DECKER CHALLENGE

AUSTIN'S LEGENDARY DECKER CHALLENGE

It all began in 1979, when Austin Runners Club organized a race along the roads surrounding Decker Lake in East Austin. Nearly five decades later, the Decker Challenge remains a cherished part of Austin's running history, known for its legendary hills and the runners who return year after year to conquer them.

Join us December 13, 2026, for the 48th Annual Decker Challenge, presented by Next Level Urgent Care, and become part of one of Austin's longest-running racing traditions.

Three distances. One legendary finish line.

• Decker Half Marathon: Take on the famous hills, challenging climbs, and hard-earned finish that have defined this race for generations.

• Deck the Halls 5K: Enjoy a festive race benefiting the Housing Authority of Travis County (HATC), supporting affordable housing and programs that help residents build brighter futures.

• Kids Mile: Young runners take on their own moderately challenging one-mile course, cross the same finish line as the adults, and earn a commemorative wristband.

After conquering your course, stick around for the finisher celebration with friends, family, and fellow runners. Half Marathon and 5K participants can also look forward to the official race shirt, finisher medal, and free race photos.

Whether you're chasing a championship, conquering the hills, or making memories with your family, there's a place for you at Decker.

The Decker Challenge. The Austin Distance Challenge. You might be wondering: What's Austin Runners Club got against an easy run?

Absolutely nothing. We love those, too.

But since 1974, Austin Runners Club has believed that running is about more than putting one foot in front of the other. It's about discovering what you're capable of, building confidence, finding community, and growing a little stronger with every mile.

That's why we love a good challenge.

The Decker Challenge gives you 13.1 miles of legendary hills to conquer. And if one challenge isn't enough, there's the Austin Distance Challenge, a season-long journey through some of Austin's most memorable races, with different tracks for different goals.

You don't have to be the fastest runner. You don't have to run every race. You just have to be willing to see where running can take you.

Because the biggest challenge isn't beating someone else. It's discovering what you're capable of.

Explore the Austin Distance Challenge

Saturday, December 12, 2026

The Loop Running Supply — Hyde Park (108 W. 43rd St., Austin, TX 78751)

RUN FOR A REASON

Every mile makes a difference.

When you participate in the Decker Challenge, presented by Next Level Urgent Care, you're doing more than taking on Austin's legendary hills. You're supporting programs that strengthen our community.

Marathon Kids: Inspiring the Next Generation

Proceeds from the Decker Challenge benefit Marathon Kids, a nonprofit dedicated to helping children discover the joy of movement and build healthy habits that last a lifetime.

Founded in 1995, Marathon Kids uses evidence-based programming to encourage children to run, walk, and move toward ambitious goals, including completing the equivalent of four or more marathons over a season or school year.

With support from coaches, PE teachers, and community volunteers, Marathon Kids has reached more than 2.5 million children since its founding, helping young runners build confidence, resilience, and healthier futures.

Deck the Halls 5K: Running for Stronger Communities

The Housing Authority of Travis County (HATC) returns as a beneficiary of the Deck the Halls 5K.

Since 1975, HATC has helped families access safe, affordable housing and opportunities for greater stability and independence. Through housing assistance and supportive programs, the organization works to create stronger futures for Travis County residents.

By participating in the Deck the Halls 5K, you're helping support that mission while celebrating the season with Austin's running community.

Two great causes. One community coming together, one mile at a time.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How difficult is the Decker Half Marathon?

There's a reason our logo looks like an elevation profile!

Decker isn't known for just one or two big hills. The course has almost no flat terrain, with continuous climbs and descents that challenge runners from start to finish.

The legendary Mile X Hill may get the attention, but it's the relentless ups and downs that make Decker one of Austin's most distinctive half marathons.

Come prepared for the hills. All of them.

Is there an early start for the Half Marathon?

Yes! We offer a 7:30 AM early start for Half Marathon participants who anticipate needing additional time to complete the course.

Early starters are not eligible for competitive awards at the Decker Challenge or competitive results and standings in the Austin Distance Challenge.

They can still complete the race and receive their finisher rewards. All participants must finish by 12:00 PM, when the course closes.

Will there be water stations along the course?

Yes! The Decker Half Marathon features six water stops, including one that runners pass twice, providing multiple opportunities to hydrate throughout the race.

Is parking available at the race?

Absolutely! There is plenty of parking at the Travis County Expo Center for participants and spectators.

We recommend arriving early to allow time to park and make your way to the starting line.

Can someone else pick up my race packet?

Yes! Someone else may pick up your packet if they bring a copy or photo of your ID.

For privacy and security, please don't email identification documents to us.

Are refunds, deferrals, or registration transfers available?

All registrations are final. We do not offer refunds, deferrals, or transfers.

If you purchased registration insurance during checkout, you may be eligible to file a claim directly with the insurance provider, subject to the terms of your policy.

We encourage participants to consider registration insurance when signing up, as we understand that unexpected circumstances can arise.

Can I switch between the Half Marathon and 5K?

Distance changes may be available before race day, depending on registration deadlines and event capacity.

Please email races@austinrunners.org with your name and registration details. Any applicable fees or price differences will be communicated before the change is processed.

Can I register on race day?

Registration will remain available as long as space permits, subject to event deadlines. We recommend registering early to secure your preferred shirt size and avoid last-minute price increases.

Can I walk the Half Marathon or 5K?

Absolutely! Walkers are welcome in both distances, provided they can finish by 12:00 PM, when the course closes.

Half Marathon participants who anticipate needing additional time are encouraged to consider the 7:30 AM early start. The regular 8:00 AM start allows four hours to finish, while the early start provides four and a half hours.

Please remember that early starters are not eligible for competitive awards at Decker or competitive standings in the Austin Distance Challenge.

Are strollers or dogs allowed?

Strollers are welcome in both the Half Marathon and 5K, with certain safety guidelines. Given Decker's challenging hills and continuous elevation changes, we ask participants with strollers to exercise extra caution, maintain control on descents, and be mindful of other runners.

Dogs are not permitted on either course due to event insurance requirements and permitting restrictions. We appreciate your understanding as we work to keep the event safe and enjoyable for everyone.

I'm participating in the Austin Distance Challenge. Do I need to register separately?

Yes! Austin Distance Challenge registration does not include individual race entries. You'll need to register separately for the Decker Challenge.

Make sure you're registered for the distance required by your selected track. You can review the requirements on the Austin Distance Challenge website.

Still have questions?

We're happy to help! Email us at races@austinrunners.org.

2025 Decker Challenge Photos

You can find past race results for the Decker Challenge and other ARC races here.