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500 Festival

2020 500 Festival Mini-Marathon Canceled; Other Events through May 9th Canceled

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The 500 Festival is suspending all planned, in-person events scheduled through May 9, 2020. The suspension of these events is in accordance with the CDC’s updated guidance to cancel, postpone or provide virtual options for all large events for the next 8 weeks in an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus). The 500 Festival is doing everything possible to minimize the economic impact and ramifications that will be experienced as a result of canceling these in-person events.

The following 500 Festival in-person events will need to be conducted as virtual events, rescheduled or canceled:

  • OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K (May 2) – All 2020 Indy Mini events will move to virtual races. Individuals registered for this year’s races will receive details on how to participate virtually and still earn their 2020 shirt and medal. Other options, including lending a hand in support of the 500 Festival’s free programs for kids or rolling registration over to next year, will be communicated to participants in the coming days. The in-person events will NOT take place.
  • 500 Festival Kick-Off to May, presented by STAR Bank (April 29) – The in-person event will NOT take place. There will be an announcement soon regarding ways the community can participate virtually.
  • Salesforce & JPMorgan Chase 500 Festival Kids’ Day and Rookie Run (May 9) – The in-person event will NOT take place. We will reschedule this event for another date as guidance related to public events is provided.
  • 500 Festival Mini-Marathon Expo (April 30 & May 1) – The in-person event will NOT take place. Virtual goodie bags will be sent to participants.
  • All 500 Festival & Indianapolis 500 Education Program Study Trips at IMS (April 2020) – All in-person events will NOT take place. Schools will be mailed some additional materials.
  • This list is in addition to the other 500 Festival event cancelations that were announced last week

“The 500 Festival recognizes the unique and challenging times that we are all facing together. May will certainly look different than the last 60+ years but with options to participate virtually or to reschedule some events to a future date we are confident that the future looks bright and the things we hold dearly will continue albeit in a different form,” said Bob Bryant, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “As a community nonprofit organization, the 500 Festival looks forward to providing events and programs that enrich lives, foster positive community impact and celebrate the Indy 500. To our participants, volunteers, interns, corporate and civic partners – Thank you for your support!”

To the registered participants of the 2020 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon and Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K, we know that many of you have logged countless hours of training and have made numerous commitments to experience the thrill of crossing the finish line. We don’t take your commitments lightly and want you to know that we have exhausted all possible solutions to provide the Indy Mini experience that you’ve come to expect over the last 43 years. We have also been cognizant of the resources that help us produce this community event which includes thousands of volunteers, medical personnel, IMPD, the Indiana National Guard, Homeland Security, Indianapolis Motor Speedway staff, corporate partners and many others. Given our current situation and out of respect for the ever-changing needs of those resource partners as well as the health and safety of our participants, it has become clear that moving our 2020 races to virtual runs is the best possible choice. In addition to the participant options, we are also committed to providing you with an on-track running and walking experience at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway at a to-be-determined date later this year.

Regarding 500 Festival events for the remainder of May, please be patient as we respond to new health-related guidance and develop alternate plans as necessary. Any additional measures or announcements will be communicated to impacted participants, ticketholders, and volunteers via email. It will also be shared on our social media, websites (www.500festival.com and www.indymini.com) and to the media, as they occur.

John Murugu, Margaret Maina Win 2017 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon

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INDIANAPOLIS (MAY 6, 2017) – Participants from 48 states and 9 countries took to the streets of Indianapolis as well as the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the 2017 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. Kenya’s John Murugu won the men’s race with a time of 1:04:53 and Margaret Maina, also of Kenya, won the women’s race with a time of 1:15:51.

In the wheelchair division, Aaron Pike, 31 of Champaign, Ill., took home first place with a time of 49:52. Pike was presented with a $1,000 check from Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana. Katrina Gerhad, 22 of Urbana, Ill. won the women’s race with a time of 1:00:25.

Michael Morrow, 31, of Chicago won the Finish Line 500 Festival 5K with a time 17:51. Christina Swain, 22, of Indianapolis was the women’s winner with a time of 19:43.

2017 marked the 41st running of the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. One of the nation’s largest half-marathons, the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon is the 500 Festival’s largest fundraiser. Race registrations help support the 500 Festival’s free youth programs and events. The 13.1-mile Mini-Marathon course winds through the streets of downtown Indianapolis and includes a lap around the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

SOURCE: 500 Festival

500 Festival Selects Recipients of 2017 500 Gives Back Grant Program

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The 500 Festival has announced the recipients of the 500 Gives Back grant program for 2017. The program is geared toward supporting Indiana community organizations that offer life-enriching events, activities, and programs, while also celebrating the spirit and legacy of the Indianapolis 500. Originally an element of the 100th Running of the Indy 500 Host Committee structure, this specific program is a carryover to future years of community support.

