Why do you Mini?
For some, it is a personal goal to conquer 13.1 miles. For some, it is to see Indianapolis Motor Speedway. For PJ, the Indy Mini is a team effort.
PJ is a runner with Ainsley’s Angels of America, an organization whose mission is to “build awareness about America’s special needs community through inclusion in all aspects of life.” Runners are paired with a teammate, so that “everyone can experience endurance events.”
Alyssa, PJ’s teammate, is the reason he is running the 2021 OneAmerica 500 Festival Virtual Mini-Marathon. “Alyssa loves to do races and the bigger the better. I regularly get messages from her and she tells me she cannot wait to race,” said PJ.
Outside of running with Ainsley’s Angels, PJ is a run coach through his local running store. Right now, training looks slightly different, as he normally trains with a large group. However, he now gets together with smaller groups throughout the week and braves the Michigan winter to prepare for the spring race!
To someone who is considering running this race for the first time, PJ says, “Do it. Once you’re signed up, you are more likely to train. I’ve done at least a dozen half marathons and this one is special with the lap on the track.”
Looking forward to race weekend, PJ is excited to “see our fellow Ainsley’s Angels teams from around the country and be able to tackle that course again.” He is hoping to get close to the two-hour mark this time around.
Whether it is to get in healthier shape, set a personal record, or raise awareness for an important cause, the Indy Mini is an experience like no other!
Ready to take the leap and sign up for the #IndyMini? Registration is open on our website! Reimagine The Greatest Spectacle in Running with us, achieve your fitness goals, and make the commitment to be part of the 2021 OneAmerica 500 Festival Virtual Mini-Marathon or Delta Dental 500 Festival Virtual 5K. We can’t wait to cheer and encourage participants as they conquer their miles!