We have been overwhelmed with the positive response we have received about the newly launch Indianapolis 500 Mile Challenge and Indianapolis Freedom 100 Mile Challenge! It’s been so inspiring to see everyone’s personal journey to their 100 mile or 500 mile goal.
Our participants come from across the globe and are a full range of ages. Each one has their own reasoning for joining, from needing some extra fitness motivation during the COVID-19 pandemic to some friendly virtual competition between loved ones they have been separated from.
At 96 years old, our oldest participant, Phyllis Hart, is also grandmother to the 500 Festival’s Jen Lowe! Phyllis is ready to take on this new virtual challenge and got excited when she learned of this opportunity. Her retirement community was thrilled for when they learned she was the oldest participant and are cheering on their impressive neighbor.
“All my life I have tried to walk,” said Phyllis. My late husband and I use to walk around our neighborhood or at the mall often. As years progressed, I’ve been a member of the YMCA and attended classes at our local senior center which offered me the opportunity to have exercises specifically tailored towards those my age and work out with my peers.”
Check out what Phyllis has to say about this new fitness experience!
What made you interested in joining the virtual challenge?
I thought the virtual challenge sounded interesting. My daughter, granddaughter-in-law, and granddaughter (who works for the 500 Festival) were all doing one of the challenges and I wanted to join them. I wanted to have another achievement to strive for. And, I thought it would be helpful for me to have something positive to focus on during these times.
What’s your favorite way to exercise/get your miles in?
My preferred exercise would be to take a walk outside when it’s not too hot. It feels so good to be outside moving around. In addition to walking, I do the stationary bike for ½ a mile daily and attend a seniors exercise class 3 times a week where we do a variety of exercises and stretching. I don’t have a set schedule so it’s not rigid but does prioritize exercise.
What advice would you give other participants to encourage them toward their goal?
Do something every day! Don’t overdo it and know your capacity. But do something every day.
Join us in cheering on Phyllis as she works toward her goal of 100 miles! She’s started her journey and intends to keep powering through until the end of the year.
“I’ve already started tracking my miles and got a new pedometer to help me keep on top of it. It’s nice to look at my daily progress and see where the differences are and what I’ve accomplished. I estimate that I will reach my 100 miles in 2-3 months. I plan to keep going even after I’m passed my 100 miles until the end of the year. I didn’t want to sign up for the 500-mile goal as I thought it might be a bit much for me, but you never know where the road will take you. I’ll keep exercising and we’ll see.”
Interested in participating in the Indianapolis 500 Mile Challenge or the Freedom 100 Mile Challenge? Registration is open NOW and you can even backlog your miles starting on June 22! Sign up today at indymini.com/500 miles.