What is the 2026 Gulf Coast Grind?

The 2026 Gulf Coast Grind is a road and hard-packed sand beach event held at Surfside Beach, TX. It features a mixed flat terrain along the waterline, offering a unique running experience on a fast, runnable surface with soft sections near the tide line and wind off the Gulf. The event is open to runners and ruckers and includes multiple distances, with start times staggered throughout the morning.

What distances are available for this event?

• →50K — 7:00 AM | 3 loops of 5-mile out-and-back
• →26.2M (Marathon) — 7:30 AM | 6.55-mile out-and-back x2
• →13.1M (Half Marathon) — 8:00 AM | 6.55-mile out-and-back x1
• →10K — 8:30 AM | 3.1-mile out-and-back
• →5K — 8:30 AM | 1.55-mile out-and-back

What is the event format?

The 2026 Gulf Coast Grind is a road and hard-packed sand beach event with a mixed flat terrain along the waterline. The course runs entirely along the waterline at Surfside Beach on hard-packed sand, featuring an out-and-back format repeated in loops depending on the distance. Participants can choose to run or ruck.

What is the race cutoff time?

The overall event cutoff is 12 hours. Participants must start their last loop by 4:00 PM.

What is the schedule for the event?

• →6:00–9:00 AM — Packet pickup at start/finish area
• →Race starts staggered from 7:00 AM (see above)

What aid stations are available during the event?

There are two full aid stations during the event. One is located at Mile 5, and the other is at the Start/Finish. The aid includes drinks such as Gatorade, water, electrolyte mix, Coke, ginger ale, and orange soda, as well as food like cookies, candy, PB, Nutella, Pringles, trail mix, chips, PB&J, bean burrito rolls, bananas, oranges, and seasonal fruit. Medical supplies such as bandages, Vaseline, band-aids, and feminine care products are also available. Surprise extras like sheet cake, pies, and watermelon may be present.

What is the cupless race policy?

The 2026 Gulf Coast Grind is a cupless race, meaning no disposable cups are provided. Participants are encouraged to bring their own reusable bottle, cup, or hydration pack.

What is the drop bag policy?

A tarp area is set up at the main aid station for drop bags. These bags will be transported to Mile 5 at the start of the race.

Are pacers or crew allowed?

No pacers are allowed for this event.

What awards are given out?

Awards are given to the top 3 finishers per distance in the categories of Male, Female, and Non-Binary, as well as the top 3 Ruckers per distance. Additionally, the top 2 Masters (50+) per distance receive awards. All finishers receive medals and swag.

What is included in registration?

Registration includes access to the event, a bib, and participation in the race. All finishers receive medals and swag. The event features two full aid stations, a cupless race policy, and drop bag transportation. Awards are given to top finishers in each distance and category.