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5 Reasons the Indy Mini is the Perfect New Year’s Resolution

“What’s your 2018 New Year’s resolution?” That big question is back. It’s on your mind, and you have to be ready if/when you’re asked about it. Better yet, you need to have a plan. And whatever that “new” thing is, it starts NOW! New Year’s resolutions can take on many forms. Not everyone … Continue reading “5 Reasons the Indy Mini is the Perfect New Year’s Resolution”

“What’s your 2018 New Year’s resolution?”

That big question is back. It’s on your mind, and you have to be ready if/when you’re asked about it. Better yet, you need to have a plan. And whatever that “new” thing is, it starts NOW!

New Year’s resolutions can take on many forms. Not everyone needs a resolution like 13.1 miles. But for those who do, the 500 Festival has a number of advantages for any kind of runner or walker looking to get started.

This is not the New York City or Chicago Marathon. Anyone – and we mean anyone – can do this. So, here are five things you didn’t know about the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon that make it PERFECT for New Year’s resolutions.

1) It’s Fun

Did you know the Indy Mini has one of the highest walker-to-participant ratios of any major American road race? With a 4-hour time limit (18-minute per mile pace), the Indy Mini is one of the most forgiving courses for a beginning half marathoner. Yes, it’s still a race. That competitive spirit lives in all of us, but the Mini-Marathon is a 13.1-mile fun run. If you like fun, keep reading.

2) It’s Easy

Did you know the 500 Festival implemented it’s own series of training races specifically for the Indy Mini? It’s called the 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy, and it helps participants reach their resolutions by working up to 13.1 miles with three incremental races; a 3-Miler, 6-Miler, and 10-Miler. If the sound of these distances makes it seem easier to start, keep reading.

3) It’s Flat

Did you know the Indy Mini is one of the flattest courses in the nation? A limited deviation in course elevation allows runners and walkers to breeze along at their own speed – which is usually quite fast. After all, fast is what this city is known for. So if you’re in the game to get better and break that record, keep reading.

4) It’s Alive

Did you know the Indy Mini boasts the largest number of course entertainment groups for any road race in the country? Nearly 100 acts from DJs to bands and tap dancers to cheer squads line the streets of Indianapolis to motivate and encourage the participants. 13 pit stations line the course as well, filled with volunteers dishing out water and continuing the encouragement. If you think thousands of people cheering you on might help get you to your goal, keep reading.

5) It’s Epic

Did you know the Indy Mini takes you around the largest sports venue in the world? That’s what we said. The largest venue on PLANET EARTH! The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the heart of the Indianapolis 500 and the month of May in Indy, and it’s the feature of the Mini-Marathon for Mile 6 and Mile 7. Nothing compares to coming down the home stretch and kissing the bricks. If you like epic moments, keep reading, and get ready for something unforgettable.

You can make your resolution to lose weight, eat better, and exercise. These ideas are great. But in 2018, make it tangible, make it real, and make it 13.1 miles.

Want to make it even easier? Do it with a friend!

Interested in registering for the 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon? Prices increase New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31) at 11:59 p.m. ET!

Don’t wait! REGISTER HERE

#IndyMini Ambassador: Gabe Lingenfelter

A record-breaking 42 #IndyMini Ambassadors are training, recruiting and inspiring others in preparation for the 42nd running of the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. We’re sharing their stories through a series of blog posts; 2018 Ambassador Features. Here is one of their stories. Gabe Lingenfelter is the youngest of the 2018 Indy Mini Ambassadors. He started running cross country in … Continue reading “#IndyMini Ambassador: Gabe Lingenfelter”

A record-breaking 42 #IndyMini Ambassadors are training, recruiting and inspiring others in preparation for the 42nd running of the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. We’re sharing their stories through a series of blog posts; 2018 Ambassador Features. Here is one of their stories.

