Meet the 2026 Cowtown Cohort
Every race weekend begins with miles, logistics, and a starting line.
But for the athletes of the wear blue: run to remember Gold Star and Survivor Endurance Program, the journey to Cowtown is about something far greater.
This year, a remarkable group of men and women from across the country will gather in Fort Worth to take part in the Cowtown Half Marathon. They are mothers, fathers, spouses, daughters, and siblings. They are runners of all experience levels, some seasoned, some new to the distance, but all united by a shared bond: love for a service member who can no longer run beside them.
Erica Grone (New Hampshire), running in honor of her son, SSG Tanner Grone, 10 November 2023
Gail Dwyer (Florida), running in honor of her son CW3 Steve Dwyer Jr., 10 November 2023
Juanita Bowling (Texas), running in honor of her son PFC Frank J Castillo, 3 March 2022
Kaitlen Carter (Montana), running in honor of her father CW5 David R Carter, 6 August 2011
Christine Wood (Texas), running in honor of her son GMSN Devin Fasulo, 18 March 2018
Adena Crider (Texas), running in honor of her brother SGT James “Matt” Crider, 12 February 2016
Kenneth Walker (Texas), running in honor of his wife SPC Zandra Walker, 15 August 2007
Rebecca Esparza (Texas), running in honor of her brother CW3 Zachary Esparza, 29 March 2023
Erica Snyder (Tennessee), running in honor of her brother PFC Coleman Hinkenfent, 20 December 2009
Haley Hinkenfent (Tennessee), running honor of her brother PFC Coleman Hinkenfent, 20 December 2009
Jes Brouillette (Kansas), running in honor of his son PO2 Chase Brouillette, 18 July 2023
For each of these athletes, the road to Cowtown carries deep personal meaning. The steps they take on race day will honor a hero, celebrate a life, and ensure that sacrifice is never forgotten. Through training, connection, and community, they are transforming grief into purpose one purposeful mile at a time.
Over the next several weeks, we will introduce you to this year’s Cowtown cohort. You’ll hear their stories in their own words, who they are honoring, why they chose to run, and what it means to be part of a community that remembers together. These are stories of resilience, courage, and enduring love. Stories that remind us all why wear blue exists.
Race weekend will be filled with meaningful moments: team gatherings, shared meals, the powerful wear blue Mile, and a finish line earned together. Some athletes will travel with spouses, children, parents, or close friends. Others will arrive on their own, knowing they will instantly be joined by the family they have become a part of, the wear blue family.
Whether they are flying across the country or driving in from down the road, every member of this team is showing up with intention. Their presence at Cowtown ensures that names are spoken, memories are carried, and legacies continue to live on.
We are honored to be alongside them.
Stay tuned as we begin introducing the incredible individuals who make up the 2026 Cowtown Half Marathon cohort. Their stories will inspire you, move you, and remind you that no one runs alone.
Until then, we prepare.
We train.
And we remember.
This 2026 Cowtown Gold Star and Survivor Endurance Program Cohort is proudly supported by Fisher House - Hero Miles.
