The Road Kill XC Relay kicks off the HARRA Fall Series as Houston’s official cross-country team event, scheduled for this weekend at Bear Creek Park. Hosted by Trail Racing Over Texas in partnership with Hardloop Endurance, it’s the first HARRA-sanctioned relay of the season and offers runners a grass-streaked alternative to the usual road race lineup.
Featuring a 4 × 2‑mile format, teams of up to four runners tackle eight miles of firm grass, complete with natural turns and firm footing.
As a HARRA event, the Road Kill XC Relay contributes to Interclub competition points, allowing clubs to score toward the Runner of the Season and overall interclub standings, as long as teams consist of four HARRA-registered members from the same club. Non‑HARRA teams may still participate, but they won’t count toward club scoring. You can read the full list of relay rules on the Trail Racing Over Texas website.
In 2024, Good Guys Run Club, ExxonMobil Tigers, and Tonight We Fly took the top three overall spots at the Road Kill XC Relay, showcasing teamwork, speed, and depth. These teams set a high bar, but will they return to defend their titles in 2025, or will a new champion emerge?
Notably, according to the results online, no all-women’s teams under the age of 50 entered the race in 2024, something that will hopefully change this year. With so many talented female runners in Houston, the opportunity is wide open for the ladies to make a statement and claim their place on the course.
The Road Kill XC Relay features a wide range of team divisions to encourage runners of all ages and abilities to participate. Categories include:
- Open / General (no specific division)
- Youth Boys (under 18)
- Youth Girls (under 18)
- Open Mix Division (2+ Women)
- Open Men’s
- Open Women’s
- Master’s Men (All Members 40+)
- Master’s Women (All Members 40+ Women)
- Veteran Men (All Members 50+)
- Veteran Women (All Members 50+ Women)
- 60+ Men’s and Women’s
- 70+ Men’s and Women’s
Why Runners Love It
Runners love the Road Kill XC Relay because it brings something different to the local race scene: a team-based, grass-and-grit cross-country event that breaks up the usual solo road race routine. The format encourages camaraderie, strategy, and fun, with each runner contributing to the team’s success. It’s also a chance to test your speed on a shorter, off-road course while cheering on your teammates. For many, it’s becoming a fall tradition that mixes competition with community.
Click here to learn more and to sign up for the race.
