One of the most unique running events in Texas, the World’s Longest Causeway Run and Wellness Walk takes runners and walkers from Port Isabel to South Padre Island across the Queen Isabella Causeway. As participants top the causeway, they are treated to a breathtaking view of South Padre Island and the blue Gulf waters that lie on the other side. And, of course, the entire trek across the bridge affords participants the unique experience of running over the Laguna Madre Bay.
This year’s Causeway Run and Wellness Walk takes place on Jan. 12. The Causeway Run is the 10k race. However, if you aren’t quite ready to tackle that type of run, the non-competitive Wellness Walk is a 3 mile casual stroll across the causeway.
The very next day, Jan. 13, one of the biggest running events in Texas takes place – the Chevron Houston Marathon. If you aren’t a marathoner, that doesn’t mean you can’t participate. The Chevron Houston Marathon offers something for runners of all levels. In addition to the full marathon, there is also a half-marathon and 5k run. Combined, the event is Houston’s largest single-day sporting event each year.
January 26 is the date for this year’s Mardi Gras Beach Run. Held each year prior to Galveston’s Mardi Gras celebration, the Mardi Gras Beach Run features both a 5k and 10k run, as well as a 5k walk, each of which take participants along Galveston’s scenic beaches.
Valentine’s Day weekend sees the AT&T Austin Marathon. Slated for Feb. 17, the AT&T Austin Marathon is one of the most scenic races in Texas, with nearly half the course being run along Town Lake and the Colorado River. The rolling hills of Austin also make this one of the more challenging races offered in the Lone Star State.
Of course, these are but a few of the jogging and running events happening across Texas as the calendar turns. And, if you don’t feel ready to tackle such a race early in the year, don’t fret, the Texas running events calendar is chocked full of races throughout the year.