Gabe Lingenfelter is the youngest of the 2018 Indy Mini Ambassadors. He started running cross country in fifth grade. He ran his first Mini in sixth grade. Now, in eighth grade, he’ll come barreling down New York Street for the third consecutive year.

Gabe’s Story

My Indy Mini story is very special to me. Both my mom and grandpa are runners and they had been doing the Indy Mini for a few years. I always used to like watching them finish and I wondered what it would be like to run the race. I became a runner a few years ago and never imagined running that far. Then, a few years ago, my mom was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. She had to go through a lot of chemotherapy and radiation treatments. She didn’t run the Mini-Marathon for a few years because of it. But in 2016, she was going to do the Mini again and I decided to do it with her. We found out that the Mini was almost one year exactly after her first chemo treatment. That made it even more special to all of us.

I ran the Mini that year and I had a lot of fun. The next year, I did it again with one of my friends. It has become a family tradition for us, and this is why the Indy Mini is special to me.

Gabe’s #IndyMini Experience

2018 will be third Mini-Marathon. My favorite thing about the race is that it’s memorable. I enjoy running it with my friends and family. I also like that you run around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. I think something that makes it different from other races is the atmosphere. Everyone is included, even if you don’t do the Mini. There is a 5K and the mini-mini for younger kids. The feeling that you get at the start and finish are so much better than the feeling of other races. It gives you such a sense of accomplishment.

Gabe’s Advice

Don’t give up. We all have a reason we’re running, whether it’s to prove something, make a good time, or just to have fun. We all have a reason to run and you shouldn’t give up.

Feeling inspired by Gabe’s story? If you’re interested in participating in the 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, click here.

Gabe, along with our other Ambassadors, will be sharing his training experience and motivation leading up to the race. Follow along and share your experience using #IndyMini on social media!

#IndyMini Ambassador: Stephanie McClain

A record-breaking 42 Ambassadors will train, recruit, and inspire others this coming spring in preparation for the 42nd running of the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. Here is one of their stories. Stephanie’s Story In 2013, I volunteered with the county fair queens of Indiana at a water station on the back half of the … Continue reading “#IndyMini Ambassador: Stephanie McClain”

A record-breaking 42 Ambassadors will train, recruit, and inspire others this coming spring in preparation for the 42nd running of the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. Here is one of their stories.

Stephanie’s Story

In 2013, I volunteered with the county fair queens of Indiana at a water station on the back half of the race. This particular water stop was revealing of each individual and how their race was finishing up. In their faces, you saw determination, perseverance, passion, and a fight for the finish… I knew then I wanted to run this race one day, and I did four years later.

I took advantage of the Mini Maniac Challenge and participated in the Miler Series and the Mini-Marathon. After each of the Miler Series races, my mother-in-law would ask how my race went. She would join me in a heartbeat if she were able to. She has muscular dystrophy and is wheelchair bound. She is the reason that I run. When the miles become hard, my legs feel like lead and my heart wants to burst out of my chest, I think of Leah and what she would do for another chance to teach aerobics, or dance, or merely walk again. I run for her cure. I am thankful for her support and the way that she encourages me to get out there, no matter the pace, to be the healthiest version of me that I can be.

Stephanie’s Mini-Marathon Experience

This will be my second Indy Mini and I’m hoping to PR!

The Indy Mini is unique in various aspects. First, the Indy Mini means something different to everyone. Each participant has a different story to tell and brings different passion and fire to a triumphant physical accomplishment. Second, the support and encouragement by bands, spectators and fans alike throughout the course of the race is unlike any other event. There are spectators with signs, costumes, instruments, and countless volunteers cheering you on to the finish line, wishing you only success.

Stephanie’s Advice

I highly encourage participating in the Miler Series! It provides great checkpoints along the training season, and it’s awesome to meet new people who are working towards the same goal! I also recommend finding a group for long runs. They can get lonely and boring if you’re out there alone. Find an accountability partner, great socks and you’ll be ready to go! Enjoy the experience, take in every moment, and know that if you put in the hard work, it will pay off.

