
DES MOINES, IOWA (May 31, 2023) — On Saturday, June 3, runners from across Iowa and around the country will again gather on the Saylorville Dam to take on the annual challenge of running to downtown Des Moines. The tradition, which began in 1980, will welcome nearly 4000 runners from 42 states for this especially unique point-to-point running event.
Established in 1980 as the DAM to DAM race, the long-standing tradition of running between the Dam and Downtown for many runners marks the official entrance of summer. Forecasted warm temperatures for the weekend suggest summer is already here.
“Cool starts and warm finishes are a hallmark of this event,” said Michael Zimmerman, Race Director of the EMC DAM to DSM. “This juxtaposition of temperature is so common we even built into our logo with the cool blue waves on the left and the warm yellows over the buildings on the right.” Even so, this year’s run is expected to draw its largest crowd since the pandemic, with nearly 4000 runners registered.
One runner taking on the half marathon course this weekend is Blake Crow of Waukee. “This is my third year in a row at the DAM race. Like many of the runners out here, this is more of a tradition for me than anything else,” said Crow. “There is just something uniquely Iowa about getting on a school bus before the sun comes up, standing next to a lake in summertime, and then running past the cornfields and Northside neighborhoods to make it to your finish line.”
Participants of the EMC DAM to DSM running event embark on a challenging yet rewarding journey that spans 13.1 miles, starting at the picturesque Saylorville Dam and culminating in Downtown Des Moines. Along the route, runners will be treated to breathtaking views of the Des Moines River and the city's scenic landscapes north of town.
The race promises an unforgettable day of camaraderie, personal achievement, and community spirit.
"We are excited to welcome runners from 42 different states to our favorite city for this iconic run," said Michael Zimmerman. ”This event has a rich history and has evolved into a truly remarkable experience for both seasoned runners and weekend warriors alike. We look forward to celebrating the determination of our participants and showcasing all Des Moines has to offer to our visitors from across the nation."
Registrations for the EMC DAM to DSM are available until 3PM on Friday, June 2. The run will start at the Saylorville Dam at 7AM on Saturday, June 3, and will finish on the Locust St bridge in downtown Des Moines. The first expected finisher will cross the line just after 8 am, with the final finisher crossing by 11AM.
For more information about the event, including registration details and route maps, please visit the official event website at damtodsm.com.
About RipRoar Events:
RipRoar Events is a Des Moines-based event-management company dedicated to organizing and hosting various events that promote fitness, community engagement, and the celebration of Des Moines. With a passion for creating unforgettable experiences, RipRoar Events strives to inspire and unite individuals through the power of sports and active living.