When is the 16th Annual Grand Blue Mile?

The 16th Annual Grand Blue Mile is scheduled for April 22, 2025

What is the race schedule?

• 6:00 p.m. Iowa Kidstrong Fun Run
• 6:15 p.m. Recreational Division
• 6:35 p.m. Mascot Madness Charity Challenge
• 6:45 p.m. Women's Competitive Division
• 7:00 p.m. Men's Competitive Division
• 7:15 p.m. Women's USATF 1 Mile Road Championship
• 7:30 p.m. Men's USATF 1 Mile Road Championship

What is included in my registration?

All participants receive an official participant shirt, official race bib, family fun activities - face painting, inflatables, Mascot Race, plus free race day photography, USA Track & Field 1 Mile Road Championships viewing, exclusive finisher medal for Bulldog Double Participants, and a free ticket to Thursday night of the Drake Relays presented by Xtream powered by Mediacom for Bulldog Double participants, a $15 value!

Where is the start line?

At the intersection of Locust St. and 17th St. 

Where is the finish line?

At the intersection of Grand Ave and 13th St. - right in front of Wellmark Blue Cross & Blue Shield

When is packet pick-up?

The Relays Health & Fitness Expo serves as the packet pick-up for the Drake Road Races and the Grand Blue Mile. It will be held on Friday, April 18th, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Knapp Center on Drake University's Campus. Parking is available in campus parking Zone 1 on the corner of Forest Ave and 25th St. 

Limited on-site packet pick-up will be available on race day.

Virtual participants may elect to pick up their packet(s) at the Relays Health & Fitness Expo at no charge or have their packet(s) shipped directly to their door for $2.99/ea.

Can someone else pick up my bib and race items?

Yes! You are able to have a friend or family member pick up your bib and race items, or you can pick up multiple participants' items. Please have their confirmation QR Code available at pick-up. Participants will receive their confirmation QR Code prior to the Health & Fitness Expo. 

What is the Bulldog Double?

Athletes who complete both the Drake Road Races and the Grand Blue Mile receive an additional commemorative medal after they finish the Grand Blue Mile.

Contact grandbluemile@drake.edu for more information.

Where can I find event updates?

Check out our newsroom and follow us on social media for the latest Grand Blue Mile information. #WellmarkGBM, @DrakeRelays, @WellmarkBCBS

What does the course look like?



Contact grandbluemile@drake.edu for more information