
Clover Dash 5k
Sun, Jul 19, 2026, 8:30 AM CDT
- Location
- Des Moines, IA
- 4-H Exhibits Building, Iowa State Fair Grounds, 3000 E Grand Ave, 50317
- Type
- RUN
Sign up and verify details on the organizer’s official page.
At a glance
Double-check key detailsRun 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
Great for
- For a Cause
The 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
Auto-drafted from the public listing — confirm details on the official event page before signing up.
Distances & registration
3 optionsRegistration for all distances is through the official signup link above.
- 3.1 Miles
Sun, Jul 19, 8:30 AM CDT · From $27.50
Opens Feb 2, 2026, 9:06 AM CST · Closes Jul 19, 2026, 7:59 PM CDT
- 3.1 Miles
Sun, Jul 19, 8:30 AM CDT · From $22.20
Opens Feb 2, 2026, 6:31 AM CST · Closes Jul 19, 2026, 7:59 PM CDT
- 3.1 Miles
Sun, Jul 19, 8:30 AM CDT · From $27.50
Opens Feb 1, 2026, 7:14 PM CST · Closes Jul 19, 2026, 7:59 PM CDT
Vibe Check
Easygoing
warm-day exposure
- Rolling area
- Warm season
The course
- Rolling
- Timed race
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.
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