Moines Half Marathon. 646 completed the Principal 5K Road Race. 57 teams finished the Bankers Trust Marathon Relay. 118 participated in the MercyOne Children’s Hospital Kids Run. 23 participated in the IMT Des Moines Marathon virtual race distances.
Does the race sell out, or do you cap the number of participants?
The IMT Des Moines Marathon races do not sell out or have a cap on the number of participants.
Walk-up registration for all in-person races is available at the DMOS Orthopaedic Sports & Fitness Expo on Friday, October 13, from 3 to 8 pm. Again, on Saturday, October 14, from 10 am to 5 pm.
What are the registration fees in 2023, and when do prices go up?
Click here to view registration fees and increases associated with the IMT Des Moines Marathon race in 2023.
How do I register for the IMT Des Moines Marathon races?
It’s easy; click on the IMT Des Moines Marathon registration link and scroll to the event distance category of your choice to sign up. Coming January 1, 2023.
What if the event is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances?
If the event gets canceled for an unforeseen circumstance, such as a pandemic, or another situation, such as emergency weather conditions, entry fees will still be non-refundable. The IMT Des Moines Marathon, per management executives, city officials, and local law enforcement, has the authority to cancel any of the events for emergency purposes such as, but not limited to, inclement weather or threat of terrorism. If such emergency conditions force cancellation, the IMT DMM cannot provide refunds since funds will have been spent preparing for race day. No partial or full refunds will be offered for the event – no exceptions.
You can click here to view the IMT Des Moines Marathon terms and conditions.
I registered for the race. How do I have my confirmation email resent to me?
Click here to generate a confirmation message from Get Me Registered. Be sure to scroll up on the screen.
I registered for the race, but would like to switch to a longer distance. How?
Beginning July 18, 2023, athletes can change their race registration online. Processing fees will apply.
Once the athlete race numbers have been assigned, you can still update or correct your race registration. However, it must be done in person at the DMOS Orthopaedic Sports & Fitness Expo.
When you arrive at packet pick-up, pick up the athlete registration items for the race division you are registered. Then, stop by the registration changes kiosk, and we will update your race registration. Processing fees may apply.
To have your race registration confirmation email resent to you, click here.
Hours & Location (for registration updates)
DMOS Orthopaedic Sports & Fitness Expo
Friday, October 13, from 3 to 8 pm.
Saturday, October 14, from 10 am to 5 pm.
Iowa Events Center – Hy-Vee Hall – Hall C
730 Third Street, Des Moines, IA 50309
I registered for the race, but would like to switch to a shorter race distance. How?
Beginning July 18, 2023, athletes can change their race registration online. Processing fees will apply.
Once the athlete race numbers have been assigned, you can still update or correct your race registration. However, it must be done in person at the DMOS Orthopaedic Sports & Fitness Expo.
When you arrive at packet pick-up, pick up the athlete registration items for the race division you are registered. Then, stop by the registration changes kiosk, and we will update your race registration. Processing fees may apply.
To have your race registration confirmation email resent to you, click here.
Hours & Location (for registration updates)
DMOS Orthopaedic Sports & Fitness Expo
Friday, October 13, from 3 to 8 pm.
Saturday, October 14, from 10 am to 5 pm.
Iowa Events Center – Hy-Vee Hall – Hall C
730 Third Street, Des Moines, IA 50309
Is race registration still available at the expo?
Yes. However, the last day to register for the IMT Des Moines Marathon races is October 14.
Walk-up registration is available in all individual races at the DMOS Orthopaedic Sports & Fitness Expo.
Friday, October 13, from 3 to 8 pm.
Saturday, October 14, from 10 am to 5 pm at the Iowa Events Center. 730 Third Street, Des Moines, IA 50309.
I registered for the race, but can’t participate. Can I transfer to another athlete?
Race entry fees are non-refundable, non-transferable, or non-deferrable, including injury, pregnancy, schedule changes, or family emergencies. Sorry, no exceptions.
Once Get Me Registered (Stack Sports) processes the athlete’s credit card, the race entry is complete. The IMT Des Moines Marathon will not issue a refund or deferral if the athlete cannot participate on race day.
