INDIANAPOLIS – The 500 Festival is proud to announce Indiana University Health as the new title sponsor of the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. This partnership marks a significant milestone in the Festival’s history, leveraging IU Health’s commitment to community wellness and its longstanding support of the 500 Festival and its events. The two organizations aim to enhance the positive impact on health, wellness, and fitness among Hoosiers statewide. By leveraging the cultural significance, history, legacy, and reach of the iconic 500 Festival Mini-Marathon and the Indianapolis 500, they aspire to position Indiana as a state that is “on the move” – a state that actively participates rather than just spectates.
IU Health has been involved with the 500 Festival in multiple capacities, and the organization has played a pivotal role in promoting health and wellness throughout numerous 500 Festival events and programs. Their dedication to improving and cultivating a culture of health and fitness aligns seamlessly with the Festival’s mission to inspire physical wellness and foster community engagement for every Hoosier, regardless of age, race, gender, income, or ability.
“We are thrilled to welcome IU Health as the title sponsor for the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon,” said Bob Bryant, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “Their commitment to health and wellness has been instrumental in the growth and success of our events. We look forward to collectively expanding our initiatives to inspire fitness and active living across Indiana for all Hoosiers.”
IU Health has supported the Mini-Marathon in prior years, providing essential wellness services to runners throughout the race. As the presenting sponsor for the 500 Festival Education Program since 2014, they have impacted over 274,000 students, promoting health and fitness amongst younger generations. Additionally, IU Health fosters wellness among its staff with more than 700 employees participating in the 500 Festival Employee Wellness Challenge, and over 100 volunteering annually for the Mini-Marathon and 5K.
Furthermore, Riley Children’s Hospital, part of the IU Health network, welcomes the 500 Festival Princesses to their annual Indy 500 party, strengthening community ties. Many princesses choose to complete their outreach events at IU Health locations statewide, recognizing the profound impact on families and children. A child life specialist from IU Health also contributes to the selection process for the Princess Program, underscoring the deep integration of IU Health in the festival’s initiatives.
“This partnership moves forward the IU Health vision to make Indiana one of the healthiest states in the nation,” said Dennis Murphy, president and CEO of IU Health. “Investing in the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon is an investment in the long-term health and wellness of Hoosiers and their quality of life in communities across the state.”
The IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, scheduled for May 3, 2025, continues to attract thousands of participants nationwide, offering a combination of athleticism and community spirit. With IU Health’s support, The Greatest Spectacle in Running® is set to reach new heights and further its impact on the health and well-being of individuals throughout Indiana and beyond.
