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Course Highlights
The Decker Challenge earned its name honestly — the course rolls through the scenic east Austin countryside around Decker Lake, throwing steady climbs and descents at runners for all 13.1 miles. Hosted at Travis County Expo Center, the start/finish area provides ample space for spectators and post-race festivities. The 2026 edition features a special edition sunlight-reactive finisher medal and a magic 4-in-1 long sleeve tee that reveals hidden messages when you sweat.
Race Details
The 48th Decker Challenge takes place December 13, 2026. The half marathon starts at 8:00 a.m. (early start option at 7:30 a.m. for those not competing for awards). The 5K starts at 8:15 a.m. and the Kids Mile at 8:45 a.m. Packet pickup is the Saturday before at The Loop Running Supply in Austin. Post-race, Zilker Brewing provides finisher beverages — Icy Boys and Heavenly Daze.
Championship Pedigree
The 2026 Decker Challenge Half Marathon has been selected as the RRCA Texas State Championship Race, drawing elite runners from across the state chasing podium spots and age group titles. Awards are presented to overall winners and age group champions in 10-year increments. Live participant tracking is powered by Brooksee’s Laurel Technology, keeping spectators in the loop on split-by-split progress.
Why Runners Love It
Organized by the Austin Runners Club, the Decker Challenge is a community cornerstone with nearly 50 years of history. The hilly course serves as a perfect winter fitness test, and the December date makes it a popular goal race for runners building toward spring marathons. The post-race barn atmosphere at Travis County Expo Center, complete with craft beer, creates a true celebration of the running community.
Register
Sign up through the Austin Runners Club or via the Austin Distance Challenge registration portal. Early bird spots fill quickly for this championship event.
Austin, Texas United States
Course Highlights
The Decker Challenge earned its name honestly — the course rolls through the scenic east Austin countryside around Decker Lake, throwing steady climbs and descents at runners for all 13.1 miles. Hosted at Travis County Expo Center, the start/finish area provides ample space for spectators and post-race festivities. The 2026 edition features a special edition sunlight-reactive finisher medal and a magic 4-in-1 long sleeve tee that reveals hidden messages when you sweat.
Race Details
The 48th Decker Challenge takes place December 13, 2026. The half marathon starts at 8:00 a.m. (early start option at 7:30 a.m. for those not competing for awards). The 5K starts at 8:15 a.m. and the Kids Mile at 8:45 a.m. Packet pickup is the Saturday before at The Loop Running Supply in Austin. Post-race, Zilker Brewing provides finisher beverages — Icy Boys and Heavenly Daze.
Championship Pedigree
The 2026 Decker Challenge Half Marathon has been selected as the RRCA Texas State Championship Race, drawing elite runners from across the state chasing podium spots and age group titles. Awards are presented to overall winners and age group champions in 10-year increments. Live participant tracking is powered by Brooksee’s Laurel Technology, keeping spectators in the loop on split-by-split progress.
Why Runners Love It
Organized by the Austin Runners Club, the Decker Challenge is a community cornerstone with nearly 50 years of history. The hilly course serves as a perfect winter fitness test, and the December date makes it a popular goal race for runners building toward spring marathons. The post-race barn atmosphere at Travis County Expo Center, complete with craft beer, creates a true celebration of the running community.
Register
Sign up through the Austin Runners Club or via the Austin Distance Challenge registration portal. Early bird spots fill quickly for this championship event.