Locals are invited to participate in the fourth annual race by running or walking in-person, and folks who are eager to support RHFF from afar are invited to participate in the race virtually.

RHFF was created to honor the legacy and memory of Waynesville native Riley Howell who sacrificed his life to save his classmates and lost his life to gun violence. On April 30, 2019, Riley Howell was in class at UNC Charlotte. Seven minutes in, shots rang out and in a split-second decision, Riley chose to fight. He would not live to know that his actions saved others. Riley died as he lived — selflessly, bravely and in service to others. In memory of his courageous act and to honor a remarkable young man, the Riley Howell Foundation Fund supports organizations that benefit victims of gun violence.

All registration proceeds will go directly to the foundation’s operational costs so that RHFF can continue to support victims of gun violence. Visit rileyhowellfoundation.org to register for the Mighty Four Miler’s in person and virtual race options and to learn more about RHFF. Online registration for both the in-person and virtual race closes at 9 p.m. on April 4. Late registration for the in-person race is available in-person April 5 and on the morning of April 6 at Wells Event Center in Waynesville.