On Saturday, 9 May 2026, the Market to Market Relay returns in Iowa, sending teams from Jefferson to Des Moines over a diverse 75-mile course. Participants run in relay fashion (each member runs two to three legs) while their van carries the rest of the team, enabling rest and strategy between exchanges. The course traverses portions of the Raccoon River Valley Trail, paved highways, gravel backroads, and rural passageways, with stage lengths typically ranging from 3 to 6 miles. Teams are encouraged to dress in costumes, decorate their vehicle, and enjoy the journey as much as the competition, culminating in a post-race celebration in downtown Des Moines. The event blends endurance, teamwork, and fun — equal parts running challenge and social relay adventure.
Race
75 miles
The Market to Market Relay Iowa, presented by Iowa’s Running Road Trip, is set for Saturday, May 9, 2026 and runs from Jefferson to Des Moines, Iowa, covering approximately 75 miles via 18 relay stages through trails, gravel roads, and local highways.
Weather based on historical averages.
FAQs
What is the Market to Market Relay Iowa?
How long is the Market to Market Relay Iowa?
Where does the Market to Market Relay Iowa take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Market to Market Relay Iowa?
How can I prepare for the Market to Market Relay Iowa?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Market to Market Relay Iowa?
The Market to Market Relay Iowa, presented by Iowa’s Running Road Trip, is set for Saturday, May 9, 2026 and runs from Jefferson to Des Moines, Iowa, covering approximately 75 miles via 18 relay stages through trails, gravel roads, and local highways.
The Market to Market Relay Iowa is 121km long.
The Market to Market Relay Iowa takes place in Jefferson, IA, USA.
Runna classifies the Market to Market Relay Iowa elevation profile as Flat.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Market to Market Relay Iowa?
The Market to Market Relay Iowa, presented by Iowa’s Running Road Trip, is set for Saturday, May 9, 2026 and runs from Jefferson to Des Moines, Iowa, covering approximately 75 miles via 18 relay stages through trails, gravel roads, and local highways.
How long is the Market to Market Relay Iowa?
The Market to Market Relay Iowa is 121km long.
Where does the Market to Market Relay Iowa take place?
The Market to Market Relay Iowa takes place in Jefferson, IA, USA.
What is the elevation gain of the Market to Market Relay Iowa?
Runna classifies the Market to Market Relay Iowa elevation profile as Flat.
How can I prepare for the Market to Market Relay Iowa?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Market to Market Relay Iowa?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
More
Sport:
Running
Tags:
Team
Relay
This event listing is for informational purposes only. Runna is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Market to Market Relay Iowa or Pink Gorilla Events. All event details are based on publicly available information and are provided solely to help users discover running events. Runna does not use any official logos, images, or proprietary content from this event or its organiser. Any trademarks or names mentioned are used descriptively to identify the event in a factual manner. For the most accurate and up to date information (including to register or purchase an entry to the event), please visit the Market to Market Relay Iowa website.