Texas is famous not only for its hot temperatures and cowboys but also for sports events, especially running. The Texas running calendar is full of races for every taste and physical fitness, from short distances to ultra marathons.
What’s more, Texas has a variety of themed races all year round. So, take your family and friends to Texas, and they will have a great time, even if they don’t like to run.
We have collected the most popular and exciting runs in Texas, especially for you.
The Most Famous
1. Chevron Houston Marathon/ Aramco Houston Half Marathon/We are Houston 5K
First, we should tell you about the two most outstanding races in Texas, the Chevron Houston Marathon and the “golden” Aramco Houston Half Marathon. Both races start at 7:01 am on the same day, and the event also includes the “We Are Houston 5K “race.
Originally called the Houston Marathon, the Chevron Houston Marathon has been called one of the fastest winter marathons in the United States. The first time it was held was in 1972 with 113 runners. The marathon is now considered the biggest sporting event in the city.
The route is laid through the city center and is considered flat and comfortable. Many runners use the Chevron Houston Marathon to qualify for the Boston Marathon.
Former US president George W. Bush ran this marathon in 1993 at the age of 46. His result was not outstanding but still memorable.
Participation in the races is free, and there is an app that makes it very convenient. Due to Covid-19, the marathon took place online this past year. But the event is scheduled to take place in real life in the winter of 2023, making lots of race fans very happy.
2. Texas Threesome Marathon Series or Texas Triple
This race for skilled runners is held in Dallas near Bachman Lake. It includes the MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Marathon and Half, Wayne’s World Marathon and Half, and Memorial Day Marathon and Half. Three days of different distances is a dream for experienced runners. The event organizers say that their goal is to adhere to and respect the rules of the 50 State Marathon Club and marathon maniacs while providing a fun atmosphere. 20% of all proceeds go to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Marathons in Texas
If you are looking for marathons, Texas will impress you with a large variety.
3. Marathon 2 Marathon
This is one of the largest marathons. Like the Chevron Houston Marathon, the Marathon 2 Marathon is a qualifier for the Boston Marathon. It is held in Marathon city and costs $50 to $115 to participate.
You can run a marathon, half marathon, 10K, or 5k. The run starts at night, so participants must wear reflective clothing.
The organizers offer participants excellent food and a party after the race.
4. BMW Dallas Marathon
Are you looking for 5ks in Dallas? Or maybe something harder? This is a great event. Every second Sunday in December, all eyes of Dallas residents and visitors are on the official marathon.
This is the biggest race event and includes a Half Marathon, 50K Ultra Marathon, 2-person half marathon relay, 5-person marathon relay, 10K, 5K, a 5K Team Challenge, the Friday Night Lights Mile, and various Kids Races. Besides, all earnings from the event go to charity. So far, the BMW Dallas marathon has donated over $4 million to the Scottish Rite for Children.
5. Austin Marathon
The Austin Marathon is the perfect place to spend the last Sunday of February with your family and friends. Besides the marathon event, there is also a 5K and a half marathon.
You will run through Austin, enjoying its beautiful sights and views. After the finish, you will enjoy a festival and a concert in the city center.
6. Michelob Ultra El Paso Marathon/ TFCU Half Marathon & Spine & Rehab Specialists 5K Run/Walk
This race is unique because it is an opportunity to run for spine & rehab specialists. There is also a children’s race and a walking race—participation costs from $10 to $90. You can take part regardless of your running level.
Trail Running Texas Running Races
Do you prefer a trail run? Texas has lots of choices!
7. Habanero Hundred
The object of this race is to put you in an extreme situation − morally, mentally, and physically. But despite this, your comfort and safety are a top priority. You can run whether you are a newbie or a pro, and participate with family or friends.
This race is unique because there is a distance for everyone. Whether you want to run 100 miles or 10k, Texas Habanero Hundred gives you an option — choose from 10K, 20K, 30K, 50K, 100K, and 100 miles.
There are also lots of team events (choose your favorite here), as well as entertainment and a pleasant atmosphere.
8. Six-O Trail Run
This race takes place in Cleburne, at the Six-O Ranch. It is a 1,600-acre working ranch that is home to many animals. Here you can run a 50K, a marathon, a half-marathon, or 6 miles.
Participants get a track with different types of roads and water obstacles.
9. Night Moves Trail Race
This race takes place in San Felipe at Stephen F. Austin State Park. Trail running enthusiasts can run 5k, 10k, 13.1 miles, or 26.2 miles on the ground, clay, and pine, without high ascents.
A distinctive feature is the evening start time for the races, so keep this in mind.
By and large, trail running races in Texas are very different, and you’ll definitely find what you need.
Themed Races
10. Melon Dash
Unlike other Texas races, everything is related to watermelons here, including the opportunity to eat a cold, juicy watermelon at the finish! And there is plenty of fun to go around, even if you aren’t a runner — colorful merch, beer for adults, an after-party with a DJ, and lots more!
The Melon Dash takes place in Plano, Texas, at the Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve and includes a 10K run, 5K run, and a “Fun Run.” And for beginners, the organizers offer race preparation plans.
The Melon Dash promoters also host a few other events, which you can see on their website. A few of them will be mentioned below.
11. Pumpkin Spice
This great fall racing event takes place in Fort Worth, Texas, on November 19th. Here you can run a Half Marathon, 10K, or 5K along the Trinity River. Like the watermelon race, fun things await participants, including spicy coffee, a pumpkin pie eating contest, an autumn costume contest, and a DJ. Be sure to bring your whole family to this gorgeous − you and your support team will find something to do.
12. Hot Cake Hustle
This family event takes place on January 7th in Plano. It is possible to run a 10K, 5K, and a “Fun Run,” and participants can treat themselves to hot coffee and pancakes, watch a show, and much more.
The Hot Cake Hustle is always a fun and interesting time, so choose what you like and plan your running schedule in advance.
13. Honor the Fallen Half Marathon
The Honor the Fallen Half Marathon is a running event with a very noble mission. It takes place at the Grand Prairie, and entry fees range from $35 to $74, depending on the type of race.
You can choose from a 5k, 10k, and Half Marathon run. This is one of the most popular half marathons in Texas. And as the name implies, the event was created to honor our heroes from the arm forces who are no longer with us.
5K in Texas
14. Terry Hershey Parkrun
This free weekly run at Terry Hershey Park in Houston takes place every Saturday at 7:30 am from May to September and 9:00 am from October to April. It occurs entirely on a volunteer basis.
Even though the run is free, you need to pass a one-time registration on the site and have a copy of the barcode with you. Otherwise, you won’t be able to take part in the race.
The atmosphere is cheerful and friendly, and a group always gathers for a cup of coffee after the race. If you want to improve your running ability, track your growth as a runner, and are looking for friends and like-minded people take part in this TX race.
15. Sabine Causeway 5K
This run takes place in Port Arthur on August 19th. Participation costs $30. The main feature is that you start running in Texas and end up in Louisiana. Event organizers are very proud of this distinction.
You can view all the updates about the race on Facebook.