Refunds will not be issued if the event is canceled because of inclement weather, natural disaster, pandemic, the threat of terrorism, or other unforeseen circumstances. The athlete acknowledges this policy in Step 2 of the race registration process.
Please have a look at our Terms & Conditions.
I registered for the race, but can’t participate. Can I defer to next year?
Race entry fees are non-refundable, non-transferable, or non-deferrable, including injury, pregnancy, schedule changes, or family emergencies. Sorry, no exceptions.
Once Get Me Registered (Stack Sports) processes the athlete’s credit card, the race entry is complete. The IMT Des Moines Marathon will not issue a refund or deferral if the athlete cannot participate on race day.
Refunds will not be issued if the event is canceled because of inclement weather, natural disaster, pandemic, the threat of terrorism, or other unforeseen circumstances. The athlete acknowledges this policy in Step 2 of the race registration process.
Please have a look at our Terms & Conditions.
I registered for the race, but can’t participate. Do I get a refund?
Race entry fees are non-refundable, non-transferable, or non-deferrable, including injury, pregnancy, schedule changes, or family emergencies. Sorry, no exceptions.
Once Get Me Registered (Stack Sports) processes the athlete’s credit card, the race entry is complete. The IMT Des Moines Marathon will not issue a refund or deferral if the athlete cannot participate on race day.
Refunds will not be issued if the event is canceled because of inclement weather, natural disaster, pandemic, the threat of terrorism, or other unforeseen circumstances. The athlete acknowledges this policy in Step 2 of the race registration process.
Please have a look at our Terms & Conditions.
How do I register for the I-35 Challenge?
Due to the calendar, the I-35 Challenge is offered on consecutive weekends in 2023. Join us on October 19 & 20, 2024, for back-to-back dates on the same weekend.
In 2023, the IMT Des Moines Marathon is the third Sunday, October 15, and the Kansas City Marathon is the third Saturday, October 21. As a result, the I-35 Challenge is offered on consecutive weekends this year.
Register for your race of choice in Des Moines (Marathon or Half Marathon) and your race choice in Kansas City (Marathon or Half Marathon) as you usually would. Then, register for the I-35 Challenge Presented by the Half Fanatics & Marathon Maniacs through the unique I-35 Challenge race registration site. Sign up.
Attend packet pick-up at each city’s race expo to pick up your race materials for each race as you normally would. The I-35 Challenge booth in Des Moines is where you will check in to pick up your I-35 Challenge apparel. After crossing the finish line in Kansas City, you will receive your I-35 Challenge finisher medal.
How do I get to Des Moines and where do I park?
For directions to Des Moines, visit the Hotels & Activities page, and click here.
Parking Street parking is free where you can find it (watch for temporary “no parking” signs). City Parking Garages are available seven days a week. Rates apply Monday through Saturday. Find parking.
- Center Street Park & Ride Parking Garage – 830 6th Ave (close to the Iowa Event Center)
- 5th & Keo Parking Garage, – 525 5th Ave (close to the Iowa Events Center)
- 4th & Grand Parking Garage – 400 Grand Ave (close to the Start & Finish Line)
- 3rd & Court Parking Garage – 210 2nd Ave (close to the Start & Finish Line)
- East 2nd Street Parking Garage – 402 E. 2nd Street
- E 4th & Des Moines Parking Garage – 555 E 4th Street (ground level)
- 235 5th Avenue (close to Start & Finish Line)
Do you offer a preview of the athlete apparel offered this year?
Yes. The IMT Des Moines Marathon, IMT Des Moines Marathon Marathon, and Bankers Trust Marathon Relay athletes receive a smooth brushed-back soft poly knit vest with performance quality.
Leslie Jordan provides a sizing chart that applies to the entire IMT Des Moines Marathon athlete and volunteer apparel line. Click here.
Is there a sizing chart available for the athlete apparel being offered?
Yes. Leslie Jordan provides a sizing chart that applies to the entire IMT Des Moines Marathon athlete and volunteer apparel line. Click here.
Is there an official Training shirt this year?
Yes. You can purchase an official training shirt during your race registration or directly from our race registration site through the Add-On Events & Accessories category. Click here.
This ultra-comfortable Training short sleeve T-shirt combines moisture-wicking performance with unbeatable tri-blend softness and technology to create a great feeling tee for your training needs.
