Organizers of the Texas Outlaw Challenge, one of the Gulf Coast's largest and longest-running performance boating events, have announced the cancellation of the 2026 edition after nearly two decades of high-octane poker runs, shootouts and parties in the Houston area.
The multi-day gathering, traditionally held in late June around Kemah, Seabrook, and Clear Lake, featured a Gunslinger Poker Run, National Top Speed Shootout, Stampede Street Party on the Kemah Boardwalk, epic pool parties (including the renowned gathering at Kenny Armstrong's residence) and a charity casino gala. It drew hundreds of boats and participants from across the country, boosting local tourism and supporting charitable causes.
In a press release, organizers described the decision as difficult but necessary after "careful consideration and extensive discussions." They emphasized their commitment to maintaining a quality production and stated that stepping away for 2026 was "the most responsible course of action at this time." The event has operated for 18 years, fostering community ties, industry support, and lasting memories among boating enthusiasts.
Event promoter Paul Robinson told Speedboat that the cancellation boils down to economics. "It comes down to economics—funding and sponsor dollars," Robinson said. "I'm not willing to put on a substandard event, and the sponsor support just wasn't there this year to guarantee the high level that we are used to executing. This is an expensive event, and the funding just wasn't there. I wouldn't ask someone to spend the weekend with us and be able to deliver a premier experience for them."
Organizer Jola Mazewski-Dryden echoed those concerns, noting the impact extends beyond participants. "Lots of circumstances, but basically, the sponsors were just not coming to the table, and we will not produce a subpar event," she said. "Paul is always amazing at coming up with great ideas and new event features, but we need the sponsors. And this really hurts the charities that depend on our support. This year, it's going to be very sad because they're not going to get the donations."
Robinson clarified that the cancellation applies only to 2026. "It's just 2026. We're standing down this year," he explained. "It's no fault of anyone—it's just that we set a high standard, and we want to maintain and keep it as we have done for 18 years. So this year, we're going to stand down to make sure we can maintain that."
The Texas Outlaw Challenge has long been celebrated as a marquee event in the performance boating calendar, known for its blend of competitive runs, vibrant social gatherings, and economic contributions to the region. Past editions generated significant local revenue—for instance, organizers estimated around $750,000 for area businesses in a recent year—and included unique touches like custom Outlaw awards.
Organizers expressed deep gratitude to participants, sponsors, volunteers, city partners, and fans who helped build the event's legacy. They indicated that further announcements regarding the event's future would come in due time.
Speedboat will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on any plans for 2027 or beyond. In the meantime, the performance boating community will undoubtedly feel the absence of this Texas-sized tradition this summer.