Too Hot To Handle Moves to September 12 with a New Race Date, a Tribute to Founder Bob Wallace, and a Flat White Rock Lake Course Built for Fall Marathon Training
DALLAS, Texas (August 14, 2026) — After more than three decades as one of North Texas’ signature summer running traditions, Too Hot To Handle Half Marathon, 10K & 5K is entering a new era.
The 31-year race, will take place in September, moving to Saturday, September 12, 2026, following the City of Dallas Park and Recreation Department’s temporary pause on summer special events during preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup™. Rather than sit out a season, organizers at Run Project embraced the opportunity to evolve one of Dallas’ longest-running races while preserving everything runners have loved since its debut in 1994.
The new date brings more than a change on the calendar. It introduces a race that is perfectly timed for marathon training, a refreshed event identity that honors its founder, and a renewed focus on one of Dallas’ fastest and most scenic running courses.
“Too Hot To Handle has always been more than just a race—it represents where our story began,” said Rob Ostrout for Run Project Race Director. “When Dallas Parks announced the summer events pause because of World Cup preparations, we saw an opportunity instead of a setback. September allows us to continue a race that means so much to our community while giving runners an even better place on the calendar as they prepare for fall and winter races.”
The Race That Started It All
Long before Run Project became one of Texas’ premier race organizations, Too Hot To Handlewas the very first event produced by Bob Wallace, founder of Racing Systems, Inc.
Wallace launched the race in 1994, creating what would become the foundation for more than three decades of professionally produced running events throughout Texas.
Over the years, tens of thousands of runners have crossed Too Hot To Handle finish lines, making it one of the region’s most recognizable summer traditions.
This year, organizers are celebrating that history in a meaningful way.
The Return of Bob the Texas Lizard
One of the most recognizable additions to the 2026 race is the return of Bob the Lizard.
While many runners will see him for the first time, longtime participants may remember the playful mascot from the race’s earliest years.
The Texas lizard first appeared during the original Too Hot To Handle events in the mid-1990s and quickly became part of the race’s personality—a fun reminder that surviving a Texas summer run required a little toughness and a sense of humor.
Today, Bob returns as a tribute to the man who started it all.
The redesigned logo, participant apparel, finisher medal, race signage, and marketing campaign all feature Bob the Lizard as a celebration of Wallace’s lasting impact on the North Texas running community.
“Bringing Bob back was incredibly important to us,” said Tanna Wood, Owner. “It’s our way of honoring Bob Wallace and thanking him for creating a race that has inspired runners for more than 30 years. We hope longtime participants recognize the nostalgia, while newer runners discover a piece of our history.”
A Perfect Fit for Marathon Season
Although Too Hot To Handle has traditionally been known as a summer race, organizers believe the September date may ultimately be one of the biggest improvements in the event’s history.
Every fall, thousands of runners across North Texas begin preparing for goal races such as the BMW Dallas Marathon, New York City Marathon, Houston Marathon, and other endurance events throughout the state.
Too Hot To Handle now fits naturally into those training schedules.
The Half Marathon loops scenic White Rock Lake, giving runners nearly thirteen miles of beautiful waterfront views on one of Dallas’ most popular training routes.
Its flat, fast profile also makes it an ideal course for:
- First-time Half Marathon finishers
- Personal record attempts
- Marathon pace practice
- Race-day nutrition testing
- Long-run training
Whether runners are chasing a Boston qualifying time months down the road or simply preparing for their first endurance event, Too Hot To Handle provides an excellent opportunity to measure fitness before the heart of marathon season.
“This race has always been special, but moving it into September creates a completely different opportunity for runners,” said Rob Ostrout. “It’s no longer just a fun summer challenge—it’s now one of the best tune-up races for marathon season in North Texas.”
More Than a Finish Line
Run Project has built its reputation by creating race experiences that extend well beyond the course itself.
Participants can expect an energetic race morning complete with music, enthusiastic volunteers, and a festive post-race celebration.
Before the race begins, every participant can enjoy a complimentary breakfast taco from Red’s BBQ, fueling up the Texas way before heading to the starting line.
After crossing the finish line, runners receive two complimentary drink tickets, allowing friends and family to celebrate together while enjoying the post-race atmosphere.
Premium Swag Worth Earning
Every registered participant receives:
● A custom red, white, and blue performance racing tank
● A custom finisher medal
● A custom race bib
● Professional chip timing
● Post-race refreshments
● Two complimentary drink tickets
The 2026 race also introduces updated branding across every piece of participant swag, featuring the return of Bob the Lizard.
Early Registration Bonus
To celebrate the new chapter of Too Hot To Handle, Run Project is offering a limited-time registration incentive.
The next 200 runners who register will receive a FREE custom Too Hot To Handle performance headband, designed specifically for training and racing in Texas heat.
Participants simply enter the code:
HEADSTART
during registration.
The promotion is available while supplies last and limited to the first 200 eligible registrations.
Event Information
Too Hot To Handle Half Marathon, 10K & 5K
📅 Saturday, September 12, 2026
📍 Norbuck Park | White Rock Lake | Dallas, Texas
🏃 Half Marathon • 10K • 5K
Registration Includes
● Flat, fast courses
● Half Marathon around White Rock Lake
● Custom performance race tank
● Custom finisher medal
● FREE Red’s BBQ breakfast taco – prior to race
● Two complimentary drink tickets
● Professional chip timing
● Finisher festivities
● New Bob the Lizard branding
Registration and complete event information are available at RunProject.org.
About Run Project
Run Project is Texas’ premier locally owned and female-owned race series, producing some of the state’s most memorable road races while supporting local charities and strengthening the North Texas running community. Guided by its Run Local. Give Local.® mission, Run Project delivers professionally managed events that inspire runners of every age and ability, from first-time 5K participants to experienced marathoners.