Outrun Cancer with the John Wayne Grit Series Lone Pine Half Marathon & 10K Benefiting John Wayne Cancer Foundation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OUTRUN CANCER WITH THE JOHN WAYNE GRIT SERIES LONE PINE HALF MARATION & 10K BENEFITING JOHN WAYNE CANCER FOUNDATION

LONE PINE, California [Sept. 23], 2026 — The John Wayne Grit Series Lone Pine, California, Half Marathon and 10K trail run returns Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, challenging runners and walkers to put their grit to the test against the spectacular Eastern Sierra landscape — while helping to fight cancer.

The event benefits the John Wayne Cancer Foundation (JWCF) and supports its mission to lead the fight against cancer with courage, strength and grit through innovative research, education, awareness and support programs. Every step participants take helps fund pioneering cancer research and programs that improve and save lives.

Set against the dramatic mountain and desert landscape surrounding Lone Pine, the race gives participants an unforgettable opportunity to experience the rugged beauty and spirit of the American West. The challenging trail course showcases breathtaking views of the Eastern Sierra, rugged terrain and the unique landscapes that have made Lone Pine a legendary destination for Western films and outdoor enthusiasts.

“The John Wayne Grit Series is about challenging yourself, getting outside and giving back,” said Ethan Wayne, director of the John Wayne Cancer Foundation. “My dad made 13 movies in Lone Pine.”

WHAT TO EXPECT IN LONE PINE

Participants of all levels — from casual walkers to experienced trail runners — will enjoy:

•        Half Marathon and 10K trail run/walk distances

•        Spectacular mountain and desert scenery in the Eastern Sierras

•        Challenging terrain in one of the West’s most iconic outdoor destinations

•        A race experience inspired by John Wayne’s Western legacy

•        Meet and greets with members of the Wayne family

•        Post-race celebration and community festivities

•        Exclusive John Wayne Grit Series shirt and finisher mug

•        Opportunity to purchase Grit Series merchandise at the event

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

Registration is now open at johnwayne.org. Participants may register individually or form teams — corporate teams, friends and family — and can choose to pay for registration or commit to fundraising and run for free while earning exclusive rewards donated by sponsors.

Participants can also sign up for all six 2026 John Wayne Grit Series events and earn the coveted All 6 finisher medal.

PLAN YOUR LONE PINE ADVENTURE

Make it a destination race weekend and experience everything Lone Pine and the Eastern Sierras have to offer:

•        Views of Mt. Whitney, the tallest peak in the contiguous U.S.A.

•        Explore the Alabama Hills National Scenic Area and its spectacular rock formations and mountain views

•        Experience the landscapes that have served as the backdrop for countless Western films

•        Enjoy hiking, climbing, mountain biking, photography, fishing, sightseeing and other outdoor adventures

•        Explore the town of Lone Pine and its Western heritage

•        Visit the Museum of Western Film History

•        Experience the rugged Eastern Sierra landscapes that have made the Lone Pine area a favorite destination for filmmakers, outdoor enthusiasts and fans of the American West

ARE YOU TOUGH ENOUGH?

Show your grit in the fight against cancer. Register now for the John Wayne Grit Series Lone Pine Half Marathon & 10K at johnwayne.org.

ABOUT THE JOHN WAYNE GRIT SERIES

The John Wayne Grit Series challenges participants to run through iconic Western landscapes tied to John Wayne’s legacy while raising funds to fight cancer. All events benefit the John Wayne Cancer Foundation, ensuring every mile run helps advance lifesaving cancer research and programs.

ABOUT THE JOHN WAYNE CANCER FOUNDATION

Inspired by John Wayne’s courageous battle with cancer, the John Wayne Cancer Foundation funds innovative programs that improve cancer patients’ outcomes and save lives through research, education, awareness and support. The foundation continues Duke’s legacy of courage, strength, and grit.