The Blazing 5k

🏃‍♂️ Welcome to the Fastest 5k in the Midwest!

Event Overview

• Event: The Blazing 5k
• Date: October 4, 2026
• Location: 2201 George Flagg Pkwy, Des Moines, IA
• URL: Race Sign-Up

🏆 Event Highlights

• State Championship: The event doubles as the USATF Iowa Road 5k State Championship.
• Team Competitions: New in 2026, team competitions will be introduced.
• Course Details: The 5k course starts on the back loop in Water Works Park and features flat and fast loops.
• Course Certification: USATF Certified Course: IA21006MF

💰 Prizes

• 1st place (M/F): $300 + Shoes
• 2nd place (M/F): $200 + Shoes
• 3rd place (M/F): $100 + Shoes
• 4th place (M/F): $75

📈 Prize Details

• 5th place (M/F): $50
• Course Record Bonus: $100 for breaking the 5k course record.
• Total Planned Purse: $3150 + Shoes (x8 pairs) for 2025
• 2024 Total Purse: $3350 + Shoes (8 pairs)

👟 Elite Runners Information

• Male Cutoff: 16:30, Free Entry for 14:45 or faster
• Female Cutoff: 20:00, Free Entry for 19:00 or faster
• Free Entry Sign Up Opens: April 14, 2026
• Contact: Reach out to Tyson Wieland at Tysonw123@live.com

🌟 Historical Notes

• 5k Course Record: Male: Edwin Kurgat - 13:47 (2022), Female: Kassie Parker - 15:46 (2024)
• All-Comers Record: Male: Frank Omara - 13:37 (1992), Female: Shelly Steely - 15:30 (1992)
• Prize Purse History: Total prizes have increased over the years, from $600 in 2020 to $3540 in 2023.