Loop the Lake 8K
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Event Details
The Loop the Lake 8K is a running event on Saturday, April 11, 2026. It is hosted by the Capital Striders running club, which is a member of the Road Runners Club of America. The event is held at Gray's Lake Park in Des Moines, Iowa. A kids' race called the Little Lakers race for children 12 and under is scheduled for approximately 10:00 am.
Course
The 8 km course route for 2026 will be certified, but the exact path is to be determined based on construction status in the boathouse area. A course map will be provided.
Registration and Fees
Online registration follows a tiered pricing schedule. The fee is $40 from January 2 to January 9, 2026, $50 from January 10 to March 28, 2026, and $60 from March 29 to April 9, 2026. After April 9, registration is available at packet pickup. Members of Capital Striders receive a $10 discount on the entry fee. Unisex race shirts are provided to the first 250 pre-registered runners.
Awards
Awards are given in several categories. The top three male and female finishers receive gift cards (1st - $100, 2nd - $50, 3rd - $25). The top male and female masters runners receive a $25 gift card. The top three males and females on an age-graded basis will also receive awards. Age-group medals are awarded for various categories, with the number of awards per group specified. Each participant can only receive one award.
Schedule and Amenities
Packet pickup is available on Friday, April 10th from 3:30 to 5:30 pm at a location to be determined, and on race day from 7:30 to 8:45 am at the northwest corner of Gray's Lake Park. The awards ceremony is at approximately 10:15 am at Confluence Brewing. All participants of legal age receive a ticket for one beverage at the post-race celebration there. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
