RUNNER’S FLAME TO DEBUT AT 2026 DERBY FESTIVAL ROAD RACES

April 23, 2026. Louisville, KY. –The Kentucky Derby Festival is adding a new tradition to Race Weekend with the debut of The Runner’s Flame Presented by Humana at the 2026 Humana miniMarathon and Marathon. The flame will be lit at the start line and then moved to the finish, where it will be on display for runners as they complete the race, symbolizing the perseverance and determination of every participant.

“As we continue to grow Race Weekend, we’re always looking for ways to elevate the runner experience,” said Chris Martini, Race Director. “There’s a lot that goes into getting from the start line to the finish, and The Runner’s Flame is a simple way to reflect that.”

The Runner’s Flame cauldron and torch were designed and crafted by Louisville-based Viscardi Designs. A special Flame Arrival Ceremony will take place on race morning, featuring local participants and Humana associates, highlighting the stories and connections that make Race Weekend unique.

“This partnership brings Humana’s mission to life by meeting people where they are and making health more accessible, something embodied by the Humana associates and leaders participating in this ceremony,” said Joe Ventura, Humana’s Chief Legal Officer. “As a committed hometown partner, Humana helps bring our community together to move, connect, and celebrate the people and organizations that make Race Weekend and Louisville so special.”

Participants in the Flame Arrival Ceremony include:

• Louisville-based track and field athlete James “Jim” Hutchinson, who continues a lifelong running career at age 79 and was named one of ten Humana Game Changers at the 2025 National Senior Games
• Marcus Goodwin, Director of HR & Operations for the Muhammad Ali Center, which advances Muhammad Ali’s legacy through community engagement and education
• Humana employee Sherry Boesch, participating in her 11th Kentucky Derby Festival miniMarathon and Marathon races
• Joe Ventura, Humana’s Chief Legal Officer and longtime Louisville resident

The Humana miniMarathon and Marathon are set for Saturday, April 25, and are known as Kentucky’s largest day of road racing. The Derby Festival races attract over 10,000 participants annually from all 50 states and a dozen countries. 2026 marks the 53rd miniMarathon and the 25th Marathon. Runners can register for the Humana miniMarathon and Marathon at DerbyFestivalMarathon.com.

Humana is the Title Sponsor of the miniMarathon and Marathon. Official Medical Provider & Training Partner: Norton Sports Health. Contributing Sponsors: Churchill Downs, Kentucky Department of Tourism, Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, Louisville Water Company, Powerade and TEN20 Craft Brewery. Official Nutrition Partner: Publix Super Markets. Official Refuel Partner: Prairie Farms. Official Pace Team Sponsor: Ken Combs Running Store. Official Bourbon: Hartfield & Co. Official Hotel: The Galt House Hotel. Official Timing Partner: Rumpke Waste & Recycling. Official Broadcast Partner: WLKY. Media Sponsor: 99.7 DJX.