Episode 156: Mike Vollmer - Every. Single. Indy. Mini.

Episode 156: Mike Vollmer - Every. Single. Indy. Mini.

From Finish Lines and Milestones by SandyBoy Productions

April 17, 2026 · 1h 19m

About this episode

Mike Vollmer shares his experiences running every Indy Mini since 1977 and discusses the evolution of the race and his personal journey in running.

Mike Vollmer and I connected thanks to the 500 Festival , who introduced us knowing I'd want to hear from someone who has run every single Indy Mini since the very first one in 1977. During this episode, sponsored by Cure , we talk about: How a politician's desire for name recognition in his own district accidentally launched a 49-year streak What the first Indy Mini looked like — 762 runners, an 11am start, 85 degrees and full sun, and a $5 entry fee Running his first mini in indoor track shoes with rubber heel cups Standing next to Frank Shorter at the start line (the man who launched the running boom of the '70s!) How the course has changed dramatically since 1977 — the scenic rolling hills along the White River, Coffin Hill, and why the track used to destroy ankles His role in bringing St. Francis Hospital on as a sponsor — and how that sponsorship gave us the beloved finish line chocolate chip cookies 🍪 Jump the Gun — the midnight party at St. Francis in Beech Grove where runners could guarantee their entry starting at 12:00am on February 1st His marathon PR of 3:35:45 at age 39 — and how he averaged 30 miles/week for over 20 years Running 14 marathons, including his first…

People in this episode

Host: SandyBoy Productions

Guest: Mike Vollmer

Topics covered

Sponsors

Cure

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: St. Francis Hospital

Places: Indy Mini, Chicago, St. Louis

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