The big races are but a day away, and the (deep breath now) OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon—commonly known as the Indy Mini—has again sold out, though later than usual, a symptom attributed by many observers to the parity of myriad running events now held annually citywide. In response to the Boston Marathon bombings on April 22, the 500 Festival has adopted a range of new security measures to ensure that this event attracting 35,000 runners remains safe and enjoyable for all.
Here’s the full list of new precautions being taken, including important notes about corral-entry restrictions and that no duffel bags or backpacks will be allowed at the gear-check stations. An April 15 e-mail that went out to Mini and 5K participants read, “Our safety and security plan is the result of years of planning and it mirrors that of the 2012 Super Bowl which was put into place prior to last year’s race.” In a follow-up message to participants on April 29, organizers wrote that “in partnership with the Indianapolis Department of Public Safety, local, state, and federal agencies, [we] will be taking additional security and safety precautions … [that] may or may not be visible to event attendees.”
By the by, here is my rundown of do’s and don’ts for those participating in the 13.1-mile race. Let’s have a wonderful, endorphin-rich, and ultimately safe day and weekend. See you at the finish line.
