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.
Emily’s Story
I ran cross country and track in high school, albeit not very well. Even so, running has always been my outlet and source of motivation. Nightly runs were common after late study sessions in college; running through the dark, quiet and empty campus was the only thing that could break my wall of mental exhaustion. Apart from it being my favorite method to channel stress, running holds me accountable to my fitness goals. Creating and keeping a fitness habit is hard. Honestly, I’m more apt to stick with it if I sink some money into it, such as race fees. As much as I may dread my upcoming run as I’m driving home from work (I just want to nap, or pig out), I feel SO GOOD when I finish. Honestly, what is an hour or so of pushing ones’ self compared to an entire evening of endorphins?
Emily’s #IndyMini Experience
It’s hard to articulate, but that fever pitch you feel in the air in the Indianapolis area, weeks before the race, is magic. The sidewalks are lively with runners who are sporting their Mini-Marathon gear from past years. On the Thursday and Friday nights before, good luck getting into Fazolis or Bucca di Beppo, because the whole city is carb-loading. At the Expo, you’ll get to talk to fellow running nerds and have the opportunity to purchase new gear. The finale, race day, the starting corrals are a party with 36,000 of your closest friends. There are other half marathons in Indianapolis, throughout Indiana and around the country, but this is the signature event. This is the only one that can be referred to as simply, the “Mini.” During my freshman year of college I decided to become part of the Indianapolis tradition. As the 2018 race approaches, I’m even closer to marking number 5 off of my list of Mini-Marathons.
Emily’s Advice
Anticipate unfavorable race conditions and practice running in them. Go for a long run in the rain, on a windy day and in humidity. Try running without music, just in case your electronics fail on race day. Challenging yourself during training will make race day a breeze! You’ve done the hard work and put in the miles; don’t let the unexpected throw off your mental game!
Feeling inspired by Emily’s story? If you’re interested in participating in the 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, click here.
Emily, 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!