July 22, 2025. Louisville, KY. – If you have a passion for running, motivating others and connecting with the community, the Kentucky Derby Festival is looking for you! The Derby Festival is searching for its next team of running experts to represent the 2026 miniMarathon and Marathon, set for Saturday, April 25, 2026. Race officials are accepting applications for 2026 Race Ambassadors now through Monday, August 11. Those interested can apply online at DerbyFestivalMarathon.com.

The Race Ambassador Team is made up of runners and walkers who are part of a proactive group that promotes a healthy lifestyle message. They play a key role in keeping runners and walkers informed and motivated in the months leading up to the race.

“The Derby Festival’s Race Ambassador Team is instrumental in the growth and success of Kentucky’s largest day of road racing,” said Chris Martini, Kentucky Derby Festival Race Director. “Over the years Race Ambassadors have helped promote the race and inspired thousands of participants to cross the finish line, set personal records and make lifetime memories.”

Race Ambassadors are selected through an application process where they highlight their passion for running and involvement in the running community. The Ambassadors are part of a subcommittee for the mini and Marathon and serve as recruiting liaisons within Kentucky and Southern Indiana’s running and walking community. Once chosen as an Ambassador, they are expected to attend Ambassador committee meetings and Derby Festival race events. They serve a one-year term.

In addition to positively impacting race participants, Race Ambassadors also receive a variety of perks, including Official Race Ambassador merchandise and being featured on the race website, among others.

For more information or to apply, visit DerbyFestivalMarathon.com.