Who can participate in Zilker Relays?
Everyone! Whether you're racing for a personal best or just here for the run of it, all faces and all paces are welcome. Run, jog, or walk your 2.5-mile leg, then celebrate with your teammates, great food, cold drinks, and live music.
Do I need to find all three of my teammates?
Yes. Every team must have four registered runners, and team captains are responsible for filling their teams. Runners may participate on multiple teams but must pay an additional registration fee for each team.
Can I change my teammates after registering?
Team captains can contact us at races@austinrunners.org for assistance with roster changes. Changes are subject to registration deadlines and event requirements, so we recommend finalizing your team as early as possible.
How does the relay and baton exchange work?
Each of your four teammates runs a 2.5-mile loop, starting and finishing at our central festival and exchange area. When one runner finishes their leg, they pass the timing baton to the next teammate. Once all four runners have completed their legs, your team has conquered 10 miles together!
Can children participate?
Absolutely! Children who can complete the 2.5-mile loop independently are welcome on relay teams.
For younger runners ages 13 and under, we also offer the Kids Dash. Its out-and-back course allows children to run whatever distance they're comfortable with.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are not permitted on the racecourse or near the baton exchange zone. However, well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome in other public festival areas.
Are bicycles, scooters, or other wheeled devices allowed?
For everyone's safety, bicycles, scooters, and other wheeled or motorized devices are not permitted on the course, except for authorized race personnel.
We welcome athletes who require mobility accommodations. Please contact races@austinrunners.org before race day so we can coordinate a safe and accessible experience.
Will there be race photographers?
Yes! Our photographers will capture the action on the course and throughout the festival. Unofficial photographers are not permitted on the racecourse for safety reasons.
What does my registration include?
Each runner receives an official Zilker Relays shirt, chip timing through our relay baton, a Tacodeli dinner, drinks, and access to the Athlete's Village and after-party.
Can friends and family come cheer us on?
Absolutely! Spectators can cheer along designated public areas of the course for free.
Those who want to join the food, drinks, and festivities inside the Athlete's Village will need a separate pass. Passes are $25 in advance or $35 on race day, subject to availability. Registered runners already have access included.
Is Zilker Relays a timed race?
Yes! Our relay baton uses chip timing to record team results. We also offer a Just for Fun category for teams more interested in the experience than the competition.
When and where is packet pickup?
Packet pickup dates, times, and location for 2027 will be announced closer to race day.
All four teammates must be registered and have completed their waivers through SweatPals before the team's packet can be collected. There is no race-day packet pickup.
What is the refund policy?
All registrations and donations are final and nonrefundable, including in cases of injury, scheduling conflicts, emergencies, or event cancellation due to weather or other circumstances.
Still have questions?
We're happy to help! Email races@austinrunners.org and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
