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

Running became a part of my life as a high school rower and it was a way to cross train. In college, running became my way to step away from the books and relax. I got involved in running half marathons after a childhood friend convinced me to join her for a half marathon through Virginia wine country. Running and wine, how could I say no? After that first race, I was hooked and I’ve run seven half marathons and my first full in Chicago this past October. Since moving to Indianapolis, running has become my way to explore and connect with the city. From the Central Canal Towpath to the Monon and the Cultural Trail, our city has miles and miles of new places to explore by foot. When I travel, I always make room for my running shoes. Some of the most memorable places that I’ve logged miles are around Hyde Park in London, along the Nervión for the sunrise in Spain, and up Aksla Mountain to enjoy some rare Norwegian sunshine. Running gives you a unique perspective on the world, as it lets you take in more of the city and feel like a local – not just a visitor. When it’s just you out there, putting one foot in front of the other, you get in tune with the pulse of the city.

The sense of community that I felt at the Indy Mini helped push me to help to re-launch Tow Yard Running Club, a free community based running club that promotes a stronger culture of “Fun, Fitness, and Philanthropy.” Running has brought me not only fitness and health but a sense of pride and passion.

Emily’s #IndyMini Experience

I’ve run the Mini-Marathon twice and the 5K once. I’m excited to tackle the Miler Series and the Mini-Marathon this year. As a Virginia native who relocated to Indianapolis, I didn’t fully grasp the concept of Hoosier Hospitality until I ran my first Indy Mini that following year. It wasn’t my first shot at running 13.1 miles, as I’d run a handful of races before, but it was the first time that energy and support of other runners, walkers, and spectators was palpable. While running through the neighborhoods on the way to the track, I was amazed at the number of residents cheering on participants, not as strangers, but as fellow Hoosiers. I can’t pinpoint one part of the race that made me fall in love with the Indy Mini, but from kissing the bricks to the chocolate milk at the finish to the Circle City Cloggers, to running down Speedway’s Main Street, all of these little details are what make the Indy Mini a magical race and the perfect display of Hoosier Hospitality. Since I didn’t grow up a Hoosier, I had to learn what it was all about, and the Indy Mini played a pivotal role in learning the Hoosier way of life. Three years straight of running the Indy Mini and I’m already counting down the days until May 5, 2018!

Emily’s Advice

Trust the process and enjoy the celebration of race day. No matter what the clock says when you cross the finish line, you did something that not many people can say they did…you ran the Mini-Marathon! Remember my favorite motivational quote: “Someday you won’t be able to do this…today is not that day.”

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!

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. 

Sheehan’s Story

After college, I was physically and mentally unhappy. The negativity in my life needed to change and my decision to take on an active lifestyle, to combat that stagnant feeling, changed my life for the better. I implemented gradual exercise into my daily routine and quickly became comfortable in the “workout scene.” My life took a motivational turn and I was ready for more. With encouragement and participation from friends, together we set a goal to run the Indy Mini. Although these friends and fellow runners lived in Chicago, they provided long-distance encouragement that provided much-need accountability during my journey toward my goal. I was coping with overwhelming feelings; I had never set a goal so wide in scope AND it was for the Greatest Spectacle in Running. Fear, doubt, and uncertainty crept in because I had no idea what to expect. However, setting small and manageable goals while also completing the training program, gave me confidence that surpassed my doubts. Of course, it’s comforting to remember that we’re always a work in progress. Life isn’t easy – but when I know I have family and friends in my life who continue to encourage me or run beside me (literally and figuratively), I will succeed and overcome my personal struggles.  I am grateful for the race that continues to better me, and better those who toe the start line.  It is the positive experiences I’ve had that make me want to continue to share this race with others.

Sheehan’s #IndyMini Experience

I never looked back after my first Mini-Marathon 6 years ago. It was the race that changed my life for the better and for that reason alone, it will always be my favorite race. The nostalgia keeps me coming back, but the environment that the Indy Mini provides is a call to action in itself. The course, the amount of participation from the runners and walkers and the entertainment play into the motivational environment that is necessary for a race that can be very intense. From the cloggers to the CrossFit rowers, belly dancers and bands singing “Don’t Stop Believing” – everyone is cheering you on whether it’s your first race, or you’re in first place!

Sheehan’s Advice

Focus on the process of training and have fun with it.  Enjoy the race, the community and do your best.  Don’t compare yourself to anyone – if you focus on your race, you will succeed! Schedule your training runs because planning them will keep yourself accountable. I can’t wait to cheer you on as you take on your first race, too!

Feeling inspired by Sheehan’s story? If you’re interested in participating in the 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, click here. 

Sheehan, 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!

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. 

Alexandria’s Story

I never deemed myself as athletic and definitely not a runner. However, the year after I had my baby, my New Year’s resolution was to be a healthy mom!  On a whim, but with my goal in mind, I signed up for the Indy Mini. This go-round was rough, I didn’t train and I struggled – but finished! After that, I was feeling discouraged and took a break. As a single mother and someone who needed an outlet, running kept appearing as the best option for me to get healthy. I purchased a cheap, yard-sale jogging stroller and ran it to the point of collapse. That stroller, with my daughter in tow, logged many miles with me. They are very much a part of my journey and the tools that gave me the ability and motivation to run. Despite nervousness, self-doubt, and failed attempts, my persistence paid off. I killed my first run of the Indy Mini. My progress gives me the confidence to know that I can finish what I struggled to start.

