DES MOINES, Iowa – Registration for the 2024 Grand Blue Mile presented by Wellmark Blue Cross® and Blue Shield® opened today, Tuesday, February 13, for only $10. The 15^th annual Grand Blue Mile will be held in exactly ten weeks on Tuesday, April 23, in conjunction with the 114^th Drake Relays presented by Xtream® powered by Mediacom®.
 
"The Grand Blue Mile presented by Wellmark has become a spring tradition, not just in Downtown Des Moines, but on the American road-racing circuit,"  Franklin P. Johnson Director of the Drake Relays Blake Boldon said. "We are eager to welcome thousands of runners of all abilities, including Central Iowa families, runners from throughout the Midwest, and even aspiring World Record holders."
 
The Grand Blue Mile presented by Wellmark Blue Cross® and Blue Shield® returns to "World Record Way" in downtown Des Moines, named last fall after the first-ever world records that were set at the event last year. Nikki Hiltz and Sam Prakel each earned the inaugural world records for the road mile with their performances at last year's event. As part of last week's unveiling of the 2024 schedule for the Drake Relays presented by Xtream, it was announced that the USATF 1 Mile Championship will return to Des Moines. For the eighth consecutive year, national champions will be crowned as part of the Grand Blue Mile presented by Wellmark. 
 
"Since the very beginning, the Grand Blue Mile presented by Wellmark has focused on encouraging individuals and families across Iowa to get moving and embrace simple, sustainable healthy habits," said Chris Verlengia, Wellmark's marketing activation & alliance manager and Grand Blue Mile co-race director. "The positive link between physical activity and overall well-being is proven, and Wellmark — through targeted efforts and strong community partnerships like this one — remains deeply committed to the communities we serve. We hope every participant who crosses the finish line keeps moving toward a future of better health."

Registration for the 2024 Grand Blue Mile presented by Wellmark Blue Cross® and Blue Shield® is now open at https://www.drakeroadraces.org/events/register/2024-grand-blue-mile The $10 flash sale ends promptly at 11:59 p.m. on February 14, after which, regularly-priced youth registration is $15, and adults are $20. As part of Wellmark's commitment to improving the health of Iowans, all proceeds benefit Iowa Kidstrong youth fitness programs and support student participation in the annual Drake Relays.