As we approach the 101st Running of the Indianapolis 500, the 500 Gives Back Program strives to create a lasting legacy within Indiana by lifting up organizations that heighten civic pride, create cultural connections, foster social engagement and stimulate education.

The 500 Festival will offer a total of $33,000 in grants to the following organizations with maximum individual endorsements of $7,000 and the potential to accelerate new or existing events or programs that focus on the following:

  • a positive impact on the community
  • stimulate education
  • provide leadership
  • heighten civic pride
  • create cultural connection
  • foster social engagement

Recipients of the Grant Program include:

Indiana Recycling Coalition, Inc – Indiana Recycling Coalition, Inc. is an Indianapolis-based organization committed to continuing an existing recycling program and public space composting presence at 500 Festival events.

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (Metropolitan Youth Orchestra) – The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra provides an interactive instrument booth and performance during JPMorgan Chase 500 Festival Kids’ Day, as well as music recitals in the Hilbert Circle Theatre lobby.

Connor Prairie Museum, Inc. – The Connor Prairie Museum is an interactive history park in Hamilton County continuing its’ exhibit Tire Power! – The science and engineering behind tires and the 1st Running of the Indianapolis 500.

Indy Reads Books – Indy Reads Books is a downtown Indianapolis community nonprofit distributing 33 Indianapolis 500 themed boxes of 33 books, created in partnership with the 500 Festival to be delivered to day care centers, healthcare facilities, and schools.

Health and Hospital Corporation of Marion County – HHC operates the Marion County Public Health Department, Eskenazi Health and Indianapolis EMS to offset cost of First Responder Mini-Ambulance to provide emergency services to individuals attending or participating in large outdoor events, including 500 Festival events.

Christamore House Family and Community Center – The Christamore House Family and Community Center provides child and youth educational services, senior programming and life skills training on Indy’s Near-Westside. They allow low-income, at-risk youth, as well as senior citizens, the opportunity to learn about and experience the world of racing by touring the Dallara factory. The two youths with the highest GPA will receive an IndyCar experience.

Hearts and Hands of Indiana – Hearts and Hands of Indiana is a Near-Westside organization dedicated to helping families attain affordable, long-term homeownership through education and mentoring, continuing to enhance and develop neighborhoods along the Mini-Marathon route (Haughville).

New Hope of Indiana – New Hope of Indiana assists individuals with disabilities with visits to IMS each May (includes breakfast, museum and garage tours and a meet and greet with drivers).

George T. Goodwin Community Center, Inc. – The George T. Goodwin Community Center enables families and individuals to connect with the community and raises awareness for the Indy 500 by providing multigenerational projects with seniors interacting with preschoolers (creating toy race cars), Decatur High School Science and Technology students (building and racing go carts), CHOICE Academy High School students (shopping for school supplies for students in need), and the seniors themselves visiting and touring the IMS museum.

Englewood Community Development Corporation – The Englewood Community Development Corporate works to create Near East Athletics and develop partnerships with other local sports organizations with consistent year-round recreational programs and leagues covering 10 different sports impacting 1000 youth and 700 adults.

“The 500 Gives Back Program is designed to provide community organizations funding for direct connections relevant to our mission, the spirit of the Indy 500 and month of May activities,” said Bob Bryant, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “We can’t wait to continue this program, which began as a 100th Running Host Committee initiative, and we’re excited for all of this year’s recipients to continue impacting Indianapolis and Indiana communities.”

“The 500 Gives Back program is a vital initiative in the 500 Forward effort to elevate and extend celebrations surrounding the Indianapolis 500,” said Lauren George, committee member for the 100th Running Committee. “We’d like to thank the 500 Festival for providing relevant community connections for the Indy 500 and continuing to enhance our communities through a love of the race.”

SOURCE: 500 Festival

Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertibles Presented as 500 Festival Event Cars

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A longtime Indianapolis 500 tradition was continued today between the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Chevrolet when 101 identical 2017 Camaro SS convertibles were staged for delivery on the main straightaway of IMS.

The 500 Festival car presentation ceremony included 50 Camaros to IMS and 51 Camaros to the Indianapolis-area Chevrolet dealers. The 500 Festival Camaro SS’s presented to the dealers will be available for immediate purchase.

The “Festival Event Cars” have reminded Indianapolis-area residents of the upcoming Indianapolis 500 since the 1960s, and this year’s fleet of unique Camaros again will turn heads as they are driven around Central Indiana.

“The sight of 500 Festival cars on the streets of Indianapolis and beyond is a sure sign the Month of May is right around the corner,” said J. Douglas Boles, Indianapolis Motor Speedway president. “Our friends at Chevrolet once again have delivered a fleet of beautiful Chevrolet Camaro SS convertibles that will build even more anticipation with fans for the 101st Running of the Indianapolis 500.”

