The Mind Over Miles 5K starts at 7:45 AM, giving you time to arrive early for pre-race setup and logistics. Held at Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake in Ames, Iowa, this October race offers two distances: an 800-meter option and a 1-mile run. Entry fees range from $10 to $40 depending on registration timing and options selected. The early morning start means you'll want to plan your hotel location with travel time in mind, allowing a buffer to navigate to the park, park, and complete your pre-race routine without rushing. If you're basing yourself in Ames for the weekend, securing accommodation within 10 to 15 minutes of the venue will give you the flexibility to sleep a bit longer on race morning.
From the Race Organizer
Six Months is TOO long to wait for mental health care....but that is the reality for too many people in Story County. That's what this run is for. Every dollar earned during this race will go directly to providing no cost mental health services to under/uninsured individuals in Story County. But wait...there's a bonus! This program (Gap to Growth) provides quality internship experiences for masters level counseling students and gives them real experience in the mental health field. So, not only are we improving Story County, but we are also making improvements to the mental health care system as a whole. And when I say "WE" I mean you too, because we can't do this without you. Race registration includes a race T-shirt. T-shirt sizes are guaranteed for all 5k entries received by September 13th 2026. Sizes and quantities will be limited after this date. 8:00 a.m. shotgun start for the in-person race. Early pick-up of race packets, including T-shirts for in-person entries, will be available between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Friday October 2, 2026, at 605 East Lincoln Way STE 4, Ames, IA 50014. 7 a.m. on RACE DAY October 4, 2026, at the shelter house at Ada Hayden Park in Ames. Age Groups: 9 and under; 10–14; 15–19; 20–29; 30–39; 40–49; 50–59; 60–69; 70+. Creative Counseling Services is dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families on their journey toward greater mental wellness, personal growth, and resilience. Through compassionate, professional counseling services, we empower our clients to overcome challenges, strengthen relationships, and live more fulfilling lives. Creative Counseling Services is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and a charitable contribution may be available for a portion of your registration fee and/or donation. Please consult your tax advisor regarding current IRS regulations. TIN: 45-4635731
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in Ames, IA. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for October 4.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Ames, IA.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
Mind Over Miles 5K 2026 — Ames, IA takes place on October 4, 2026. The race is held in Ames, Iowa.
Where is Mind Over Miles 5K 2026 — Ames, IA held?
Mind Over Miles 5K 2026 — Ames, IA is held at Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake in Ames, Iowa.
Where can I find hotels near Mind Over Miles 5K 2026 — Ames, IA?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Ames. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
