Earliest Race In The Nation, Maybe, In Amarillo Texas On Dec 31

Amarillo is a city that loves any reason to put on the best pair of running shoes in the closet and get some kind of memorabilia. There are 5Ks and other runs galore in our city, but nothing quite like this one. It's possibly the earliest race in the nation, and it takes place on Dec 31. It's the NoSleepTilWolflin Rooster Crow Race and it's back for a second year.

What Is The NoSleepTilWolflin Rooster Crow Race?

If you're a night owl or an extremely early riser, it's a race designed specifically for you. You could also be a person who has insomnia or just can't get to sleep for some reason on the final day of the year. It starts at 4:44 AM sharp. According to a press release, there's little fanfare. They won't be standing around waiting for late arrivals. At 4:44 AM, the race simply begins.

It starts at the intersection of Teckla and Olsen. The route goes through Olsen Park, around Crockett Middle School, up Mount Teckla, around Olsen Park Elementary, and eventually back to the start. The entire length of the run is 4.44 miles.

How To Participate In The NoSleepTilWolflin Rooster Crow Race 2024

It's a pretty simple sign-up process. You look for NoSleepTilWolflin or Insomniac Running Club on Instagram and go from there. The race is capped at 30 racers. According to the press release this is to allow for "ample spacing, moments of loneliness and disorientation" once the race is underway.

The cost to sign up is only $4.44. The press release states that this low price is possible thanks to low overhead, minimal course prep, and minimal street closures. There are no drink stations during the race. You show up disheveled and a little tired and run for the chance to win the Gallo Dorado; the coveted trophy awaiting the fastest runner at the end of the race. There's also going to be some free breakfast pizza for the runners at the end of the race.

Last year, first place went to Luis Garcia. Second place went to Patrick Miller. Third place was awarded to a golden retriever that beat its owner across the finish line. It sounds like a great time, and if you don't plan on getting any sleep anyway it's worth it to see if there is space left for you to sign up.

The Incredible Murals You'll Find In Amarillo

Amarillo is full of astonishingly beautiful artwork in the most unlikely places. Check out our collection of the hidden gems you'll find around town. Some, you'll recognize from Downtown and others you might have to go hunting for.

Gallery Credit: Sarah Clark

Say You're From Amarillo Without Saying You're From Amarillo

Amarillo is a pretty quirky place. We've got the Big Texan, the weird signs, and (obviously) the famed Cadillac Ranch. But more than that, there's a distinct culture of close-knit community, eccentrics, a thriving arts scene, and much more.

The point is, living in Amarillo is a unique experience. Because of that, it's really pretty easy to tell who's a native or a long-time resident. And I can prove it.

Here's a couple of ways you can say you're from Amarillo.....without saying you're from Amarillo.

Gallery Credit: Sarah Clark

Filed Under: Amarillo Texas