4 running and walking events in Plainfield, Indiana

The ninth annual BENefit Mile will take place on Friday, August 7, 2025 in Plainfield, Indiana at 7:00 p.m.. This net downhill race will begin on Buchanan Street and finish in downtown Plainfield near the Plainfield Friends Meeting off of East Street.

This event features a unique opportunity for seasoned runners to tackle a fast, shorter race than the typical road run, and will also appeal to those just starting out with running (walkers are also encouraged to participate)! The BENefit Mile will separate into corrals based on estimated finish times. Stick around after the races for post-race festivities!

The BENefit Mile will raise funds for the Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Diseases at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St. Vincent in memory of Ben Harmon, a Hendricks County resident and runner and who passed away in July of 2018 of Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare bone cancer. Ben’s optimism and genuine positivity towards everyone, as well as his fight against his cancer was incredibly inspiring. This race will raise funds to help the Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Diseases support other patients and families in their fight against cancer as well.

Shirt Guarantee: 7/24/26

To learn more about Ben’s story, please visit the link below:

www.indystar.com/story/sports/columnists/gregg-doyel/2018/06/14/doyel-cancer-getting-run-its-money-ex-avon-track-star-ben-harmon/690495002/

The Back Your Badge Marathon is a premier running event proudly sponsored by the Town of Plainfield to honor and support all Public Safety Agencies — Police, Fire, and Communications. These dedicated professionals have made a shared commitment to the health and wellness of their personnel, and now it’s your turn to join them on the course. Celebrate community, wellness, and service at the 4th Annual Back Your Badge Marathon, featuring three exciting race distances — the 5K, Half Marathon, and Full Marathon — giving runners and walkers of all levels a chance to participate.

The scenic, USA Track & Field Certified Course highlights the very best of Plainfield, combining historic US 40, the Plainfield Parks Trail System, and routes that pass local police, fire, and communications facilities. Each participant chooses an agency to represent, and every mile completed adds to that agency’s total. The team with the most combined miles will earn bragging rights and the coveted traveling trophy. Beyond the finish line, every step makes a difference. All proceeds directly support Public Safety Beneficent Programs, Local Youth Assistance Programs, and the Back Your Badge Paramedic Scholarship Fund, investing in the next generation of those who serve.

Join us in celebrating fitness, unity, and service — and show your support for those who protect and serve our community every day.