500 Festival confirms participant died after finish of mini-marathon
A participant died following the finish of the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon on May 3. The organization would not confirm whether the person had finished the race. Their identity has not been released, pending a next-of-kin notification from the Marion County Coroner's Office.
"Our deepest condolences go out to the individual's family and friends," a spokesperson for the 500 festival said. "This loss is felt across our organization and the entire running community."
There were 24 calls for medical services during the race, most for injuries and exhaustion, according to Indianapolis Emergency Medical Services. That doesn't include people treated on-site at a medical tent.
While sudden deaths during endurance events are relatively rare — roughly 1 per 100,000 runners — they're not unheard of. Medical literature shows that underlying cardiac conditions like arrhythmia and weather-related factors like heat stroke are among the most notable risks.
Stopping points with cool drinks and shade are key to preventing heat illness. There were 16 aid stations along the race course, one providing gel nutritional supplements, a spokesperson said.
The weather May 3 was mild, with temperatures in the 50s and low 60s. Still, runner Giada Mirelli said the 2.5 mile loop around the racetrack was hot and humid as the bright sun evaporated the morning's rain from the asphalt.
"I couldn't even feel any wind, and I actually got goosebumps on the Speedway, which is not a good sign," Mirelli said. Developing clammy skin with goosebumps despite hot conditions is a symptom of heat exhaustion, according to Mayo Clinic.
The Mini-Marathon has happened annually since 1977, with a virtual event in 2020. The 13.1-mile course begins in downtown Indianapolis, loops around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and then returns downtown.
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