Races
Brazos Bend
Needville, Texas. Flat park loops. Alligators on the berm. December humidity.
- Start1,234 ft
- High1,242 ft
- Low1,037 ft
- Finish1,037 ft
Geometryderived
The cruxAlligator Alley loops in December humidity (near mile 65)
Course DNA
The Course
Brazos Bend runs 100 mi through Texas. +4,622 ft gain and -4,819 ft loss. Surfaces skew 90% dirt path / 10% gravel. Alligator Alley loops in December humidity. High point near 1,242 ft. Low near 1,037 ft. December temps run 45°F to 85°F. The course rewards patience early and punishes rushed descents after mile 50.
The Work
Train for 4,622 feet of climbing across 100 mi. Back-to-back long runs on similar surfaces. Practice power-hiking grades above 15 percent. 32 hours total means limited margin: rehearse fueling every 45 to 60 minutes and downhill eccentric work weekly. Technicality 5/10. Build a block that simulates the crux near mile 65.
Kit
December in Texas: plan for 45°F to 85°F. Mandatory shell if rain is in forecast. Headlamp with spare batteries if 32 hours pushes past dark. Poles help on sustained climbs above mile 25. Vest capacity for 2 liters minimum. Shoes matched to 90% dirt path: lugs for mud, rock plate if the course turns technical after mile 50.
Race Day
Hold effort through mile 25. The field often splits on the first big climb after mile 50. Alligator Alley loops in December humidity near mile 65 is where time is won or lost. Walk the steep pinches. Run the flats and gentle downhills. Crew at major aids: socks, calories, ice if hot. Transitions under 5 minutes when possible. Final third is 33 miles of fatigue management. Finish with reserve for the last descent.
Official siteBack to racesPredict your timeTrain for this raceCheck readinessFoot care plan