Disclaimer: I received free entry to the IMT Des Moines half marathon as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!
As I continue my quest to run a half marathon in all 50 states, I’m always on the look out for figuring out which race to run in the remaining states. The IMT Des Moines marathon has always been one that has been on my radar. Last year when this race made the BibRave Top 100 races in the country list (actually making it in to the top 20!) I knew I needed to add it to the list sooner than later!
Why Des Moines?
It’s a little of everything!
Race Support: The support from the race team, volunteers and community is amazing! When I was looking online at pics from past races, the number of spectators along the course is pretty cool. Plus, rumor has it that somewhere out there, there is a bacon station! Yes, bacon at an aid station!
Race swag: I will be honest, race swag is one of the first things that I look at when considering a race… (well, at least after destination because that is always top priority). The bling is key! I am a sucker for fun, unique race medals! IMT pulls out all the stops on their medals! While I have not been able to see this years medal yet, as it has not been released yet, medals from the last few years were pretty cool!
After the medal, it’s on to the shirt. If you are going to give me some basic t-shirt for running your race, I may walk on by (unless the medal and destination have already convinced me that I am running!). I have enough race t-shirts that I could probably make quilts for me entire family… or maybe I’ll just start making curtains for my house! IMT steps it up a notch! All half and full marathon finishers get jackets! The last few years they were full zip running jackets. This year features 1/4 zip pullovers. I am anxious to see what this years look like, but based on past years, I’m going to be ok with this option!
While everything above is important on why I pick a race, I will be totally honest…. this year, part of my reasoning for wanting to run this one is that I am going to be able to spend the weekend with some awesome friends, my BibRave family as well as other friends that I’ve met along the way over the last few years. Apparently, this is the race that everyone is heading to! One of my fellow Skirt Sport Ambassadors is even going to be there as part of the official pace team! Making it better yet? She is most the pacer for what will most likely be my goal finish time for this race!
If you are interested in joining the party, head on over to the race website and get yourself signed up before the rates go up on April 19th! Be sure to use discount code BIBRAVE20 to save $10 on your registration!! Can’t wait to see you in Des Moinse!