INDIANAPOLIS (March 19, 2026) – The IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon and their pace team, Elevated Pacing and Running, is elevating the race-day experience in 2026 with the introduction of a new pacing flag system. The 500 Festival will become the first race in the United States to implement this innovative design, bringing a new level of visibility, comfort, and service to more than 20,000 participants.  

Researched and sourced by Elevated Pacing and Running in partnership with Black Hills Running Co, the system was designed in Australia and made famous by the pace team at the Sydney Marathon and other international events, including the Ballarat Marathon. Until now, the flags have only been used in races overseas. 

This pacing system features a lightweight, snug-fitting harness worn underneath the pacer’s singlet. A specially designed holster secures the flag and pole in place, keeping it upright and highly visible throughout the race while allowing natural movement in breezy conditions. 

Key features and benefits include: 

• Approximately 40 pacing flags  

• Pace groups ranging from 1:30 to 3:30 

• Hands-free design, eliminating the need for pacers to carry a pole 

• Elevated flag positioning for maximum visibility from a distance 

• Enhanced visibility for spectators searching for their runner 

• Lightweight, comfortable harness built for 13.1 miles 

With the flag consistently positioned high above the crowd, runners can easily spot their goal pace group from blocks away. Spectators can quickly identify pacing teams as participants move through the course. Pacers benefit from improved comfort and mobility with both hands free throughout the race. 

“At the 500 Festival, we are always looking for ways to enhance the participant experience,” said Dave Neff, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “This new system allows us to better serve our runners while supporting our incredible pacers with improved comfort and visibility. We are proud to lead the way as the first race in the United States to bring this system to our course.” 

Photos of the new pacing flags will be available for media use here and shared across the 500 Festival’s social media channels. 

The Mini-Marathon Pace Team is proudly sponsored by DICK’S Sporting Goods, whose support ensures our participants have the expert guidance they need to hit their race-day goals. 

As the Indy Mini continues Racing Through History, blending decades of tradition with innovation, the introduction of this pacing system reflects the 500 Festival’s commitment to honoring the past while leading the way forward. By continually enhancing the participant experience, the 500 Festival ensures that every runner, walker, and wheeler is part of a world-class event built on history, momentum, and progress. 

The Indy Mini weekend featuring the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon and Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K is sponsored by IU Health, Delta Dental, OneAmerica Financial, Meijer, Michelob ULTRA, PNC, and Chevy. The Mini-Marathon broadcast partner in the Indianapolis market is WTHR, Channel 13.