John Wayne’s Legacy Lives On With A Special Race In Wyoming

John Wayne was a hero to many. His life and career were incredible, with over 170 movies in his 50+ years in the industry. It's likely you have a story in your family about John or his movies. He impacted so many people with his bigger-than-life persona. His swagger, large frame, and stern voice were mimicked by many.

The Duke has been gone since 1979, when he passed away at age 72, but that doesn't mean he's not still impacting and inspiring people. During his life, he battled and beat lung cancer, then died 15 years later due to stomach cancer. During his fight, he became passionate about helping others who were going through cancer.

After his passing, his family established the John Wayne Cancer Foundation in 1985 to help others fight their illness with courage, strength, and grit, just as The Duke did.

During his amazing movie career, the star spent considerable time in Wyoming. While shooting multiple movies, he was part of some events in the Cody area, spent time in Jackson, and even had stories of him visiting the Wonder Bar in Casper while filming Hellfighters.

Honestly, if you're a big Western movie star and you've never been to Wyoming, are you REALLY a Western star? Well, the Duke was, and is still impacting the Cowboy State.

On August 22, 2026, the John Wayne Cancer Foundation will hold its first-ever 'Run the Grit Series" race in Jackson Hole at the historic Turpin Meadow Ranch. John Wayne's first movie, "The Big Trail," was filmed in the area, and 96 years later, John Wayne's spirit, grit, and resolve will be in the area again.

The race is one of six that will be held all over the country, and if you're interested, you can compete in all six or just the one in Jackson Hole, which will be either a 30k, a half-marathon, or an 8k.

If you're interested, you can save money on your registration by signing up by April 18 ($30), by May 30 ($20), or by July 11 ($10). The deadline for registering is August 19.

You can find out more information about the race, the registration, and pre & post race activities at JohnWayne.org