Indianapolis Monumental Marathon

The Monumental Marathon was established by Carlton Ray in 2008.^[3][4][5] Just over 1,100 runners completed the race's inaugural running, while almost 2,000 completed the race the following year. Nearly 3,000 runners completed the half marathon in 2009. Beginning in 2010, a 5k race was offered as well.^{[citation needed]} In 2014, Runners World named the race as one of the nine best, new U.S. marathons.^[6]

In 2015, the Monumental Marathon purchased the Indianapolis Marathon and converted it into a half marathon the following year, operating it as the Indy Half Marathon at Fort Ben. Prior to the purchase, the Monumental Marathon was reported to be in the top 25 marathons in the United States.^[6]

In 2016, the CNO Financial Group became the primary sponsor of the Monumental Marathon,^[7] which became known officially as the CNO Financial Group Indianapolis Monumental Marathon.

In 2017, Jed Cornforth was appointed as executive director of the event, replacing the prior director, Blake Boldon, who left the event to direct the Drake Relays.^[8]

The 2020 in-person edition of the race was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, with all registrants given the option of running the race virtually or transferring their entry to 2021.^[9] An e-mail address was provided for registrants to request a refund, without any additional details regarding a refund policy.^[10]

The course for the Monumental Marathon begins and ends near the Indiana Statehouse in downtown Indianapolis. The Monumental Half Marathon is run concurrently with the full marathon. The two races follow identical routes for the first six or so miles, split, then re-converge for the last 3 mi (4.8 km) of the course.^{[citation needed]}

The course is known to be relatively flat with good race day temperatures and strong crowd support, making the marathon a good PR and Boston Qualifier course.^[11]

Key:    Course record

• Sports in Indianapolis
• List of attractions and events in Indianapolis
• List of marathon races in North America