Registration Open for the 500 Festival Rookie Run, presented by Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital

Registration Open for the 500 Festival Rookie Run, presented by Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital

INDIANAPOLIS (February 19, 2026) – Registration is now open for the 2026 500 Festival Rookie Run, presented by Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital, which will take place on Saturday, May 9, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in downtown Indianapolis.  

The Rookie Run, held during the JPMorganChase 500 Festival Kids’ Day, offers a fun and welcoming introduction to running for children ages 3–10, creating a race day experience designed just for them. This non-competitive event allows young participants to enjoy the excitement of a real event environment, complete with a start and finish line, cheering spectators, and plenty of encouragement along the course. Every participant receives a finisher medal, along with snacks and water to celebrate their accomplishment. 

As part of the 500 Festival’s ongoing commitment to health and wellness, the Rookie Run helps promote active lifestyles and positive habits at an early age. By bringing families together around movement and community, the event supports the Festival’s mission to inspire the next generation to stay engaged, healthy, and active.   

Registration is open online at 500festival.com/rookie for $10 until May 6, which includes a commemorative shirt, goodie bag, bib, and finisher medal. On-site registration is available for $5 (includes a medal, bib, and goodie bag), with shirts available for purchase for an additional $5, while supplies last.   

“The 500 Festival Rookie Run, presented by Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital, creates a positive first race experience for many kids,” said Dave Neff, President and CEO of the 500 Festival. “It helps kids build confidence while celebrating movement and healthy habits.” 

Rookie Run Schedule  

  • Age 3: 2-block course – 11:30 am*  
  • Age 4: 2-block course – 12:00 pm*  
  • Ages 5-6: 1/5-mile course – 12:30 pm*  
  • Ages 7-8: 1/3-mile course – 1:00 pm*  
  • Ages 9-10: 1/3-mile course – 1:30 pm*  

*Times are approximate and subject to change.  

The Rookie Run is supported by our corporate partners: Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at Ascension St. Vincent, Delta Dental, and WTHR.  

For more information on the Rookie Run and to register, visit 500Festival.com/Rookie or search #500RookieRun on social media. 

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