For Lisa Wegner, running has always been more than just a sport – it’s a way to connect with herself, her community, and the people she loves. As a Health Equity Program Manager with IU Health and a Mini-Marathon frequent flyer, Lisa recognizes the importance of maintaining wellness and living a balanced lifestyle. She is deeply committed to the health and wellness of her patients and the communities she supports; all while being committed to becoming the best version of herself.  

Even though Lisa is a Michigan native, she took Hoosier culture by storm and fully immersed herself in her first May in Indianapolis in 2019. “I didn’t know much about Indianapolis or the traditions surrounding the race,” Lisa shared. “However, being part of ‘May in Indy’ gave me a deeper appreciation for the city and the people who make it all possible.”  

When Lisa moved in July of 2018, the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon instantly drew her in as a hub for community, running, and friendship in her new city. “The Indy Mini is much more than an event; it’s the kickoff to a month-long celebration that draws people from all over the world to experience something unique that Indy has to offer,” Lisa expressed. “The energy at the start line, running down Main Street, the track, and all the people that set up to cheer on the runners – Indy comes alive to support and celebrate. That atmosphere gave me a feeling of community and connectedness.” Lisa’s race day experience highlights the profound impact of this event on runners, proving you don’t need to be a native Hoosier to get the most out of the Indy Mini and into the 500 spirit.  

With four years of running experience and a completed Mini-Marathon, Lisa is no stranger to the trials and tribulations of long-distance running. “Running trains your brain to endure all the other hard things in life,” Lisa reflected. “The number of hours, days, weeks, years spent running, your mind can tend to play tricks on you and is usually ready to give up well before your body. Running has taught me to get comfortable being uncomfortable, the importance of positive self-talk, and that it’s okay to prioritize myself.” For Lisa, every race is a reminder of her mental strength and the resilience she’s built along the way. 

Beyond race day, Lisa’s passion for health and wellness extends into her professional life. “My career has always centered on the health and well-being of the patients and communities I serve,” Lisa explained. “To effectively care for others, I have to ensure that I am at my best, which begins with prioritizing my own health and wellness.” 

While many friendships form through running, Lisa and her friend Shayla used running to strengthen the bonds of their friendship. “As adults, life gets busy, and maintaining relationships, especially long-distance ones, can be challenging,” Lisa expressed. “However, having a running tradition with one of my best friends keeps us connected through our shared love of travel and running. The trips give us quality time together, but the time in between is what has kept our friendship strong.” Lisa and Shayla’s story shows how a shared love of running can make any distance feel small. 

Lisa’s journey is a reminder that running isn’t just about having the fastest time or quickest finish, it’s about embracing the friendships and new communities made along the way. Knowing you have others in your path you can rely on for support and to help celebrate the wins makes the experience even more meaningful, turning every mile into a shared adventure of growth, resilience, and camaraderie.  

 Join Lisa on her road to wellness and create your own by registering for the Mini-Marathon on May 3!  

Don’t forget to share your favorite Mini-Marathon photos and memories using #IndyMini and keep up to date with all the excitement of May by following @500festival on Facebook and Instagram.