Please allow up to 3 weeks from the time of order for direct mail fulfillment from Image Solutions.
Is there a finisher shirt for purchase?
Not at this time, but please check back soon.
I can't attend packet pick-up. Is someone able to pick up my race packet for me?
Yes. Your race/bib number will be emailed to you the week of the race, just before packet pick-up at the DMOS Orthopaedic Sports & Fitness Expo.
If you are unable to attend yourself, the person you send to pick up your race packet should be able to identify your name, gender, age, and city/state. We will do our best to ensure they leave packet pick-up with everything you need for a successful race day.
You may want to consider forwarding your race/bib number email directly to the person who will pick up your packet and encourage them to keep it handy on their mobile device before arriving at packet pick-up.
Otherwise, in an emergency, we can make special arrangements to pick up your packet the morning of the race, but this is strongly discouraged.
Where and when do I pick up my bib and athlete apparel?
Athlete packet pick-up and walk-up registration occur at the DMOS Orthopaedic Sports & Fitness Expo.
Friday, October 13, from 3 to 8 pm.
Saturday, October 14, from 10 am to 6 pm.
Iowa Events Center, Hall C. 730 3rd Street, Des Moines.
I need to book a hotel. Is there a list of hotels near the race start/finish line that offer a discount?
We make travel easy! TEAMINN is the hotel booking company for you. They have established the lowest rates with our hotel partners for IMT Des Moines Marathon guests. To book your room stay in Des Moines, click here, or call 1.800.233.8326. Questions? support@myteaminn.com
Is there a speaker series this year?
The MidAmerican Energy Speaker Series & Interactive Series features guest presentations that focus on active participation in healthy lifestyles.
The two-day speaker series occurs during the DMOS Orthopaedic Sports & Fitness Expo as part of the IMT Des Moines Marathon packet pick-up and walk-up registration process at the Iowa Events Center on Friday, October 14 Saturday, October 15. The public is welcome to attend. Click here.
I would like to volunteer race weekend. How do I sign up?
Volunteers are key to a successful event. Every little task and minor detail ensures a positive overall athlete experience. There are many different volunteer opportunities associated with the IMT Des Moines Marathon race weekend on October 14 to 16, 2022. Pick a volunteer duty, day, and time that works best for you.
To view a complete list and description of volunteer shifts, times, duties available, and to sign-up, click here.
All IMT Des Moines Marathon volunteers receive an official IMT Des Moines Marathon long-sleeve volunteer shirt.
Volunteers must be at least 14 years old or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Silver Cord volunteer credit hours have been approved for Des Moines area students.
Where is the pasta dinner located this year?
The IMT Des Moines Marathon offers a pasta dinner featuring Children’s Cancer Connection, VIP athletes, Pace Team members, special guests, and more.
It starts at 6 pm on Saturday, October 14, at the Hotel Savery.
Scroll down past the race distance event categories on the race registration page and click on Add-On Events & Accessories.
Is there an official race app with runner tracking and race weekend information?
Don’t forget you can track an athlete’s progress live during the race. With the IMT DMM App, you can see in real-time where they are at on the course. The IMT DMM App uses the crossing of the timing mats to calculate your athlete’s average speed and pace.
Available for free download now through iTunes and the Google Play Stores.
Do finishers get a shirt and a medal?
All IMT Des Moines Marathon & Half Marathon and Bankers Trust Marathon Relay participants receive a premium duo hoodie pullover this year.
Principal 5K Road Race athletes receive a long sleeve technical shirt.
MercyOne Children’s Hospital Kids Run participants receive a one-size-fits-all item perfect for kids of all ages.
Leslie Jordan provides all-athlete apparel. For a Leslie Jordan sizing chart, click here.
Finishers in all races receive a finisher medal featuring new designs this year from Ashworth Awards based on original artwork from Sayles Design.
Can I personalize my finish time on my medal?
Do you offer a preview of the finisher medals?
Do you have a start/finish line map for Sunday morning?
Visit the Course Maps page to view the IMT Des Moines Marathon Start & Finish Map. Click here.
Can I personalize my bib with my first name?
What is the course elevation?
IMT Des Moines Marathon; Max Elevation: 984 feet (300m). Min Elevation: 785 feet (239m). Elevation Gain: 829 feet (252m). Elevation Loss: 829 feet (252m).
