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TC Jester Half Marathon & 10k

TC Jester Half Marathon & 10k

Houston's TC Jester Half Marathon is a no-frills, affordable August race honoring a local running legend.

Race Date

Aug 23, 2026

Location

Houston, TX

Quick facts

Date
Sunday, August 23, 2026
Location
Houston, Texas
Distance
Half marathon (13.1 mi)
Course
Loop Course
Terrain
Road
USATF certified
Not listed

Highlights

Good For

Good Value

Atmosphere

Local CommunityBare Bones

The Experience

The TC Jester Half Marathon and 10k offers an unconventional August challenge in Houston, Texas. This "fatass" event, run in honor of James Tomkins who hosted the inaugural race in 2018, provides a unique opportunity for runners seeking an affordable race with a touch of local history.

The course is a true test, involving approximately ten loops for the half-marathon and four for the 10k. Each loop takes runners over the TC Jester Bridge, down into the bayou, and back up, creating a demanding, repetitive circuit. Runners can expect a basic setup with water provided and the option to stash personal bags at the aid station.

While not an officially sanctioned event with formal awards, the TC Jester Half Marathon aims to keep the spirit of fun and camaraderie alive. It's a chance for dedicated runners to push themselves in the August heat, embracing the challenge and the memory of a local running enthusiast.

Race-provided description

"Have you been wondering if you can get hill work here in Houston? Have you been looking for an affordable half marathon to run in August?" For 0.00 dollars you get the TC Jester Half Marathon amounting to ~10 loops or 10k for ~4 loops. Finisher medals will be given as well as 1st-3rd age group awards* This is a "fatass" (aka unofficial) half-marathon and 10k. However, that doesn't mean there won't be goodies and surprises to keep the jest of the original TC Jester Half. This run is in honor and memory of James Tomkins who hosted the inaugural half in 2018, along with Darrin. Route (as stated by James): You will start on the Southwest side of the TC Jester Bridge, heading north over the bridge and down the north side. The sag will be on the left downhill side as you approach the bayou. Enter the bayou, head downhill and make right turn east under TC Jester making another right hand turn taking the ramp back up to the bridge. head over the bridge southbound until you reach the bottom, take a left turn to head back under TC Jester and to the start line. For the half-marathon, you will do this ~10 times then from the start and back over the bridge one last time to the sage will complete roughly 13 miles. For the 10k, you will do this ~4 times. We will provide water and surprise goodies. You can leave a bag at the sag if you want.  *We will not be giving away any awards of any sort. We are not responsible for your health or safety. This a punishing fun run. And as James suggested, "bring a large towel to soak up all your tears". Route: www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/1978787933   If you decide to join us, we would love if you gave to Council on Recovery in Memory of James. Please visit: https://www.councilonrecovery.org/ways-to-give/ You’ll see a checkbox and a box will appear to make your gift in James’s memory.

Logistics

Race Day

Sunday, August 23, 2026

Start Time

7:00 AM

Start Location

TC Jester Blvd, Houston, TX, 77007

Directions

Course Info

Course Type

Loop Course

Terrain

road

Scenery

Urban

Difficulty

Rolling Hills

Course Map

Quality Score

Methodology
Heritage0/20

first year

Size0/15

no finisher counts yet

Momentum3/5

small race — neutral

Loyalty0/20

needs a few years of results

Course & details2/15

limited extras

National draw0/10

no finisher data yet

Front-pack speed0/5

no winner time yet

Weather0/10

typical high 92°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

77°

Afternoon (High)

92°

Hot conditions — adjust pace expectations, prioritize hydration

0.2"

Precipitation

10 mph

Wind

76%

Humidity

Frequently asked

When is the TC Jester Half Marathon & 10k?

The TC Jester Half Marathon & 10k is held on Sunday, August 23, 2026, starting at 7:00 AM.

Where does the TC Jester Half Marathon & 10k take place?

It takes place in Houston, Texas.

What distances does the TC Jester Half Marathon & 10k offer?

The half marathon (13.1 miles).

Is the TC Jester Half Marathon & 10k course flat and good for a PR?

The TC Jester Half Marathon & 10k is a rolling hills, loop course course.

HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.

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