We all belong at the starting line.

First-timers, experts, adults, youth – the Girls on the Run 5K puts Memories in Motion! From start to finish, our programs foster an environment where all girls are welcome to Experience the Joy, and the same applies to the 5K Celebration. 

Throughout the Fall season, girls united as a team to set goals, learn new life skills, build confidence, and more. And now, it’s time for us to follow our girls’ lead and celebrate these achievements together as a community.

Date: Sunday, November 9, 2025

Time: 12:30PM Fun Zone Activities, 2PM 5K start

Location: Principal Park, 1 Line Dr. Des Moines, IA 50309

*5K activities will take place in the North parking lot.

Follow us on social media channels at Girls on the Run of Central Iowa (@GOTRCIA) for important updates and behind-the-scenes fun! Tag us in your photos at the event and use the hashtag #GOTRCIA5K to share your Memories In Motion!

Packet Pick-Up

Packet Pick-up is for 5K Buddies and Community Runners only. Coaches and GOTR Participants DO NOT need to attend packet pick-up. At packet pick-up, 5K participants will receive their race bib and t-shirt. You are able to pick-up packets for other 5K participants.

Friday, November 7 from 4-6PM at the Walnut Creek YMCA

Sunday, November 9 starting at 12:30PM at Principal Park

Additional exclusive GOTR merchandise will also be available for purchase during above timeframes.

Still need to register a 5K Buddy? You can do so here!

NOW-November 6: Regular Fee $30

November 7-9: Day-of-Fee $35

Reminder: GOTR participants and coaches are already registered for this event.

Race Day Timeline

Here's your guide to a fun and successful 5K day!

12:30PM - Fun Zone and Race Day Packet Pick-Up Opens

1:50PM - Warm-up with Aptitude Fitness

1:55PM - National Anthem performed by Heart & Sole participants from Grinnell Middle School

2:00PM - 5K START!

Parking

Parking is available around Principal Park and will take place at various downtown lots and parking garages. View available public parking options here. Enter Principal Park's address, 1 Line Dr. to view all public parking locations. Be sure to arrive in plenty of time and account for heavy traffic!

Site Map

5K activites will take place in the North parking lot at Principal Park. No parking will be allowed in this lot - please plan accordingly. 

Meeting/Starting Information

GOTR Participants, 5K Buddies and Coaches should plan to meet their team at their designated team flag. Coaches will have bibs for themselves and the GOTR participants. Flags will be located in the Team Zone.

5K Buddies will report to the starting line with their GOTR participant and their team. 5K Buddies need to get their 5K bib from a packet pick-up.

5K Route

The 5K will start and finish at Principal Park from the North parking lot. 

Additional Race Day Information

The race is not officially timed. If you would like an exact time make arrangements to use a timing device.

Additional food items and merchandise will be available for purchase at the 5K event.

There is no seating at Principal Park for spectators. If you need seating, please bring a lawn chair.

For additional FAQs please click here.

Cheer Signs

If you purchased a customized cheer sign, they will be placed on the 5K course on November 9. Cheer signs will be available for pick-up from the registration tent at the 5K starting at 3:30PM. After the 5K they will be available for pick-up from the Walnut Creek Y starting Monday, November 10 until Friday, November 28.

Heart Power in Action!

Heart Power in Action!

Join us in a council-wide Community Impact Project benefiting the Food Bank of Iowa! At the Fall 5K on 11/9, drop any non-perishable food items or personal care products off at the registration tent to be delivered to neighbors and families in our community. 

Items needed include:

• Canned Protein (meat and fish)
• Canned goods (vegetables, fruit, soup or pasta sauce)
• Breakfast items (cereal)
• 100% fruit juice (non-refrigerated)
• Paper and personal products (toothpaste, soap, toilet paper)

We realize that girls and families in our GOTR community are directly impacted by the lapse in SNAP benefits and may be experiencing food insecurity. Bags will be available at the event to take what is needed from the donations available on 5K day. If additional resources are of need, or you are looking to help further, please reach out to foodbankiowa.org.

We cannot wait to celebrate with you on Sunday! See you at the 5K!