MapMyMarathon.com gives the race a Course Score of 98.11, ranking it as the 314th fastest marathon course in the U.S. and the 2nd fastest course in Iowa.
The typical race time temperature and humidity levels are ideal for optimal marathon performance. Coupled with the Course Score, this gives the IMT Des Moines Marathon a PR Score of 98.11. This PR Score ranks it as the 255th fastest marathon in the U.S. and the 1st fastest in Iowa.
Learn more about PR Scores and Course Scores on the FAQ page.
Are the races chip-timed?
With IMT DMM LiveTracking, your friends and family can follow your progress live during the race by simply searching for their race number/bib or name by clicking here.
You can then choose to post live updates to your Facebook or Twitter account with their progress. You will then be asked to log into your social media account and authorize the app to allow it to post live updates on your timeline/feed.
Are the courses USATF certified?
Yes, all of the races held on Sunday are USATF certified. The IMT Des Moines Marathon USATF Certificate is IA17004MF. The IMT Des Moines Half Marathon USATF Certificate is IA17005MF. The Principal 5K Road Race USATF Certificate is IA17006MF.
Is this a Boston Marathon qualifying course?
Yes, the IMT Des Moines Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifying course. Boston Marathon qualifying times are good for 18 months, as long as the race result is achieved on a USATF-certified course, Des Moines. Official IMT Des Moines Marathon results are sent to the Boston Athletic Association immediately following the race. For more information, visit the Pace Team page.
10.9% of marathon finisher times met Boston Marathon qualifying times in 2021.
Best wishes in Boston!
Are there overall and age division awards offered... what about prize money?
Cash is offered in the IMT Des Moines Marathon and goes to the top three male and female finishers and the top two male and female master’s finishers.
The IMT Des Moines Marathon offers a cash bonus if the male or female winner breaks the current event record. An additional cash bonus is offered if they finish under 02:20 and 02:40, respectively.
Gift Cards
Scheels presents gift cards in the IMT Des Moines Half Marathon to the top three male and female finishers and the top two male and female master’s finishers. The fastest male and female from Iowa to cross the finish line in the IMT Des Moines Marathon & Half Marathon also receive a Scheels gift card.
Overall Awards
The IMT Des Moines Marathon presents a 1st place trophy for the top male and female finisher in all race divisions.
Age Division Awards
The IMT Des Moines Marathon presents a personalized keepsake in all race divisions to the top three male and female finishers in each of the following age groups; 14 & under, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, and 80 & over.
Personalization includes athlete name, race division, place within an age division, and finish time.
All awards are mailed directly to the winning athlete and typically take 5-6 weeks for production and shipping once race results are official.
For more information or to learn about competing on race day in the Pro & Elite Athlete division, click here.
What is the weather like?
The typical race time temperature and humidity levels are within the ideal range for optimal marathon performance. Anticipated race day weather; Mean Temp.: 52°F (11°C). Average High: 63°F (17°C). Average Low: 42° F (5°C).
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | |
H (°F) | 63 | 56 | 60 | 50 | 61 |
L (°F) | 50 | 39 | 45 | 32 | 48 |
Are there shower facilities for athletes on race day?
Is there a kids run this year, and if so, what are the distances offered?
The MercyOne Children’s Hospital Kids Run features a family-friendly event with various health, wellness, and science-themed activities at the Science Center of Iowa on Sunday, October 16 at noon.
Distances vary based on academic grade level; however, children may participate in the distance that is best suited for their personal development.
Start Times
Noon Check-In
12:30 pm Preschool Up to 75 yards (.04 mile)
12:35 pm Kindergarten Up to 150 yards (.08 mile)
12:40 pm 1st and 2nd Grade Up to 1/4 mile (.3 mile)
12:50 pm 3rd and 4th Grade Up to 1/2 mile (.65 mile)
1:00 p.m. 5th Grade and Up Up to 1 mile (1 mile)
All participating children will receive a participation item, a finisher medal, and a MercyOne Children’s Hospital Kids Run bib.
Registration for the MercyOne Children’s Hospital Kids Run is only $15.
