EMC DAM to DSM
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EMC DAM to DSM : overview
EMC DAM to DSM is a half-marathon event held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, in Polk City, Iowa. The race begins at Saylorville Dam and finishes in downtown Des Moines near Cowles Commons and the Des Moines Civic Center. Since 1980, more than 135,000 runners have participated in this event.
Races and fees
- Half Marathon - in-person, open to ages 11+, registration $80.
- Virtual DAM Half Marathon - virtual event, registration $80.
Registration prices increase after January 4, 2026. An additional City of Des Moines trail use fee of $1.00 applies.
Course
The course starts on top of the Saylorville Dam and travels south through rural areas of Polk County. Runners cross I-35 at the Morningstar bridge, continue through Northside neighborhoods, run along the Des Moines River at Birdland Park, and enter Downtown Des Moines. The finish line is reached after crossing the Des Moines River and passing the World Food Prize Building, with a post-race gathering at Cowles Commons.
Support and results
The event lists sponsors including EMC Insurance, Eide Bealley, Broadlawns, Iowa Ortho, Big Grove, Atlantic Bottling, and CCBW. Past in-person and virtual race results are available for reference. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
