IndyMini | Blog

Get to Know 2018 #IndyMini Runner Alexi Pappas

Get ready, Indy. Another running icon is coming to compete in the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon on May 5. Don’t know Alexi Pappas? You should. A woman of many titles; Olympian, filmmaker, writer, essayist, actress and Greek national record holder are a few of those titles. An array of talents, yet they all encompass … Continue reading “Get to Know 2018 #IndyMini Runner Alexi Pappas”

Get ready, Indy. Another running icon is coming to compete in the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon on May 5. Don’t know Alexi Pappas? You should.

A woman of many titles; Olympian, filmmaker, writer, essayist, actress and Greek national record holder are a few of those titles. An array of talents, yet they all encompass the physical grit and mental stamina embodied by a runner who commits herself to the vulnerability that brave running demands.

She artfully masters the daily grind as a professional athlete. The capacity of a running career is often misunderstood, in that training exists beyond scheduled workouts. Planned eating and sleeping are important to Pappas in the balancing act and pursuit of a goal. From Dartmouth to Eugene, Oregon, her thoughtful training has resulted in her success as an NCAA All-American, 10,000-meter national record holder, and Olympian.

Refreshed by her one year stint in Eugene, Pappas embraced the culture of the running town that built legends. It was the place that inspired the creation of “Tracktown”, a movie she co-wrote with her now fiancé, Jeremy Teicher. She also produced and starred in the movie, all while boasting an Olympic run. Nothing is out of the question for someone so driven and diverse. Her undergraduate years at Dartmouth were spent as a creative writing major, dabbling in improv groups among her athletic commitments.

Her passionate band of followers, also known as “Bravies,” feed off of her clever, witty and fearless motivation. Bravey, a self-coined term that capitalizes on a positive approach toward goals, is used as a noun to signify those who are brave in their actions, through running and beyond. Bravies take on their role in full-stride and many have displayed their devotion with a personal bravey tattoo. Pappas defined some stipulations to the tattoo via Twitter:

1. You must be brave.

2. Bravey must be written in your handwriting.

3. Tattoos are permanent and so is bravery.

Pappas’ impact transcends her running success and her outreach is rooted in intention.

Check out Alexi’s platforms of positivity across all social media and find out how to run WITH her in the 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon.

Alexi’s Channels: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Feeling inspired to run like a Bravey? Indianapolis is paved for your graces on May 5! Register Here

5 Tips to Help You Master the Milers This Spring

The 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy, is about to jumpstart the running events in 2018, and there’s no better way to start your training! With three unique distances, including a 3-Miler, 6-Miler, and 10-Miler, the official training series of the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon helps runners and walkers of any ability prepare for a … Continue reading “5 Tips to Help You Master the Milers This Spring”

With the 3-Miler just around the corner, here are five tips to help you master the Milers and defeat downtown Indy this spring:

1. Watch the Weather

Wintery training races can take on a life of their own depending on the weather for race morning. Be sure to watch the local news or check social media for weather updates and alerts to help you plan your race morning schedule, routine, and attire.

2. Layer Up

Expect the temperature to rise from the time you leave the house to the time you cross the finish line. Staying warm early and cool later can be key to a good race. Layer up and be prepared to shed some of those pieces of clothing at the start line, and even along the course, if necessary.

3. Get Moving Early

It’s hard to get the blood flowing early on a cold Saturday morning in February. You don’t want to be tight when you jump into the starting corral. Get up a little early and allow some extra time to stretch at home or warm up prior to the race.

4. Find Your Pace

The 500 Festival will welcome the Clif Bar Pace Team to the 10-Miler in April. Be sure to use them – and your own pacing at the 3-Miler and 6-Miler – to zero in on your ideal speed so you can begin honing your race day pace strategy.

5. Remember the Goal

Even if it’s cold and your time isn’t what you hoped for, remember the goal! Use the Miler Series to keep you moving forward in the cold months, and don’t get discouraged by a bad race or an unsatisfying performance. It’s not all about time; it’s about working up to that 13.1-mile finish line!

Interested in mastering the Milers and defeating downtown Indy with the 500 Festival this spring? Click here to learn more

#IndyMilers

#IndyMini Ambassador: Ashley Kimbrell

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. Ashley’s Story I started gaining interest in running while I was working at a local sporting goods … Continue reading “#IndyMini Ambassador: Ashley Kimbrell”

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.

Ashley’s Story

I started gaining interest in running while I was working at a local sporting goods store in Terre Haute. This company took pride in catering to athletes and finding shoes to fit the unique needs of runners. It was almost a rite-of-passage to be able to fit someone for a shoe that they will be wearing in the Indy Mini. The influence of working in a running environment along with encouragement from a college professor unlocked my interest into the realm of running races. For me, running the Indy Mini was about self-care, enjoyment and allowing myself to be competitive in the forgiving and motivating atmosphere that it provided. After I ran my first Indy Mini, I understood the scope of fitting someone for a shoe for the Indy Mini.

