Mini-Marathon adjusting for heat - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

Organizers say they are ready for tomorrow's Mini-Marathon just as in years past, whether in severe rain, or extreme heat. The hope is that runners are aware they may have to adjust to conditions, despite what their personal goals may be.

Megan Bulla with the 500 Festival told Eyewitness News today that organizers have "ordered more water, more Gatorade, more ice" as part their hot weather plan. Bulla said the refreshments will be ready for runners as they pass by seven cooling stations along the course.

Runners will be reminded of the weather plan by alert signs posted at the race expo today and tomorrow in the Convention Center, and the festival will send participants a special email advising not to overdo it in the race.

The last time a Mini-Marathon was black flagged was in 2000.  A yellow flag means proceed with caution, while red means timing has stopped.

Warning signs of heat illness include: headaches, feeling faint or dizzy, nausea, muscle cramps and pain, weakness, extreme thirst and excessive sweating.

Bulla said the race is ready for severe weather, as well. For the first time, the National Weather Service will be on-site to provide constant updates of conditions.

After last summer's State Fair stage collapse, new rules for inspecting and securing temporary structures are also in place for the Mini.  Bulla said, "We've always had a plan for this," and indicated the various tents and structures will be in compliance.

The largest half-marathon in the United States, the Mini has sold out for the past eleven years with 35,000 registrants.

Also new this year:
*IndyCar driver Ed Carpenter will be in the bucket at the start line
*Maracas will be shaking along the route to recognize Cinco de Mayo and cheer on runners
*Food trucks will be on hand at Military Park for participants and spectators

Free runner tracking is also available so family and friends can electronically track participants along the course.

There's a 30 percent chance of storms between 7 and 10 a.m. Saturday. The race begins at 7:30 a.m. If lightning is spotted, the course could be black-flagged. That means the 35,000 participants and spectators and volunteers will be evacuated to safe locations such as parking garages.