HOW IT WORKS

From application to finish line, here's how Operation WarriorFit gets warriors to the starting line.

The Process

YOUR PATH TO THE STARTING LINE

Submit Your Application

Fill out our simple online application confirming your service status. We operate on the honor system, trusting that those who apply meet our eligibility criteria.

Complete the intake form on our website
Confirm your service status via personal statement
Agree to the OWF Code of Conduct
Select your preferred race types (OCR, road races, trail races, triathlons, etc.)
Note any physical limitations or specific goals

Get Approved

Applications are reviewed weekly by our team. Once approved, you'll receive a welcome email and be added to our participant network.

Applications reviewed weekly
Welcome email sent upon approval
Connected to local OWF network when available
Access to our race database

Choose Your Race

Browse our database of 200+ partnered races and select the events that match your interests and goals. Can't find a specific race? Submit a request!

5Ks, 10Ks, Half Marathons, Marathons
Obstacle Course Races (Spartan, Tough Mudder, GoRuck)
Triathlons and multi-sport events
Virtual or hybrid races in approved cases
Submit requests for races not yet in our database

Receive Your Entry

Once matched with a race, you'll receive your entry confirmation. High-demand races may use a lottery system where you can use earned points to increase your chances.

Entry confirmation sent via email
High-demand races available through lottery system
Points can be wagered for lottery entries
Unused points refunded if not selected

Cross the Finish Line

Show up, push yourself, and join a community of warriors. Check in before and after your race, and share your experience to earn points and inspire others.

Confirm attendance before the event
Complete post-race check-in
Share photos and testimonials
Earn points for future races
Connect with the OWF community

Full Transparency

HOW WE SELECT PARTICIPANTS

We believe you deserve to know exactly how decisions are made. Here's our complete selection process—no hidden criteria, no favoritism.

Eligibility Verification

Required

We verify that applicants fall into one of our eligible categories: veterans, active duty, reservists, National Guard, or first responders.

First-Come, First-Served

Primary

For standard races, approved applicants are served in the order their applications are received. No favoritism, no exceptions.

Race Availability

Variable

Entry allocation depends on partner availability and donated entries. High-demand races may use a lottery system.

Points System (Lottery Races)

Optional

For high-demand races, participants can wager earned points to increase lottery odds. Points are earned through race completion, community engagement, and check-ins.

What We Do NOT Consider

To ensure fair and equal treatment, the following factors play NO role in our selection process:

Race experience or athletic ability

Social media following or influence

Personal connections to OWF staff or board

Geographic location (we serve all 50 states)

Branch of service or first responder role

Age, gender, or any protected characteristic

Questions about our selection process? Contact us. We're committed to transparency.

Eligibility

WHO CAN APPLY?

Operation WarriorFit provides active events and competitions that promote an active and healthy lifestyle to the following groups:

Veterans

Anyone who has served in the U.S. military and has been honorably discharged.

Active Duty Service Members

Currently serving members of any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Reservists & National Guard

Reserve and National Guard members, whether currently serving or retired.

First Responders

Law enforcement, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, and nurses who serve our communities.

Events We Support

MORE THAN JUST RUNNING

Operation WarriorFit provides entries to any event or competition that promotes an active and healthy lifestyle. From your first 5K to Ironman triathlons, obstacle courses to powerlifting meets, we support warriors in finding their passion and pushing their limits.

Don't see your event type? We're always expanding our coverage. If there's an event or competition that promotes an active and healthy lifestyle, we want to help you get there.Contact us to discuss your goals.

READY TO START?

The hardest part of any race is showing up at the starting line. We're here to help you get there.

Apply Now