Indiana’s Youngest Runners Will Take Over the World’s Largest Sporting Venue for Kids Only Races

INDIANAPOLIS (July 8, 2021) – The 500 Festival, a nonprofit organization providing life-enriching events and programs that celebrate the spirit and legacy of the Indianapolis 500®, today announces registration is open for the sixth annual 500 Festival mini-mini officially timed kids run. The 2021 500 Festival mini-mini will take place on Sunday, August 29 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indianapolis 500. The event is open to kids ages 5 – 12 and parents or guardians can register their mini-mini runner for $15 at IndyMini.com/minimini.

The 500 Festival mini-mini provides kids with an exhilarating experience similar to the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon – complete with course entertainment, massive cheering section, fun photo ops, and the coveted mini-mini medal. Each year, the mini-mini draws thousands of young runners and cheering fans from all over the state to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. This year, participants will have the option to participate in person at the event on August 29 or virtually.

“We are thrilled to have Indiana’s youth make a grand return to the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway this August for the 500 Festival mini-mini kids run,” said Bob Bryant, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “The 500 Festival is committed to leveraging the legacy and success of the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, one of America’s largest and best half marathons, to introduce running and walking to children and inspire a lifetime of physical activity.”

Four different race distances will be offered, ranging from half a mile to three miles, so participants can select the race and distance that best meets their age and ability. All in-person participants will finish at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s famed Yard of Bricks. Whether participating virtually or in person, all 500 Festival mini-mini participants will receive a commemorative technical t-shirt, drawstring bag, and the coveted mini-mini finisher’s medal.

Race Day Schedule

1:00 pm Gates Open; Celebration Zone Open; Packet Pickup Begins
1:45 pm 3-Mile Distance Race, ages 11 - 12
2:50 pm 2-Mile Distance Race, ages 9 - 11
3:40 pm 1-Mile Distance Race, ages 7 - 9
4:15 pm 0.5-Mile Distance Race, ages 5 - 7
5:00 pm Gates & Celebration Zone Close

Ages above are suggested. Times are approximate, subject to change. The top three male and female finishers of each race will receive awards. No one older than the suggested age range is eligible for awards. Awards are based on chip time, not actual finish position.

The mini-mini will be an afternoon of fun for all families. Participants and spectators can enjoy the mini-mini’s Celebration Zone, featuring free, fun activities for children of all ages. From dance floors and obstacle courses to fun games, face painting, and inflatables, there’s something for everyone at the 500 Festival mini-mini.

Now through August 22, you can register online for the in-person event for just $15. The deadline for the virtual option is August 2. Registration will be available on the day of the event at an increased price (while supplies last). To learn more about the 500 Festival mini-mini or to register, visit indymini.com/minimini or search #Indyminimini on social media.

The 500 Festival mini-mini is supported by the 500 Festival Foundation and Youth Fitness Cornerstone Partners: Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Foundation, AON, Crowe LLP, Republic Airways LIFT Academy, and Ascension St. Vincent.

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 that celebrate the spirit and legacy of the Indianapolis 500 and foster a 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 Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

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