Alexandria’s #IndyMini Experience

The start of my Indy Mini experience was rough, but the beginner-friendly amenities that it offers helped ease my discomfort, and I still appreciate them as I become a more experienced runner. The Indy Mini has the most water stations and porta-potties in comparison to other races that I’ve seen. Even so, the energy from the crowd makes it different from other races too! Live bands are playing throughout the course, kids are giving high-fives, and you’ll pass random, funny and encouraging signs – it’s the extra motivation that gets you to the finish line.

Alexandria’s Advice

Don’t stress if you’re not able to religiously follow your training program! Life happens, so don’t let it get in the way of your ultimate goal. The energy from the atmosphere will pull you through – it makes a difference that I didn’t expect!

Feeling inspired by Alexandria’s story? If you’re interested in participating in the 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, click here. 

Alexandria, 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!

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. 

Sarah’s Story

I was somewhat conditioned to running and athletics during my college years. I was a rower, maybe a little different than a runner, but I was accustomed to the same type of training and involvement in a competitive atmosphere. After I graduated and my rowing career was over, I needed an outlet to fill my athletic and competitive drive, so I signed up for the Indy Mini. I always enjoyed running, but after my first Mini, I found a passion for mini-marathons.

Sarah’s #IndyMini Experience

Life happened and I wasn’t able to weave mini-marathons and training into my daily lifestyle. My pivotal moment was eight years ago, after the birth of my son – I was out of shape and overweight. I wanted a heathy lifestyle and the best way I knew to achieve a health goal of that magnitude, was to sign up for the Indy Mini. With a goal in mind, training guided me to weight loss and a PR. I never looked back. This year will be my sixteenth mini-marathon, and I’ve even added triathlons into the mix! The Indy Mini is a gateway to much more than you could imagine. It only takes one race for you to understand.

Sarah’s Advice

Follow your training plan, but don’t worry if you hit a bump along the way. On race day, the course entertainment and enthusiasm from fans might alter your mindset, but don’t start out too fast (your body will try).  Break down the race into smaller chunks that you can conquer. For example, set the 5K mark as your first finish line and go from there. Setting manageable goals throughout the race will provide extra motivation.

Also, Body Glide will be your friend. Use it!

Feeling inspired by Sarah’s story? If you’re interested in participating in the 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, click here. 

Sarah, 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!

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. 

Pam’s Story

It started with a bucket-list, one-and-done idea to complete the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, but a combination of things led me to begin running and participate in my first #IndyMini. Eleven years ago, both my parents passed away within two months of each other. I was in need of an outlet, so I turned to walking. I loved the fresh air, music booming through my earbuds and the chance to escape life and decompress while I walked. The more I walked, the better I felt and soon walking turned to running. Inspired, I decided it was my turn to complete a bucket list item and registered to run!

For me, it’s never been about the speed. I’m not an elite runner, but every time I set out to run a race – I do it! Running is MY sport. I compare me against me, I’m never racing others. It’s all about improving me; achieving my goal, beating my time, strengthening my body and crushing my PR. All those years ago, I would have never guessed that I’d run seven half marathons, many 5k races and become an Ambassador for the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon.

Pam’s #IndyMini Experience

During my first Indy Mini, I took pictures along the entire route and at each mile marker, including all the awesome and unique course entertainers, and texted them to my family to document my journey! I walked the majority of the route, met a ton of great people and found that I had more strength and stamina than I thought. Within a week of crossing the finish line, I signed up for the following year’s race. It’s easy to see why the Indy Mini stands out from other half marathons… the HYPE and excitement EVERYWHERE! It begins with a beautiful walk to the start line, just as the sun is coming up over the skyline of Indianapolis. Before you even reach your corral, you hear the hum of the excited crowd and the beat of the pumping music! Hang out by the start line for just a bit and watch an entire corral be led to the start line by a Festival Car, hear the roar of the engine, feel the excitement of the runners and see the local celebrities waving on the participants. As your corral crosses the start, you begin an amazing journey through Indianapolis. You’ll pass the zoo, wind through downtown neighborhoods, travel all the way around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and head back toward town, all the while being sung to, cheered on, encouraged and entertained by many unique and interesting groups. Perhaps the best part is when the skyline comes back in to view and you realize the finish line is within reach! Indeed, this is the “Greatest Spectacle in Running!”

Pam’s Advice

Throughout my years of running half marathons, I’ve learned a few things that may help first-time runners. Be prepared for race day beyond training. Go for a run in your race day clothes before race day, be sure they’re comfy and remember layers are always a great idea – a fanny pack is helpful, too. A great music playlist goes a long way! Set your goal, whether it’s simply to finish the race or hit a certain pace, I mark my goal on my arm, so I am reminded the whole time. Get downtown early and soak in the pre-race fun! You’ll be kissing the bricks alongside people from all over the country – get to know them! Stretch tired muscles after the race and cheer on those who might be crossing the finish line for the first time.

Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step in your life. Tiptoe if you must, but take the first step!

Feeling inspired by Pam’s story? If you’re interested in participating in the 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, click here. 

Pam, 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!