500 Festival Running Events
The 500 Festival Running Events offer a series of races in Indianapolis, centered on the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. This 13.1-mile course is largely flat, winding through downtown Indianapolis and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The event also features a 5K, which includes the USATF 5KM Championships. Additionally, the Miler Series provides 3-mile, 6-mile, and 10-mile races, serving as preparation for the half marathon. Virtual challenges, including 250-mile and 500-mile activity goals, are available from June to October, extending the series beyond the main event. The Mini-Marathon attracts over 20,000 runners, positioning it as one of the largest half marathons nationally. A pace car guides each wave at the start. Participants run a 2.5-mile lap on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway track, with many pausing to kiss the Yard of Bricks. The course is supported by thousands of volunteers and over 50 entertainment groups. The field includes a wide range of participants, from families and novices to elite athletes like Frank Shorter and Meb Keflezighi. The race is known as "The Greatest Spectacle in Running," reflecting its Speedway location and connection to the broader 500 Festival.