Packet pick-up occurs at the DMOS Orthopaedic Sports & Fitness Expo on Friday, October 14, from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. and on Saturday, October 15, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Iowa Events Center, 730 Third Street, Des Moines, IA 50309.
Or.
Packet pick-up is available on Sunday, October 16, starting at noon at the registration table outside the café entrance to the Science Center of Iowa.
Science Center of Iowa, 401 Martin Luther King Jr. Pkwy, Des Moines, IA 50309.
How young is too young for my child to participate?
Are walkers allowed in the race?
And, don’t forget the MercyOne 5-Mile Run & MercyOne 1-Mile Walk on Saturday, October 16, is walker-friendly as well.
Regardless, the IMT Des Moines Marathon finish line does not close until the last athlete crosses it.
I saw someone taking pictures of me on race day, how do I purchase them?
Athletes participating in the IMT Des Moines races receive one free high-resolution digital image, allowing downloads and shares across major social media channels. Click here.
Athletes can also purchase race day photos directly from MarathonFoto.
Can I start the race early if I am worried I won't finish in time?
Can someone hop on the course to run with me for a few miles?
Can I run or walk with a stroller? How about with a dog on a leash?
Can someone ride the course on a bike, roller blades, skateboard, etc. with me?
What energy drink and/or energy gels are offered on the course?
Gatorade Endurance energy gels in pear apple, blackberry, and vanilla flavors.
Located on the marathon course at Mile 10/4, Mile 20, and Mile 22.
Located on the half marathon course at Mile 7 and Mile 9.
Race officials encourage you not to solely rely on the supplements provided along the course if you plan to include them in your race day performance.
Are there pace teams for the races?
Yes, for both the IMT Des Moines Marathon and Half Marathon race divisions.
For more information on the IMT Des Moines Marathon Pace Team, presented by Fitness Sports, visit the Course Support page. Click here.
What finish times are offered?
Most of the IMT Des Moines Marathon Pace Leader times mirror 2023 Boston Marathon qualifying finish times of: 3:20, 3:25, 3:30, 3:35, 3:40, 3:45, 3:55, 4:00, 4:05, 4:20, 4:35, 4:50, 5:05, 5:20.
IMT Des Moines Half Marathon Pace Leader finish times offered are: 1:30, 1:40, 1:45, 1:50, 2:00, 2:10, 2:20, 2:30, 2:45, 3:00.
Can I run or walk with headphones?
With IMT DMM LiveTracking, your friends and family can follow your progress live during the race by simply searching for their race number/bib or name by clicking here. You can then choose to post live updates to your Facebook or Twitter account with their progress. You will then be asked to log into your social media account and authorize the app to allow it to post live updates on your timeline/feed.
IMT DMM LiveTracking is available for free through the iTunes and Google Play stores.
What if I can’t finish the race?
How can I find race results?
For October 16 & 17, 2021 race results, click here.
Is there a bag check for athletes on race day?
Where are the portable toilets located on the course?
Some portable toilet locations are posted on the IMT Des Moines Marathon route maps, but not all. You’ll never be more than 2 miles away from the next opportunity.
Are there training guides or programs that can help me get started?
What is the Run Iowa Challenge presented by Capital City Fruit?
Capital City Fruit – Home Delivery
Official Produce Supplier of the IMT Des Moines Marathon and Presenting Sponsor for the Race Iowa Challenge. Capital City Fruit is a 73-year-old company located in Norwalk, Iowa. Capital City Fruit – Home Delivery provides fresh produce delivered directly to your door. Capital City Fruit – Home Delivery provides oranges and Bananas on-course at each fruit stand and the finish line. Learn more about the Capital City Fruit – Home Delivery. Learn more
What are the terms and conditions of the race?
All registrants should read the IMT Des Moines Marathon terms and conditions.
When will the next IMT Des Moines Marathon be held?
Your next chance to run with us is the third weekend in October; we hope to see you then.
Upcoming dates include October 20, 2024, and October 19, 2025.
I don't see my question related to the I-35 Challenge listed. Help!
The I-35 Challenge has a frequently asked question page on the Kansas City Marathon website, and you may find your question listed by clicking here.
I've come to the end and I don't see my question listed. Help!
No problem. Please don’t hesitate to contact the race director with your question at info@desmoinesmarathon.com.