The CWC Stars & Stripes 5K Run returns to New Hampton, Iowa on June 13th, offering runners a chance to celebrate with fellow enthusiasts in the heart of America's Midwest. The race begins at Mikkelson Park by the baseball diamond and will see participants lace up for a five-kilometer journey through the neighborhood.
Race morning finds early risers gathering under a clear sky, temperatures hovering around 21 degrees Celsius, feeling much like that with just a hint of coolness from the earlier hours. The air is crisp as runners warm up by the park’s baseball diamond before heading out onto the hard and dry surface where trail conditions are optimal for the run.
For over ten years, this event has been a tradition in New Hampton, attracting hundreds of participants each year who come to support the community's scholarship fund. Over 500 runners signed on last year, with many returning due to the camaraderie and the race’s commitment to local causes.
The course follows a flat and straightforward path through Mikkelson Park before looping back for its conclusion at the same starting point. The terrain is varied enough to keep pace interesting without being overly challenging, offering a mix of paved roads and trails that are hard and dry on the day of the event. There will be no aid stations needed as the course layout ensures runners can complete their journey without interruptions.
Weather conditions predict an average high temperature around 26 degrees Celsius with lows at 16 to 18 degrees, making for a comfortable run under skies expected to remain clear throughout most of the day. The UV index is very high, so participants should be prepared with sunscreen and proper hydration as they make their way through the course.
5K
5K • Start: 07:30:00 • Fee: $33.88
To register, visit https://raceroster.com/events/2026/119633/cwc-stars-and-stripes-5k-run. The registration fee is $33.88 and you must complete your payment by June 7th to secure a bib number.
Bibs can be picked up at the New Hampton Community Center from June 5th through race day between 10:00am - 4:00pm, or on race morning starting one hour before the event. Bring photo ID and any necessary medications for your run.
The start line is located in Mikkelson Park by the baseball diamond; all runners must be at least 16 years old to participate. First-timers should arrive early to ensure they have enough time to warm up, check their bib numbers, and meet other participants who share a love for running through this community event.
The CWC Stars & Stripes 5K Run is an essential date in the calendar of New Hampton’s sports enthusiasts as it not only provides a great opportunity to run but also supports local education initiatives.