SOURCE: Indianapolis Motor Speedway

IPL Extends Sponsorship of 500 Festival Parade Through 2018

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The 500 Festival has announced that Indianapolis Power & Light Company (IPL) has renewed its sponsorship of the 500 Festival Parade through 2018.

“Few events embody the spirit and pride found in those who live here in Central Indiana quite like the IPL 500 Festival Parade, and I’m proud to say we have been part of the tradition since the very beginning,” said Rafael Sanchez, IPL President & CEO. “This is an iconic event that powers the excitement and momentum of the Indianapolis 500, and through our continued partnership with the 500 Festival we are honored to Accelerate the American Spirit here in Central Indiana for more years to come.”

The 2017 IPL 500 Festival Parade marks the 61st Parade. It will be held on Saturday, May 27 in downtown Indianapolis. IPL has been a float sponsor for the event since its inception in 1957.

500 Festival to Hold Remote OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon

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The 500 Festival announced a remote version of the 2017 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon and Finish Line 500 Festival 5K for overseas troops stationed at Camp Bondsteel in Kosovo on April 28 and 29. Hosted by our deployed Indiana National Guard, and other U.S. Armed Forces personnel, the individuals stationed at Camp Bondsteel will have a unique Indy Mini experience that feels like home.

“Holding a satellite version of the 2017 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon is something we’re very excited about this year,” said Bob Bryant, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “It’s an honor and a privilege to take our event and deliver it to Hoosiers and other armed forces personnel overseas. We can’t wait to see the impact this has on both our troops and our participants at home.”

Longtime Indy Mini public address announcer Rob Powers will travel to Kosovo to manage the event as a representative of his nonprofit organization, American 300, and the 500 Festival.

“Emceeing one of the greatest half marathons in the world is an incredible honor, but being able to announce at a forward deployed remote Mini-Marathon is beyond words,” Powers said. “And then I get to fly half way around the world to do it again a week later in front of thousands here in Indy.”

Powers will travel with Vietnam wounded warrior Charlie Manis; a decorated member of Indiana’s famed D Company, 151st Rangers, Indiana Army National Guard.

“Charlie is going to be our grand marshal for the event and he’ll be jumping into the 5K along with his fellow Indiana National Guardsmen,” added Powers.

Troops in Kosovo will receive the full experience, from medals and shirts to an exciting and challenging 13.1 mile race. They’ll also hear the same voice that launches the Mini-Marathon back in Indy the following weekend.

The 2017 remote Mini-Marathon is the first since 2013 when the 500 Festival hosted a similar event. Prior to 2013, the last time Troops had run a remote Mini-Marathon was with Powers in Kuwait in 2009.

“We’re thankful for organizations working to support our service members while overseas,” said Maj. Gen. Courtney P. Carr, the adjutant general of the Indiana National Guard. “Events like this promote healthy lifestyles that improve the overall well-being of our soldiers.”

The 500 Festival will continue a season-long campaign of encouraging our Indiana military personnel throughout running events this spring. The 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy, consists of races in February, March and April mirroring a half-marathon training program. A Thank You banner, signed by staff, volunteers and participants will be delivered to Kosovo and displayed at the race to support and encourage troops as they prepare for their own Mini-Marathon.

SOURCE: 500 Festival

500 Festival Launches 2017 500 Gives Back Grant Program

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The 500 Festival announced the 500 Gives Back grant program for 2017. This program is geared toward supporting Indiana community organizations that offer life-enriching events, activities and programs, while also celebrating the spirit and legacy of the Indianapolis 500. Originally an element of the 100thRunning of the Indy 500 Host Committee structure, this specific program is a carryover to future years of community support.

As we approach the 101st Running of the Indianapolis 500, the 500 Gives Back Program strives to create a lasting legacy within Indiana by lifting up organizations that heighten civic pride, create cultural connections, foster social engagement and stimulate education.

“The 100th Running Host Committee gifted our entire state with a renewed appreciation for the Indy 500 as a powerful platform for community engagement and enrichment,” said Hulman Motorsports Vice President of Events Allison Melangton. “I’m thrilled the 500 Gives Back Grant Program will return in 2017 and am thankful for the collaboration of the 500 Festival in providing this opportunity to so many worthy organizations.”

The 500 Festival will offer $33,000 in grants with maximum individual endorsements of $7,000 with the potential to accelerate new or existing events or programs that focus on the following:

  • a positive impact on the community
  • stimulate education
  • provide leadership
  • heighten civic pride
  • create cultural connection
  • foster social engagement

The deadline to submit grant applications is 11:59 pm ET, Feb. 28. To view the application, click here.

