You know his story by now. You’ve seen it on SportsCenter, heard him speak, and been inspired by his determination. Andrew Peterson has inspired thousands of runners through his perseverance, and he keeps inspiring more people wherever he travels. We caught up with our running ambassador to get an update on the Special Olympics, his training for Boston, and upcoming events where you might find him.
Special Olympics USA Games
In early July, Andrew traveled to Seattle to take part in the Special Olympics USA Games, and started the week without his luggage – including his running shoes. But as we’ve learned, obstacles are no match for Andrew. Wearing his father’s running shoes, he earned silver medals in both the 3,000 and 5,000 meters.
Once he was back to his own kicks, he reeled off a PR in the 1,500-meter by five seconds (4:42) and earned a gold medal before running a 57-second split as the anchor in the 4×400 relay – bringing team Indiana from last place to bronze.
“I wasn’t leaving Seattle without a gold medal,” Andrew said.
He also appeared in several televised ESPN interviews – including a follow-up story about his incredible sportsmanship throughout the Games.
Coming Up…
Montana Marathon & Monumental Marathon
Andrew will serve as the celebrity runner for the Montana Marathon on September 16 – a race that starts outside Billings among the cattle and wheat before dropping 2,000 feet into the Yellowstone Valley. His time in Montana will also include three school presentations.
In November, Andrew will run the CNO Financial Monumental Marathon in Indianapolis, and he plans to improve his 2:57 time from 2017 and qualify for his second Boston Marathon in 2020.
Special Olympics World Games
Following the USA Games in early July, Andrew earned the opportunity to represent Team USA at the 2019 Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi! While his events are yet to be determined, it’s expected that he will run the half marathon distance and one other event.
Serve Indiana Keynote
On November 8, Andrew will deliver the keynote address at the Serve Indiana Awards for Excellence at the Indiana Historical Society.
Finish Line Youth Foundation
On September 10, at the Finish Line Youth Foundation’s Epic Evening with NFL Hall of Famer Jim Kelly, Andrew will be awarded the second annual Inspire Award for his sub-three hour qualification for the 2019 Boston Marathon.
Training
Andrew continues to train with Personal Best Training, November Project Indy, Naptown Run Club, Washington Township Special Olympics, and by himself on the Monon or Eagle Creek Park. If you’re familiar with these groups, or a regular on the Monon or Eagles Creek Park, look for Andrew out training 75 miles per week!
500 Festival mini-mini
Can’t catch Andrew at any of these events? The #IndyMini Ambassador will be joining the 500 Festival at the 3rd annual 500 Festival mini-mini on August 26 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway!
Andrew always enjoys his time with up-and-coming runners and he can’t wait to cheer them on.
“I want to give them the same support that older runners have always given me,” he said.
You can join us at the 500 Festival mini-mini where your little runners can meet Andrew, or comment on the social media post to wish him good luck in his summer training and event schedule. Thanks, Andrew!