Geist Half Marathon, 10K & 5K

The Geist Half Marathon, 10K & 5K, presented by Meijer, returns for its 18th year on Saturday, September 13! Operated by the City of Fishers in partnership with Vision Events, the race showcases the beauty of Geist Reservoir with stunning water views, tree covered trails, and waterfront bridges. NEW this year, we’re bringing back the popular 10K course! The Geist Half Marathon race series includes a 5K (3.1 miles), 10K (6.2 miles), and a Half Marathon (21. 0975km or 13.1 miles). All participants receive a race shirt, medal, and access to the post-race party. VIP registration is also available.

The 2026 Race Features:

5k (3.1 miles)
10k (6.2 miles)
Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
VIP registration
Team volunteer opportunities

 

The popular Geist 10K (6.2 miles) returns again in 2025! The 10K course begins at 7:30 a.m. (with the Half Marathon participants) at the north end of the Olio Road Bridge across Geist Reservoir alongside our Half Marathon participants, and heads south to traverse through waterfront neighborhoods. Participants will cross the 96th Street bridge to turn around and head back east along 96th Street. The final left-hand turn onto Olio Road will bring you to the homestretch and finish line. Expect to venture across two bridges featuring waterfront views of Geist Reservoir in an up-close experience through winding and tree-covered roads with abundant wildlife. The 10K course is USATF (United States of America Track & Field) Certified and Sanctioned. 

 

--Check out our course maps for a better view of the route--

The 10K race will be the first out the gate promptly at 7:30 a.m. alongside Half Marathon participants. 

10K cutoff time: 9:30am--meaning a 18 minute per mile pace or less. 

We will be awarding the top 3 male and top 3 female age group finishers in the following age groups: 10-14 | 15-19 | 20-29 | 30-39 | 40-49 | 50-59 | 60-69 | 70-79 | 80+.

 

Check out this year's 10K Finisher Medal! 

AMBASSADORS WANTED FOR GEIST HALF MARATHON 2024

Apply now for the chance to be a Geist Half Marathon ambassador! We’re currently recruiting ambassadors who are passionate about running, walking, fitness, and healthy living to help us spread the word about Geist Half Marathon in 2024! Check out the details below and apply. Applications close Monday, December 18. 

Who is a Geist Half Marathon Ambassador?

• Involved in a local or regional running group (club, training group, coach, etc.)
• Actively participates and registers for other race series around the Central Indiana region
• Active on social media (Facebook, Instagram, and/or X) and willing to promote race registration and information on your platform(s)
• Has a passion for making authentic connections with people of all abilities and interests
• Has genuine enthusiasm for running, training, or movement outdoors
• Engage in other area running events to expand their network of influence as it relates to exercise and movement.

 

What does a Geist Half Marathon Ambassador do?

• Actively engage and create interest in all communities they represent to showcase and create buzz around the Geist Half Marathon race
• Participate in marketing efforts through
  • Local race expo attendance and/or booth setup
  • No less than 5 social media collaborative posts promoting Geist Half Marathon
  • Share your dedicated promo code to incentivize additional registrants to participate
  • Provides storytelling opportunities on our website & social media

 

What you get for participating:

• FREE race entry and VIP Perks to your desired race distance (5k, 10k, or Half Marathon)
• Promo code for discounted race registration to share with your network
• Complimentary Geist Half Marathon Ambassador and “In Training” shirts
• Spotlight feature on website, and additional social media storytelling
• Coupons/discounts to local running store retailers (TBD)
• Digital toolkit with graphics to help promote the race on your social media networks

Ambassador applications will close Monday, December 18, 2023.

What's Next?

Follow us on @geisthalfmarathon Instagram and @geisthalf on Facebook for all upcoming announcements.

Have an additional questions you don't see? EMAIL US here: geisthalf@fisers.in.us

Geist 5K (3.1 miles) is a family friendly walk/run course. This course starts alongside the Half Marathon & 10K approximately 7:30a.m. This all-ages, stroller-friendly 5K will take you south across the Olio Street Bridge where you will enjoy a sunrise like no other reflecting on the water of Geist Reservoir. While we encourage a family experience, no dogs are allowed on any of the race options! Take a short trip through a nearby neighborhood at your turnaround point before you check out Fishers' only waterfront park, Geist Waterfront Park, then head north back across the Olio Street Bridge across Geist Reservoir to your photo finish! The 5K course is USATF (United States of America Track & Field) Certified and Sanctioned. 