“The 500 Gives Back Program is designed to provide community organizations funding for direct connections relevant to our mission, the spirit of the Indy 500 and month of May activities,” said Bob Bryant, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “We can’t wait to continue this program which began as a 100th Running Host Committee initiative.”

To learn more about 500 Festival’s events and programs, please visit www.500festival.com.

SOURCE: 500 Festival

Fifth Third Bank Named Presenting Sponsor of the 500 Festival Corporate Member Program

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The 500 Festival announced that Fifth Third Bank will serve as the presenting sponsor of its Corporate Member Program.

“Fifth Third Bank is proud to be partnering with the 500 Festival and excited about our sponsorship of the Corporate Member Program,” said Steve Alonso, president and CEO, Greater Indiana Region, Fifth Third Bank. “Our relationship with the 500 Festival offers us the opportunity to continue to invest in cultivating a positive impact on our city and celebrating its heritage.”

The 500 Festival Corporate Member program, presented by Fifth Third Bank, is comprised of more than 200 companies and unites businesses around the 500 Festival’s mission: to enrich lives, celebrate the Indianapolis 500 and foster positive impact on the city of Indianapolis and state of Indiana. Corporate memberships help support the 500 Festival’s free programs and events, including the Education Program, KidsFit Program and scholarships for Indiana youth.

“We’re excited to welcome Fifth Third Bank as the presenting sponsor for our Corporate Member Program,” said Bob Bryant, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “The Corporate Member Program is a great way for us to engage and connect with Indianapolis’ business and community leaders, and we’re glad that Fifth Third Bank can help us create and share meaningful connections.”

For more information about the 500 Festival Corporate Member Program, presented by Fifth Third Bank, please visit http://www.500festival.com/membership or call (317)-927-3378.

Newburgh’s Caitlyn Foye Crowned 2016 500 Festival Queen

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Caitlyn Foye of Newburgh has been crowned the 2016 500 Festival Queen. Foye is a sophomore at Butler University where she is studying Biology with a minor in Chemistry. She is one of 33 young women who were selected for the 2016 500 Festival Princess Program, where they serve as ambassadors for the 500 Festival. Foye is a graduate of Castle High School.

 The 500 Festival Queen and Princesses attend 500 Festival events and volunteer throughout the month of May. In addition, the 33 princesses are involved with statewide outreach programs of their choosing. Princesses also participate in the Indianapolis 500 Victory Circle celebration.

 As 500 Festival Queen, Foye is the recipient of a $1,500 educational scholarship from the 500 Festival. In addition, she will wear the one-of-a-kind 500 Festival Queen’s crown at 500 Festival events and the Indianapolis 500. She will participate in a variety of appearances throughout the week and participate in the Indianapolis 500 pre-race and Victory Circle celebrations. She will continue to represent the 500 Festival at various functions throughout the year.

SOURCE: 500 Festival ♦ PHOTO: Brian Groce

Tickets Are SOLD OUT for the 60th IPL 500 Festival Parade

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500 Festival largeThe 500 Festival has announced that tickets to the 60th IPL 500 Festival Parade have sold out. This marks the sixth 500 Festival event to sellout in 2016. The IPL 500 Festival Parade will be held Saturday, May 28 in downtown Indianapolis. Parade festivities will start at 11:45 am.

One of the original 500 Festival events, the IPL 500 Festival Parade is one of the nation’s largest, most respected parades, consistently earning national acclaim alongside the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. More than 300,000 people will line the streets of downtown Indianapolis to experience the larger-than-life floats, giant helium balloons, celebrities, all 33 drivers competing in the 100th running of the Indy 500, specialty units, and award-winning bands from across the country.

Not only does 2016 mark the 60th running of the IPL 500 Festival Parade, it’s a once-in-a-generation year for Hoosiers, filled with celebrations including 40th OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, the 100th running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by PennGrade Motor Oil,  as well as the State of Indiana’s Bicentennial. To honor these celebrations, the theme for the 2016 IPL 500 Festival Parade is Experience the Celebration, a call-to-action, reminding Hoosiers that the celebration surrounding these iconic events is not to be missed!

“The IPL 500 Festival Parade is a cherished race weekend tradition that has become a vital part of our community’s cultural fabric,” said Bob Bryant, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “The IPL 500 Festival Parade, which started as a movement by civic leaders to connect the community to the significance of the Indianapolis 500, has led to new traditions, $400 Million in economic impact, and an impactful community-led road to the greatest spectacle in racing.”

The 2016 IPL 500 Festival Parade will take place on Saturday, May 28, with festivities along the route starting at 11:45 am. It will be nationally televised on NBC Sports Network and locally on WTHR, Channel 13. For more information about the IPL 500 Festival Parade, please visit www.500festival.com/parade or search #500Parade on social media.