Back to JournalBy Sophia Prince
The John Wayne Grit Series is returning to Fort Worth on November 8th to cap off a successful year of fundraising events around the country. The race, held on a 5k course that weaves through the stockyards and Trinity Trail, isn’t just a test of endurance, but a chance to embody Wayne’s legacy of perseverance and strength while supporting cancer research.
A Race Built on Grit and Giving Back
Molly Kassouf is the Race Director for the Grit Series. For anyone considering participating in the run she has one piece of advice. “Give it a shot! The Grit Series is for everyone. Fast, slow, walkers, it’s the people who make it a fun event and the -one thing I want people to take away is its great to be outdoors, support great causes and be together.”
Named after the strength and perseverance of John Wayne, Kassouf says the Grit Series represents showing up when the going gets tough. Wayne himself battled cancer, first in 1964 when he beat lung cancer and 15 years later, when he passed away from stomach cancer. To honor his legacy, his family established the John Wayne Cancer Foundation in 1985 with the mission of improving cancer patients outcomes through research, awareness, education and support. In 2024 alone the John Wayne Grit Series raised over $350,000 for cancer research.
“Everything people do to sign up gives people more time with their loved ones affected by cancer.” — Molly Kassouf, Race Director
Community, Courage, and the Open Trail
Support and interest for the Grit Series has grown since its inception seven years ago. This year alone, races were held in a wildland preserve in Pioneertown, California, along the coast in Newport Beach, California, through the forest trails of Lone Pine, California and through one of Wayne’s old film sets in Moab, Utah. Over 600 people are expected to participate in the race in Fort Worth and many local businesses have stepped up to sponsor the event, including Hotel Drover, Mule Alley and Revolver Brewing.
“Whether you’re an elite runner or you have someone you know who has been affected by cancer, people just want to come out and support,” says Kassouf of the large crowds.
Kassouf herself had a friend who was diagnosed with cancer. After she underwent a double mastectomy, Kassouf decided to send her a comped ticket to come and see feel the support at one of the races. Four weeks after her surgery, Kassouf’s friend ran the 10k. Three years later, she remains cancer free.
“It’s pretty crazy what people will do” says Kassouf. “Fresh air and positivity help heal.”
Join the Fort Worth Race
The Fort Worth event will start and end at John Wayne: An American Experience and includes a get together for participants at the end of the race. Those running the John Wayne Grit Series will receive a commemorative T shirt and a finisher mug. All cancer survivors will also receive a yellow bandana to be able to show those around them their grit. Country artist Kylie Frey, whose tribute track “My John Wayne” hit No. 1 on Texas radio, will perform the national anthem to kick off the race.
Whether you’re running in the race or volunteering, Kassouf stresses the importance of community support for cancer patients.
Register for the Race on November 8th and learn more at https://johnwayne.org/pages/fortworth.