 

--Check out our course maps for a better view of the route--

 

The 5K race will take off alongside the Half Marathon and 10K races at 7:30 a.m. and finish by 8:30 a.m.

We will be awarding the top 3 male and top 3 female age group finishers in the following age groups: 9 and under |10-14 | 15-19 | 20-29 | 30-39 | 40-49 | 50-59 | 60-69 | 70-79 | 80+.

 

Check out this year's 5K Finisher Medal!

If you have questions that were not answered on our FAQ’s page please contact us:

Email: geisthalf@fishers.in.us

Instagram: @geisthalfmarathon

Facebook: @geisthalf 

X: @geisthalf

Email: Subscribe to our email list!

Volunteer on race day: Register for Volunteer Opportunities!

2025 Course Maps

5K Course Map

10K Course Map

Half Marathon Course Map

We Can't Wait to See You! 

Race Expo and Packet Pick-Up
Join us at Grace Church Fishers Campus for the 2024 Race Expo and packet pick-up, 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. 

For Race Day
The finish line festival is located at the corner of 116th and Olio Rd in Fishers Indiana on the grounds of a large shopping center. The start is on Olio Rd, just to the south of the shopping center.

There is NO parking at the start or finish areas! Please arrive early to avoid congestion! Free parking is available in the following location: Fall Creek Intermediate School, Fall Creek Junior High, Fall Creek Elementary School, and Grace Church Fishers. There is NO parking Hamilton Southeastern High School, Kroger or Walgreens parking lots (enforced by Fishers police).

Driving Directions

Please use Google Maps, Waze, or Apple Maps for the most accurate route information. 

We're Looking for Race Day Entertainment! Interested in Performing?

The Geist Half Marathon is a dynamic, festive community event drawing runners and walkers from across the region.  Each year we seek to line the course route with spirit squads and entertainment groups to cheer on our participants. Your group may be large or small, and it may feature cheer routines, high-energy dance and/or music, posters, noisemakers, or any other approved activity.

Applications are currently closed.  If you are still interested to participate as a race day performer, please email geisthalf@fishers.in.us. 

As an approved entertainment partner for this year's Geist Half Marathon all groups will receive group name and booking information listed on www.geisthalf.com and up to six commemorative t-shirts. 

​All groups are responsible for supplying their own equipment, tents, signage, etc. Electricity is extremely limited and not guaranteed. All participants must sign waivers prior to participation.  Course location, waiver details, and parking instructions will be provided prior to race day.  Signage must not interfere with the race, may not exceed 3’x 6’, and must be provided by the group. Sponsorships and/or third party promotions are prohibited. 

Race Expo and Packet Pickup

Friday, September 15, 2023 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Grace Church Fishers Campus | 12450 Olio Road, Fishers IN 46037

Join us on the Friday before race day at our Race Expo! During this time you will pick up your race packet that includes your number, timing chip, and participant shirt. 

Reminder: You will NOT be able to pick up your packet on race morning unless you pre-paid for the race day pickup.  No race packets will be sent via mail.  If you are unable to  attend, a friend can pick up your packet with a copy of your ID and an email authorization (you email them, they show us the email on their phone or printed out). 

Join the Geist Half Health & Fitness Expo as a Vendor

Wanted to see if you could assist? We'd love to have you involved.  Complete this form and we'll be in touch to learn more about your business or organization.  

 

17th Annual Geist Race Across The Reservoir FAQ
Thank you for your interest!  Please review the following FAQs and note we will continue to add relevant information here to assist in your race day planning. 

 

Packet Pick Up

When and where is packet pickup? 

Packet pickup is on Friday, September 12, from 11 AM to 8 PM at Grace Church (12450 Olio Road). Please bring the QR code in your participant email to packet pick-up. You can print it or show on your phone. 

Can I pick up a packet for someone else? 

Yes, please bring their QR code printed out or on your phone.

