Run Vibes summary
AI-assistedAt a glance (AI-assisted text)
Honor Captain Drew Russell's memory and support a WMU ROTC scholarship at this community-focused 5K run/walk, offering both live and virtual options.
The vibe (AI-assisted text)
This event carries a deeply respectful and commemorative vibe, honoring Captain Drew Russell, a fallen WMU ROTC alumnus. It's a community gathering focused on remembrance and fundraising for an endowed scholarship, making it a meaningful experience for participants. You'll find a mix of runners and walkers, from those who knew Captain Russell to local supporters and students, all coming together for a shared cause.
Best for (AI-assisted text)
This event is ideal for anyone looking to participate in a meaningful 5K that supports a worthy cause, particularly those connected to the military, Western Michigan University, or the local Kalamazoo community. It's also a great choice for casual runners and walkers who appreciate a supportive atmosphere and want to honor a hero.
Race day (AI-assisted text)
Expect a straightforward race day flow, starting with packet pickup and same-day registration at 7:30 am where you'll grab your t-shirt. The event kicks off promptly at 8:30 am with a National Anthem and a unique "Boomer Start Gun," setting a respectful yet energetic tone. Awards will be presented to top finishers right after they cross the line, creating a nice sense of accomplishment and recognition.
Personality (AI-assisted text)
The CPT Drew Russell Warrior Run has a heartfelt and community-driven personality. It's a respectful tribute, fostering a sense of unity and purpose among participants. The atmosphere is likely to be supportive and appreciative, rather than intensely competitive, focusing on the shared goal of remembrance and scholarship.
Weather snapshot (AI-assisted text)
Running in Kalamazoo, MI in mid-April means you should prepare for variable spring weather. Temperatures could range from cool and crisp to mild, but there's always a chance of rain or wind. Layering is a good strategy to stay comfortable, and keeping an eye on the forecast closer to race day is wise.
Terrain & course feel (AI-assisted text)
Given the event location at Western Michigan University, the 5K course is most likely to be on paved roads or campus pathways. While specific elevation isn't mentioned, university campuses typically offer a relatively flat to gently rolling terrain, making it accessible for all paces.
Signals we noticed (from listing text, AI-assisted)
- in memory of Captain Drew Russell
- raises money for that scholarship
- 5K Run/Walk
- Live Race - April 18, 2026
- Virtual Race - Anywhere between April 18, 2026 to April 25, 2026
- Packet Pickup and “Same Day” Registration will begin at 7:30am
- All participants will report to the check in table to receive their t-shirt
- Race Begins at 8:30 am with the National Anthem and Boomer Start Gun
- Awards will be given to those who have placed after they finish
- WMU ROTC alumni
- endowed scholarship was established for Western Michigan University students
This section is produced with AI from the listing we have on file—think of it as a quick orientation, not a rulebook. Organizers can update start times, courses, policies, and perks at any time, so when something really matters, please lean on their official race page for the latest. We don’t independently verify every detail against live organizer updates; we’re here to help you get a feel for the event and decide if you want to dig deeper.
Original listingFull description from sourceExpand the official listing text (unchanged)▾
THE CPT DREW RUSSELL Warrior RUN IS GOING TO HAVE A "LIVE" AND VIRTUAL RACE FOR 2026
About This Event: This 5K Run/Walk is in memory of Captain Drew Russell, a WMU ROTC alumni. He was Killed-In-Action in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan on October 8, 2011. As an active member within his community of Scotts, Michigan and a 2004 graduate of Vicksburg High School, he is remembered as a stand-up man who was always looking out for his friends and family with a great sense of humor. After earning his commission as a Second Lieutenant in Armor through Western Michigan University’s ROTC Program, he was stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado to carry out his time as an active duty Armor officer. Captain Russell was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart for his actions in battle. He was survived by his mother, Patti, his father, Jim and his brother, James. In Captain Russell’s remembrance, an endowed scholarship was established for Western Michigan University students by his classmates. This event raises money for that scholarship to be awarded to a Cadet in the program.
Event Location:
- Live Race - April 18, 2026. 2000 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49008
- Virtual Race - Anywhere between April 18, 2026 to April 25, 2026.
Event and Schedule:
- Packet Pickup and “Same Day” Registration will begin at 7:30am. All participants will report to the check in table to receive their t-shirt.
- Race Begins at 8:30 am with the National Anthem and Boomer Start Gun
- Awards will be given to those who have placed after they finish.
Registration Fees:
- Early Bird Registration Pricing - $20.00 until Feb 23rd (11:59 pm)
- Regular Registration Pricing - $25.00 from Feb 24th to April 17th (11:59 pm)
- To Be Guaranteed a T-Shirt, participants must register before March 10th (11:59 pm)
Tee Shirts:
- To Be Guaranteed a T-Shirt, participants must register before March 10th (11:59 pm). Extra shirts will be ordered and available on a “First Come – First Serve” Basis.
- For in-person race participants T-shirts will be picked up on race day at the registration table
- For virtual participants, the T-shirt will be mailed out to you.
Awards:
- Winners in each category will be awarded a medal! Only in-person participants will be eligible for a medal.
- Categories:
- Top Runner Below 25 years old (Male and Female)
- Top Runner between 26 and 40 years old (Male and Female)
- Top Runner above 41 years old (Male and Female)
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can my Dog Participate in the race with me?
- Yes! Dogs are welcome as long as they remain on a leash and you clean up after them!
- Can I push a stroller during this race?
- Yes!
For any questions, please contact:
Matt Alexander
Work phone: (269) 387-8125
Email: matthew.alexander@wmich.edu
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