Hank Donigan Will Run 570th Marathon in Washington
The 71-year-old runner will tackle the Marine Corps Marathon on October 25, 2026, to support veterans.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Running
Hank Donigan will complete his 570th marathon at the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington on October 25, 2026. The 71-year-old veteran maintains a marathon-a-week schedule to raise funds for military families.
Why it matters
Donigan runs to support wounded service members and their families while managing his own physical and mental health challenges. His participation continues a long-term commitment to Semper Fi and America's Fund.
Donigan, who holds a 100% disability rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs, will participate in his 31st Marine Corps Marathon. He has successfully raised over $121,000 for veteran support initiatives.
The players
Hank Donigan
A 71-year-old veteran and marathon runner who maintains a rigorous weekly racing schedule to support wounded military personnel.
Semper Fi and America's Fund
A nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance and support to wounded, ill, and injured service members and their families.
Department of Veterans Affairs
The federal agency responsible for providing vital services and benefits to America's veterans, including disability ratings.
The details
Despite a September 2022 brain tumor diagnosis and subsequent surgery in July 2023, Donigan continues to run regularly, even completing a marathon in September 2026 with a partially collapsed lung. He maintains a rigorous schedule of one marathon per week to benefit wounded service members.
Timeline
2003: Semper Fi and America's Fund began operations.
2013: Donigan began running to raise funds for the organization.
September 2022: Donigan was diagnosed with a brain tumor.
July 2023: Donigan underwent brain surgery.
October 25, 2026: Donigan will run his 570th marathon in Washington.
Season Trajectory
Donigan's participation highlights the ongoing mission of the Semper Fi and America's Fund grant program. His efforts provide consistent momentum for an organization that processes approximately 170 grant requests daily for veterans in need.
Donigan's run is his 31st appearance at the Marine Corps Marathon, contributing to a career total of 570 marathons. His performance serves as a testament to physical resilience for other athletes and veterans managing long-term health conditions.
The takeaway
Donigan demonstrates that physical challenges like a brain tumor or lung issues do not preclude continued athletic and charitable success. Readers can use his example to maintain consistency in their own health and community support routines.
Further reading
Learn more about the local endurance community and upcoming regional events on our Running page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Military.
