Results/Photos

Date: Aug. 22, 2026 Participant: Kathleen Hanley #491 Race: 2026 Habanero Half Marathon Distance: 13.1 miles

From Mid-Pack to Podium: A Steady Climb to the Top Kathleen Hanley claimed the overall female title in the Half Marathon at the 2026 Habanero Hundred, crossing the line in 2:37:09 (11:54 min/mile pace) and placing 5th overall among 110 finishers. This result is especially notable given the event's reputation as one of Texas' hottest trail races, run with a deliberate high-noon start so athletes face peak heat while still fresh. Hanley's race was defined by a strong negative progression. She opened conservatively, sitting 37th overall and 9th among women after the first mile (12:52), before methodically working through the field. By mile 6 she had climbed to 9th overall on a strong 9:37 split, and by mile 8 she had taken over the overall female leada position she held for the remainder of the race. Her splits after that point remained largely in the 10:4212:33 range, with another quick 9:53 mile at mile 12, showing solid closing strength as she sealed the win. One area to consider for future races is pacing consistency: her mile splits ranged widely, from a fast 9:37 to a slower 15:10, reflecting the physical demands of the deep sand and heat this course is known for. Working on smoothing out effort between aid stations could help produce an even more efficient overall time. Still, the ability to move from 37th to 1st among women over the course of just eight miles reflects strong strategic pacing and a well-executed second halfan encouraging sign for tackling longer distances on this notoriously punishing 7IL Ranch course in the future.