2026 Race the Mesa Trail Run

Purpose: To bring recognition to the past, present, and future veterans of the Navajo Nation and throughout this great Nation. This race is more than a run, each step taken on the trail represents gratitude for those who have served.

Race the Mesa is designed to become a meaningful annual tradition. Participants will have the opportunity to submit the name of a Veteran to be printed on the race shirt in recognition of their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to our country. Register by July 10, 2026, 12pm, to guarantee Veteran name on shirt.

As an added incentive: 

• For every year a participant runs in honor of the same Veteran, a star will be added next to that Veteran’s name.
• Example: Loren Morgan – USMC ★★★★ (indicates 4 years of race participation in honor of this Veteran)

This event is about remembrance, commitment, perseverance, and community. Together, we run to ensure their legacy continues — not just for one day, but for generations.

All participants are required to sign a waiver before the run. Sponsors are not responsible for theft or injuries. This is a drug and alcohol-free event.

Packet Pick-Up: July 24th from 4pm to 8pm at Crownpoint Flea Market and the day of race from 6:30am to 7:45am.

Online registration: Closes on July 23rd at 12am

On-site race day registration: Starting at 6:45am and ends at 7:45am. (Please note, On-site registration may only include a race bib and will not include a race shirt or finisher medal, depending on inventory of dri-fit shirts and medals.

Event Schedule: Sunday, July 26, 2026

10K Start: 8:00am

5K Start: 8:00am

1-Mile Run/Walk: 8:10am

Awards:

• All registered runners will receive a race dri-fit t-shirt and finisher medal
• 10K - Top 3 Overall Male and Female (Pottery Water Jug)
• 5K - Top 3 Overall Male and Female (Pottery Water Jug)

Course: 

Start and finish at Crownpoint Elementary School (soccer field). The course is an out-and-back route featuring a mix of pavement, dirt, and rocky trails. The route will be clearly marked with white flour, orange cones, and course spotters positioned throughout the race to help guide runners.

Water checkpoints will be available at the 5K and 10K turnaround points. Runners are encouraged to bring water hydration packs to stay properly hydrated during the race.

1-mile course is all paved.

Water and snacks will be provided to all runners at the finish.

Timing System: The 10K and 5K races will start at the same time. Each runner’s bib will have a tear tag. When runners cross the finish line, the tag will be removed from the bib and placed on a results board, where the runner’s name and finishing time will be recorded.

2025 Overall Winner

Male 10K - 1st Laryn Platero 43:48  2nd  Rocky Sanchez 51:06  3rd Dewayne Carl 51:52

Female 10K - 1st Taylor Begay 49:59  2nd Sky Izzo 55:07  3rd Jessica Louis 57:18

Male 5K - 1st Jon Sanchez 21:45  2nd Chad Peters 24:49  3rd Jay Becenti 25:08 

Female 5K - 1st Kaitlyn Begay 26:30  2nd Kasey Chapman  3rd Mia Arthur 28:17

Medical Support / Security: Will be provided by Crownpoint Emergency Medical Services and the Navajo Nation Police Department.

Refund: There is no refund, transfer of BIB only. 

For more information: Contact Loren Morgan 505-930-2610 or Ljmdesign@hotmail.com