Event Overview

One America 500 Festival Mini-Marathon

One America 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, Indianapolis IN

May 2, 2009

The mission of the 500 Festival is to produce events and programs that celebrate the success of the Indianapolis 500 Mile Race and enhance the quality of life for the citizens of Indiana and their guests. These events and programs, produced largely by community action volunteers, enhance the image of our city and state by showcasing our cultural, educational and social benefits to the world.
 
The 500 Festival, a not-for-profit volunteer organization, was created in 1957 to organize civic events celebrating the greatest race in the world. Over the past 52 years, the 500 Festival has grown to become one of the largest festivals in the nation.
 
Last year, over 500,000 Hoosiers and visitors participated in nearly 50 events and programs throughout the month of May. Whether they were athletes running the Mini, fourth grade students participating in the Education Program, families enjoying the state’s largest festival for kids or spectators being dazzled by one of the nation’s premier parades, they were there, celebrating the legacy.

The 34th Running of the One America 500 Festival Mini-Marathon takes place on Saturday, May 8, 2010. The Mini has sold-out for the past seven years, with 35,000 registrants in 2009, and an additional 4,000 participants in the Finish Line 500 Festival 5K. The Mini-Marathon is the largest half-marathon in the U.S., and overall, the fifth largest running event in America. The 2009 event sold out on December 26, 2008.
 
The 500 Festival Mini-Marathon Expo, presented by AT&T, took place on Thursday and Friday before the half-marathon at the Indiana Convention Center. Participants pick up their race packets and visit the booths of more than 80 companies and vendors. The Expo is open to the public, with over 40,000 people attending. On Friday evening, participants can attend the Mini-Marathon, presented by Marsh and enjoy camaraderie with other participants and guest appearances by running celebrities.
 
Following the Mini-Marathon and 5K races, the participants, along with their family and friends gathered in the Post Race Party at Military Park in downtown Indianapolis. Participants had the chance to relax and receive food and drinks, while enjoying post-race entertainment. The event featured live music from great bands, tasty food and drink.

Aquafina, a proud sponsor of the event, provided water to all participants and volunteers and conducted a far-reaching recycling collection activity within the post-finish are in Military Park.