For the second year in a row, 500 Festival Mini-Marathon cancels in-person race

For the second year in a row, there will be no runners or walkers gathering downtown for the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon.

Organizers announced Monday that the Mini and Delta Dental 5K, scheduled for May 8, will instead become virtual races because of the pandemic. Registered participants will receive more details regarding options.

A news release from the 500 Festival said after input from health officials, medical experts and community leaders, a determination was made to amend the traditional format.  

“Right now, the most important thing all of us can do is to support our local and state health officials and hospitals, as well as focus our efforts on positive community outcomes,” said Bob Bryant, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “We will continue to work on the remaining 500 Festival month of May activities and look forward to participating in the events at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway culminating with the Indy 500.”

The virtual experience is to include:

>> A package including distance-specific finisher gear and runner’s service items delivered to participants.

>> Digital bibs, finisher certificates and access to a participant-only Facebook group

.>> A new Indy Mini app that serves as a center for GPS tracking, race results, announcements and real-time spectator tracking.

>> An interactive and virtual health and fitness expo.

The Mini is the largest fundraiser for the 500 Festival, reaching children through youth education and health programming.

posted Tuesday March 2nd
by David Woods