Des Moines University's fourth annual 5k promises challenging, yet scenic course

Register now for the September 23 event!

DES MOINES, IA (08/17/2011)(readMedia)-- You are invited to join Des Moines University (DMU) students, faculty, alumni and staff for a 5k race through the beautiful South of Grand neighborhood around the DMU campus.

The race, called Run DMU, kicks off with a performance by the Des Moines Isiserettes Drill & Drum Corp that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. The route begins in front of the DMU Clinic building, 3200 Grand Avenue, and takes you up and down the hills of the historic surrounding area before returning to the university.

"Although it is a hilly route, runners and walkers all enjoy the challenge of this experience," said Ronnette Vondrak, DMU alumni director. "Plus it is beautiful scenery and a tour of a quaint neighborhood that offers a forest-like feel."

This year, the annual event is part of the inaugural activities for Des Moines University's 15th President, Angela Walker Franklin, Ph.D. The 5k fits into the inaugural theme, "Doing a world of good...a commitment to health and excellence." Following the race, participants are encouraged to welcome President Franklin at the campus picnic hosted in her honor.

Participants must register by Sunday, Sept. 18, for the early bird fee of $20, which includes a t-shirt and chip timing provided by the IMT Des Moines Marathon. After this deadline, the fee is $30. Register at www.dmu.edu. Awards will be given for overall winners. Osteopathic manual medicine (OMM) treatments and physical therapy screens by DMU students and faculty will be available to race participants and supporters.

For more information and to register, visit www.dmu.edu/event/run-dmu.

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Des Moines University is the only private medical school in Iowa, offering graduate-level, professional degree programs in osteopathic medicine, podiatric medicine, physical therapy, physician assistant studies, biomedical sciences, anatomy, health care administration and public health. Founded in 1898, the institution offers superior academics in a collaborative environment. DMU students' pass rate on national examinations and board certifications is consistently higher than the national average and the rates at similar institutions.