Can I pick up my packet on race day?

Yes. Race day will-call is available Saturday, September 13, from 6 to 7:15 AM, located on Olio Road in front of First Merchants Bank (11521 Olio Rd.).

If you did not pick up your bib on Friday, September 12, and you did not purchase the will-call add-on in advance, there will be a $20 fee to pick up your packet on race morning. Please note: Will-call is only available to participants who have paid for it.

 

Race Information

Where do I park as a participant?

 General Parking:

·      Fall Creek Elementary School (12131 Olio Rd., Fishers IN 46037)

·      Fall Creek Intermediate School north lot (12011 Olio Rd., Fishers IN 46037)

·      Fall Creek Junior High School (12001 Olio Rd., Fishers IN 46037)

·      Grace Church (12450 Olio Rd., Fishers, IN 46037)

 VIP Parking: Fall Creek Intermediate School south lot (12011 Olio Rd., Fishers IN 46037) *Must have approved pass in dash to enter lot

What roads are closed on Saturday? 

Find road closures for the event here. 

Where can I find a course map?

See the course maps here.

What time will the race start? 

All races begin at 7:30 AM. The start line is located on Olio Road just before the bridge over Geist Reservoir. Use First Merchants bank address (11521 Olio Rd) in your GPS for the start line address. 

Is there a corralled start?

Yes, corrals will be indicated on your race bib.

Are there water stops along the way?

Water stops and port-o-lets are available every 2-3 miles. The 5K course features 1 water stop.

Where is Gear Check?

The Gear Check is available at the First Merchants Bank parking lot in the Geist Pavilion Shopping Center (11521 Olio Rd.). Gear Check will open at 6 a.m. and will close at 11:30 a.m. Please bring your own bag for gear check. Geist Half Marathon,10K and 5K are not responsible for lost or stolen items. 

Where are restrooms located? 

Portalets will be located Olio Road near the start line. Portalets are also available throughout the course every 2-3 miles.

Where are ID Checks located?

ID Check are located on Olio Road, just beyond the Info/will-call tents. Participants can get their ID's checked before the start line and/or once they cross the finish line to head to the post/race party area.

Are strollers or dogs permitted on the course?

Strollers are ONLY permitted on the 5K course. Dogs are NOT permitted on any course.

Is the course safe for kids?

Course marshals, police, volunteers, and medical staff are always monitoring the course. We encourage parents to run with their children; however, if you are comfortable sending your child solo, we strongly advise planning a meet-up point afterward to reconnect. 

What is the post-race party?

The post-race party is located just south of 116th/Olio Road in Fishers, Indiana between 116th Street and Geist Pavilion Drive. The Start line is just south of 113th street on Olio Road.

Are there bib deals?

Yes, participants can shop and dine local during race weekend with these bib deals. 

Are race-day pacers available?

Pacers are provided for the Half Marathon race. Meet the Pacers.

Is there a time cut-off?

·      Half Marathon: Cut-off at 11 AM with a 16:00 per mile pace (sixteen minutes per mile).

·      10K: Cut-off at 9:30 AM with an 18:00 per mile pace (eighteen minutes per mile).

·      5K: Cut-off at a 20:00 per mile pace.

·      All participants must be off the course and roadways by 11 AM.

Where can I find race day updates? 

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for race day updates and information. 

How do I register for the Hero Hut Breakfast? 

Hero Hut hosts their popular post-race breakfast to support their mission to encourage veterans to discover a civilian life defined by service and surrounded by community. Breakfast is $11 per person and includes unlimited pancakes and breakfast tortilla wraps. Reserve your ticket here.

I have a question that’s not answered here. Who can I reach out to? 

For assistance, email GeistHalf@fishers.in.us.

 

Registration

When is the registration deadline? 

You can register online until 6 PM on Friday, September 12 or in person at Packet Pick-up until 8 PM. 

Can I register at packet pickup?

Yes, you can register for the race until 8 p.m.

How do I downgrade to a shorter distance due to a injury or change of plans?

You may switch to a shorter distance or to the virtual run by following the instructions linked HERE  Please note:

·      You will not be reimbursed the price difference when downgrading.

