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Memorial Day weekend in Houston running had all the ingredients for a washout. Early Saturday morning storms and dark skies had runners refreshing weather apps (or huddling under a tent if you were already out at Track 40) and debating whether race day would happen. But by sunrise, the rain moved through, temperatures cooled down a tiny bit, and the Houston showed up in full force for this special race day holiday weekend.
Leading the way was the Memorial Day Hero Salute in Kingwood, where runners honored service members while taking on distances ranging from the 5K to the half marathon. Xavier A Hernandez claimed the men’s half marathon title in 1:20:17, while Ella Narhi led the women’s field with a strong 1:35:51 performance. The event also featured a Murph and Laredo challenge, adding an extra tribute to the holiday weekend.
In the shorter races, Elijah Merino won the men’s 5K in 17:57, while Destiny Muniz claimed the women’s title in 22:51. Sung In Kim-Vences delivered one of the fastest performances of the weekend with a 42:59 victory in the women’s 10K.
Meanwhile, the Memorial Day Run produced some of the weekend’s fastest times. Kyle Garcia edged Osman Yuzguc in a close half marathon finish, winning in 1:17:24. Elizabeth Hilligoss topped the women’s half marathon in 1:33:37. Hayden Lightfoot cruised to a dominant men’s 10K victory in 38:00, while Jenna Robinson led the women’s race in 42:20. Lauren Stroud’s 19:15 earned her the women’s 5K win, and Kevin Matthews took the men’s crown in 18:09.
The holiday weekend also included the Race for Grace 5K, Fit Foodie Family 5K, and the 4th Annual Track 40, a unique race where runners run around a track for 6 hours. Thank you to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice so we can gather, race, and run free each day.
To find your next race this summer, visit our Houston Running Race Calendar.
