DES MOINES, Iowa — The 16th annual Grand Blue Mile was a family affair Tuesday night in downtown Des Moines.

Over 3,000 runners and walkers participated in one of the seven different races. From young children, to professional runners, it was an event for everyone.

For the ninth straight year, the USATF 1 Mile Road Championship was held in Des Moines. The top two finishers for both men and women receive an automatic spot to represent Team USA at the world championship later this year.

For many of the runners, this was a fun event to enjoy with friends an family.

Drake Director of Athletics Brian Hardin is no exception. He and his wife ran alongside his kids, while his parents walked.

“I’ve got three generations of Hardins doing this,” he said. “I think what makes it wonderful is you choose the pace you want to go at.”

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