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.

In 2025, the Deck the Halls 5K returns to benefit the Housing Authority of Travis County (HATC). This festive run raises funds to support HATC’s mission of providing safe, affordable housing and empowering residents through education, vocational training, and self-sufficiency programs.

All proceeds from the Decker Challenge benefit the Marathon Kids Program. 

Founded in 1995, Marathon Kids is the only evidence-based structured physical activity program specifically designed for children in the United States. Using technology and research-proven methods, Marathon Kids aims to get kids moving!

With the help of coaches and mentors, kids in Austin ISD and nationwide set big goals and are challenged to run, jog, walk, or move the equivalent of four (or more!) marathons over the course of a season or school year.

Marathon Kids provides training, tools, and resources to the dedicated coaches, PE teachers, and other community volunteers who motivate kids to take their first step towards a healthier future and positively impact mental health. Since its inception, Marathon Kids has supported over 2.5 million young runners, currently over 200,000 annually.

The Housing Authority of Travis County (HATC) returns this year as a beneficiary for the Deck the Halls 5K. Since 1975, HATC has helped low-income families secure stable homes through initiatives like the Housing Choice Voucher program. The Deck the Halls 5K will not only support these vital programs but also bring the community together to make a lasting impact.

Email us races@austinrunners.org with any questions.

2024 Decker Challenge Photos - Azulox Visuals

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