Runners from across North Texas and Southern Oklahoma will converge on Gainesville on Halloween morning for a special event that raises money for our community hospital.
The 29th running of the North Texas Medical Center Foundation’s Halloween Hustle 5K/10K is set for Saturday, Oct. 31. The event raises money for the NTMC Foundation, which in turn uses the proceeds to purchase much-needed equipment for the hospital, including a new $1.25 million machine Cardiac CT machine which is currently in use at NTMC.
“Whether you are a serious runner, or someone who just wants to get some exercise and support a great cause, this is always a fun event,” said NTMC Foundation Executive Director Darin Allred. “We have had more than 500 registrants each of the last three years and we expect a big turnout again in 2026. With all the proceeds going to help us pay off the new Cardiac CT machine, it makes the event even more special. This potential life-saving technology is very important for Cooke County.”
Runners and walkers of all ages will be traversing a 5K (3.1 mile) or 10K (6.2 mile) course. The race is USATF certified and will feature digital bib timers. The race will start and finish at North Texas Medical Center, 1900 Hospital Boulevard in Gainesville. Race warm-up is slated for 8 a.m. with a race time of 8:30 a.m. The Gainesville Jazzercise team will once again be assisting with the pre-race warm-up.
Online registration is now available at www.ntmcfoundation.org or entry forms can be obtained at the North Texas Medical Center information desk.
Awards will be given to the top male and female finishers in each age division and to the school district and business or organization with the highest number of participants. There is also an award given to the top overall male and female finisher in both the 5K and 10K. A costume contest will be held with prizes for both an adult and student winner.
Entry fee is $25 per person for the 5K and $35 per person for the 10K if submitted by Oct. 16. You must register by Oct. 16 to guarantee a race T-shirt.
A $12 entry fee is available for student teams of 10 or more when submitted together. Student teams must be composed of students and one adult supervisor. To sign up a school team, please contact Darin Allred. Parents have the opportunity to register as individuals at the regular race price.
Local businesses are encouraged to become a race sponsor. There are several sponsorship levels available.
Late registration is Oct. 17-31 and is $30 for the 5K and $40 for the 10K. Packet Pick-Up is Thursday and Friday, Oct. 29-30, from 3-6 p.m. at NTMC and from 7-8 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 31.
For additional information on the Hustle, please call the North Texas Medical Center Foundation office at (940) 612-8460.
