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.
April’s Story
I decided to start running because I had watched my husband run for years. He loved running, and I felt like I was missing out. The moment I crossed the finish line of the Mini in 2008, I understood why he loved it. It was such an amazing feeling to know that I could run 13.1 miles. I continued to run the Mini each year. I took off in 2011 after having my daughter. I was back in 2012, but now I was running for my daughter. I wanted her to see that she had a strong mother. She has watched me cross the finish line of every Mini-Marathon since 2012. She is six years old now and has competed in the JPMorgan Chase 500 Festival Rookie Run three times and the 500 Festival mini-mini twice. She clearly has a love for running.
April’s #IndyMini Experience
I was getting married in May of 2008, and my husband (fiancé at the time) convinced me to run the Mini. I had never run a race in my life, and could not even run a mile without walking. I had no idea what I had gotten myself into. In February of 2008, I was not a runner. In May of 2008, I was a half marathoner!
My favorite thing about the Mini is the energy. I have never felt so much energy in a race. The crowd, the volunteers, the bands, and the participants are like no other. There is truly nothing like it. I have completed 21 half marathons and my top three times are all on the Mini course, and this is all because of the crowd of people that are cheering me on for the entire 13.1 miles.
The Mini started my running career and turned me into a runner. It changed who I was as a person. The Mini will always be my race, and I will run it every year as long as I am physically able.
April’s Advice
I would tell a first-time participant to know you can do it, and don’t doubt your training. So much of the race is mental. I would also tell a first-timer to just enjoy every moment. Give high fives to little kids, thank the officers and volunteers, cheer on fellow runners, and cross the finish line strong. There is a great sense of accomplishment in finishing.
Feeling inspired by April’s story? If you’re interested in participating in the 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, click here.
April, 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!