·      Online transfers are available until Thursday, September 11 at midnight.

·      For assistance, you can also email geisthalf@fishers.in.us.

Are refunds or deferrals available?

No deferrals or refunds are available. You can downgrade to a shorter distance or to the virtual race if needed. 

Can I transfer my bib to someone else? 

No, due to medical and safety liability, you cannot transfer your bib to someone else. 

What do I need to do as a virtual runner?

Virtual runners can submit results either manually or through the RaceJoy app anytime between September 6–20, 2025.

Packet options:

·      Pick up at packet pickup.

·      Have a friend or family member pick it up for you.

·      Request shipping (we will invoice you for mailing).

To transfer to the virtual option, email us at geisthalf@fishers.in.us

What’s included with my registration?

Registration includes race entry and timing chip, race participant shirt, finisher medal, and access to the post-race party. All participants will get 1 drink ticket on their bib to redeem at the post-race party.

Can I get VIP registration?

2025 VIP registration is sold out.

FLAG WARNING SYSTEM - SEVERE WEATHER PROTOCOL
 

Your safety is our top priority. We continuously monitor the forecast and send out additional communication as needed leading up to the race and on race day. Please familiarize yourself with our Flag Warning System. It is very important that you know what the flags mean.

What do the colored flags mean?

Colored flags will be located at each mile marker along the course to serve as a communication device to runners advising of weather- or course-related problems. Please pay close attention to these flags on race day! Here is what each color designates: 

GREEN FLAG/GO: Proceed as normal. 

YELLOW FLAG/CAUTION: Slow down, use caution and drink plenty of water due to heat.  

RED FLAG/EXTREME CAUTION:  Slow down, use extreme caution and drink plenty of water due to dangerous weather conditions. Timing of the event has stopped and no awards will be issued. But one big post race party will continue!

BLACK FLAG/CANCELLED: Stop! Race has been cancelled due to extreme weather or course emergency. All participants should turn around and head to the finish line or seek shelter. Staff and volunteers will be there to support and direct you.

When weather poises a threat, it is critical that you REALLY SLOW DOWN YOUR PACE, WALK OR ELECT TO NOT PARTICIPATE depending on your personal condition. This is not be a day to push it or try to set a PR. Please listen to your body and drink plenty of water. The Geist Half Marathon & 5K is meant to be a fun and safe so let's keep it that way. As a reminder, there are no refunds for this event. Thank you in advance for your participation and for your cooperation in helping us deliver a safe and exciting race experience 

Important Things to Remember: 

• Stay properly hydrated and recognize the early warning signs of heat illness. As a runner, you can prevent heat-related problems from becoming a life-threatening situation. Respect the heat.
• Hydrating properly is important. But be careful; over hydrating can be just as harmful.   
• If you are feeling sick or if you are experiencing a fever on the morning of the race, know that running in the heat will only exacerbate your illness and the symptoms of heat illness. It is advised to NOT run if you are experiencing a fever on race morning -- regardless of the weather conditions. If you become dizzy, nauseated, or have the chills while running, then STOP RUNNING, find shade, and drink water or a fluid replacement drink. If you do not feel better, seek medical help.   
• Heatstroke occurs when the body fails to regulate its own temperature and the body temperature continues to rise. Symptoms of heatstroke include mental changes (such as confusion, delirium, or unconsciousness). Heatstroke is a life-threatening medical emergency, requiring emergency medical treatment.
• Run in the shade whenever possible and avoid direct sunlight. When you are going to be exposed to the intense rays from the sun, apply at least 30 SPF sunscreen and wear protective eye wear that filters out UVA and UVB rays. Consider wearing a visor that will shade your eyes and skin, but will allow heat to transfer off the top of your head.
• If you have heart or respiratory problems or are on any medications, consult your doctor about running in the heat. In some cases it may be in your best interest to rethink your running strategy on race day, and if there are extreme temperature increases on race day, then consider not running at all. If you have a history of heat stroke/illness, know that you are susceptible for this condition again, so run with extreme caution.   
• Dress accordingly; wear as few clothes as you decently can. Try loose fitting white shorts and a white mesh top to reflect the heat and to permit evaporation. Protect your head from intense sun with a lightweight hat that can breathe. The back of the neck can be protected by the hat/visor or a cotton kerchief.   
• Run with friends so that you can keep an eye on each other's medical status during the event. If you see a runner in distress, then ask for medical assistance.

