1260 boon st. Airport operations gate #10, Traverse City MI
Saturday, May 16th, 2026
Event Overview
Join us for the fifth edition of the Run The Runway at the Cherry Capital Airport benefiting the Wings of Mercy West Michigan.
Date and Location
- Date: 2026-05-16
- Time: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM for Packet Pick Up
- Location: 1260 Boon St. Airport Operations Gate #10, Traverse City, MI
- Race URL: TVC5K Race Info
Packet Pickup
- Friday Pickup: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM at "Fleet Feet", 300 East Front St, Traverse City, MI.
- Race Day Pickup: Available at the tent.
About the Race
- Unique Venue: A 5K run/walk on the closed-down north-south runway of Cherry Capital Airport.
- Purpose: To raise awareness for Wings of Mercy in Northern Michigan.
- Impact: Provides free flights for families to distant medical destinations.
- Volunteer Support: Over 8,000 flights donated since 1991.
Race Highlights
- Expanded Capacity: 700 runners this year, up from over 500 last year.
- Aviation Access: Up close access to aircraft including helicopters and planes.
- Networking Opportunities: Chat with aviation professionals on-site.
- Special Displays: Featuring Women in Aviation and the Civil Air Patrol.
Community Engagement
- Local Involvement: Support from the US Coast Guard with a UH60 Jayhawk helicopter display.
- Aviation Promotion: Inspiring young people to consider aviation careers.
Final Notes
Looking forward to seeing you on race day!
Steve Melvin, race director, volunteer pilot.
Merchandise
- Hoodies: Get yourself one of these super cool hoodies!
- Swag: Visit the top bar, click on "more", go to "store". More merchandise to come!
Course Map
Suggested Races
Find The Run Newsletter