Click here to learn more about the 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. #IndyMini

Official 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon Participant Shirt Revealed

The official 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon participant shirt and hat are here! If you’ve been waiting to see the swag for the 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, then wait no more. We joined our friends at WTHR to reveal the design for the 2018 Indy Mini participant shirt and hat from OneAmerica. We … Continue reading “Official 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon Participant Shirt Revealed”

We joined our friends at WTHR to reveal the design for the 2018 Indy Mini participant shirt and hat from OneAmerica. We also offered a sneak peek at an updated prototype for the Finisher Medal. Here’s what 2018 Participants will receive at this year’s race:

Participant Shirt

The shirt design for the 42nd running of the Indy Mini features a number of Indianapolis and Indy 500 themes. Most notably, the top of the Borg-Warner Trophy is featured on the front of the shirt just like the raised silver medallion on this year’s medal. The back of the shirt features a large crest that includes an iconic photo of the Pagoda at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the distance of 13.1 miles, the Indianapolis flag, and the famed yard of bricks.

Just like the medal, this year’s shirt design is a unique first. It’s the first participant shirt to come in 500 Festival red and feature an off-center logo. The long-sleeve participant shirt compliments the red accents on the 2018 medal, and the blue hat completes the ensemble with red, white and blue represented in all of this year’s gear.

This year’s participant shirt is made of a blended poly fabric to maximize ventilation and comfort while wicking away sweat. Shirts will be gender specific for optimal fit.

Participant Hat

The 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon participant hat, provided by OneAmerica, pulls from the same color pallet as the shirt and medal. We think it looks awesome!

Ready to let the world know you’re taking on the Greatest Spectacle in Running? We’ve created an #IndyMini #FlatRunner that you can post on social media! Get your #IndyMini #FlatRunner here.

Want to view more photos of the participant shirt? Click Here

The 2018 Indy Mini participant swag is just the beginning! To check out the complete list of what 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon participants will receive, click here.

Miler Series Price Increases Friday

As the holiday season approaches and New Year’s resolutions begin to feel like realities, the 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy, is here to help. Knowing the rigorous transformation process from winter hibernator to springtime success story, the 500 Festival created the Miler Series. The Milers are a spring series of races stair-stepping … Continue reading “Miler Series Price Increases Friday”

As the holiday season approaches and New Year’s resolutions begin to feel like realities, the 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy, is here to help.

Knowing the rigorous transformation process from winter hibernator to springtime success story, the 500 Festival created the Miler Series. The Milers are a spring series of races stair-stepping runners and walkers toward 13.1 miles in the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon.

The Miler Series consists of three unique distance, including a 3-Miler, 6-Miler and 10-Miler. The races take place in February, March and April in downtown Indianapolis with three different courses and more city-centric routes than the Indy Mini.

If you’re looking for a great way to achieve those New Year’s resolutions and make some friends along the way, then master the Milers and defeat downtown Indy this spring.

But hurry! The price increases this Friday (Dec. 15) at midnight!

Learn more about the 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy

#IndyMini Ambassador: Jenilynne Hall

A record-breaking 42 #IndyMini Ambassadors are training, recruiting and inspiring others in preparation for the 42nd running of the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. We’re sharing their stories through a series of blog posts, 2018 Ambassador Features. Here is one of their stories. Jenilynne’s Story I started running for myself in 2012. In 2015, my first Indy Mini was … Continue reading “#IndyMini Ambassador: Jenilynne Hall”

A record-breaking 42 #IndyMini Ambassadors are training, recruiting and inspiring others in preparation for the 42nd running of the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. We’re sharing their stories through a series of blog posts, 2018 Ambassador Features. Here is one of their stories.

Jenilynne’s Story

I started running for myself in 2012. In 2015, my first Indy Mini was about me and proving to myself that I could do it.

