On May 4th, runners from near and far gathered and participated in the 37th Annual Mini Marathon in Indianapolis, Indiana, the nation’s largest half marathon. Reasons for participating in the 13.1-mile race vary, but whether it’s a yearly attended competition with an intended goal of beating one’s own personal record or an eager first-time runner participating in their very first race, running in and finishing the half marathon is an impressive accomplishment for all of those who participate.
This year, some of American Structurepoint’s participants included: Chris Meador (Environmental) and her husband David, Webb Bernhardt (Environmental), Melody Niquette (Marketing Communications), Mak Knowles (Administration) and his wife Jennifer, and Jeff Spicer (Environmental).
For Niquette, this year’s race was her fifth Mini in six years. She “woggled” the 13.1 miles, which she defines as “walking a little and jogging a little,” and while the experience is always a lot of fun for her, she also says it’s inspirational. “I’m a Mini veteran now and have all of the feelings of dreading it, asking ‘Why am I doing this to myself?’ and replying, ‘I can’t wait to do it again!’ The fans young and old cheering us on along the way, the water and Gatorade stops, and the various musical groups help keep us moving. Yes, I am a little crazy, but it’s a good kind of crazy, and I really do have a fun time walking 13.1 miles with 35,000 of my closest friends. Won’t you ‘woggle’ with us next year?”
A congratulatory “pat on the back” goes out to all runners this year. Completing those 13.1 miles is no small feat. Results for the 2013 Mini Marathon can be viewed here.