A growing endurance event is returning to Sugar Land this November. The Sugar Rush Relay will bring teams together for a 75-mile course, with organizers expecting participation to double in the race’s second year. The event combines competition with a community atmosphere and supports Hope For Three, a local nonprofit serving families affected by autism.
The idea began four years ago when Race Director JB Yaw participated in the Texas Independence Relay and fell in love with the team atmosphere. After joining F3, a free men’s fitness group, he wanted to bring the same relay experience to his hometown.
According to coordinator Paul Lappage, the inaugural event exceeded expectations. Teams traveled from as far as Fort Worth and Longview, with some camping overnight near the course. That response helped confirm there was a demand for a new kind of endurance event in the Houston area.
This year, the Sugar Rush Relay will move its home base to Constellation Field. Teams will complete 15 five-mile laps along a course featuring Oyster Creek, City Park and the iconic Imperial Sugar Mill. Participants can compete in running, rucking or ultra divisions, with options for solo athletes, pairs and teams of varying sizes.
“A looped relay format really promotes team spirit and enjoyment,” Lappage said. Because the course returns to the same central location, teammates and spectators can cheer participants throughout the event without traveling between multiple exchange points.
The expanded venue will also feature chip timing and tracking, while Pep’s Backyard will host the pre-race captain’s meeting and post-race celebrations. Food trucks and a special event drink called “The Sugar Rush” will add to the festivities.
Beyond the miles, the event supports Hope For Three, a local nonprofit serving families affected by autism. The partnership is personal to Yaw, whose eldest son has high-functioning autism. Lappage said the relationship has grown into a genuine collaboration, with the nonprofit contributing volunteers and helping with race planning and promotion.
Looking ahead, organizers hope the Sugar Rush Relay becomes a fixture on Houston’s endurance calendar, bringing together everyone from first-time relay runners to experienced ultra athletes. ”From the beginner to the pro athlete, we want this experience to always be a fun blend of fitness and community.” Says Lappage.
The 2026 Sugar Rush Relay takes place November 13–14 at Constellation Field in Sugar Land. Registration and volunteer opportunities are available through November 6 at RunSignup.
