Back Your Badge Marathon 2025

• Supports Public Safety Agencies; proceeds aid local programs and scholarships.
• Choose an agency to support; miles contribute to agency totals for a trophy.
• Course features historic US 40 and Plainfield Parks Trail System.
• Offers 5K, Half, and Full Marathon distances; no qualifying times needed.
• Includes event tee, custom bib, and post-race treats.

The Back Your Badge Marathon is a premier race event sponsored by the Town of Plainfield, Indiana, to show support for all Public Safety Agencies. The race features three distances: 5k (3.1 miles), Half Marathon (13.1 miles), and Full Marathon (26.2 miles). The course travels through various aspects of Plainfield, including historic US 40, the Plainfield Parks Trail System (paved trails), and passes by or through local police stations, fire stations, and communications centers. Participants can choose to support the Police, Fire Department, or 911 Dispatchers. Each mile run or walked will be added to the chosen agency's total, with the agency accumulating the most miles earning bragging rights and a traveling trophy. The race showcases different aspects of Plainfield, including historic US 40, shaded greenway trails, iron bridges, and parks. Marathoners will also run through the bay of a Plainfield Fire Station. The event aims to promote health and wellness among public safety personnel and supports local youth assistance programs and a paramedic scholarship program. The Richard A. Carlucci Recreation & Aquatic Center hosts the Kids Fun Run, and aid stations along the course, including at the Fire Station for marathoners, offer medical support and encouragement.

Late September in Plainfield, Indiana, offers temperatures ranging from 61-79°F (16-26°C), creating a pleasant climate for the Back Your Badge Marathon. Expect minimal precipitation with partly cloudy skies and comfortable humidity levels. Light winds averaging 8 mph (13 km/h) should provide a stable running environment.

Embark on the Back Your Badge Marathon, a race where community spirit meets scenic beauty. This course is a delightful blend of flat terrain and gentle rolling hills, perfect for those who appreciate a moderate challenge without steep climbs. As you navigate the mix of road and trail segments, you'll be treated to the picturesque landscapes of historic US 40 and the Plainfield Trail System.

Throughout the race, runners will pass by local police and fire stations, underscoring the event's mission to support first responders. This unique element allows participants to race in honor of specific agencies, adding a meaningful layer to the competition.

Ample aid stations punctuate the course, offering water, Gatorade, ice, and other essentials at strategic intervals to ensure you stay refreshed and energized. Whether you're grabbing a cooling towel at Mile 16.4 or refueling with Gu at Mile 19.9, you'll find everything you need to keep going.

Join this marathon not just for the challenge, but for the chance to run through stunning scenery while supporting those who serve your community.

Visiting Plainfield, Indiana for the Back Your Badge Marathon offers a delightful mix of community spirit, scenic routes, and local charm. The town's welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by the inviting Plainfield Parks Trail System, where runners and visitors can enjoy serene trails lined with picturesque views and historic landmarks. Echo Hollow Nature Park is another gem, perfect for nature walks and outdoor relaxation.

Beyond the race, Plainfield presents a variety of attractions. Stroll along Historic US 40 to soak in the town's quaint charm, and don't miss a meal at the iconic Oasis Diner, a beloved local spot. For family fun, Splash Island Family Water Park provides a refreshing escape, while Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park offers engaging activities for all ages.

Cultural enthusiasts should explore the Plainfield International Festival, which celebrates the town's diverse cultures through vibrant food, dance, and art. For a touch of the arts, the Hendricks Live Performing and Fine Arts Center hosts an array of performances in its downtown auditorium. Dining in Plainfield is a treat, with local favorites like BRU Burger Bar and The Prewitt Restaurant & Lounge serving up delicious dishes in inviting settings. With its rich community spirit and diverse attractions, Plainfield makes for a rewarding marathon destination.