In 2016. while working my overnight shift as a 911 dispatcher, Deputy Carl Koontz was shot and killed in the line of duty. I remember that feeling; the helplessness, the sadness, the shock. In the days and weeks after this tragedy, I remember wondering how a society could be so hateful toward the men and women that are sworn to protect and serve our communities.

With my training for the Indy Mini just beginning, I knew that I wanted to make my 2016 race about “backing the blue.” I dedicated that year’s Indy Mini to those that I work with, to those that have become like brothers and sisters to me, and specifically to Deputy Carl Koontz. As it’s commonly said: “When a police officer is killed, it’s not an agency that loses an officer, it’s an entire nation.” I ended up crossing the finish line that year with a personal record.

In 2017, my sisters and I teamed up with Flags4Fallen and ran with American Flags the entire 13.1 miles in honor of Abigail Williams and Liberty German; the two girls who went missing earlier that year in my hometown of Delphi, Indiana. The flags we ran with were later given to the families of the girls. Again, I crossed the finish line that year with a PR and a lot of tears.

Through the years, it seems that once I started running for a cause, it’s made my journey through training and race day much more worth it.

Jenilynne’s Mini-Marathon Experience

My favorite thing about the Indy Mini is the atmosphere on Race Weekend. It starts with the Mini-Marathon Expo, which is so much fun and there’s excitement leading up to race day.

The day of the Mini is out of this world. So many people line the streets of Downtown Indianapolis before the race. The blaring music, the spectators, the countdown. Then there’s the actual race itself. The course entertainment that lines the streets of Indy is unforgettable. I’ve told so many people that I don’t even need to use my music on my phone. There is enough live music to keep me pumped and going all 13.1 miles!

The Post Race Party is the ultimate celebration and the amount of support and love from the volunteers and other participants is so wonderful. There are a lot of races where some people’s competitiveness can take the fun out of the everyday participant’s experience. The Indy Mini takes away that uncomfortable feeling. Everyone is a finisher and everyone is celebrated!

Jenilynne’s Advice

Have fun! Don’t give up. Even when you think you can’t go any further, you can. Just put one foot in front of the other and keep repeating that. Not everyone can say they are an Indy Mini finisher!

Feeling inspired by Jenilynne’s story? If you’re interested in participating in the 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon on behalf of a charity, check out our Mini With a Meaning Program.

Jenilynne, along with our other Ambassadors, will be sharing her training experience and motivation leading up to the race. Follow along and share your experience using #IndyMini on social media!

Click here to learn more about the 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon.

#IndyMini Ambassador: Danielle Shively

A record-breaking 42 #IndyMini Ambassadors are training, recruiting and inspiring others in preparation for the 42nd running of the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. We’re sharing their stories through a series of blog posts, 2018 Ambassador Features. Here is one of their stories. Danielle’s Story I used to be a group fitness instructor. I was (and still am) passionate … Continue reading “#IndyMini Ambassador: Danielle Shively”

A record-breaking 42 #IndyMini Ambassadors are training, recruiting and inspiring others in preparation for the 42nd running of the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. We’re sharing their stories through a series of blog posts, 2018 Ambassador Features. Here is one of their stories.

Danielle’s Story

I used to be a group fitness instructor. I was (and still am) passionate about what I do and helping inspire others to believe that they can do anything they set their minds to. As time went by, I lost that connection to group fitness. However, I found that for me, running was the perfect way to continue to help motivate and inspire others.

Along my journey I’ve enjoyed seeing those heartwarming stories on the race course or helping that person along the way who felt like they couldn’t make it. Running is so much more than what we do physically, it’s about the connections we make and the stories we are able to tell to help inspire others.

Personally, running has a much deeper meaning. My younger sister was diagnosed with Stage 4 Triple Negative Breast Cancer. Her diagnosis inspired me to run the Chicago Marathon for the American Cancer Society’s Team Determination. Running for a charity is the most empowering feeling one can get. Being able to run for those who can’t is what sets our sport apart.

