Des Moines & Cedar Rapids Marathons Add New 10K Race for 2026

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Runners in Iowa will have a new race option starting in 2026, as the IMT Des Moines Marathon Weekend will add the Bankers Trust 10K to its event lineup. The new 10K race will also be offered at the inaugural Cedar Rapids Marathon Weekend. Both events are organized by Endurance Sports Marketing, a local event company.

Why it matters

The addition of a 10K distance is a common strategy for marathon organizers looking to broaden participation and attract a wider range of runners. It provides an entry point for runners who may not be prepared for a half or full marathon, potentially increasing overall event attendance and community engagement.

The details

The new 10K race will debut on October 18 as part of the IMT Des Moines Marathon Weekend's 25th anniversary celebration. Registration for all races at both the Des Moines and Cedar Rapids events, including the new 10K, is currently open. Organizers may consider expanding race weekend offerings further in the future, based on the success of this new distance.

• The first Bankers Trust 10K will be held on October 18 as part of the IMT Des Moines Marathon Weekend's 25th anniversary celebration.
• The 10K will also be offered at the inaugural Cedar Rapids Marathon Weekend on June 7.

What’s next

Organizers may consider expanding race weekend offerings further in the future, based on the success of this new distance. A possible next step could be to analyze registration data to determine the demand for other race lengths.