 
 
 

This hilly, waterfront half marathon returns for its 17th year! The race begins at 7:30 a.m. at the north end of the Olio Road bridge across Geist Reservoir, and heads south to traverse through waterfront neighborhoods. Participants will cross the 96th Street bridge heading west to pass the Geist Marina. The course continues along Fall Creek Road with tree-covered trails and one last foot bridge before heading north and northeast through the Hamilton Proper neighborhood and golf course. Runners then head south along Brooks School Road to retrace their steps across the water on the 96th Street bridge to a final push north on Olio Bridge to their photo finish! This beautiful and challenging course features multiple bridges across the water, stunning views of Geist Reservoir, and great community support from Geist neighborhoods. The Half Marathon course is USATF (United States of America Track & Field) Certified and Sanctioned. 

 

--Check out our course maps for a better view of the route--

 

The Half Marathon will be the first out the gate promptly at 7:30 a.m. alongside 10K participants. Please stay tuned for updates on pacers available. Pacers will be identifiable at the start corral with a flag and Pacer Shirt.

Half Marathon cutoff time: 11:00am--meaning a 16 minute per mile pace or less. 

 

We will be awarding the top 3 male and top 3 female age group finishers in the following age groups: 10-14 | 15-19 | 20-29 | 30-39 | 40-49 | 50-59 | 60-69 | 70-79 | 80+.

 

Check out this year's Half Marathon Finisher medal!

Race Day Pacers

We are honored to have a great group of individuals serving as this year's pacers for the Geist Race Across the Reservoir.  As you prepare for race day, get acquainted with these names and faces. 

AND! Meet the Half Marathon Pacers at the Expo this Friday, September 15th from 5:30-6:30 p.m.  Swing by the Fishers Running Club booth to meet some of the Pacers for this year's half marathon race. Learn their race day strategy and ask them your questions before the race.

The following Pacers will be in attendance at the Expo: Steve Seiler, Merrill Yarling, Christy Rogers, Meredith Yelich-Hunt, Francis Wai

On RACE DAY, look for the Pacers in BLUE!

 

We're excited to be partnering with our post-race party sponsor Hero Hut to provide race participants and spectators with a pancake breakfast after crossing the finish line. All proceeds will go directly to support Hero Hut's mission to build community for veterans and first responders through collaborative spaces at events nationwide. 
 
Register now to enjoy a hearty carb load after you've crossed the finish line and are ready to celebrate! Post-race Pancakes are open to participants and spectators, see details below to get signed-up:

-Breakfast will include: Pancakes, Egg Tortilla Wraps, Sausage and Egg Tortilla Wraps, water & juice 
-Cost is $10/person. Participants and spectators are encouraged to register ahead of time using the link: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/herohut/event/geisthalfmarathon/   (Save your proof of purchase for a wristband at Packet pick-up or on site.)

 

Click here to download your FREE Geist Half Marathon and 5K photo as well as see your results!
2023 Geist Half Marathon 

 

2025 Results & Photos

2025 Results

2025 Virtual Results

2025 Photos

Need to submit your virtual results?  Click here and click the "Submit Virtual Results" button

2024 Results & Photos

2024 Results

2024 Virtual Results

2024 Photos

Need to submit your virtual results?  Click here and click the "Submit Virtual Results" button

 

2023 Results & Photos:

Race Photos & Results

Virtual Race Results

 

Geist 5K Fitness Challenge
Geist Schools Program
The Geist Race Across the Reservoir has made a commitment to help Indiana kids GET FIT!

​

If your school is already signed up through our School Director, have everyone register for the Geist 5K Fitness Challenge here:
Register HERE for Geist 5K Fitness Challenge
Is your school not yet part of our program?Learn more...

​

The Geist 5K Fitness Challenge is the largest school program in Indiana!!

We encourage area schools and youth organizations to develop their own training program by gathering a group of kids and adult mentors who would like to participate in our race.

