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The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge

Sat, Dec 12, 2026 · Melrose, MA

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Events

EventDistanceStartPrice now
3.5 Mile XC Run3.5 Miles12:00 PM$35.00
2 Mile Walk2 Miles12:00 PM$25.00

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About this race

We are looking forward to this year's 20th edition of the race - MHNC XX! We plan to have some special features associated with the event, including some historical images of the famous (infamous?) first race held after a several inch snowfall. The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge is excited to welcome runners and walkers again for this year's 20th round over the hilly Mount Hood Golf Club. This race is a unique 3.5-mile cross-country race in the Greater Boston area in that the course changes every year. Runners look forward to a vigorous team competition or competing individually, a challenging course, and vying for the coveted nutcrackers! Others arrive festively dressed for this December race, and come for the experience and challenge of XC running. There is also a non-competitive 2-mile walk for those who want an easier option while still enjoying the festive nature of the event, and to help support the race beneficiaries. Race Start Time 12:00 pm for both the 3.5-mile XC race and 2-mile walk. Starting line this year is 0.2 miles from the Melrose Fish & Game Club (see below). Venue The host venue is the Melrose Fish & Game Club. For those unfamiliar with this location, …

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directions are the same as for the Mount Hood clubhouse except that you take the road to the left of the clubhouse (Stillman Rd.) and travel 1/3 mile further. The majority of race parking is closer to the clubhouse, so be prepared for a warm-up walk or jog to reach the venue. Race limit 250 entrants XC Team registration procedure => See Teams Info page Awards Top 3 M+F overall Top 3 M+F in age divisions (19-under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-over) Top 3 teams in each division The walk is a non-competitive event. Amenities • Nutcracker figurines to awards winners • Melrose Fish & Game Club’s famous post-race pasta lunch • Cash bar Beneficiaries Housing Families, Inc. and the Melrose HS XC teams. Strollers No strollers allowed Race day registration hours 10:00 – 11:30 am at the Melrose Fish & Game Club Bib pick-up location & hours • Fri. 12/11/26: 3 - 7 pm at Marathon Sports, 401 Main St., Melrose • Race day: 10:00 - 11:45 am, Melrose Fish & Game Club

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