Kudos

Drake Relays Wellness Win 4-Peat

ZLR Ignition has done it again! For the fourth consecutive year, the agency claimed the top spot in the Drake Relays Wellness Challenge, earning first place in the small employer division (5–50 employees).

A group of people accepting the Drake Relays Wellness challenge award at center court of Drake University's Knapp Center.

“Rallying together for the Drake Relays Wellness Challenge is a well-loved tradition at ZLR Ignition, and a fun way we stay active, celebrate teamwork and support the community,” said Xan McNelly, chairman of ZLR Ignition. “We are proud to be recognized and even prouder of our staff for showing up year after year with such enthusiasm and heart.”

ZLRers have participated in the Grand Blue Mile presented by Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield for a decade, coming together to walk, run and cheer alongside family, friends, fellow Iowans and visitors from around the world.

About the Relays Wellness Challenge

The Drake Relays Wellness Challenge is an incentive-based competition among central Iowa employers, organized in conjunction with the Drake Relays presented by Xtream powered by Mediacom. The challenge is contested through participation in the Drake Road Races and the Grand Blue Mile presented by Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

Organizations earn points through participation by employees and their immediate family members, as well as through volunteer efforts during Relays Week events.

Get Ready, Get Set: Register Now for 2026

The Grand Blue Mile presented by Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield returns on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at Western Gateway Park in downtown Des Moines. Designed for all ages and abilities, the event welcomes everyone — from elite athletes to recreational participants and families.

The 58th annual Drake Road Races will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2026, offering 5k, 10k and half-marathon distances. The 2026 Drake Relays follow shortly after, running Wednesday, April 22, through Saturday, April 25.