
From the Organizer
Join us at Des Moines Water Works Park for one of the most spirited community races of the year: Run With Kenyans, held during Juneteenth weekend as part of the Gotabgaa International Conference 2026.
This event is a celebration of health, culture, unity, and community, inspired by the rich tradition of Kenyan running excellence. Whether you are pushing the pace in the 5K, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk, or rallying your team for the exciting Fun 4 × 400 Interchapter/Presidential Relay, there is something for everyone.
Participants of all ages and fitness levels are warmly welcome. Come run, walk, cheer, and celebrate together, then stay and enjoy the post-race atmosphere filled with music, culture, and community connection.
Race Events:
Proceeds from this event will benefit the local community through GotabIowaa, supporting youth empowerment, mental health awareness, and physical activity initiatives — all in service of building a stronger, healthier community.
A heartfelt thank you to all participants, sponsors, vendors, and volunteers whose generous support makes this extraordinary event possible.
Run With Kenyans — Building a healthier community through running, teamwork, and culture.
Packet Pick
Pick up your Bib # and Package on Sunday morning between 7:00 - 8:30 Am at 2201 George Flagg Pkwy Des Moines Iowa 50321
Events
Weather
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
83°
Typical Low
62°
Chance of Rain
35%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Ankeny, 7 mi from the venue.
Host City
Elevation
929 ft
Nearest Airport
DSM
Des Moines International Airport · 9 mi
Time Zone
Central Time
From Endurance Grid
Line up lodging and travel early to lock in your race weekend.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Run with Kenyans 5k and 1 Mile Fun Walk, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
13
Days to train
Coming Up
Capital City Pride Stride 5K
Less than a mile away
Eagle 5K, 10K, & 13.1M at Des Moines, IA (28)
Less than a mile away
Clover Dash 5k
Less than a mile away
Heatwave Half Marathon - Des Moines
Less than a mile away
From Endurance Grid
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.
With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.
Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.
From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Run with Kenyans 5k and 1 Mile Fun Walk
Jun 21, 2026