The Christmas Showdown: Team Santa vs. Team Tacuache

 Christmas Showdown: Team Santa vs. Team Tacuache!  Saturday, December 12, 2026 | Mission Hike & Bike Trails – Mission, TX

5K Run – $30 | 1-Mile Run/Walk – $15

 The ultimate Christmas showdown is coming to the Rio Grande Valley!

This holiday season, we're bringing a little North Pole magic and RGV pride together for an unforgettable Christmas-themed race! It's Team Santa vs. Team Tacuache, and YOU get to decide which team takes home the bragging rights!

Whether you're running for a personal best, walking with family, or simply joining in on the holiday fun, this event is all about bringing our community together for a great cause.

 TEAM SANTA VS. TEAM TACUACHE 劣 Which team will YOU represent?

When registering, participants will have the opportunity to choose their team:

 TEAM SANTA – Represent the North Pole and bring the Christmas spirit!

 TEAM TACUACHE – Represent the RGV and show everyone how the Valley does Christmas!

 HOW DOES THE SHOWDOWN WORK? This is a friendly competition between both teams to see who can bring the most finishers across the finish line!

Choose Team Santa or Team Tacuache when registering. Run or walk your registered distance. Every participant who finishes by 8:45 AM earns one point for their team. The team with the most total finishers by 8:45 AM will be crowned the Christmas Showdown Champion! It's not about which team is the fastest — it's about which team shows up, finishes strong, and brings the most holiday spirit!

Every finisher counts. Every participant matters. Let the showdown begin!

 CHOOSE YOUR RACE SHIRT! Participants will also have the option to choose between two different Christmas-themed T-shirt designs during registration!

Pick your favorite design and get ready to celebrate the holiday season in style.

 RUNNING FOR PAULINA CANTU More than just a race — we're coming together for Paulina.

This year's Christmas Showdown is proudly benefiting Paulina Cantu and the Cantu family, helping provide financial relief and raise awareness of childhood cancer.

Paulina is a senior at La Joya High School in La Joya, Texas, where she is a member of the cheerleading squad. She is a positive, self-driven young woman who always strives to do her best and puts others before herself.

In addition to her high school studies, Paulina is pursuing an associate degree through a dual-enrollment program, with the goal of earning it before graduation.

As Paulina battles lymphoma, our community has an opportunity to rally around her and her family with love, encouragement, and support.

Join Diamond Dynasty Royalty, the Diamonds for Hope Foundation, and Puro 9:56 Racing as we come together to make a difference.

Whether you run, walk, volunteer, cheer, or become a sponsor, your participation helps support Paulina and the Cantu family during this challenging journey.

Two teams. One community. One meaningful cause. ❤️

 5K AWARDS Overall Awards

Top Overall Male Finisher Top Overall Female Finisher Age Group Awards

The top 3 male and top 3 female finishers in each age division will receive an award.

Age Division Awards 13 & Under Top 3 Male & Female 14–19 Top 3 Male & Female 20–29 Top 3 Male & Female 30–39 Top 3 Male & Female 40–49 Top 3 Male & Female 50–59 Top 3 Male & Female 60–69 Top 3 Male & Female 70+ Top 3 Male & Female  PACKET PICKUP Friday, December 11, 2026

 Valley Running Co.

1701 W. Dove Ave., Suite J, McAllen, TX 78504

 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM

Participants are encouraged to pick up their race packets during this time to ensure a smooth race morning.

 EVENT DETAILS Date: Saturday, December 12, 2026

Location: Mission Hike & Bike Trails, Mission, Texas

Distances & Registration:

5K Run – $30 1-Mile Run/Walk – $15 Team Showdown Deadline: 8:45 AM (all finishers must cross the finish line by this time to count toward their team's total).

 READY TO PICK YOUR SIDE? Will the North Pole take the crown, or will the RGV defend its turf?

TEAM SANTA  vs. TEAM TACUACHE 

Choose your team, pick your shirt, and join us for a holiday celebration filled with friendly competition, community spirit, and a cause that truly matters.

Let's race for Paulina! ❤️