Decker Challenge

Austin, Texas, United States

Dec 13, 2026 - Sunday

1mi, 5k, Half-marathon

Race Information

In 1979, Austin Runners Club organized a race on the roads around Decker Lake in east Austin and the Decker Challenge was born. Get ready and join us on December 10, 2023 for the 45th running of one of Austin’s oldest and most iconic races.
 
The Decker Challenge is a family-friendly event that includes competitive Half Marathon and 5K distances, plus a fun Kids Mile. Challenge yourself on this legendary course and conquer the famous hills of Decker. Once you cross the finish line, celebrate with your friends, family and fellow runners at the finisher’s party. Half Marathon and 5K finishers receive the famous Decker t-shirt, highly-coveted and hard-earned finisher's medal and free race photos.
 
In addition to the competitive races, there is a fun Kids Mile as part of the overall race experience. Kids will embark on a moderately challenging 1-mile course and cross the same finish line as the Half Marathon and 5K races. All Kids Mile finishers will receive a commemorative wristband.

Related Events

Zilker Relays

Date: Sep 11, 2026 - Friday

Size: 1,000 - 5,000 participants

Location: Austin, Texas

Road

10mi

Relay

Daisy Dash

Date: Oct 18, 2026 - Sunday

Size: 500 - 1,000 participants

Location: Sunset Valley, Texas

Trail

1mi

5k

10k

Decker Challenge

Date: Dec 13, 2026 - Sunday

Size: 500 - 1,000 participants

Location: Austin, Texas

Road

1mi

5k

Half-marathon

👍 Run Pick of the Month: Red, White and Blue Half Marathon - Austin

📍 Austin - June 14, 2026

💸 SAVE $5 On Your Entry. Use Code save5

😄 Why We Like This Run

✅ Fun, fitness, and patriotic pride
✅ Multiple distances from kids’ dash to half marathon
✅ Includes official shirt, finisher medal, and unique awards for age groups & overall winners

Get ready to race along the Tanger Outlets, where every finisher scores a soft patriotic tee, unique medal, and the chance to snag a coveted Bigfoot Trophy for top placings.

From the pint-size Kids Dash to high-energy 2, 4, 8-mile and half-marathon distances, it’s a sun-splashed summer morning of music, snacks, cheering crowds, and serious fun for runners of all ages and paces!

Get Event Info

 

Get a Training Plan for this Run

Receive 2 FREE Weeks of personalised run training from our friends at Runna

The Runna app, the ultimate running coach in your pocket, gives you personalised programs that sync with your favourite devices, includes strength and mobility training, and offers complete support.

You get 2 weeks for free!

Learn more about Runna. Click the link below.

Check Out Runna

🏃 Looking For More Runs Near Austin?

Find another distance:

Race Facts

Race Size: 500 - 1,000

Elevation: Fast and Flat

Course Type: Road

Boston Qualifier: No

Kids Run: Yes

Where to Stay

Use this map to find hotels and airbnb accommodation near this race location.