RipRoar Events organizes the DAM to DSM Half Marathon, one of Iowa's most iconic point-to-point road races. Held annually in and around Des Moines, the course begins atop the scenic Saylorville Dam near Polk City before winding 13.1 miles through rural Polk County, neighborhood streets, and along the Des Moines River into the heart of downtown Des Moines. Since its debut in 1980 as a 20K race, the event has become a longstanding Iowa tradition, attracting thousands of runners each spring. In 2022, the race transitioned to the half marathon distance while preserving its famous point-to-point route and festive finish-line celebration at Cowles Commons. Participants enjoy fully supported aid stations, shuttle transportation to the start, enthusiastic community support, and a lively post-race festival that has helped make DAM to DSM one of the Midwest's signature running events. The EMC DAM to DSM
The course is known for its net downhill profile and unique journey from the shores of Saylorville Lake to downtown Des Moines. After crossing the dam, runners travel through open countryside before entering the city's north side, following the Des Moines River trail system, and finishing amid the skyline at Cowles Commons. The combination of fast terrain, changing scenery, and strong local support makes the race appealing to both first-time half marathoners and experienced runners chasing personal bests. With decades of history, excellent race organization, and a welcoming atmosphere, the DAM to DSM Half Marathon remains one of the premier distance running events in the American Midwest.
