Clover Dash 5k
Sun, Jul 19, 2026, 4:30 AM CDT
- Type
- Run
Finish signup on the organizer site (check fees and dates there).
Race feel
Run or support the Clover Dash 5k, a heartfelt event funding scholarships and grants for Polk County 4-H’ers in memory of Joy Niklasen.
- For a Cause
For a CauseThe Clover Dash 5k honors the memory of Joy Niklasen, a dedicated Polk County 4-H Youth Coordinator. This annual event, initiated by 4-H’ers, volunteers, and staff, celebrates Joy's passion for healthy living. All proceeds from the 5k directly support Polk County 4-H’ers through scholarships and grants, fostering their growth and development. It's a community-driven effort, organized by County Council youth, offering a meaningful way to participate and contribute to a cherished local program.
What to expect
- Participate in a 3.1-mile run honoring the legacy of Joy Niklasen.
- Support Polk County 4-H youth through scholarships and grants.
- Join a community effort, organized by 4-H youth and staff.
Standout details
- Honors Joy Niklasen's memory
- Benefits Polk County 4-H scholarships
- Organized by 4-H youth committee
- Community-driven event
Distances & registration
3 optionsUse the official signup link above for all distances.
5K
3 options · closes Jul 19, 2026, 7:59 PM CDT
2mo 18d 11h 48m leftRun for 12 and under
Closes Jul 19, 2026, 7:59 PM CDT · From $22.20
Run for 13+
Closes Jul 19, 2026, 7:59 PM CDT · From $27.50
Virtual 5k
Closes Jul 19, 2026, 7:59 PM CDT · From $27.50
Summaries use public event text. Confirm schedule, fees, and rules on the official page before you sign up.
From the organizer
The Polk County 4-H Clover Dash 5k was created in memory of former Polk 4-H County Youth Coordinator, Joy Niklasen, who tragically passed away in a car accident in September of 2014. Joy is best remembered for her energy and enthusiasm in doing so much to help 4-H’ers. She represented the Extension Office on the Polk County 4-H Advisory Board, planned different workshops, and helped coordinate the 4-H Annual County Awards Ceremony. Honoring Joy’s passion for healthy living, an annual 5k began in the Summer of 2015 thanks to the idea of 4-H’er, Rebecca Osthus, and efforts by sponsors, volunteers, staff, and 4-H’ers. In memory of Joy, all proceeds raised during the 5k go directly to Polk County 4-H’ers in the form of scholarships and grants.
Each year the 5k is planned and organized by a committee of County Council youth with the assistance of Polk County 4-H staff. If you are interested in supporting the 5k through volunteering, running, donating, or sponsoring visit our website or contact Megan Freel at meganmae@iastate.edu or 515-957-5763.