REGISTRATION OPENS NOV. 10 FOR FREE 15-WEEK TRAINING PROGRAM
November 6, 2026. Louisville, KY. – Runners can take the first step toward the Finish Line for Derby Festival’s Race Weekend! Registration opens next week for the Norton Sports Health FREE Training Program. The 15-week program is designed to help runners of all experience and fitness levels prepare for the Humana miniMarathon and Marathon in the spring. Training Program registration opens on Tuesday, Nov. 10 at 9 a.m. at DerbyFestivalMarathon.com.
“One of the best things about the Norton Sports Health Training Program is that it works for participants at every stage of their running journey,” said Chris Martini, Kentucky Derby Festival Race Director. “From first-time runners to seasoned athletes, the program provides free resources and support to help everyone feel prepared and confident on race day.”
2027 marks the 15th year Norton Sports Health has been the Title Sponsor of the Training Program.
“Helping people live healthier lives is at the heart of Norton Healthcare’s mission, which is why we are pleased to once again offer the free Norton Sports Health Training Program,” said Russell F. Cox, President and CEO of Norton Healthcare. “As runners prepare for one of Louisville’s most anticipated annual traditions, we’re proud to provide resources, guidance and support that can help them train safely and successfully from their first workout to the finish line.”
Highlights of the Norton Sports Health Training Program include:
- Weekly in-person group runs on Wednesdays and Saturdays with Norton Sports Health team members, including stretching and cross-training opportunities
- Nutrition Tips
- One-page, quick reference Official Training Plan
- Downloadable Official Training Manual (available online)
- The first 1,000 participants to register for the Training Program will receive a free tech shirt. Registration will remain open after all shirts have been claimed, but shirts are only guaranteed to the first 1,000 registrants.
“Norton Sports Health is proud to partner with the Kentucky Derby Festival in supporting runners through their journey to race day,” said Tiff L. Haub, M.S., ATC, director of Norton Sports Health. “The KDF races have become a signature part of Louisville’s Derby season, inspiring people of all ages and abilities to set goals and stay active. From our training program to our race-day medical coverage, from the first training run to the finish line celebration, our team is with you every step of the way.”
The Norton Sports Health Training Program kick off is set for Thursday, Jan. 7, 2027, from 5:30-8 p.m. at the Kentucky Derby Museum. Norton Sports Health training runs begin Jan. 9.
Registration is also open for the 2027 Humana miniMarathon and Marathon, scheduled for Saturday, April 24. This marks the 54th miniMarathon and the 26th run of the Marathon. Register, get event details and check out the FAQs at DerbyFestivalMarathon.com.
Norton Sports Health is the Title Sponsor of the Training Program, as well as the Official Medical Provider & Training Partner for the mini and Marathon. Race Sponsor: Humana. Contributing Sponsor: Swags. Media Sponsor 99.7 DJX.