Ashley’s #IndyMini Experience

As I train for my sixth Indy Mini, I realize that my motives have changed as my life has changed. My roles as mother and educator give me a platform to show young people that it is possible to pursue what you love and do what’s right for you, despite obstacles that might be in the way. And now, I realize that running the Indy Mini extends far beyond personal feats. From joining running groups, to meeting people at races, I’ve made friends that have turned into family. But one thing will always remain the same, the Indy Mini is special to me and I always run it to have fun. If you know Indiana’s passion for massive sporting events, how can you not want to participate in this race?

Ashley’s Advice

How awesome would it be to PR in Indy? Take advantage of the flat course and the neat location and a PR will happen!

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

Ashley, 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!

Everything You Need to Know About the 3-Miler Course Change

Hey there, Indy! We shared some pretty exciting news earlier this week; the opening race of the 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy, will have a change in venue on February 10. The 3-Miler will now start and finish at The Pavilion at Pan Am Plaza; a location known for hosting ESPN broadcasts at the … Continue reading “Everything You Need to Know About the 3-Miler Course Change”

Hey there, Indy! We shared some pretty exciting news earlier this week; the opening race of the 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy, will have a change in venue on February 10. The 3-Miler will now start and finish at The Pavilion at Pan Am Plaza; a location known for hosting ESPN broadcasts at the Super Bowl, NCAA Final Fours and Big Ten Football Championship Games, as well as 100th Running events, Colts tailgates and concerts to name a few.

The Pan Am Plaza is one city block located on Illinois Street, Georgia Street, Louisiana and Capitol Avenue, and within easy walking distance to Lucas Oil Stadium, Monument Circle and most major downtown hotels. It’s only two blocks west of Bankers Life Fieldhouse! The 6-Miler and 10-Miler will remain at Bankers Life Fieldhouse, but the 3-Miler change will affect a few things on race morning, and we’re here to help answer all of those questions.

So let’s address a few of them!

Where is race day registration & packet pickup?

Spectators and participants will be able to visit vendors, pick up their packets and register onsite indoors at The Pavilion prior to the race. The Pavilion is heated and will provide a comfortable pre-race and post-race experience for everyone at the 3-Miler!

Is everything else the same?

While the start and finish location changes, the 3-Miler’s date and time will remain the same (Saturday, Feb. 10 at 9:00 am).

What does the new course look like?

The 3-Miler course weaves through downtown Indianapolis along iconic sights like Monument Circle, the Indiana War Memorial, the Scottish Rite Cathedral, and more!

Click here to see the updated course map

Where should I park?

There are several paid parking garages nearby at the Pan Am Plaza and Indiana Convention Center that should leave you steps from the start and finish line. More parking options will be announced closer to the event.

Click here to view parking options

When is the last day I can pre-register?

Pre-registration for the Miler Series closes February 4. You can still register onsite at the event for just $20 (3-Miler) or $65 (all three races)!

What if I signed up and can’t make it or I’m training from out of town?

You can always sign up for the Virtual Miler Series and join the Indy Mini training from a distance! The Virtual Miler Series allows you to collect the shirt and medal following the 10-Miler by simply running or walking on your own and submitting your race photos and times to get credit for the race.

Learn more about the Virtual Miler Series

Any other questions about 3-Miler morning? Comment below or ask us on social media and we’ll be sure to follow up. Use #IndyMilers to join the conversation!

We can’t wait to see all of our Milers, Maniacs and half marathoners in training on February 10!

Already committed? Click here to let us know if you’re attending!

Not yet registered for the 500 Festival Miler Series?

Learn More | Register

#IndyMini Ambassador: Monica Roose

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. Monica’s Story My aspiration toward a healthy lifestyle began in 2011, and after running my first 5K … Continue reading “#IndyMini Ambassador: Monica Roose”

Monica’s Story

My aspiration toward a healthy lifestyle began in 2011, and after running my first 5K that same year, the motivation and accomplishment that I felt from finishing the race intensified my passion for the sport. I can’t imagine missing out on that post-race feeling of satisfaction. Running seemed to be the tool that executed my health goals and finding a race that helped me keep those goals attainable made all the difference.

Monica’s #IndyMini Experience

The upcoming Indy Mini will mark my seventh year as a participant. The 2018 Indy Mini will be extra special for me because my boyfriend, brother-in-law and nephew will be participating too! The most important people in my life will have the opportunity to understand why I love the Indy Mini.

No other race comes close to offering the experiences that are encountered during the Indy Mini. The energetic atmosphere is continuous motivation and running around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a moment that goes unmatched. The rich history and consistency of the event has molded my personal tradition and keeps me coming back each year. This is a must run race!

