Derek Dexter Memorial 5K Run

07/15/2026

Our friends with Running To Honor are hosting their final race on July 25. Not only have they been an incredible supporters and partners of the Derek Dexter Memorial 5K, they honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms, a cause near and dear to many of us. We hope to see you at their starting line. ❤️

Only a few weeks away until the 2026 Running To Honor 5K Walk (or Run) - THE FINAL YEAR!. Are you signed up yet?

Please consider registering at the link below and coming out to be part of the most patriotic Fallen Soldier and Fallen Veteran event Downriver. If you can’t make it to the event but still want to support we have a Virtual 5K option as well where we mail you a shirt and medal. Donations are always accepted as well.

Thank you for not forgetting about those who defended Freedom that are no longer with us.

Online Registration
http://www.runsignup.com/RunningToHonor

Facebook Fundraiser
https://www.facebook.com/donate/1005623715431054/

Facebook Event
https://www.facebook.com/events/1923129401971166/

07/10/2026

Rejected from London? 💔 Run local instead.
We may not be 26.2 miles, but we'd love to cheer you across our finish line next spring. No lottery required!

Follow us to stay in the know and be the first to register for the 2027 DD5k!

07/02/2026

Michigan brought the heat this week, so our race committee brought the summer running tips!

Hot runs build strong runners, but runners have to stay smart when temperatures rise. Hydrate early, slow the pace, dress light, and listen to your body.

What are your favorite tips for running in the heat? ⬇️

06/21/2026

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads, grandfathers, stepdads, uncles, coaches, mentors, and father figures who encourage us to go farther, both on and off the course. 💙🏃‍♂️

Today we celebrate the men who set the alarm for early runs, make time for family and fitness, offer support when the miles get tough, and lead by example through hard work, resilience, and determination. Whether you're chasing a personal best, cheering from the sidelines, volunteering on race day, or inspiring the next generation to lace up their shoes, your impact reaches far beyond the finish line.

We hope today brings time with loved ones, moments to reflect on the memories you've created, and recognition for all that you do. Happy Father’s Day!

06/05/2026

It's graduation season, and we're celebrating all the milestones being reached in our community!

Graduation is a lot like crossing a finish line. It's the result of hard work, perseverance, and growth, all leading to this big moment.

To all of the graduates in our community: congratulations on everything you've accomplished. We're cheering for you as you begin your next chapter.

05/27/2026

Congratulations to Derek Dexter Memorial Scholarship recipient Luke Mulka on his commitment to continue his academic and athletic career in track and cross country at Alma College!

Luke has demonstrated a commitment to hard work, dedication to his sport and studies, and a tremendous character. We are proud to support our scholarship recipients as they continue to chase their goals.

Congratulations, Luke! We can’t wait to see all that you accomplish at Alma.

05/25/2026

Today we paused to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Their courage, dedication, and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

05/20/2026

Congratulations to Derek Dexter Memorial Scholarship recipient Brennan LaRusso on his commitment to continue his academic and athletic career in track and cross country at the University of Toledo.

We are incredibly proud to recognize Brennan not only for his accomplishments, but for his hard work, dedication, and character. It is an honor to watch our scholarship recipients continue to chase their goals and we are proud to support them on their journeys.

Congratulations, Brennan! We can’t wait to see all that you accomplish at Toledo.

05/15/2026

From start line excitement to finish line tail wags, seeing returning paw-ticipants (four legged or not) is what makes this community so special. Thank you to everyone that has made the Derek Dexter Memorial 5k part of their running traditions!

We can’t wait to see who joins us at the next one! 🐶🏅

05/11/2026

Happy Medal Monday! If you raced this weekend, show us your medals!

We also wanted to again wish a huge congratulations to all of our runners who showed up, pushed hard, and made this event unforgettable.

Overall Winners
🥇 Male Overall: Luke Mulka – 19:09.78
🥇 Female Overall: Erin O’Carroll – 21:14.74

Masters Winners
🏅 Masters Male: Sebastian Tochowicz – 20:17.51
🏅 Masters Female: Pella Toutant – 24:24.11

And a big round of applause to all of our 1st place age group winners!

Whether you placed, set a PR, or simply crossed the finish line, we’re proud of every single one of you. Until next year! 🏅