If you’re looking for a meaningful race experience in Texas, the Badass Texas Half Marathon in Waco offers more than just miles—it gives runners the chance to support Project Hero, a nonprofit helping veterans and first responders through recovery programs.

There are certain stops along our journey that feel less like destinations and more like home—and for all of us at Project Hero, Waco is one of them.

We are proud to be in Waco and to be a featured charity partner for the 2026 Badass Texas Half Marathon. This event brings together an incredible community of athletes, supporters, and organizations, and we’re honored to be alongside them in support of a mission that goes far beyond race day.

At Project Hero, we work every day to help veterans and first responders affected by injury, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Through cycling, community, and research, we provide a path toward recovery, resilience, and renewed purpose. Since our founding in 2008, we’ve supported thousands of Healing Heroes across the country—helping them rebuild their lives in powerful, lasting ways.

Waco has long been a meaningful part of that journey.

We have many local wounded veterans who participate in our Waco chapter.  Since 2012, our annual Texas Challenge—a multi-day cycling ride covering over 400 miles from San Antonio to Dallas—has taken us through this great city. Year after year, Waco stands out as a highlight. The warm reception we receive here is unmatched, and as we often say, when it comes to Waco, the only thing better than the food is the people.

While at Badass Texas, we invite you to stop by our booth at the Badass Texas Expo. It’s a chance to meet some of our wounded veteran riders and learn more about how Project Hero is making an impact right here in Waco, as well as national programs that support local wounded veterans. Whether you’re a runner, a volunteer, or someone simply looking to get involved, we’d love to meet you.

Our work doesn’t stop at events. Through our community-based programs across the U.S. and our research investments, we’re continuing to push the boundaries of what recovery looks like. One example is our exclusive partnership with Texas A&M, which led to the development of FWD—the first wearable device designed to monitor PTSD. This innovation is helping us gather clinically valid data, proving the effectiveness of our programs and shaping the future of treatment for those wounded veterans who need it most.

As race day approaches this Memorial Day Weekend, we want to wish every participant in the Badass Texas Half Marathon an incredible experience. Run strong, enjoy the moment, and maybe even set that new personal record.

And if you’re inspired to learn more or support our mission, visit us at www.weareprojecthero.org.

• Support veterans and first responders
• Be part of something bigger than the finish line
• Turn your miles into impact

We’ll see you in Waco.

❓ Project Hero + Badass Texas FAQ