XIT Empty Saddle Race

Lace up your shoes and join us for the 49th Annual Empty Saddle 5k & 1 Mile Run — a fun family friendly race during the legendary XIT Rodeo in Dalhart, Texas. 
 
All proceeds benefit the Dallam Hartley Counties Healthcare Foundation and the new Long Term Care Facility.
 
Details
Date – August 8th, 2026
Location – The race starts at the Pavilion near the baseball fields in Dalhart, Texas, 36.04149° N, 102.51233° W
 
Times
Packet Pickup will be at the Brickstreet Community Center, 610 Denrock Ave., Dalhart, Texas,
on Friday, August 7th from 5PM to 6:30PM or at the Pavilion on Saturday, August 8th after 6AM 
The registration desk will open at 6:00 AM at the Pavilion on Saturday, August 8th
1 Mile Race begins at 7:00 AM and the 5K follows at 7:30 AM
 
Registration 
$35 for a single race, $45 for entering both
Registrations are online only, but volunteers will be available to assist with registration during packet pick up times.
T-shirts will be given to all registrants signing up before July 23, 2026
Entry also includes bib, water stations, and runner’s bag.
Medals for all finishers
 
Join us for a run through Dalhart’s Historic Rodeo Weekend!
 
Bring your friends, family and enjoy the Race. Stay and celebrate small-town traditions with deep roots in Dalhart. Stay for the Parade, Rodeo, Free BBQ, and concert!