INDIANAPOLIS (August 1, 2025) – As the 50th Running of the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon approaches on May 2, 2026, the 500 Festival invites you to make your race day even more meaningful by joining one of three special Mini-Marathon challenges — now open for registration. 

These unique opportunities allow you to connect with the community, honor your personal “why,” and add a layer of friendly competition to your Mini-Marathon experience. Race registration costs vary starting at $75 for the challenges below. 

The Employee Wellness Challenge is a great way for businesses and organizations to promote health, camaraderie, and team spirit in the workplace. This challenge encourages coworkers to rally together and take on the Mini-Marathon as a team, supporting one another along the way. A traveling trophy is awarded to the winning team to proudly display in their workplace until the following year’s Mini-Marathon. It’s a fun and impactful way to invest in employee wellness while celebrating a major community tradition. Learn more and register here. 

The Badge Match Challenge is designed for badge-carrying public service members throughout Indiana. This challenge brings together teams of 4 to 7 from police, fire, EMS, and other public service agencies to compete against one another for the title of Badge Match Champion. A traveling trophy is awarded to the winning team to proudly display in their workplace until the following year’s Mini-Marathon. It’s a proud tradition that honors the commitment and service of our everyday heroes. Learn more and apply directly here. 

The Mini with a Meaning Challenge allows you to run for something greater than yourself. By supporting a nonprofit organization and raising awareness for a cause close to your heart, your race becomes more than just miles — it becomes a mission. Participants can fundraise for the cause of their choice throughout their training experience and the organization who raises the most funds for their non-profit receives a complimentary booth at the Indy Mini Expo. Learn more and join the movement here. 

These challenges are a great way to celebrate the 50th Running of the Mini-Marathon and make a lasting impact in your community.  

“The 50th Running of the Mini-Marathon is not only a major milestone for our organization, but for every participant who’s made it what it is today,” said Bob Bryant, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “These challenges provide meaningful ways for people to come together, compete, honor, and inspire — just as they have for the past five decades.” 

Whether you’re racing for wellness, public service pride, or a personal cause, now is the perfect time to get involved. Learn more and register at IndyMini.com/register. 

Participants can also take on additional challenges at the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. The Mega Mini Challenge includes participation in both the Mini-Marathon and the 5K. The Mini Maniac Challenge includes the Miler Series and the Mini-Marathon. The Greatest Spectacle Challenge includes all three: the Miler Series, the 5K and the Mini-Marathon. For more details or to register, click here.  

The IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon and Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K are sponsored by IU Health, Delta Dental, OneAmerica Financial, and Meijer. The Mini-Marathon broadcast partner in the Indianapolis market is WTHR, Channel 13.