2025 Harvest Marathon Relay

The 2025 Harvest Marathon Relay (HMR) is set to take place on November 2, 2025, at the scenic Wendel D. Ley Track & Holloway Field, located at Rice University in Houston, Texas. Participants can look forward to mild weather typical of early November in Houston, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s °F, providing a comfortable environment for both competitive and collaborative teams. This 26.2-mile team relay offers a unique opportunity for runners to engage in a spirit of camaraderie and competition while supporting a noble cause—the Houston Food Bank. Teams will have the chance to showcase their skills and teamwork over a scenic course, making this event a memorable experience for all involved.

What is the format of the Harvest Marathon Relay?

• →Collaborative format with the option to sabotage other teams
• →Competitive format focusing on time-based awards

What is the distance of the event?

• →Total distance: 26.2 miles or 42 km
• →Each team can consist of up to 25 runners (collaborative) or 10 runners (competitive)

What are the start times for the event?

• →Collaborative Teams: Start at 7:00 a.m. CST
• →Competitive Teams: Start at 8:00 a.m. CST

What are the time limits for completing the race?

• →Collaborative Teams: 4 hours
• →Competitive Teams: 3 hours

How much does registration cost?

• →Collaborative Large Group (25 runners): $1000
• →Collaborative Small Group (10 runners): $500
• →Collaborative Individual (up to 25 slots): $65 ($55 early bird before Oct 5)
• →Competitive Team (up to 10 runners): $500
• →Competitive Individual (up to 10 slots): $65 ($55 early bird before Oct 5)

What awards will be given at the event?

• →Top 3 competitive teams will receive Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals
• →The fastest team will earn a commemorative plaque handmade by Bryan Morong
• →Medals designed by Geoff Smith, a two-time Boston Marathon winner

What notable records exist for this event?

• →Current world record: 2:14:55 (Sharpstown Apollos, Oct 17, 2022)
• →Previous year record (2024): 2:17:29 by For Diamonds Sake – Dow and Friends

What can participants expect in terms of event facilities and amenities?

• →Facilities at Wendel D. Ley Track & Holloway Field include restrooms and hydration stations
• →Participants will receive race packets containing event details and goodies

What should participants consider regarding the weather?

• →Mild temperatures expected, generally in the mid-50s to mid-70s °F
• →Daylight savings ends at 2 a.m. on race day, providing an extra hour of rest for participants