Decker Challenge
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Decker Challenge
The Decker Challenge presented by Next Level Urgent Care takes place on December 13, 2026 at the Travis County Expo Center. The event marks the 48th running of a race that began in 1979 and is among Austin’s oldest long-distance events.
The event includes these distances:
- Half Marathon
- 5K
- Kids Mile
The course runs around Decker Lake and is known for its hilly terrain, including a notable hill near mile 10 that has been labeled Mile X Hill. The 2026 Half Marathon is the Road Runners Club of America Texas State Championship Race and includes awards for overall winners and age group champions in 10-year increments, including masters categories.
New features for 2026 include a color changing finisher medal for Half Marathon finishers, a Magic 4-in-1 long sleeve shirt that changes with sunlight or moisture, and live participant tracking using Brooksee’s Laurel Technology offered for the first time at this event.
Venue layout changes related to construction affect parts of the parking lot course section, and the vendor and waiting area has been moved into a large covered barn on the property; the barn is outdoors but covered. Post-race beverages for finishers are provided by Zilker Brewing and include Icy Boys and Heavenly Daze.
Proceeds benefit the Marathon Kids program. The Deck the Halls 5K returns as a fundraiser for the Housing Authority of Travis County. Half Marathon and 5K finishers receive a t-shirt, a finisher's medal, and free race photos; Kids Mile finishers receive a commemorative wristband. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
