This year, we expanded our celebration of hometown heroes and nominations poured in from coast to coast. From neighbors and community leaders who make our lives better, to firefighters and military members who make our lives safer, your extraordinary stories inspire us all. Make sure to meet our five finalists starting May 14 and vote for our winner starting May 21.
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FINALISTS SELECTION: May 1—May 13 | MEET THE FINALISTS: May 14—May 18 | VOTE FOR THE WINNER: May 21—June 28 | RACE DAY: July 29
Matthew Hansen, 26, of San Marcos, Calif., is a full-time member of the United States Marine Corps. SSgt Hansen joined the Marines with his identical twin brother Daniel after graduating high school. While supporting combat operations in the Farah province of Afghanistan, Daniel was killed by a roadside bomb. When Matthew won the grand prize, he named the race the “Matthew and Daniel Hansen Brothers 400.” to show honor to his fallen twin.
Heath Calhoun, 30, of Clarksville, Tenn., retired from the Army when he lost both of his legs in an explosion in Iraq. For his efforts he received a Purple Heart, as well as the George C. Lang Award for Courage. Calhoun was nominated several times by various friends and family members for his determination and ability to inspire others to live their lives to the fullest despite their injuries.