All the effort is worth its weight in gold, when you see your youth participants step out of their comfort zone and complete their first 5K (3.1 miles)

​

Some benefits to signing up through your school:
1) Guaranteed entry at set price (no increases)
2) Packet & T-shirt drop-off & pick up at your school
3) Direct donation to your school (levels apply)
4) Coaches run for free!
5) Plaque of appreciation!

 

If you have questions or want to see if your school qualifies, contact the Geist School Director here 
 

Become a Geist Half Sponsor Partner!

Sponsors are a big part of what makes Geist Half Marathon weekend a success!  We are currently seeking sponsor partners to ensure  our runners and walkers have the best experience on race day (and at the expo). 

You're in great company! Check out our 2023 Geist Half Marathon and 5K Sponsors here. 

We are also always looking for vendors who want to offer valuable products and services to our participants.  If you are looking specifically for a booth but NOT a sponsorship, please visit our Expo Page for more information. 

Travel and Lodging
 
The Geist Half Marathon is located next to the Geist Reservoir in beautiful Fishers, Indiana. Fishers is a northeast suburb of Indianapolis, IN conveniently located with easy access to interstates I-69 and 465.  

Air Travel

You will want to utilize the Indianapolis International Airport (IND). Annually voted one of the top airports in the country, IND is serviced by all the major airlines. 
IND is located approximately 45 minutes from Fishers.   Rideshare options like Uber and Lyft are easily accessible and average in  cost from $30 to $50 each way, depending on rate surging, etc..  Please note that local hotels are not in walking distance of the race start/finish so transportation is recommended.  

Local Hotel Information

Race participants seeking hotel accommodations are invited to book the following locations.  Please mention the Geist Half Marathon and 5K when you book, to receive the room block reservations. 

Hyatt Place &  Hyatt Home

Courtyard Marriott

Ready to book your reservations? Please use the link here! 

Plan Your Trip!

IKEA, Topgolf and Conner Prairie are just a few of the things to do in Fishers, Indiana, located off I-69 on the northeast side of Indianapolis. Named the “Best Place to Live in America” by Money Magazine, Fishers’ downtown continues to develop and impress visitors with local coffee shops, community concerts at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater and growth of entrepreneurship opportunities at Launch Fishers.

Explore everything Fishers has to offer!

Must See Stops Along the Geist 5K & Half Marathon Course

This year’s Geist Half Marathon & 5K races feature the iconic scenic courses across Geist Reservoir and a new 5K course through the Geist Waterfront Park. Don’t miss five of the must-see stops along the race routes to create additional excitement for race day. 

New this year we’re offering you VIP Perks to your race experience. Add VIP Perks to your checkout for $55.99 and you’ll be provided with: 

• Reserved parking at the closest lot to the start/finish line
• Signature Hoodie exclusively for VIPs
• Branded pint class to commemorate your race
• An extra drink ticket for the post-race party where you can celebrate alongside family & friends (redeemable for alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages)
• Access to the Stretch Zone post-race, including but not limited to massage, ice/heat, etc.
• VIP Gear Check

 

SOLD OUT!

The Geist Half Marathon Needs You!

Community volunteers are vital component of this annual race, and it would not be possible without the continued support of our dedicated sponsors and volunteers. We sincerely appreciate everyone who donates their time to make this race a success!

Support the Geist Half As a Volunteer

Packet Pick-up – assist runners and walkers during packet-pick up
Water Stops – maintain water stations (groups of 10 or more preferred)
Start/Finish Line Runner Services – Help prepare the start/finish line for runners to make the beginning and end of their races memorable by handing out water and medals at the finish line
Course Marshal – direct participants along the course. Keep our runners and walkers safe
Gear Check

Note: Volunteers receive special parking on race morning

Complete this Volunteer Form if you're interested in being a part of this year's race crew!

Adult 1-Miler: T-Shirt

Youth 1-Miler: T-Shirt

5K: T-Shirt

Virtual 5K: T-Shirt

10K: T-Shirt

Virtual 10K: T-Shirt

Half Marathon: T-Shirt

Virtual Half Marathon: T-Shirt

Youth 5K: T-Shirt