The three-race series will be a virtual event out of an abundance of caution for participants, volunteers, staff, and the city of Indianapolis

INDIANAPOLIS (December 8, 2020) – The 500 Festival today announces that the in-person 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy, has been transitioned to a virtual-only event due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The race series, which traditionally takes place during the early spring in downtown Indianapolis, will be instead held as a virtual event.  

“Our team has worked hard with local health officials and medical experts in the hopes of gathering in-person for the Miler Series, but ultimately concluded that the safest decision for everyone involved would be to switch to a virtual event,” said Bob Bryant, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “We are so appreciative of the support we have received from participants, volunteers, and civic partners. We invite everyone to join us for the Virtual 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy! Whether you’re training for the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon or just looking for some extra fitness motivation, it’s a great opportunity to get moving during this challenging time.”  

The 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy, consists of three running / walking events at three unique distances, a 3-Miler, 6-Miler and 10-Miler. The 2021 Virtual Miler Series will take place the first week in February, March, and April. Participants can submit their 3, 6, and 10-mile results anytime between February 1 – April 30, but participants are encouraged to submit them the first week of each month. The timing of the races aligns with a typical 12-week training program for a spring distance race, such as the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. The Miler Series is the perfect opportunity to help gauge training progression and build up running or walking mileage. Those who register for the series will receive a gender specific technical t-shirt, finisher medal, and goodies from the event’s partners. Currently registered participants will receive additional information in the coming days. Registration for the 2021 Virtual 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy, can be found here.  

As a community nonprofit organization, race registrations support the 500 Festival’s mission to provide events and programs that enrich lives, foster positive community impact and celebrate the Indy 500. This includes our free youth programs and events provided to 100,000 Hoosier kids each year.  

Community partners and supporters of the Virtual 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy, include: OrthoIndy, Clif Bar, First Watch, Planet Fitness, NCAA Hall of Champions, and the Athletic Annex.  

We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience or disappointment that this may cause, but the safety and health of our guests, volunteers, staff and community are our top priority and we will continue to be diligent in that regard.  

Any additional measures or announcements regarding our remaining 2021 events will be communicated to impacted participants, ticketholders, and volunteers via email in the coming months. It will also be shared on our social media, websites (www.500festival.com and www.indymini.com) and to the media, as they occur. 

About the 500 Festival 

Founded in 1957, the 500 Festival is a not-for-profit organization that produces more than 50 life-enriching events and programs while celebrating the spirit and legacy of the Indianapolis 500 and fostering positive impact on the city of Indianapolis and state of Indiana. One of the largest festivals in the nation, each year more than half a million people attend an event or program produced by the 500 Festival. Since its founding, the 500 Festival has contributed more than $500 million in economic value to Indianapolis. To learn more about the 500 Festival, please visit www.500festival.com or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. 

CLICK HERE for up-to-date guidance and information from the Indiana State Department of Health 

CLICK HERE for up-to-date guidance and information from the Marion County Health Department