Drake Road Races

The Drake Road Races, now in its 10th edition, anchors the half-marathon distance within the storied Drake Relays weekend in Des Moines. This flat, USATF-certified course draws about 840 runners from across 22 states, with a repeat rate of 34%—evidence of its dependable appeal. The point-to-point route features a gentle downhill profile ideal for chasing personal records.

Runners cover city streets in the heart of Iowa's capital, with race-day conditions typically hovering in the 40s to 50s and low chance of rain. The atmosphere blends the prestige of a historic track festival with a welcoming, community-oriented vibe. Post-race, finishers receive a premium apparel item, adding to the event's strong value. With a median finishing field of around 793 and growing, the Drake Road Races has carved a niche as a must-run for those seeking a fast, well-supported half-marathon experience.