The IMT Des Moines Marathon reported that registration for the 2025 event is up 40% from last year, which had 2,000 participants. The marathon will take place Oct. 19 in downtown Des Moines. “I think the increase in marathon registrants is due to a number of things,” said race director Jake Jass in a press release. “The past few years we’ve showcased to the running community that we can provide a big-deal marathon without the cost of racing and traveling to the larger market races that take place the same time of year.” In 2024, race organizers changed the course to remove many of the hills to create a race that is more appealing for those looking to qualify for the Boston Marathon or searching for a flat, fast course. According to marathon organizers, the direct economic impact from the 2024 event was $867,057.