Space City Elite is showing that anyone belongs on the starting line

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Derwin Graham runs in hopes to inspire people of color to get moving, bringing that message directly to the community.

Throughout the week, you can see members of Space City Elite running through Third Ward, past Texas Southern University, or at Jack Yates High School.

Their message: everyone belongs.

“I was always the only black or brown runner on my team, so I always felt like I had to dim my light and kind of shrink myself in these spaces that run distance.” Graham shared.

The 32-year-old has been a runner most of his life. He was nationally ranked at Copperas Cove High School before joining the Track and Cross Country team at Baylor University.

He co-founded Space City Elite in 2023. The running group is not about staying fit. It’s about representation.

“I think anybody can be elite in their own way, you just have to put in that effort. Find what works for you, and as long as you’re trying, as long as you’re putting in the effort, I think that’s what elite means,” member Stephen Aguilar said.

Graham and members of Space City Elite will be running in the Houston Marathon this Sunday.

About 2026 Chevron Houston Marathon

With all races, including charity entries, officially sold out, the Chevron Houston Marathon is set to make yet another major mark in our city.

Watch ABC13’s Chevron Houston Marathon coverage on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026 live at 6:30 a.m. on TV and anywhere you stream. Just search “ABC13 Houston” in your app store.

In 2026, race weekend is Jan. 9-11, with the schedule of events as follows:

Friday, Jan. 9

Houston Marathon Health and Fitness Expo presented by Houston Methodist
10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
George R. Brown Convention Center

Saturday, Jan. 10

We Are Houston 5K presented by Aramco and Chevron
McKinney and Crawford
8 a.m. start

RunFest
Discovery Green, Jones Lawn
7 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Houston Marathon Health and Fitness Expo presented by Houston Methodist
8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
George R. Brown Convention Center

Sunday, Jan. 11

The Chevron Houston Marathon and Aramco Houston Half Marathon

Start at Congress and Fannin
6:35 a.m. Marathon & Half Marathon Wheelchair & Handcycle Division
6:45 a.m. Aramco Houston Half Marathon Elite Field
6:55 a.m. Chevron Houston Marathon Elite Field
6:55 a.m. Marathon & Half Marathon Open Field