Where to Catch San Antonio’s Local Racing Events
San Antonio offers diverse racing events year-round. You can tackle Spartan obstacles at Sandy Oaks Ranch, watch live Quarter Horse racing at Retama Park in summer, join paddling challenges along the San Antonio River, or line up for cycling competitions at McAllister Park.
For multisport athletes, Cal Tri San Antonio hosts multiple triathlon distances for all skill levels. The city's racing calendar guarantees excitement whether you prefer cheering from the sidelines or competing yourself.
Experience the Triple Challenge of Spartan Racing at Sandy Oaks Ranch
Gear up for an adrenaline-filled weekend as Spartan Race returns to Sandy Oaks Ranch on November 22–23, 2025. This venue near San Antonio strings together native woodlands, creek crossings, and rolling pastures into a fresh obstacle layout.
Choose from three race formats: the 5K Sprint (~20 obstacles), the 10K Super (~25 obstacles), and the 21K Beast (~30 obstacles). Complete all three for the Trifecta Weekend medal. Expect signature tests like the Atlas Carry, Spear Throw, and Rope Climb.
You can race solo or as a team (group starts and periodic promotions available), with military and first-responder discounts commonly offered. Whether you're competitive or bringing the family, Sandy Oaks provides a late-season test of strength and mental grit.
Gallop to the Finish Line at Retama Park's Summer Racing Season
When summer heats up, Retama Park in Selma (just northeast of San Antonio) hosts live Quarter Horse racing across a compact season—June 26 through August 16, 2025—with first post typically around 6:15 p.m. on designated race days.
The stakes lineup features fan favorites including the TQHA Sale Futurity (G1), drawing deep fields and quick times. Expect affordable admission (often around $5, kids under 5 free), free parking, and on-site mobile wagering options.
Theme nights such as military appreciation Thursdays and live-music Fridays add to the atmosphere. Retama's easy access—about 20 minutes from downtown—makes it an ideal summer racing destination.
Paddle Your Way Through Race the River's Scenic Waterway Challenge
San Antonio's paddling scene shines during Race the River, an expanded series set on restored stretches of the San Antonio River Basin. On April 12, the Mission Reach course showcases riparian habitat between Roosevelt Ave. and the historic missions. Choose the 7-mile Pro or 5-mile Amateur distance with morning starts.
Categories usually include solo and tandem divisions for varied skill levels. Beyond competition, the event doubles as environmental engagement, spotlighting river stewardship. Post-race, stick around for the awards and a friendly after-party with fellow paddlers.
Pedal Power: SAKOB Triple Threat Cycling Series at McAllister Park
Mountain bikers of all ages can sharpen skills at the SAKOB Triple Threat series, returning to McAllister Park for 2025 with three dates: June 8, June 29, and July 13. The loop near the pump track blends singletrack, punchy climbs, and flowy sections—great for benchmarking summer fitness.
Key tips:
- Register early on BikeReg for individual rounds or the full series.
- Pre-ride the course to dial tire pressure, fueling, and pacing.
- Select your junior, novice, or advanced category for a fair race day.
Your entry supports San Antonio Kids on Bikes, helping more local children get rolling.
Swim, Bike, Run: Cal Tri San Antonio's Multisport Competitions
For triathletes, Cal Tri San Antonio on May 4, 2025 at Texas Ski Ranch (New Braunfels) offers 18 event options—from Olympic and Sprint to Youth Sprint and popular swim-run/bike-run combos. Courses are clearly mapped, with typical water temps ~73°F and air temps ~58–81°F this time of year.
Expect clean sightlines on the swim, smooth road cycling, and flat-to-rolling run segments. Parking is free, and staging is well organized. Registration caps mean races sell out, so commit early. Cal Tri's inclusive structure welcomes first-timers through seasoned age-groupers, keeping the focus on safety and community.
Two Wheels and Big Air: BMX Racing at Lone Star BMX
For bar-to-bar action, Lone Star BMX (off Blanco Road) anchors San Antonio's USA BMX-sanctioned scene. The track runs weekly practice and race nights for riders from balance-bike ages through elite classes.
What to expect:
- A professionally shaped track with rhythm sections and safe jump progression.
- A welcoming, family-friendly infield and spectator area.
- USA BMX membership required for sanctioned racing, with loaner gear sometimes available for beginners.
Whether you're chasing points or enjoying the show, expect fast laps and a tight-knit community.
Local Racing Events Every Season: Your Year-Round Calendar
San Antonio's race calendar stays full: spring brings Cal Tri San Antonio and Race the River; summer stacks SAKOB rounds, Retama Park racing, and 5K series; fall delivers the Spartan Trifecta Weekend, half marathons, themed runs, and paddling sprints; and winter features Hill Country trail events and training blocks to keep you race-ready. However you like to move—run, ride, paddle, or cheer—there's a start line waiting.
Conclusion
Whether you're scaling obstacles at Sandy Oaks, cheering Quarter Horses at Retama Park, paddling the Mission Reach, ripping laps at McAllister, stringing together a triathlon, or watching BMX holeshots at Lone Star, San Antonio's racing scene has a lane for you. Open your calendar, pick your distance, and join a vibrant local community that races year-round.
