THE ART OF DOING SOMETHING ABOUT IT
DALLAS TO AUSTIN
2027 ANNUAL RELAY RUN · MAY 28 TO 30
FOR 2027, THE ROAD IS OPEN
For the first time, anyone can apply to join the 2027 Sayless Projects Annual Relay Run. In past years, runners joined by nomination. This year we’re opening the door, because the people who need this run, and the people this run needs, aren’t always the ones we already know.
This is more than a relay run. It’s The Art of Doing Something About It. Through storytelling and purposeful action, we promote mental health awareness and support efforts to prevent suicide.
The Sayless Projects Annual Relay Run is a Dallas to Austin journey built on commitment, connection, and the stories we carry together. We run for those who no longer can, and for those who keep going.
Applications are open November 1 through November 15, 2026. Keep reading to see what’s ahead. The road to Austin starts here.
MORE THAN A RELAY
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We believe running is a way to bring people together for a greater purpose. This relay exists to inspire action and possibility through the power of shared stories. By running 230+ miles from Dallas to Austin, we aim to promote mental health awareness, support suicide prevention efforts, and spark meaningful change in our communities through storytelling. We run for those who keep going, and for those who no longer can.
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A multi-day relay where twelve people, each carrying their own story, run 230+ miles from Dallas to Austin with one shared goal: raising awareness for mental health and suicide prevention. You don’t have to be the fastest runner to belong here. What matters is your heart, your honesty, and your willingness to show up for your teammates when it gets hard. This relay isn’t just about running. It’s about The Art of Doing Something About It.
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We turn miles into impact through storytelling, resilience, and generosity. Each runner shares their story and raises funds, and together those stories and dollars become something bigger than any one of us. Every step toward Austin is a step toward a world where more people hear the stories that give them hope, and find the support they need to keep going.
DETAILS
WHEN IS IT?
We take off from Dallas on Friday, May 28, 2027 at 7 PM and arrive in Austin Sunday morning, May 30, over Memorial Day weekend.
WHAT IS THE FINANCIAL COMMITMENT?
There’s no fee to apply. If you’re selected, you’ll pay a one-time $150 relay runner fee to activate your donor profile and commit to raising $1,000 to help make the relay possible.
A portion of funds raised goes to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. We’ll set up your donor profile and help you promote your campaign.
HOW MANY RUNNERS WILL THERE BE?
Twelve runners, including two captains, with a support crew alongside us the whole way.
WHAT HAPPENS IF A RUNNER GETS INJURED OR CAN’T CONTINUE?
This is where teamwork matters most. If someone can’t continue, others may need to step up and cover extra miles.
Our captains will check in on everyone throughout, but honest communication is key. If anything feels off physically or mentally, speak up so we can adjust and keep everyone safe.
WHAT’S IT LIKE ON THE ROAD?
Be ready for anything: rain, heat, storms, and the unexpected. We can’t control the weather, but we’ll be as prepared as possible.
All twelve runners travel together in one van for the entire relay. A teammate can bike alongside the runner, with a support vehicle nearby.
We avoid highways and private property, but you’ll still face real conditions: traffic, animals, construction, changing terrain, and running at every hour, from early mornings and midday heat to late nights. Safety comes first, and this will still be demanding. Come physically and mentally ready.
HOW MANY MILES WILL I RUN?
Most runners cover 15 to 20 miles total, in 2 to 3 mile segments. This isn’t about pace. Your captains will match miles to each runner, and we’ll share resources to help you train for the 230+ miles to Austin.
Once we start, someone is always on the road running, day and night, until we reach Austin.
WHAT WILL SAYLESS PROJECTS PROVIDE?
Funds raised together make the relay possible: vehicles, food, gas, lodging in Austin, gear, fuel and hydration, your donor profile, and storytelling content like photography, video, and social posts, created as we’re able and shared where it’ll make the most impact.
WHAT STORY ARE YOU COMMITTING TO SHARING?
We’ll never ask you to share anything you’re not comfortable with. But the more real you’re willing to be, the more impact your story can have.
Your story can center on a challenge you’ve overcome, personally or through someone you love, or simply how you take care of your mental health. It doesn’t have to be tied directly to suicide prevention. We’ll help you shape it around what’s most true to you.
HOW WILL WE SHARE YOUR STORY?
We’ll collect photos for your donor profile and to announce you on Instagram. Your story may be shared through your donor profile, our Instagram, events leading up to the run, and content from the relay itself, as we can and where it’ll make the most impact.
We’ll ask you to accept Instagram collaboration posts about your journey. You can archive them later, but they make a real difference in fundraising. We also encourage you to share your training and reflections on your own socials.
WHY SHOULD I APPLY?
Because this is bigger than the miles. You’ll push your limits physically, mentally, and emotionally, alongside a team that has your back on and off the road, while raising awareness for mental health and suicide prevention. If you’re ready to turn your miles into something bigger than yourself, we’d love to have you.
READY TO APPLY FOR 2027?
Runners are selected by the Sayless Projects board. Every application is reviewed using the same criteria, and selections are based on what you share with us, not on who you know. We’re not looking for the fastest runners. We’re looking for people who are ready to show up. Here’s what we look for:
Your story. What you’ve lived through, what you carry, and why it brought you here.
Your connection to the mission. How your reasons tie back to inspiring action and possibility through shared stories, mental health awareness, and suicide prevention.
How you show up for a team. Twelve runners, one van, very little sleep. We want to know how you lead, how you follow, and how you take care of the people around you.
Your references. Two people who know you well and can speak to who you are.
Your commitment. Being honest about your schedule, your training, and the fundraising goal.
Timeline
November 1, 2026: Applications open
November 15, 2026: Applications close at 11:59 PM CT
December 2026: Our board finalizes selections, and every applicant hears from us, selected or not
Applicants must be 21 or older.
If this sounds like something you want to take on, fill out the application below by November 15, 2026. Take your time with it. Be honest, be yourself, and share only what you’re comfortable sharing.
We’ll be in touch in December either way. Questions? Email team@saylessprojects.com