Monica’s Advice

First off, enjoy the race! Take out your ear buds and listen to the bands that are provided by the course entertainment. People you have never met are rooting for you – embrace it! Maybe a helpful tip, there is an actual bathroom at the track – it’s worth the wait.

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

Monica, 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!

500 Festival 5K Continues to Grow

With the status of the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon over the past few decades, growing in prominence as one of the nation’s largest, bucket list half marathons, the itch to experience the excitement has grown across Indiana and much of the Midwest. Many Hoosiers desire to experience one of the 500 Festival’s largest events and month of … Continue reading “500 Festival 5K Continues to Grow”

Many Hoosiers desire to experience one of the 500 Festival’s largest events and month of May welcome party, but not everyone is up for 13.1 miles. Enter the 500 Festival 5K.

From aspiring youth runners to Mini-Marathon veterans, participants can experience the same Indy Mini fun with only a fraction of the distance. There have been parents with children strapped to their chests, friends wheeling loved ones across the finish, and celebrities like Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck who have conquered the 5K.

So what does that “same fun, less distance” phrase really mean?

It’s the same start line, the same finish line, and the same post race party celebration after cruising down Victory Mile. The same Mini-Marathon Expo experience and the same race morning electricity as 30,000 line up along Washington Street. Participants won’t be able to trek around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, but the 5K is a great way to join the excitement of a grandiose event like the Mini-Marathon.

In 2017, the 500 Festival 5K saw nearly 5,000 finishers and it continues to grow as all sorts of Hoosiers, runner or not, join in The Greatest Spectacle in Running.

Whether 13.1 or 3.1, we hope to see you on May 5!

Interested in registering for the 500 Festival 5K? The price increases Monday, January 15 at 11:59 pm ET. Register here to lock in the lowest rate!

#IndyMini Ambassador: Jennifer Spangler

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. Jennifer’s Story My running career started in May of 2013 when I made the decision to lose … Continue reading “#IndyMini Ambassador: Jennifer Spangler”

Jennifer’s Story

My running career started in May of 2013 when I made the decision to lose weight. Throughout my weight loss journey, I began to run and was able to gain endurance through interval training. From my training, I found that I could sustain a 5-mile run without stopping. By August, I realized that I had the potential to run the Mini-Marathon. It was my resolution and strong-will to get healthy, quit smoking and sign up for the Indy Mini, as a reward. Since that time, I have run more than 20 half marathons and six full marathons.

Jennifer’s #IndyMini Experience

This year will mark my fifth running of the Indy Mini. During each Mini, not only am I motivated by the 13.1-mile gap between myself and my goal, but the support from spectators and energy from course entertainment add the perfect element of gratification that I need to make it to the finish line. From the Expo to the Post Race Party, the whole celebration embodies the history and tradition of the Greatest Spectacle in Racing (and Running). Through the Indy Mini, I feel like I have a role in all of the month’s festivities.

Jennifer’s Advice

Find a training program and stick with it! It is incredibly important to have a running schedule and believe in the slow, simple process. Take advantage of running partners and use them for the motivation and extra push. Come race day, my most important piece of advice is to trust your training!

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

Jennifer, 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!

#IndyMini Ambassador: Christiana Howton

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. Christiana’s Story I decided a couple years back that I wanted to become a better me, … Continue reading “#IndyMini Ambassador: Christiana Howton”

Christiana’s Story

I decided a couple years back that I wanted to become a better me, and I found that by running. I heard about the Indy Mini through a friend and from social media, and I thought it would be a great race to participate in. I have been hooked ever since!

Christiana’s #IndyMini Experience

My first year was in 2016. In 2017, I completed the Mega Mini Challenge.

My favorite thing about the Indy Mini – aside from the participants and running the track – would have to be the crowd. They always stand out with so many people, from spectators and live bands to water stations and those who represent the city. They are so supportive and show so much love to those in this race.

One thing that will always stand out to me is the note I received when I checked in at the Expo my first year. It read: “Christiana- Thanks for the #IndyMini shout-out on Instagram! We’re so excited to have you and definitely kiss those bricks! -500 Festival Staff”

That would have to be the start of my love for the Indy Mini and what brings me back every year, and for so many years to come.

Christiana’s Advice

My advice to first-time participants would be: whether you are a beginner or professional, runner or walker, just have fun. I was told once not to set yourself a PR but to just enjoy this race. This is a fun race and you want to soak it all in the best you can. If nothing else, for your first year, soak in all the Indy Mini has to offer and return next year ready to crush any and every goal you have.

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

Christiana, 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!

5 Reasons the Indy Mini is the Perfect New Year’s Resolution

“What’s your 2018 New Year’s resolution?” That big question is back. It’s on your mind, and you have to be ready if/when you’re asked about it. Better yet, you need to have a plan. And whatever that “new” thing is, it starts NOW! New Year’s resolutions can take on many forms. Not everyone … Continue reading “5 Reasons the Indy Mini is the Perfect New Year’s Resolution”

“What’s your 2018 New Year’s resolution?”

