The Blazing 5k
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The Blazing 5k
The Blazing 5k is a running event held in Des Moines, Iowa, at Water Works Park. Entering its seventh year, the race takes place on a USATF certified course (IA21006MF). The event serves as the USATF Iowa Road 5k State Championship and features a flat course design consisting of two main loops.
Participants begin the race on a back loop in the park, moving clockwise. After completing this initial section, runners cross a timing mat where a premium prize is awarded to the first person to reach it. The route then transitions into a second, larger main loop, also directed clockwise. This section of the park allows spectators to view the runners across nearly the entire loop. The race concludes with a long straightaway leading to the finish line.
The 2026 edition introduces team competitions and offers several registration categories:
- Open 5K Race: A 5 km run with no designated cutoff time.
- Elite Female 5k Race: A 5 km run with a registration cutoff time of 20:00.
- Elite Male 5k Race: A 5 km run with a registration cutoff time of 16:30.
Monetary prizes and shoes are awarded to the top five overall male and female finishers. Additional bonuses are available for setting new course records or all-comers records for the 5 km distance. Free entry is available for athletes meeting specific time standards of 14:45 for men and 19:00 for women. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
