4Star 4Mile Race 2026

The 4Star 4Mile Race begins at Dean Savage Memorial Park, located at Trumbull and Porter Streets in Detroit's Corktown neighborhood. The event is linked to the city's Veterans Day observances. Participants can run, walk, or ruck the 4-mile course. Entries are open to all, with specific categories for veterans, active-duty military, and ruck participants. A virtual option is also available. Proceeds benefit the Metropolitan Detroit Veterans Coalition, the organization that presents the Detroit Veterans Day Parade. The race's unique feature is that runners and ruckers share the same route and timing as the Veterans Day Parade, as part of Detroit’s Annual Salute to Armed Services. Vietnam War veteran Doug Howell established the event, drawing from his personal experience using long-distance running to aid his recovery from PTSD. The race serves a dual purpose: to unite civilians, veterans, and active-duty service members in a shared public event, and to offer veterans an avenue for community reintegration and renewed purpose.