Katrina and her father have shared their love for the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon for over 16 years. They first participated when Katrina was in college, which she was able to talk her way out of her final exams to meet her father in Indy for the race. Though Katrina has not lived in Indiana since college, she continues to make her way back to Indiana each year to participate in the Indy Mini with her father. They have also had some friends and family join them throughout the years. Katrina loves the excitement of competing at home and the shared family tradition. With memories of watching the Indy 500 at her grandparent’s house, Katrina loves the experience of running a lap around the track and kissing the bricks at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Though her father started treatments for cancer last year, he still encouraged Katrina and his family to sign up for the 2020 Indy Mini by saying, “We are doing it!” He has always been Katrina’s biggest supporter. If he is not running by her side, he is there cheering the loudest and holding the biggest sign. After beginning treatments, he continued to spin on his bike, walk outside, and remain positive about everything. Proving his strength and resilience, her father recently beat cancer earlier this month!
Celebrating his victory, this year’s Indy Mini is even more special for Katrina’s family. Even though current conditions of the world won’t all them to complete the race in Indy together, Katrina is thrilled they have the opportunity to participate virtually. It’s important for Katrina to complete the virtual Mini because she values achieving goals, continuing traditions, and sharing special moments together.
With Katrina and her husband in New York City, and her father and sister in Indiana, the four are going to pick a designated “race day” so they can continue to the tradition as a family. She encourages other virtual Mini participants to do the same with their friends, family, running partners, etc.
“Let’s all run for those fighting against Cancer, fighting on the front lines during this pandemic, and let’s run for those who we have lost along the way that we wish could run/walk with us.”