Mystery Operations started in April 2021. The initial event was planned as an annual occurrence and was called the Mystery Lights Run ‘N Gun, referencing the Marfa Mystery Lights seen from the hosting ranch. In October, attendance included approximately 60 competitors and 30 range officers, as budgeted, despite some cancellations due to Covid. We wrapped up awards and had a wonderful meal in the ranch barn.

After several months, the match director decided to expand the event to include long-range shooting and team competition. Additionally, pistol caliber carbines were permitted following a resupply. Held in June 2022 at the same high desert ranch, the Mystery Lights Extreme Team RNG proved to be another success, concluding with another well-organized meal for participants.

The second Mystery Lights Run ‘N Gun was interrupted by ranch trust probate issues, leading to expansion onto new properties. After securing the Rio Bravo Ranch in Presidio in 2023 and recognizing the name no longer fit, we rebranded as Mystery Operations LLC. The upcoming year will mark the fourth annual Rio Bravo Run ‘N Gun event. We greatly appreciate the partnership that has been established with the Cecil’s, proprietors of the Rio Bravo Ranch.

In 2023, another significant partnership was established with the H.W. Lewis Ranch in Leakey. The Lockhart family has been highly receptive, allowing us to host two annual events at their venue. Jade Helm, our annual team and solo match, commenced in November 2023 and is scheduled for its third iteration this October. Furthermore, we identified that the challenging canyons of the Texas Hill Country provided an ideal setting for introducing an innovative run-and-gun event format.

The Bailout Biathlon commenced in May 2024. This event features three distinct courses, each dedicated exclusively to pistol, carbine, or precision rifle disciplines. Competitors' results from each course are aggregated to determine the overall winners. Performance is assessed using a proprietary and comprehensive scoring system that effectively quantifies competitors’ achievements. The Bailout Biathlon was successfully conducted again this year and received highly positive feedback.

2024 marked a significant achievement for Mystery Operations with the acquisition of a third venue. Dos Hermanos Ranch, a premier hunting ranch in San Angelo, served as an outstanding venue. In August 2024, we organized our inaugural dedicated night match, Midnight Mayhem. Although participation was limited, which may have been influenced by a multitude of exterior factors, our title sponsor Run and Gun Solutions provided invaluable support to ensure the event’s success.

In 2025, LeeRoy, the ranch owner, graciously invited us to return for two events. The Texas Run and Gun Circuit remains highly competitive, and our objective was to surpass our previous standards with our most demanding event to date. The Rifleman Round-Up consisted of a 6-mile course incorporating 12 stages. Competitors selected from five classes: Reserves completed 6 miles and 6 stages, Regulars and Bikes undertook 12 miles with 12 stages, while Elites and E-Bikes challenged themselves with 24 stages across 18 miles.

With the return of Midnight Mayhem in August this year, San Angelo and the Dos Hermanos Ranch have solidified their reputation as premier venues for what is now referred to as “Modern American Biathlon.” At Midnight Mayhem, competitors who remained until the awards ceremony at 6 AM enjoyed the most impressive prize table we have offered to date. We are extremely grateful for the exceptional support from our sponsors.

Our season concludes with the massively sold-out 3rd annual Jade Helm 25 Event—thanks to all our sponsors for their ongoing support. But before year's end, we'll host an overnight Ruck-N-Gun/Ride-N-Gun in November. The Apache Warpath Invitational is exclusive to range officers, sponsors, and top 25 competitors from the points race. While it will be scored, instead of focusing on performance and prizes, we will be focused on fun, fellowship, and fundraising.

The entry fee for AWP will be solely a donation. Frontline Healing Foundation is a 501(c)(3) which was built to unite the power of social responsibility, sustainability, and the healing of our warriors – our Nation’s Military, First Responders, and Law Enforcement Officers. Although Mystery Operations draws top competitors from around the nation, it is essential to recognize our unified potential to achieve objectives greater than individual accomplishments.

As this remarkable year ends, it's difficult to picture 2026. As match director, I plan to maintain our momentum. While time for more events is limited by family and work, we can continue to enhance our operations through creative thinking and dedication. Run-and-gun has existed for just over 20 years—where will it go in the next decade? With ongoing support from all stakeholders, the prospects for the next 20 years are beyond current estimation.

Eric Wilmarth

Match Director