Register today for the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K & Kids Fun Run!

Get ready to be surprised by Indianapolis! Now in its eighth year, Indianapolis Monumental Marathon is Indiana's largest, fastest marathon. Starting in the heart of downtown, this flat, fast, USATF-certified course highlights landmarks and historic neighborhoods throughout Indianapolis. From PR seekers looking for a Boston Qualifier to first-time marathoners, the Monumental is the ideal fall marathon!

The Indianapolis Monumental Marathon was recently named one of the top 10 new marathons in the U.S. by Runners' World, and has had three consecutive marathon sellouts! The race is located in the heart of downtown Indy, and participants can choose from more than 20 hotels conveniently located within walking distance of the start, finish and Health & Fitness Expo at the Indiana Convention Center. As a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit, in just seven years the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon has donated over $500,000 in support of local public education.

Don't miss your chance to experience beautiful Indianapolis. Prices go up June 30.

Click here to register!

Tell us how long you've been running and how you decided to run your first marathon.

I've been running for just under 25 years. The simplicity and freedom of running always appealed to me, as well as the opportunity to be outdoors. I ran shorter distances for several years and eventually decided to run a destination marathon in California. However, I was in Ohio a few weeks prior to the marathon date and needed to get in a long run. I set out for my 22-mile run and told myself I would stop at mile 22; but I couldn't stop (of course!) and ended up finishing my first marathon in Ohio instead!

What was your motivation for deciding to complete a marathon in all 50 states?

I love to travel and I love to run. I had completed about 15 marathons, many of which were in different states; at a marathon expo in Tennessee I saw a booth for a 50-state marathon club. The idea intrigued me and I've been running in new states ever since. My training cycle allows at least three new states each year pretty easily, and I'll sprinkle in a few in "repeat" states if there's an interesting sounding marathon that might fit into other travel plans. I typically travel solo, and I love exploring new places and seeing unique scenery. Our country has so many beautiful things to see, especially when you see them on foot. This journey has really been more for my personal enjoyment than anything else. 

Tell us about your top three favorite races (if you can narrow it down!) or destinations.

It is hard to narrow it down to three!  Some of my favorites include

 Mount Desert Island--I loved the scenery of the Maine coast, and quickly realized it needs to be a "repeat" state. The marathon is very well-organized, just the right size, has tons of friendly volunteers and local supporters, and you can't beat the scenery in October.

Grandfather Mountain--This is one I have done for several years.  It's a nice, hilly course, runs on the famed Blue Ridge Parkway, and finishes at the Highland Games. During your last half mile, you hear bagpipes luring you in to the finish.

Maui--While this marathon was larger than I usually like, something about it made it feel small and quaint. The scenery was stunning and allowed you to see various sites that are uniquely Hawaiian. Truly the best marathon for recovery afterwards with all the beaches and fresh fruits and vegetables.

What will your final state be and any plans for a celebration?

My 50th state will be Alaska this summer. I am looking forward to celebrating after the marathon by exploring the vastness of the state. When I get home, there will be plenty of opportunity to celebrate with family and friends who have endured my marathon chatter over the years. As any marathoner knows, it's fun to share stories from the road to anyone who will listen.

What will your next goal be?

I'm pretty close to hitting 100 marathons--that's a nice round number. I would like to do some more ultras, which I stopped doing after I "officially" started my 50-state journey. I hope to be able to find unique marathons in different states and destinations for many years to come.