Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Austin Distance Challenge?
Organized by Austin Runners Club, the Austin Distance Challenge is a series of local races of increasing distance, spanning 5 months and 5 races, that challenge local runners from all different levels to see what they’re capable of! Race times are tracked, so for those interested in competing, there are awards at the end of the season! The Austin Distance Challenge has been around for nearly 30 years, and continues to be one of the running community’s greatest traditions.
Does the Distance Challenge registration price include the individual races?
No, the Distance Challenge registration does not include entry into the individual races. It enrolls you in the challenge itself, allowing you to be tracked on the leaderboard, join community runs, and be recognized at the finisher’s party.
Participants who complete the challenge will also receive exclusive rewards, including the near-legendary Distance Challenge Finisher’s jacket (Half and Full Track) or a special edition DC water bottle (Sprint or Mixed Track).
To register for each race, you’ll need to follow the instructions provided in your confirmation email after signing up for the Distance Challenge.
How do I register for all of the races?
After registering for the Distance Challenge, you’ll receive a confirmation email with step-by-step instructions for signing up for each individual race.
As a bonus, you’ll be able to register for Daisy Dash, Decker Challenge, Austin International Half, and the Austin Marathon as an add on package during the Distance Challenge checkout process. For Run for the Water, a separate discount code will be included in your confirmation email.
You don’t need to register for every race at once, so be sure to save or “star” your confirmation email so you can easily return to it when you’re ready to sign up.
What is included in my Distance Challenge registration price?
Your Distance Challenge registration gives you access to a range of exclusive perks and experiences throughout the season, including:
- A chance to earn a finisher’s prize based on your track (custom jacket or commemorative water bottle)
- Commemorative Distance Challenge magnets
- Entry to the Finisher’s Party, complete with food and a drink ticket
- Exclusive community runs at during the series—including a post-run VIP Tent and snacks
- Personal item drop-off at the DC Tent during the first three races (available where no official bag check is provided). While we do our best to monitor items, this is not a secured service.
- Activations at various community partners throughout the season
- And all the encouragement and support you need from the Austin Runners Club community!
What is Marathon Kids and why are we fundraising for them?
Marathon Kids is an Austin-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides free running programs to schools across the country, helping kids get active, set big goals, and achieve more than they ever thought possible. In 2022, the Austin Runners Club and Marathon Kids officially merged, uniting two powerful missions to promote lifelong health and a love for running.
This year, we’re inviting the local running community to “Dare the Distance for the Kids” by supporting Marathon Kids through the Distance Challenge. Every dollar raised helps introduce more kids to running, showing them at a young age that fitness can be fun, goal-driven, and transformational. As runners, we know the lifelong impact of this sport and this is an easy, meaningful way to give back and inspire the next generation.
What is the last date I can register for the Distance Challenge?
As long as you completed the Daisy Dash on October 18, you can register for the Distance Challenge up until one week before Run for the Water—by November 8, 2026. This allows time to process your registration and get you officially on the leaderboard starting with the second race in the series.
Can I switch tracks during the Distance Challenge?
Yes! You’re welcome to switch tracks during the season, with a few key guidelines.
You may switch tracks before December 12 and still be eligible for the leaderboard in your new track. If you switch on or after December 13, you will no longer be eligible for leaderboard standings, but you can still earn your finisher reward. This ensures clarity on competition heading into the final events.
At any point, you can move from any track to the Mixed or Sprint Track, giving you the flexibility to run shorter distances, mix distances, or participate virtually. If you switch from the Full or Half Track to the Mixed or Sprint Track, you will receive the commemorative cup instead of the finisher jacket.
To make a track change, please contact info@austinrunners.org
and we’ll update your registration and results accordingly.
Where is the leaderboard?
The leaderboard will be available on our website and shared after each race via email and social media, so you can follow your progress throughout the season.
What are the Awards categories?
Half + Full Track:
Awards to Overall top three Male | Female | Non-Binary
Awards to overall Male & Female for each age group. (10–19, 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69, 70–79, 80+)
Sprint Track:
Award to First Overall Male | Female | Non-Binary
Mixed Track:
Finisher Cup Award only (no placement awards)
Will there be a Distance Challenge presence at the finish of every race?
Yes! While our setup may vary by event, we will have a communicated presence at the finish of every race to connect with participants, hand out magnets, and celebrate your accomplishments.
For the first four races, you’ll find a Distance Challenge tent near the finish line, serving as your home base. It will offer personal item drop-off (at races without official bag check), magnets, and a welcoming space to relax and gather with fellow runners post-race.
For the Austin Marathon, Half, and 5K, where gear check is already provided by the event, we’ll share details ahead of time on how you can pick up your magnet and enjoy post-race food—so stay tuned via email and social media!
What are the party details?
