Indy Mini Marathon runners flock to Expo for packet pickup

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Some 35,000 people are expected to run in the Indy Mini Marathon this year.

But before they can run, they have to walk to the Indiana Convention Center to pick up their bibs and that can be almost as exciting as the race itself.

When the Indy Mini Marathon runners get their packets, they know it’s go time.

They’re picking up a race shirt, hat, and bib number.

Runners said it’s the ultimate souvenir from the Mini Expo.

“It’s exciting, it’s fun, I got here early tonight and there was a line of people to get it, it’s big anticipation,” runner Mike Manning said.

Manning has run this race since 1995 and said it’s one of his favorite traditions as a Hoosier.

“It seems like if you’re a runner in Indiana, you do the Mini,” he said.

Manning proudly picked up his race bib early Thursday along with the Wood family.

“I used to run the full marathon like years and years ago when I was a lot thinner and a lot better shape, but I’ll work myself back up to that one,” Barney Wood said.

For this year, he is sticking to the 5K along with his wife Lisa and their son Orion.

It’ll be his first race ever.

“We’re telling him ‘this is really cool, you’re going to love it’ so we’re really excited about doing it,” Wood said.

There are plenty of other newbies as well, like Dana Rosenberger.

She’s been training since January and said she’s ready.

We asked if she had any idea what it would feel like on race morning when all these runners gather at the starting line.

“I don’t know yet. I’m kind of nervous but excited,” she said.

A representative from the Mini said Friday will be the busiest day, especially at lunch time and just after work.

Friday is the last day for pickup and registration.

Doors are open from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m.