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University of Iowa's Relay For Life Ribbon Run 5K

Sat April 25, 2026
Iowa City, IA 52245 US Directions

Events

Student 5K (Timed)

Price: $30
Time: 9:00AM CDT 12:00PM CDT
Registration ends April 25, 2026 at 10:00am CDT

General 5K (Timed)

Price: $35
Time: 9:00AM CDT 12:00PM CDT
Registration ends April 25, 2026 at 10:00am CDT

5K Walk (Untimed)

Price: $35
Time: 9:00AM CDT 12:00PM CDT
Registration ends April 25, 2026 at 10:00am CDT

General Admission

Price: $10
Time: 9:00AM CDT 12:00PM CDT
Registration ends April 25, 2026 at 11:59am CDT

Race Website

Additional race information can be found at http://www.instagram.com/acs.uiowa/.

Place

125 N Madison St
Iowa City, IA US 52245

Description

The American Cancer Society has a goal to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. Relay For Life has been hosted by the American Cancer Society at University of Iowa (ACS at U'Iowa) student organization for more than a decade. Relay For Life has evolved in Iowa City adding friendly competition with the "Ribbon Run 5K" in 2023.


At this year’s Relay for Life Ribbon Run 5K, we come together not only to celebrate strength and survivorship, but to honor every person affected by cancer. Each step we take and dollar we raise, helps fund lifesaving research, patient support, and hope for families in our community, to ensure everyone the opportunity to fight for life. By dressing up in your ribbon color; gold for childhood cancer, pink for breast cancer, lavender for all cancer types... you shine a light on the stories behind each cancer journey, reminding us that this fight is personal, powerful, and shared. Today, we run, walk, and stand together to make a difference and move closer to a future free from cancer.

 

The Ribbon Run 5K is a timed 3.1-mile race that takes participants on a scenic route through Iowa City, beginning and ending in Hubbard Park. Whether you’re running or walking, all racers will start together at 9:00 AM. In-person check-in opens at 8:30 AM on April 25th at Hubbard Park, where participants will complete a waiver and photo release form—unless you registered online through RunSignUp, in which case these forms were already signed. Along the course, water stations and volunteers will be present to support, guide, and cheer you on. Please note that due to current construction, this year’s race will double-back, just make sure to follow the directional signs and markers to stay on the correct route. 

 

 
Follow us on Instagram @ACS.Uiowa for up-to-date event information!

This event is a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. All proceeds benefit cancer research grants, lodging services for cancer patients like the Russel and Ann Gerdin Hope Lodge in Iowa City, patient programs across the country, and more. To read more about ACS, visit cancer.org.  

Race Contact Info

If you have any questions about this race, please contact the race director at

Sponsors

Race Map

Due to construction in City Park, there will be an adjusted route this year. We will start at Hubbard Park and continue by paved trail and sidewalks across the river and back to Hubbard Park. Route will be marked and volunteers will be stationed along the route for assistance. There will be one water station.

Additional Details

Event Contacts:


Haley Huntington
haley.huntington@cancer.org

Work Phone: 319-248-0047

24/7 Support: 800.227.2345

 

Becky Selmani

ACS at University of Iowa RSO President

nebije-selmani@uiowa.edu

 

Mailing Address for Donations:

American Cancer Society
ATTN: University of Iowa 5K
PO Box C
Hagerstown, MD 21741-1192

 

Awards:

This race will have awards for timed participants as per age: under 13, 14 - 18, 19 - 29, 30 - 39, 40 - 49, and 50+. 

Team Awards Categories:

  • Fastest Walking Team (Untimed 5K participants)
  • Best Dressed - Get creative and show off your style! Participants are encouraged to dress up in fun, themed, or inspiring outfits for our Best Dressed Competition. From team costumes to individual looks, we’ll be recognizing standout creativity and spirit.
  • Mini Games - Challenge your friends to Cornhole, Tic-Tac-Toe, Bottle Toss, and more! These quick, interactive games are easy to play and perfect for participants and spectators alike. Stop by to have fun, relax, and win small prizes throughout the day.
  • Biggest Team - awarded to the team with the most registered participants. Get your community together and show your support by building the largest team on race day! 
  • Winning teams in each category will receive prizes and special recognition for their teamwork and dedication. 

Directions

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