The rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and Texas A&M Aggies is making a comeback after a decade-long hiatus. This year, however, the tradition of the Hex Rally, which dates back almost a century, will not be part of the festivities.
The Hex Rally, a tradition started by the University of Texas in 1941 as a way to curse the Aggies and secure victory on the football field, involved lighting a red candle before the annual clash between the two teams. Despite its historical significance, the Texas Exes organization has announced that the event will not take place this year and may not return until the 2024 game.
The Hex Rally has a rich history that dates back to 1941 when students sought to break the A&M jinx. By lighting red candles a week before the game, the students hoped to place a hex on their rivals, leading to a 23-0 victory for UT that year. Although the tradition waned over the years, it was revived in the mid-1980s and became an official event in 1986.
While the Hex Rally won’t be part of this year’s rivalry game, UT alumni are gearing up for the showdown in other ways. Alex Denney, president of the Texas Exes San Antonio chapter, highlighted the significance of the game, likening it to the excitement of a Cowboys game on Thanksgiving. The matchup holds special importance this year as both teams vie for a spot in the SEC championship.
As the Longhorns and Aggies prepare to face off once again, fans across Texas are eagerly anticipating the revival of this historic rivalry. While the Hex Rally may be on hold for now, the spirit of competition and camaraderie between the two teams and their supporters remains as strong as ever.