That big question is back. It’s on your mind, and you have to be ready if/when you’re asked about it. Better yet, you need to have a plan. And whatever that “new” thing is, it starts NOW!

New Year’s resolutions can take on many forms. Not everyone needs a resolution like 13.1 miles. But for those who do, the 500 Festival has a number of advantages for any kind of runner or walker looking to get started.

This is not the New York City or Chicago Marathon. Anyone – and we mean anyone – can do this. So, here are five things you didn’t know about the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon that make it PERFECT for New Year’s resolutions.

1) It’s Fun

Did you know the Indy Mini has one of the highest walker-to-participant ratios of any major American road race? With a 4-hour time limit (18-minute per mile pace), the Indy Mini is one of the most forgiving courses for a beginning half marathoner. Yes, it’s still a race. That competitive spirit lives in all of us, but the Mini-Marathon is a 13.1-mile fun run. If you like fun, keep reading.

2) It’s Easy

Did you know the 500 Festival implemented it’s own series of training races specifically for the Indy Mini? It’s called the 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy, and it helps participants reach their resolutions by working up to 13.1 miles with three incremental races; a 3-Miler, 6-Miler, and 10-Miler. If the sound of these distances makes it seem easier to start, keep reading.

3) It’s Flat

Did you know the Indy Mini is one of the flattest courses in the nation? A limited deviation in course elevation allows runners and walkers to breeze along at their own speed – which is usually quite fast. After all, fast is what this city is known for. So if you’re in the game to get better and break that record, keep reading.

4) It’s Alive

Did you know the Indy Mini boasts the largest number of course entertainment groups for any road race in the country? Nearly 100 acts from DJs to bands and tap dancers to cheer squads line the streets of Indianapolis to motivate and encourage the participants. 13 pit stations line the course as well, filled with volunteers dishing out water and continuing the encouragement. If you think thousands of people cheering you on might help get you to your goal, keep reading.

5) It’s Epic

Did you know the Indy Mini takes you around the largest sports venue in the world? That’s what we said. The largest venue on PLANET EARTH! The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the heart of the Indianapolis 500 and the month of May in Indy, and it’s the feature of the Mini-Marathon for Mile 6 and Mile 7. Nothing compares to coming down the home stretch and kissing the bricks. If you like epic moments, keep reading, and get ready for something unforgettable.

You can make your resolution to lose weight, eat better, and exercise. These ideas are great. But in 2018, make it tangible, make it real, and make it 13.1 miles.

Want to make it even easier? Do it with a friend!

Interested in registering for the 2018 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon? Prices increase New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31) at 11:59 p.m. ET!

Don’t wait! REGISTER HERE

#IndyMini Ambassador: Gabe Lingenfelter

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. Gabe Lingenfelter is the youngest of the 2018 Indy Mini Ambassadors. He started running cross country in … Continue reading “#IndyMini Ambassador: Gabe Lingenfelter”

Gabe Lingenfelter is the youngest of the 2018 Indy Mini Ambassadors. He started running cross country in fifth grade. He ran his first Mini in sixth grade. Now, in eighth grade, he’ll come barreling down New York Street for the third consecutive year.

Gabe’s Story

My Indy Mini story is very special to me. Both my mom and grandpa are runners and they had been doing the Indy Mini for a few years. I always used to like watching them finish and I wondered what it would be like to run the race. I became a runner a few years ago and never imagined running that far. Then, a few years ago, my mom was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. She had to go through a lot of chemotherapy and radiation treatments. She didn’t run the Mini-Marathon for a few years because of it. But in 2016, she was going to do the Mini again and I decided to do it with her. We found out that the Mini was almost one year exactly after her first chemo treatment. That made it even more special to all of us.

I ran the Mini that year and I had a lot of fun. The next year, I did it again with one of my friends. It has become a family tradition for us, and this is why the Indy Mini is special to me.

Gabe’s #IndyMini Experience

2018 will be third Mini-Marathon. My favorite thing about the race is that it’s memorable. I enjoy running it with my friends and family. I also like that you run around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. I think something that makes it different from other races is the atmosphere. Everyone is included, even if you don’t do the Mini. There is a 5K and the mini-mini for younger kids. The feeling that you get at the start and finish are so much better than the feeling of other races. It gives you such a sense of accomplishment.

Gabe’s Advice

Don’t give up. We all have a reason we’re running, whether it’s to prove something, make a good time, or just to have fun. We all have a reason to run and you shouldn’t give up.

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

Gabe, along with our other Ambassadors, will be sharing his training experience and motivation leading up to the race. Follow along and share your experience using #IndyMini on social media!