Decker Challenge

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 8, 2024 for the 46th 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. 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.

Decker Challenge Race Day Details

Date: Sunday, December 8, 2024
Location: 7311 Decker Lane, Austin, TX 78724

Start Times:
8:00 AM – Half Marathon Start
8:10 AM – 5K Start

Packet Pickup Details

Friday, Dec 6 | 3 - 7pm
ARC/Marathon Kids HQ
1524 S I-35 Frontage Rd, Suite 218
Austin, TX 78704
Park in the upper surface lot off the frontage road. There’s a walkway/bridge to the lobby. Walk straight back to the office.

Saturday, Dec 7 | 10am - 4pm
Karavel Shoes
1011 West Anderson Ln
Austin, TX 78757
Surface parking

Decker Challenge Course Maps

Get familiar with the route before race day! Below are the course maps for both the Half Marathon and 5K events:

Parking for Decker Challenge

Parking is available near the race site, and a detailed map is included below to guide you. Plan to arrive early to ensure you have time to park and prepare for the race.

Throwaways – Donate Your Extra Layers

Planning to wear warm clothing that you’ll shed at the start of the race? This year, we will be donating all throwaway clothing from the course. If you’d like to keep your items, please hand them off to someone you know to retrieve after the race. Otherwise, your extra layers will go to a great cause!