Dave’s Picks

 

Midnight Madness 10K & 5K Run
July 10, 7:30 p.m. • Ames
www.amesmidnightmadness.com

The Midnight Madness 5K and 10K rises to the top because of its evening race time, thick crowds and great post-race meal and party. Nearly 1,000 people race the 5K, which starts at 7:30 p.m. and benefits from the 1,000 runners waiting for the 8:30 p.m. 10K to start, while the 10K runners enjoy the cheers from the 5K runners after their race. Coming over the final hill to see the brightly lit downtown finish, and cheering fans lining the final several blocks is a treat for every runner. The crowds lining the streets, the evening finish, the pasta, the beer and the music all add up to make this a highlight of the summer racing season.

 

 

Iowa Games Triathlon
July 11, 8 a.m.
Swim 400 meters, bike 13 miles, run 3.1K
Ogden, Don Williams Lake
www.iowagames.org
At only $27, this is a beginner-friendly, easy-access, well-run and fun event. The swim, at 400 yards, is over quickly, the bike is fairly flat and the 5K run takes you through the beautiful Don Williams Park. As an Iowa Games event, each participant is welcome to participate in the Iowa Games Opening Ceremony in Ames on July 16, and medals are awarded to the top three in each five-year age group.

Caption: Photo by Todd Steinberg

Fifth Season Race 8K & 5K Run
July 4, 7:30 a.m.
Cedar Rapids
www.fifthseasonrace.com
While I’ve personally never had the chance to run this race, 2,000 other runners can’t be wrong! With $18,000 in prize money, you know the fastest runners in the country will make the trek to Cedar Rapids to celebrate the 4th of July. The unique prize list awards not only the top10 overall, but also the top five Iowans, top three Masters and top three from Marion County. Come for the race, stay for the fireworks.

 

Bicycles, Blues & BBQ Fest
Criterium, Road Race and Charity Bike Ride
July 9-11, Clear Lake
www.bicyclebluesbbq.com
Held in conjunction with the Annual Clear Lake Blues Festival, this is a weekend-long treat of great cycling, music and food. While the music and BBQ fire up on Friday night, cycling starts on Saturday morning with a charity bike ride around the lake. NASCAR style criterium bike racing gets started at 1 p.m. on Saturday at City Park. Racing continues on Sunday with an Iowa Cup Series Road Race starting at the Surf Ballroom at 10 a.m.
Caption: Photo by Steve Fry

 

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