Every year, I run for a different reason. The first year was because I wanted to challenge myself to do something I never thought possible. The second and third year I was hunting for a PR. Now, I’m running for someone else. Every race, while I’m standing at the Start Line, my first thought is about my sister, not how I will do or where I will finish. If a run gets hard, I just think of her and remember she is pushing me through. It’s about making connections along the way and each race having a story to tell at the end.

Danielle’s #IndyMini Experience

My favorite part of the Indy Mini is entering into Indianapolis Motor Speedway. I love the course entertainment along the entire route, but the Speedway just gives me goosebumps! All the people are there welcoming us and cheering us along Main Street. If you had any questions about why this race is so special, that feeling should be the first stop at answering any doubt.

I also love how welcoming the race is to all participants! The Indy Mini makes everyone comfortable to participate in. If you are an elite runner, recreational jogger, or a walker, this race just has a way of helping everyone feel welcome.

Danielle’s Advice

Take it slow, listen to your body, and never forget the reason why you are running. Never give up and always believe that you can complete any challenge you set in front of you.

Feeling inspired by Danielle’s story? If you’re interested in participating in the 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon on behalf of a charity, check out our Mini With a Meaning Program.

Danielle, along with our other Ambassadors, will be sharing her training experience and motivation leading up to the race. Follow along and share your experience using #IndyMini on social media!

5 Months to Mini; 5 Steps to Get Started

“On the first month of training my true love gave to me… Epic Training Gear!” Maybe your true love didn’t get you epic training gear for the holidays this season, but they should. And that’s just step one of what do with five months until the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. Check out the latest … Continue reading “5 Months to Mini; 5 Steps to Get Started”

“On the first month of training my true love gave to me… Epic Training Gear!”

Maybe your true love didn’t get you epic training gear for the holidays this season, but they should. And that’s just step one of what do with five months until the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. Check out the latest #IndyMini gear at the online store.

Step two? About 150 days remain until the 2018 edition of The Greatest Spectacle in Running, and it’s nearing decision time. New Year’s resolutions are on the horizon, and in order to stick to those commitments, you may need help at your side. So recruit a friend!

Step three is picking your training plan. May we suggest the 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy? Unique distances of 3, 6, and 10 miles let you stair-step your way to a 13.1-mile victory in May.

Preparing your trip is step four! Unless your one of the locals, driving an hour or more and finding appropriate parking might stifle your race morning ritual. Be sure to make your race weekend spectacular by staying in downtown Indy. Check out the official Indy Mini room block and book today!

Step five? Get your training started!

Learn more about the 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon

#IndyMini Ambassador: Chloe Nash

A record-breaking 42 Ambassadors will train, recruit, and inspire others this coming spring in preparation for the 42nd running of the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. Here is one of their stories. Chloe’s Story I started running the Indy Mini in a very unique way. In December of 2016, I was having the last conversation … Continue reading “#IndyMini Ambassador: Chloe Nash”

Chloe’s Story

I started running the Indy Mini in a very unique way. In December of 2016, I was having the last conversation I would ever have with my aunt. The last thing I promised her was that I would run the Indy Mini with my uncle in her honor.

For me, the Indy Mini is a way to share a message. I run for METAvivor, a foundation for Stage 4 Metastatic breast cancer. I run for awareness and to raise money. For me, this cause is very close to my heart because it is what got me started in running. I made a promise with my aunt and I carried it out in a way that I never thought was possible. Now, I not only get to continue sharing her story and cause, I also get to do it while running the best half marathon in the world.

Chloe’s Mini-Marathon Experience

My favorite thing about the Indy Mini is all the people covering every part of the course, cheering you on and calling your name. I also love how all the runners are, in a way, a family. We all get to know each other while waiting for the race to start, and it’s an amazing experience.

Chloe’s Advice

One thing I would say to first-timer runners is no matter how bad you are hurting, you just have to remember why you decided to run. Just remember that and you will always be able to make it through.

Click here to learn more about the 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. #IndyMini